A foundation established by Rosemary White, a late member of The Ark Synagogue, has made a sizeable donation to Ezra Umarpeh. The charity provides patient support services for those challenged by illness and disability, whether at home or in hospital.

Rosemary, who died aged 87 in 2018, was a generous donor to many charities. She established The Rosemary White Foundation in memory of her two sons, who sadly predeceased her.

Sharon Goldstein, who knew Rosemary for 40 years as Rebbetzin at The Ark (formerly Northwood & Pinner Liberal Synagogue), became a Trustee for the Foundation and subsequently agreed to be one of two executors of Rosemary’s will as she had no living relatives.

The Foundation has now been wound up having given considerable recent donations to 12 good causes, including the National Holocaust Centre and Museum in Nottinghamshire, World Jewish Relief and Whizz Kidz, a charity which provides electric wheelchairs to enable greater independence for young people with disabilities.

Another chosen recipient was Jewish Child’s Day, who in turn suggested that Ezra Umarpeh receive the legacy.

Sharon, husband and Liberal Judaism President Rabbi Dr Andrew Goldstein and Jewish Child’s Day representatives Anthea Jackson and Charles Spungin attended an unveiling of two vehicles which will now carry Rosemary’s name.

Sharon said: “Rosemary was a unique woman, large in both stature and personality. Despite grievous personal bereavements – including the death of her husband and their two sons – Rosemary showed great courage and continued to lead a varied and active life.

“She was a woman of great intellect, an avid reader and formidable bridge player. She was a loyal member of the League of Jewish Women and a regular congregant.

“Ezra Umarpeh provides support services for patients and families across the community. They rely on transit vehicles to take medical equipment to peoples’ homes and hospital beds.

“These vehicles will now ensure that Rosemary’s memory will certainly continue as a blessing.”