Jerome Harold “Yosef Hershel” Efron died in his sleep at the age of 100 with his son and beloved daughter-in-law at his side.
Jerry was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Max and Helen Efron. He served with honor in the United States Navy in the Pacific in World War II. He graduated from the University of Minnesota and joined his father in the garment industry, selling thread to manufacturers.
Jerry married Beatrice Serber in 1948. A very devoted couple, they raised their two sons devoted to family and Jewish values. The family moved to Johnson County, Kansas, in 1951, and Jerry continued in the thread trade until the 1980s, followed by 25 years doing tax return preparation.
Jerry and Bea were active members at Kehilath Israel Synagogue. He served for years on behind-the-scenes committees such as Bikur Cholim, visiting the sick. His service was always meaningful but never showy.
In 2016, after the death of his beloved wife and oldest son Bruce, Jerry moved to Baltimore, Maryland, to be with his son Mike (Menashe) and extended family.
Jerry is survived by his son Menashe and his beloved daughter-in-law, Bari Tulchinsky Efron; his grandchildren Erica (Matt) Barnes, Joshua Efron, Ruhama Efron, Noam (Leah) Efron, Hillel (Rivkah) Efron, Merav Levine, Libi (Yaakov) Frager and Ben-Zion (Ilana) Efron; 30 great and great-great grandchildren and legions who will follow; very beloved sister-in-law Adele Sherman; and devoted nephews and nieces.
Jerry Efron was a man who impressed everyone with his ability to watch his words carefully. When he spoke, it was with gentle wisdom and good humor. He inspired his descendants with the imperative to be honest, helpful, patient and engaged with the Jewish community. May his memory be a blessing for all.
Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel.com.
