Rebbetzin Sarah Grosz, resident of Miami Beach and a former Crown Heights resident who, together with her husband Refuel Grosz, ran the Kerestirer Shul and Mikvah on Eastern Parkway for many years, passed away on Erev Sukkos, 5784.
She was 88.
Rebbetzin Sarah Grosz (nee Shain) was born in Newark, NJ in 1936 to parents Reb Baruch Mordechai and Mrs. Esther Shain. Her paternal grandfather was the great Lubavitcher Chosid Rav Hillel of Paritch. Her paternal grandparents were Reb Shimon and Mrs. Genesha Shain, whom were renowned for their Mesiras Nefesh for Judaism in prewar America.
She married Rabbi Refuel Grosz in the 60’s. Rabbi Grosz was the son of Rabbi Naftali Grosz, the founder of the Beis Yeshiah Kerestirer Shul and Mikvah located on 711 Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights.
Following his father’s immigration to Israel, Rabbi Refuel Grosz along with his Rebbetzen, ran, maintained, and expanded the shul and Mikvah. The Lubavitcher Rebbe himself was known to Toivel in the Kerestirer Mikvah and even referenced the Mikvah in one of his Sichos. Rebbetzin Sarah Grosz was an active member of the broader Crown Heights community including the establishment of a school and camp for children with special needs. The Rebbetzin also assisted in establishing the girl’s school in Crown Heights. Additionally, she initiated the use of white tablecloths at the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Farbrengens on Shabbos.
Later in the 80’s, Rabbi and Rebbetzin Grosz moved to Miami Beach, FL where they together operated the Beis Yeshiah Kerester Shul. There, she became known for her chesed as she would feed hundreds of yidden in need. She was also instrumental in a multi-year project which raising thousands of dollars for Russian immigrants. Through her efforts, countless children of these immigrants were able to be entered into the Bris Shel Avraham Avinu. Her selflessness also extended to helping those with outstanding medical expenses. She would raise funds for individuals in need of medical care not covered by insurance and, at times, even selling here over silver and gold to cover the deficits.
She is survived by her children Chananya Grosz and Shoal Morgenstern and many grandchildren. Shiva will be held by her home at 166 South 9th Street Apartment 2D, Brooklyn, NY 11211. Hours are 2PM-8PM Tuesday 10th thru Thursday the 12th.
Baruch Dayan Ha’emes.
What a special lady. I miss her.
Rebbetzin Grosz was a Tzaddeikis to all in Miami Beach. So fine and so modest. No ego whatsoever about her peulos. Did it with such grace.
She had a mango tree in her yard and once asked that I bring them to the Rebbe as a present.
She was a special woman! I remember her making fundraisers for hachnosas kala in her home and having the Feldman’s sing.
A true woman of valor, such Chesed to all she helped.
Ad mosai
BH
Rebbitzen Sara Grosz was a special Neshama, who showed kindness to all.
We Want Moshiach Now
rebbitzen gross always had a smile and a good word for everyone. she was always concerned for everyone. 15 years ago when i moved to miami beach she started a shabbos afternoon shiur for women given by women in her home. she wanted everyone to feel comfortable. she was always looking for ways to impart torah thoughts and ideas. i fondly remember spending many quality hours with rebbitzen grosz while baking home made babkas and kugels for the shabbos kiddush in kereister and discussing more lofty spiritual ideas.
sheyehe zichra baruch