Under the crisp autumn sky of a Long Island cemetery, two figures approached a weathered headstone shortly before dusk. Rabbi Shais Taub, a renowned Chabad scholar known for his insightful teachings on Jewish mysticism, and Menachem Benchemon, a devoted friend and community leader, had come to honor a soul long silenced but never forgotten.
The grave belonged to Jerome Weiner, the younger brother of Moshe Weiner, known to millions as radio host Michael Savage—whose Hebrew name is Yaakov Shaul.
Tonight, 1 Cheshvan 5786, marks the 56th yahrzeit of Jerome, a poignant reminder of a life cut short on 1 Cheshvan 5730 / October 12, 1969, at just 25 years old.
Jerome’s story is one of profound tragedy and quiet endurance. Born with severe disabilities—deaf, blind, unable to speak or stand—he spent nearly two decades in institutions, far from the warmth of his parents’ home. His parents, immigrants struggling in poverty, made the heart-wrenching decision to institutionalize him—a choice that haunted them and deeply shaped Michael’s life.
Pulling out a copy of Savage’s memoir A Savage Life, Rabbi Taub read aloud a passage describing Jerome as “My Silent Brother,” a figure of innocence amid familial storms. He then reflected on the significance of the name Yaakov Shaul, drawing from Torah parallels to the biblical Yaakov, who fled his parents’ home for over 20 years. The visit was more than ritual—it was a bridge between eras, honoring a boy whose quiet existence inspired his brother’s lifelong empathy for the vulnerable.
In honor of Jerome’s yahrzeit today, 1 Chesvan 5786, readers are encouraged to perform a mitzvah for the elevation of his soul, Yaakov Shaul ben Binyamin HaLevi. The study of Mishnah, acts of tzedakah, the recitation of Tehillim, or simple gestures of kindness are all meaningful ways to honor his memory.
Though his life was brief and filled with struggle, Jerome’s legacy continues to inspire compassion and spiritual reflection.
May his neshamah have an aliyah, and may his memory be a blessing.
I know Of Jerome through Michael’s portrayal of him in his book . Through his vivid and heart wrenching description of the day Jer