After a quarter century of dedicated service, Rabbi Josh and Simone Braude are preparing for a new chapter in their lives: making aliyah to Israel. For the Boca Raton Jewish community, their departure is both a moment of bittersweet farewell and a celebration of the legacy they leave behind.
Since arriving in Boca 25 years ago, the Braudes have been pillars of faith, warmth, and leadership. Rabbi Josh guided countless families through life’s milestones—welcoming babies, officiating bar and bat mitzvahs, celebrating weddings, and offering comfort in times of loss. With a unique ability to combine Torah wisdom with practical guidance, he helped strengthen Jewish identity across generations.
Simone, equally dedicated, played an essential role in building community connections. Whether through education, hospitality, or quiet acts of kindness, she touched hearts with her sincerity and generosity. The Braude home became a haven where people felt welcomed, supported, and inspired to grow in their Jewish journeys.
Beyond their personal relationships, the Braudes’ impact has been institutional as well. Programs they initiated and supported expanded opportunities for learning, prayer, and community involvement. Their commitment to Jewish education and continuity has shaped the fabric of Boca Raton’s Jewish life in ways that will endure for years to come.
Making aliyah is a dream they have long held, and their community honors that decision with pride. While their physical presence will be missed, their influence continues to ripple through the lives of the many students, congregants, and friends they have inspired.
As the Braudes set their sights on Israel, Boca’s Jewish community pauses to reflect on 25 years of devotion, leadership, and love. They leave behind not only memories but also a strengthened, more vibrant Jewish community.
We wish Rabbi Josh and Simone Braude blessings of health, joy, and success in their new chapter, and may their move to the Land of Israel be filled with as much meaning as the years they dedicated to Boca Raton.
Harlan Kilstein has been a Boca Resident since 1997. He know the ins and out of Boca
