It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Rabbi Dennis-Beck Berman on Aug. 16, a longtime Spiritual Leader of Congregation B’rith Achim in Petersburg where he was beloved and had an active presence for so many years. He leaves behind a Legacy of Torah and so much more. 

Born in Philadelphia, he was a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania graduate school.  Along with his family, they came to Richmond in 1993 as he became the Spiritual Leader of Congregation B’rith Achim. He stepped down in that role several years ago.

Federation CEO Daniel Staffenberg noted, “Those who knew Rabbi will remember not only his spiritual leadership, but also his genuine care for others. His legacy will live on through the community he helped nurture, the families he guided, and the many lives he enriched. May his memory be for a blessing, and may his family and loved ones find comfort in the remarkable impact he made.”

He added, “Known for his kindness and warmth to the many families he guided, Rabbi Beck-Berman was a passionate and respected community leader, a friend and mentor to many, and who will have a lasting impact and legacy on our community, both Jewish and secular.” 

Staffenberg continued, “The Rabbi’s profound involvement with the Jewish Community impacted the lives of so many across many years. A long-time dedicated leader and supporter of numerous Jewish community agencies as a valued board and committee member, he contributed both his time and resources for decades.” 

During his many years of service, he was a chair of the Richmond Rabbinic Association for many years and noted for his welcoming of new Rabbi’s to Richmond, taking them to lunch and offering support.  He also was the founder of the Jewish Council of Jewish Education among his many leadership roles. 

Samuel Asher, Executive Director of the Virginia Holocaust Museum, noted, “Rabbi Beck-Berman was a longtime and deeply valued member of the Virginia Holocaust Museum’s Board of Directors and a dedicated leader in Virginia’s Jewish community. His commitment to preserving Jewish history, honoring the memory of those lost in the Holocaust, and strengthening Jewish life in our community was evident throughout his many years of service to the Museum.” 

He added, “The Virginia Holocaust Museum is grateful for Rabbi Beck-Berman’s many years of service and friendship. We will remember him with deep appreciation and affection, and we will miss him greatly.”

Rabbi Beck-Berman was a retired Chaplain (Lieutenant Colonel), U.S Army, where he served for 21 years including time at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point as a Chaplain and instructor.  

We extend our deepest condolences to his daughters, Cantor Sarah Beck-Berman and Rachel Beck-Berman, LCSW; his brother, Jack Berman; his extended family; and all those who mourn his loss.

May his family find comfort in the knowledge that so many share their loss and that he will live on forever in the memory of a grateful community.  His wisdom and devotion to his faith and community touched countless lives.