James Philip Eisenberg, M.D. PhD

James—known as Jim—was born in Worcester, Massachusetts, to Dr. Harold and Miriam Eisenberg. He led a life of dedication, generosity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, physician, teacher, and friend.

Jim’s academic journey began early. At twelve, he enrolled at Worcester Academy, where his love for learning deepened. Jim triple-majored in Biology, Chemistry, and Art History at Colby College in Maine. During summers, he worked as a research fellow at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. This period of his life exposed him to world-class scientists and Nobel Laureates, solidifying his passion for research and medicine. He earned both his MD and Ph.D. with honors from Case Western Reserve.

Following his formal education, Jim trained at some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the country, including UCSF, the Cleveland Clinic, and Mt. Sinai Medical Center. His career in Clinical Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology spanned over 40 years, and he served in community hospitals, large metropolitan centers, and Level One Trauma Centers.

Jim took pride in reading over four million radiology cases throughout his career, with zero medical liability—a feat he considered his greatest professional achievement. His precision and commitment to patient care earned him a reputation as a visionary leader. In 2018, the US Department of Defense ranked him in the top 2% of radiologists worldwide.

While Jim’s professional accomplishments were remarkable, his greatest joy came from his family. His 48-year marriage to Tova was a love story rooted in care, intelligence, and shared experiences. Their relationship began with a dinner arranged by a mutual friend, and Tova was instantly drawn to Jim’s kindness, intellect, and iconic mustache. (This feature later became a favorite of their grandchildren!)

Jim was a devoted father to Eli, Amy, Liz and a father-in-law to Adam and Jon. He cherished his role as "Grandpa" to Raffi (8), Ozzy (5), and Hazel (1), finding immense pride in their love of learning and curiosity about the world. Education was central to Jim’s life, and his proudest moments were watching his grandchildren embrace the value of knowledge, a principle he championed throughout his life.

Outside of family and career, Jim enjoyed a variety of passions. He loved cycling, fly fishing, skiing, and racquetball, and once even modeled ski clothing during his college years. An avid car enthusiast, Jim delighted in sharing his love for cars with his grandchildren. Each summer, he served as the camp doctor at Robin Hood sleepaway camp in New Hampshire, where he combined his love of caregiving, mentoring, and spending time with family in the beautiful New England countryside.

Jim cherished celebrating Jewish holidays with his family. He particularly enjoyed lighting the menorah and indulging in Tova’s famous brisket during family gatherings. His commitment extended beyond his home, as he supported Tova in her leadership role within their synagogue and local community.

Jim will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, dedication to family, and tireless work ethic. His wisdom, warmth, and verbosity left an indelible mark on everyone he met, and his favorite sayings—“Carpe diem,” “You can never be too educated,” and “Never let the bastards get you down” —will continue to resonate with those who knew him.

His legacy will continue to shine through his beloved wife, Tova; son, Eli; daughters, Amy (husband Adam, sons Raffi and Ozzy) and Liz (husband Jon, daughter Hazel); brother, Dr. Henry Eisenberg (wife Ellen, daughters Betsy and Julie); and brother-in-law, Bert Engel (wife Laurie, daughters Brooke and Lindsay).

“A man’s reach should exceed his grasp. Or what’s a heaven for?” - Robert Browning

GRAVESIDE SERVICEFRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 20249:00 AMAGUDAS ACHIM MEMORIAL GARDENS

Rabbi Jonathan Hodson will officiate. Honorary pallbearers include Dr. Henry Eisenberg, Eli Eisenberg, Adam Lafferty and Jon Schulman. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Colby College, Case Western Reserve Medical School or Medical Research.