Family Hid Fallen Son's Death From Mother Until Her Passing at 100

During the funeral of Hadassah Amitai, who died at age 100, her sons revealed they had concealed the death of her eldest son, Ze'ev (Z'avo) Ehrlich, for months. This decision was made on medical advice, fearing she could not bear the loss. Rabbi Itzik Amitai, one of her sons, explained in his eulogy that the concealment was out of concern for her wellbeing. Another son, Rabbi Yigal Amitai, also apologized for hiding the news, saying, "We feared your heart would not withstand the loss of your eldest son."

In his eulogy, Rabbi Itzik Amitai described Hadassah as a devoted woman, committed to family, Torah study, and acts of kindness. He recounted her education at Beit Yaakov under Rabbanit Sarah Schenirer and her dedication to honoring parents and maintaining family bonds. Even after marriage, she respected her in-laws and upheld traditions that created a sacred home atmosphere, such as preparing meals for Rosh Chodesh and educating her children in Torah values.

He shared personal anecdotes illustrating her care, including reminding him to wear tzitzit and her strong stance against disrespecting tefillin. He also highlighted her volunteer work with Magen David Adom during Israel's War of Independence, assisting wounded soldiers, and her support for bereaved families after the Yom Kippur War. Additionally, she helped organize Torah study groups for women.

Rabbi Yigal Amitai expressed gratitude for her nearly 100 years of dedication and teaching, emphasizing the values she instilled, especially honoring parents and family love. He noted her lifelong commitment to hospitality and kindness, including supporting bereaved families and involvement with the Neshot Emunah organization. He concluded by wishing her peace and asking for her merit to protect the family, the Holy Land, and the salvation of Israel.