Reuma Weizman, Former First Lady of Israel and Tireless Advocate for Children and Women, Dies at 99
Reuma Weizman, Israel’s former First Lady and widow of the late President Ezer Weizman, has passed away at the age of 99. A lifelong champion for children, women’s rights, and social causes, Weizman leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and quiet strength in the face of personal and national challenges.
Born Reuma Schwartz in London in 1925 to Eastern European immigrants temporarily stationed in the UK, she returned with her family to Jerusalem as a toddler. She was later educated at the Mishmar HaEmek kibbutz in the Jezreel Valley. Her life would become deeply intertwined with the story of the modern Israeli state.
In 1949, she met and soon married Ezer Weizman, a rising figure in the Israeli Air Force. Over the following decades, she moved with him across various air bases, raised their two children—Shaul and Michal—and quietly but steadfastly supported his military and political career. The couple was married by Chief Rabbi Yitzhak HaLevi Herzog, grandfather of current Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
As First Lady from 1993 to 2000, Reuma Weizman brought warmth and purpose to the President’s Residence. She opened its doors to children with special needs, supported adult literacy initiatives, and became an advocate for underrepresented voices, especially women and vulnerable youth. Her public role was marked by genuine dedication, not ceremony.
She was also present for some of the most pivotal moments in Israel’s diplomatic history. In 1994, she stood beside Leah Rabin, Queen Noor of Jordan, and U.S. First Lady Hillary Clinton at the historic signing of the Israel-Jordan peace treaty. Earlier that year, the Weizmans attended Nelson Mandela’s inauguration in South Africa alongside Yasser and Suha Arafat. In 1997, they dined with Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace, and in 1999, they paid respects at King Hussein’s funeral.
Behind the scenes, Reuma faced immense personal tragedy. In 1970, her son Shaul was gravely injured by an Egyptian sniper during the War of Attrition. She dedicated herself to his recovery—an effort that, years later, would become part of the controversy surrounding her husband’s resignation, after revelations that undisclosed funds were used in his treatment. In 1991, just a year and a half after his marriage, Shaul and his wife tragically died in a car accident.
Despite these heartbreaks, Reuma remained a pillar of strength and dignity. Known for her deep empathy and steadfast spirit, she devoted her life to causes beyond politics, striving to bring comfort and opportunity to those in need.
She is survived by her daughter Michal and several grandchildren.
As Israel reflects on the legacy of Reuma Weizman, it remembers not only a First Lady who stood at the crossroads of history—but a woman whose heart never strayed far from the people she quietly served.
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