Magen David Yeshivah, along with the Sephardic community, was privileged to honor Mickey Kairey and his late wife Pat A”H for their love and devotion to the community.
Hundreds of family and friends filled the MDY school auditorium to pay tribute to this wonderful couple, who selflessly spent many years giving of themselves to others. Everyone was happy to be there to give Mickey and Pat A”H the acclaim and praise they deserved.
One of Mickey’s greatest joys has been teaching the children of the community. “I think you’d understand when I say they were kind of like my own children. I have so many children, they would fill Yankee Stadium—and the cheering, instead of coming from the crowd, would come from me—their coach. You all make me so proud of you,” he said.
Many of the dignitaries of our community addressed the audience, partaking in this wonderful tribute with heartfelt wishes.
“You have touched so many of us as a teacher, role model, and as a loyal friend to us all. This tribute wall was designed and dedicated with love and devotion by your family and friends,” said Eddie Esses, president of Magen David Yeshivah, speaking of a plaque that will be prominently displayed in the lobby of the MDY building.
Chief Rabbi Saul Kassin followed, giving Mickey a blessing. “They say that teaching Torah to one child is like standing in front of Hashem on Har Sinai. You have taught so many boys their bar mitzvah lessons. You are a modest and simple person, who is always smiling, giving his time, with modesty and simplicity. I wish you a long life with good deeds, and to be healthy and strong.”
Rosh Yeshivah of MDY, Rabbi Shimon Alouf spoke next. “Mickey has always known how to bring up the spirits of children and encourage them.”
Rabbi Lankary gave a powerful and heartfelt tribute to Mickey: “I have lived the past 35 years day and night with Mickey. He deserves this honor today. He is like a second father to me, and has always made me happy.”
“Good things come in small packages. Mickey you are a giant, by transmitting tradition to our generation, you are preserving our most precious commodity,” said Rabbi Eli Mansour.
To a standing ovation, Morris Ashear introduced Mickey, declaring June 6th to be “Mickey’s Day.”
“We all know that there are hundreds that should be honored in our community. There is no community like ours. My wife Pat was 100% an aishel chayil (woman of valor). She was my life. Thank you to Morris Ashear, and to everyone involved with this event. On behalf of my wife I thank you,” said Mickey.
Everyone was invited to attend the unveiling of the tribute wall in the main lobby of Magen David Yeshivah.
“I get the distinct pleasure and honor of giving a gigantic mabrouk to Mickey, he has done so much,” said Harry Adjmi. Harry, along with Mickey and Jeff Sutton, unveiled the beautiful tribute wall, which says: Magen David Yeshivah is privileged to honor Mickey and Pat Kairey. Their humility and acts of kindness will always be remembered and cherished.
For those who would like to be part of this special dedication, please contact Morris Ashear via email at meashear@aol.com or by fax (732) 875-1157, or Sylvia Streeter by fax (347) 492-4221. Thank you to Edward Rashkovsky for supplying the pictures.
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Randi Shomer is a community member, mother of four children and a freelance writer.
