I remember Ben from several years ago.  We met a few times during events at Agudath Sholom.  He was a man for all seasons.  I just now learned of his passing, and I am glad he lived over a hundred years.  He was a blessing to all.

Stephen Christopher <Chris> Kelly, M.B.A., M.A., A.B.
Virginia Episcopal School, Class of 1987.
Davidson College, Class of 1991.
Webster University, Classes of 1994 & 1995.

I knew Ben from the days spent out at the New London Airport, he was always looking forward to the next airplane ride he could take a youngster on. That and listening Ben and Rucker Tibbs, and the   give and take "conversations" he and Rucker  had on a daily basis.
Ben was a prince of a fellow.

Ben was one of a kind; a compassionate, astute person genuinely interested in others, a generous elder statesman always ready to help new members to our synagogue feel welcome. Though I did not have the pleasure of knowing his beloved Azy, everyone knew of their legendary love and his devotion to her. When I converted to Judaism many years ago, Ben was joyful and warm in his congratulations. He whimsically likened Judaism to Ragu spaghetti sauce, saying that whatever you're looking for in a religious community, "it's in there". His spirit infuses our community, and his memory is a blessing. May his family find peace and comfort.

We were so sorry to hear about Ben's passing. We met him and his beloved Azy when they came to Lynchburg many years ago and have only pleasant memories from that time on.
I spent many hours studying Torah with him at the Temple and he had many interesting comments based on his profound knowledge of Jewish traditions and he always delivered them with a smile.
His life was an example of a life well lived who inspired while not trying to impose on others. I will miss Ben.
Our deepest sympathy to the entire family

When Jojo and I met in 1970s thru Mafty I was invited to Passover at the Silver home..one of my fondest memories..Blessings to all..Nancy


Dear Alan, JoJo, Sami, Doni, and all grandchildren,
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy. I was so very sad to learn of Ben's passing. He was a lovely man and a really fun guy. I will never forget the many times he brought his tasty cholent in individual containers for each of us at Torah Study. Except at really sad occasions, I never saw him when he wasn't smiling. He could put anybody in a good mood. Indeed, he will be sorely missed. And his memory surely will be a blessing.   Love, Ellen

I will always cherish fond memories of Ben from the many years we studied and learned from one another at Agudath Sholom, and of the exciting airplane flights he offered to my children as they each became a bar- or bat-mitzvah. Ben was a source of deep Jewish knowledge who was also open and accepting of those who did not share his level of observance. I will miss him.    Rabbi Tom Gutherz

Ben was one of a kind.   He was an inspiration to us and to our son as well. We will always remember our plane ride and the wonderful stories he told. He was kind, compassionate, knowledgeable and lovable 

I want to express my condolences to the family of Ben Silver.  On the occasions that I had to spend time with Ben, he was a friendly gentleman who had a sparkle of life in his eyes.   I regret that my being in Connectucut will prevent my joining you in person to honor his memory. 
May his memory be a source of blessing and comfort for you.

Sincere condolences to Doni Silver Simons and Dr. Steve Simons. I was privileged to be a member of Ben's medical team at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles over a period of many years. Ben inspired everyone he met. He was recognized with a standing ovation for his 100th birthday celebration at the the Hollywood Bowl July 4th Spectacular as commemorated in the attached photograph. The Department of Defense commented on the occasion: "...Your military is an all-volunteer force that serves to protect our security and way of life, but service members are more than a fighting force. They are leaders, humanitarians and your fellow Americans..."  
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow said it best: "...Lives of great men all remind us, we can make our lives sublime, and, departing, leave behind us, footprints on the sands of time...'  
I will miss Ben.  
- John Gordon Harold, MD


A kind and gentle man.  Prayers for Alan and his siblings.

The Vagi family sends condolences and remembrance.  
Ben and Rose were friends of Jay and Joanne Vagi many years ago and the whole family still remembers Ben fondly.

The newspaper obit was beautifully written to encapsulate Ben's qualities.  But it would take an entire page to fully declare all his wonderful attributes.  I knew Ben and Azy when hey first came to Lynchburg and felt close to their family ever since.  Not only his family, but also Agudath Sholom Congregation, the Jewish People and this country have lost an outstanding and never to-be-forgotten person.  His devotion to Judaism by act and example have inspired all who knew him, and is his most lasting tribute.  May his righteous memory endure forever.,  With love to all his family:  David Mars

JoJo and Allen: My heart is so broken for you guys, but so happy that he is with Azy now. Ben never knew a stranger! There are not words for the wisdom and stories he shared. He and Azy ( and you two!) made my childhood so much better and helped me become who I am.  I will miss bringing him coffee when he would come to the hospital as a visitor. Please feel free to contact me through my email address if you need anything. Love to you both.

It is with profound sadness that we have to say good bye to a wonderful man. We will always treasure his friendship, wisdom and humor. There will only ever be one Ben Silver. Fly high Ben. Love-Kelly & Jeff

OBITUARY

Ben Silver

27 June, 1919 – 23 July, 2021

Whitten Timberlake Chapel

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