Obituary: Jerome Barnett Rothschild

Jerome “Jerry” Barnett Rothschild, 87, of Charleston, S.C., entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. The funeral was held on Feb. 6, 2026, at Brith Shalom Beth Israel Cemetery.

Jerry was born on Dec. 16, 1938, in Charleston, S.C., to Frances (Rubin) and Robert Rothschild. Jerry spent his youth in Charleston, Atlanta, and Manhattan. He returned to Charleston after attending Henry W. Grady High School and The University of Georgia, where he was a member of Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity. He also served in the United States Air Force Reserve.

Jerry never met a stranger and could put a smile on anyone’s face whether it was with an orange slice, a $2 bill, or any variety of candy. He was known for his sharp wit.

Jerry worked in the financial services and insurance industry and was consistently one of the national top producers for Jefferson Pilot, later Lincoln Financial Group.

He served as the first chairman of MUSC Children’s Fund from 1980 to 1986 and was instrumental in raising the funds for MUSC’s first children’s hospital. Before that, he dressed as Santa delivering toys to the children’s floor at MUSC.

He served as a trustee of the Hebrew Benevolent Society and co-chaired its 225th anniversary gala. He served on the fundraising committee for Brith Shalom Beth Israel.

In 1980, Jerry married the love of his life, Sonia Truere Rothschild, and they promptly set about to successfully blend their families. Jerry was wholly devoted to her and she to him.

In addition to his loving wife of 47 years, he is survived by his adoring children, Amy B. Rothschild, Gregory C. Rothschild (Debbie); Michael S. Berry (Denise); Jeffery N. Berry; Martin K. Berry (Renee), and Sharon B. Rudd (Chris), son-in-law, Ira D. Levy; 15 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Jerry was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Dana E. Rothschild.

The family is grateful to Samantha Hardaway and Felicia Sumpter for their loving care and support.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the MUSC Children’s Hospital Fund, 59 Bee Street, MSC Code: 201, Charleston, South Carolina 29425.