Chevra Kadisha of Palm Beach (in Ramona's memory)

Hi family and friends, 

We were shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of our mother, Ramona Levine on Friday, June 11th at the young age of 64. If you knew Ramona, you’d know how much she touched the lives of everyone around her. She always saw the positive in people and in life, even when things were tough.

She was a spiritual, religious woman who always sought out the best in people and was there for anyone who needed a helping hand. She loved being a mother to her children and bubby to her grandchildren. She was extremely giving, and would continuously provide to anyone in need, even when she did not have much to give. 

Some of you may be unaware, but after the death of her father, Ramona felt the need to do mitzvahs, and spent the past 5 years performing Tahara at the Chevra Kadisha of Palm Beach County. Tahara is the traditional Jewish burial society assigned with the solemn task of taking care of the deceased. Throughout the generations, members of the Chevra Kadisha were highly regarded for their selfless efforts. Caring for the deceased is one of the greatest mitzvot (good deeds) in Judaism. The mitzvah of taking care of the deceased is considered a “True Kindness” or “Chesed Shel Emet” in Hebrew, since the deceased is not able to return the favor, or even offer thanks.

And if that wasn't enough, if Ramona ever knew a funeral service would have nobody in attendance, she would frequently go by herself to pay her respect, in order to make sure someone was always there during the burial. She never did any of this because she had to, but rather because this was simply just who she was, someone with a huge heart who had great empathy for anyone in need. 

The Chevra Kadisha of Palm Beach County, where she performed these Taharas, told us how appreciative they were that Ramona, who even during the height of Covid, would still dedicate herself to this service even when many were shying away. And now we are blessed that Ramona's Tahara team she worked so closely with, are performing Tahara on her.

With all that being said, now we would like you to join us in giving back to their organization, as we know Ramona would have wanted to continue to support them. We're grateful for every donation, no matter how big or small. 

Thank you all for your kind calls and text messages. The stories we have been hearing about Ramona from all of you have been so heartfelt and are helping us get through this difficult time.

With love from her children, 

Jessica and Rick Held