The family of Rabbi Yudi Dukes, who inspired countless individuals to learn Torah in his work as director of JNet, commissioned a Torah in his memory to be completed on his first yahrzeit. They are now opening the opportunity for everyone to participate.
During his lifetime and beyond, Rabbi Yudi Dukes connected to people, and connected them to Torah. As legendary director of JNet, he made Torah learning and creating bridges between people a focus of his life. A skilled and dedicated Torah reader, his melodic voice was heard regularly in several shuls in his hometown of Cedarhurst, Long Island.
Yudi sadly passed away at the age of 39 from complications related to covid, after he and his wife, composer Sarah Dukes, valiantly and joyfully blazed an inspiring path of positivity, bravery and faith.
In advance of his yahrtzeit (Shevat 8, 5782 – January 10, 2022), Yudi’s parents, siblings and extended family have gathered together to commission a Torah scroll in his memory.
Asher Dukes, who is coordinating the project, reports that even before the public was informed of the project, 40% of the required funds have been raised from family and close friends. With wider support, he is confident that the project will be fully funded in time for the yahrtzeit.
Letters may be acquired online by visiting https://www.torah4yudi.org
May the merit of the mitzvahs, Torah study, and tzedakah dedicated, be for the eternal merit of the soul of R’ Chaim Schneur Zalman Yehuda ben R’ Aaron Leib and Hinda Yocheved.
Discussion
We appreciate your feedback. If you have any additional information to contribute to this article, it will be added below.