Jeffrey Laikind (1935–2024)

Jeffrey Laikind passed away peacefully at the age of 89, surrounded by family. He was the first male child born at Assuta hospital in Tel Aviv—a distinction that marked the beginning of a truly remarkable life.

Jeffrey’s journey took him from Israel to London and eventually New York City. After graduating from Choate and Cornell University, he launched a successful career in banking. He co-founded Prudential Bache Investment Management, growing it to over $2 billion in assets.  He served on the board of multiple corporations including Darien Rowayton Bank, Hanover Direct and PepsiCo Romania.

A devoted husband, Jeffrey married the love of his life, Donna, in 1969, and together they raised their children, Rachel (the late David Justus who died of glioblastoma in 2020) and Daniel (Virginia Lee), in New York City and Weston, CT. He was a proud father and adoring grandfather, cherishing time with his family—especially his grandchildren Emma, Oliver and Crosby. He was able to meet his newborn grandson, Dalton, on his 89th birthday.

Jeffrey’s passions extended beyond business; he was deeply involved in philanthropy, co-founding Street Squash and serving on multiple boards, including the New York City Opera. A 35-year cancer survivor, he shared the philosophy of his late son-in-law, David Justus, that life should not be measured by time, but by joyful moments. Jeffrey was a squash-devotee, an opera-enthusiast and a collector of a diverse group of friends of all ages. Jeffrey’s legacy of kindness, strength, and optimism will live on through his family, friends, and the lives of the many people who adored him.

Donations in his memory can be made to the David Justus Joyful Moments Fund to sponsor joyful experiences for under-resourced families facing cancer.

“You are the finest, loveliest, tenderest, and most beautiful person I have ever known, but even that is an understatement.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald