It is with sadness and gratitude that I write regarding the passing of Susan Gerson. I knew 'Mrs. Gerson' as the mother of my dear friend Mark for my entire life. I cannot remember a time when she was not a part of the community of people supporting and educating me. I recall a time in particular where I was struggling with reading Anna Karenina after college. I just couldn't seem to get into a rhythm with the novel and was deeply frustrated. Mrs. Gerson reminded me that reading this novel on the way to work on the DC Metro was a privilege. I was in a conversation with one of the greatest minds the world had ever produced. I had loved Tolstoy in my high school Russian Literature class with Mr. Gordon, and she remembered that clearly. "This is a long and detailed conversation with Tolstoy, Judy, not a short one like 'The Death of Ivan Illyich.' Are you not interested in a detailed conversation with Leo Tolstoy?" Needless to say, I came to appreciate the novel. Mrs. Gerson was not just an educated, literary woman. She was an educated and literary Jewish woman. She always found a way to connect literature to Judaism and Judaism to literature. Being the 'People of the Book' was the highest praise Mrs. Gerson could ever have aspired to. It is partially with her urging that I came to study my religion in more depth and detail. While I mourn her passing, I celebrate her life. What a privilege to have had a multi-year dialogue with both Susan Gerson and Leo Tolstoy in one life.

Mark, may the memory of your mother be a blessing.

Susan was always the lady I sought to speak to at the family gatherings. ז׳׳ל

Dear Gerson family, Susan was a very dear friend to me. Every Shabbat for the past five years, I had a conversation with Susan and Michael during Torah Study Schmooze and I enjoyed studying Torah with her. I miss her wisdom, her insights, her vast knowledge, and her kindness. I hope my contribution in Susan’s memory will save a life.

As with Reu

Love to the gersons

What an amazing life. May your mother's memory be a blessing.

We are so sorry for your family’s loss. We are thinking of you in this difficult time and sending our love. ❤️ Sandy, Jill, Julia, and Luke