Dr. Ruth Benjamin, a clinical psychologist and author from South Africa, passed away on Friday night, 2 Elul, 5783.
A beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Dr. Ruth Benjamin was a clinical psychologist in Johannesburg, South Africa who served the community for decades.
She and her late husband, psychiatrist Dr. Barney Benjamin, O.B.M., beloved of the community, stayed in South Africa at the Rebbe’s request although they wanted to move to Eretz Hakodesh.
Dr. Ruth Benjamin spent her life carrying out the Rebbe’s Shlichus, and helping countless Yidden over her life.
She was the author of over forty professional and popular works, including children’s novels and popular psychology books. Her sole purpose in doing so was to show the wonder and beauty of Yiddishkeit and Mitzvos.
She is survived by her three daughters: Devorah Shinan, Rivkah Van Halem and Sara Rowan, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The Shiva is in Johannesburg, South Africa at 145 6th Ave.
Boruch Dayan Ha’emes- Rus bas Avrohom Avinu
May Hashem give the family strength and comfort and may we all have Moshiach NOW
The most special and aware person. A big loss.
An extraordinary woman, a force of nature, brilliant and kind. Please move mountains in shomayim for us down here.
And very instructive! יהי זכרה ברוך!
I know Rebetzin Van Halem followed through in her legacy of psychology and outreach, as I was personally helped!! obviously she must of led by example
Shaya
An extremely kind sensitive understanding person , I met her several times while visiting South Africa and learned a lot from her including answers from the Rebbe . She told me that when she doesn’t know what to do ‘she stands by the Rebbes picture and asks in detail what to do. There is almost always an answer. Ruth went out of her way to please my young son , by making him a character in one of her novels. She did it in a way that was part of developing his personality based on his good behavior and instincts.
Though I didn’t personally know her, I feel the loss as she was a ‘part’ of my life through her books that made a big impact on me as a young girl.
May her memory be blessed and she be a gutteh better for all her family
Dr. Ruth helped my parents adjust when I was going to be leaving our home to be married, she helped me throughout – with many different situations, and I held her in such high regard that whenever I wanted to try something new – I ‘passed’ it through Dr. Ruth first to get her blessing. She also had an amazing relationship with our youngest child. We wish her daughters and family – strength and long life. She was an absolute legend in our town. You will be sorely missed, but know that you’ll still be around to help those that… Read more »
The absolute best
Dr Ruth Benjamin was someone I looked up to, she walked with me through all my ups and downs. Always encouraging me to do many things, like writing books, getting a black cocker spaniel. She knew me better than anyone. I miss her “coaching and love.