Henrietta Uritz Nelson was my mother-in-law, my inspiration, role model, and my friend. She grew up in the humble embrace of a big, Jewish family in 1920s and 30s Chicago, the youngest child separated by many years from her siblings, earning her the nickname of Babe. Henrietta married the love of her life, Allen Nelson, and together they raised four wonderful children. Henrietta worked outside the home after the children were grown, and when Al died in 1983, she devoted her life to her family and the temple. Sadly, complications from fibromyalgia and years of heavy smoking took a toll and she died in 1996.
Henrietta was well loved in her community. Her memorial service at Temple Har Hashem in Boulder, CO was standing room only. When the temple was full, an overflow crowd stood outside where they listened to the service through loudspeakers. After the ceremony we heard countless tales of her devotion and care-giving, which as her children we knew full well, but it was gratifying to hear the love of her from the community. The week following her memorial was filled with funeral arrangements, packing her belongings, and cleaning her estate. We were amazed by the strangers who approached us at the grocery store, mall, gas station, and pretty much everywhere we went. They told us stories of her kindness and generosity of spirit. How she always listened to others and tried to help them and smooth their way.
We heard many stories of how she helped people and gave of her time and possessions to help others in need. She volunteered at the temple and other Jewish organizations, even after being diagnosed with emphysema and going on oxygen. She got her tank on a cart and off she went, never slowing down. One woman told us when her husband took his own life, leaving her and their young daughter shattered and bewildered, Henrietta appeared on their doorstep, asking to speak with them. The woman didn’t know Mom and didn’t want to speak with anyone, but Mom said “my son took his life, I know what you are going through and want to help.” It was the beginning of healing and a loving friendship. Once Mom was your friend, you were friends for life.
You could never tell Henrietta that you liked something of hers, because it would instantly become yours. She would literally give you the shirt off her back. The rabbi told us one day when Mom showed up to work at the temple, she pulled the rabbi aside and said “I noticed your hose are a little worn, here are some new ones” and handed her a bag full of pantyhose. We laughed a lot because that was Mom. She saw a need and she filled it. More importantly she gave of her time. She always had time to talk and to share with friends and with strangers.
Henrietta Uritz Nelson had a huge spirit and still does. Such a kind and loving spirit like hers never dies. She loved life and lived it to the fullest. She was filled with love for her family, her friends, and for humanity. She inspires me to live a better life, one filled with love and service to others. She is my role model and I hope and pray every day that I can live up to her example of a life well lived and loved.