Central Conference of American Rabbis Mourns Rabbi Dr. Walter Jacob, z”l 

October 22, 2024

The Central Conference of American Rabbis grieves the death of its revered past president, legal scholar, and cherished rabbi, Dr. Walter Jacob, z”l, who died peacefully at home on Sunday afternoon, October 20, 2024. 

Rabbi Jacob was his generation’s preeminent scholar of הלכה, the Jewish legal tradition. As Chair of the CCAR Responsa Committee over the course of several decades—and later, as the founder of the Solomon B. Freehof Institute of Progressive Halakhah—Rabbi Jacob served as a critical bridge between the halachic world and the Reform Jewish community. He authored hundreds of תשובות (Responsa), many of which continue to guide Reform Jewish practice today. He raised up disciples and worked collaboratively with members of the committee he chaired, seeking broad input and striving to bring each member’s view into the final product.  

Rabbi Jacob led the CCAR as president from 1991 to 1993, during a time of transition when longtime Executive Vice-President, Rabbi Joe Glaser, z”l, retired. When CCAR faced challenges during his presidency, Rabbi Jacob provided calm, thoughtful leadership. Even at moments of crisis, he provided a steady rudder and was never rattled. He led gently, encouraging younger colleagues in CCAR leadership, and empowering others in areas where he lacked expertise.  

Rabbi Jacob served Rodef Shalom Congregation in Pittsburgh from the time of his ordination in 1955 until his death—first as assistant rabbi to Rabbi Freehof, then as senior rabbi from 1966 to 1997, and ultimately as rabbi emeritus and senior scholar. Walter Jacob was much more than a scholar to his congregants: he also placed a priority on pastoral care. When he was President of the CCAR and much in demand as a scholarly lecturer, he might be home for only a day between trips, but he would spend that day visiting hospitals and homes to comfort congregants who faced illness and bereavement.  

Rabbi Jacob was a generous mentor to the younger rabbis who served with him at Rodef Shalom. He always supported them and was happy for them to introduce programs and services. He appreciated their innovation and helped them become better rabbis.   

After assuming emeritus status at Rodef Shalom, Rabbi Jacob continued to focus his attention on his scholarship. He also played a central role in the recreation of progressive Judaism in continental Europe—above all, in Germany, his birthplace and the birthplace of Reform Judaism. He spent his entire life creating anew and giving of himself. 

Rabbi Jacob was preceded in death by Irene, his beloved wife of fifty-four years, and by their children, Claire, Kenneth, and Daniel. The CCAR expresses its profound condolences to his surviving extended family members and to his synagogue family of nearly seventy years. 

Rabbi Erica Asch, President 
Rabbi Hara E. Person, Chief Executive 
Rabbi Steven A. Fox, Chief Executive Emeritus 
Central Conference of American Rabbis