Remembering the Life of Dr. Ruth: From Holocaust Orphan to Sex Guru

Renowned sex therapist and media personality Dr. Ruth Westheimer passed away on Friday at her home in Manhattan at the age of 92, as reported by her publicist.

Westheimer, known universally as “Dr. Ruth,” was a trailblazer in the field of sex education and advocacy. Fleeing Nazi Germany as a child, she discovered her passion for sex education at the age of 10 when she stumbled upon her parents’ “marriage manual.” This early encounter would eventually lead to a prolific career that included international fame, books, instructional videos, lectures, a radio show, television appearances, and a popular “Good Sex” board game.

Standing at 4-foot-7 inches tall, Dr. Ruth became famous for her distinctive German accent and perpetual cheerfulness as she preached the importance of good, great, and safe sex. Despite her public persona, Dr. Ruth remained old-fashioned and believed in the sanctity of love and long-term relationships.

Throughout her life, Dr. Ruth overcame immense challenges, including being orphaned by the Holocaust, losing her parents to the genocide, and participating in the Jewish paramilitary organization Haganah in Palestine at a young age. Despite these hardships, she went on to marry, have children, and pursue a successful career as a sex therapist and educator.

In addition to her groundbreaking work in sex education, Dr. Ruth authored nearly 40 books on various topics related to sexuality, including “Sex for Dummies,” “Dr. Ruth’s Sex After 50,” and “Dr. Ruth’s Encyclopedia of Sex.”

Dr. Ruth Westheimer leaves behind a lasting legacy as a fearless advocate for sexual health and empowerment, and her contributions to the field of sex education will continue to impact generations to come.