What Dr. Ruth Left Behind

Dr. Ruth Westheimer, who passed away in July at the age of 96, was widely celebrated as a pioneering sex therapist and cultural icon who revolutionized how society discusses intimacy. Beyond her professional achievements, she was a self-proclaimed “pack rat” whose Washington Heights apartment was brimming with books, awards, photographs, and her beloved collection of turtle figurines. Her children, Joel and Miriam, have taken on the delicate task of sorting through her possessions, balancing the emotional weight of preserving their mother’s life while clearing out the space. Many of her archives, including personal letters, research notes, and memorabilia, have been donated to the Kinsey Institute, ensuring her legacy continues to inform and inspire future scholars.

The Kinsey Institute views Dr. Ruth’s materials as invaluable, not only for their insights into her remarkable life but also for the broader cultural significance they encapsulate. Born in 1928 in Germany, she escaped Nazi persecution via Kindertransport, later training as a sniper in Israel and eventually building an extraordinary career in the U.S. Her 1980s radio show, Sexually Speaking, made her a household name, blending expertise with humor to normalize discussions about sex. Her daily planners reveal a life deeply embedded in popular culture, featuring appointments with icons like Oprah and Henry Kissinger. This archive stands as a testament to her ability to traverse academic, social, and cultural boundaries with charm and intellect.

Dr. Ruth’s quirky spirit remains evident in the artifacts she left behind, from cheeky books on sexuality to her whimsical turtle collection, which symbolized her philosophy of sticking one’s neck out to move forward. Despite efforts to declutter over the years, her home always reflected her dynamic and layered life. Among the treasures discovered were touching relics, such as a Kindertransport list transcribed in her handwriting, showcasing her enduring connection to her past. As her family prepares to sell the apartment, her legacy continues to inspire through her archives, her bold conversations about intimacy, and her unwavering zest for life.

For more information see Jennifer Schuessler “What Dr. Ruth Left Behind,” The New York Times, January 9, 2025.

Special thanks to Lewis Saret (Attorney, Washington, D.C.) for bringing this article to my attention.