With profound sorrow, Matzav.com reports the passing of Vizhnitzer Rebbetzin Miriam Hager, a”h, the esteemed wife of the Vizhnitzer Rebbe of Monsey, at the age of 72. Her passing marks the end of a life filled with selfless devotion to her family, community, and the Jewish people.
A Life of Dedication and Faith
Rebbetzin Miriam Hager was born into a distinguished family of Torah leaders. She was the daughter of Rav Elazar Meisels, the Uheler Rov, and a descendant of the Shaarei Yosef of Dezh. Raised in Chicago, where her father served as a respected rebbe, she was instilled with the values of Torah and communal responsibility from a young age. Her upbringing laid the foundation for a life of unwavering commitment to the Ribono Shel Olam (Master of the World) and to Klal Yisroel (the Jewish community).
In 1969, Rebbetzin Miriam married Rav Mordechai Hager zt”l, the second son of the Vizhnitzer Rebbe of Monsey. The couple initially settled in Chicago before moving to Monsey, where they raised their children and built a home of Torah and kindness. Throughout their marriage, Rebbetzin Miriam stood by her husband’s side with unmatched devotion, supporting him in his avodas hakodesh (sacred work).
A Battle with Illness
For decades, Rebbetzin Miriam endured a prolonged battle with multiple sclerosis. Her condition gradually worsened in recent months, yet she faced each challenge with remarkable courage and grace. Early this morning, surrounded by her loving family, she passed away peacefully at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan.
A Legacy of Torah and Family
Rebbetzin Miriam leaves behind a rich legacy through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who continue in her path of Torah observance and devotion to the Jewish people. Her sons—Rav Yaakov Yosef Hager, Rav Dovid Dov Hager, Rav Chaim Meir Hager, Rav Moshe Hager, and Rav Menachem Mendel Hager—have each followed in her footsteps, marrying into prominent Torah families. Her daughters are married to Rav Naftoli Mordechai Teitelbaum and Rav Yitzchok Yochonon Rotenberg, both respected leaders in their own right.
The Levaya and Kevurah
The levaya (funeral) will begin at 11:30 a.m. today at the Vilchovitz parking lot in Monsey. At noon, the procession will proceed to the Vizhnitzer Bais Medrash at 25 Phyllis Terrace in Kaser, Monsey. From there, it will continue to the Vizhnitzer Bais Hachaim on Route 306 in Monsey, where the kevurah (burial) will take place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Rebbetzin Miriam Hager?
Rebbetzin Miriam Hager”h was the devoted wife of the Vizhnitzer Rebbe of Monsey. She was known for her deep dedication to her family, community, and Klal Yisroel, and her legacy continues through her children and grandchildren.
What illness did Rebbetzin Miriam Hager battle?
Rebbetzin Miriam Hager fought a long battle with multiple sclerosis, a condition that worsened in recent months before her passing.
Where will the levaya take place?
The Avaya will take place in Monsey. It will start at the Vilchovitz parking lot at 11:30 AM and proceed to the Vizhnitzer Bais Medrash and, later, to the Vizhnitzer Bais Hachaim for the ketubah.
What is the legacy of Rebbetzin Miriam Hager?
Rebbetzin Miriam Hager’s legacy is carried on by her children, who are leaders in their own right, as well as by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who continue her path of Torah observance and dedication to the Jewish people.
Who are Rebbetzin Miriam Hager’s children?
Her children include prominent Torah leaders such as Rav Yaakov Yosef Hager, Rav Dovid Dov Hager, Rav Chaim Meir Hager, Rav Moshe Hager, and Rav Menachem Mendel Hager, as well as daughters married to respected rabbis.
Conclusion
Rebbetzin Miriam Hager a”h will be remembered as a woman of exceptional faith, devotion, and strength. Her impact on her family and community was profound, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. May her memory be a blessing for all who knew her.