A Farewell of Light and Love

Alex

2025-12-22

A Farewell of Light and Love

In Loving Memory of Na Tang at the Jeffrey D. Schwartz Jewish Community Center

On December 14, the Jeffrey D. Schwartz Jewish Community Center (JCC) became the setting for a solemn yet gentle farewell. The In Loving Memory of Na Tang memorial service was held in honor of Na Tang, one of the founders of the Center and the beloved wife of Founder Jeffrey D. Schwartz.

On the day of the memorial, the JCC was filled with floral tributes from across Taiwan and abroad, representing the political and business sectors, the military and police, the academic and arts communities, as well as countless friends and admirers whose lives had been touched by Na Tang. Each bouquet represented a heartfelt gesture, a quiet testament to a life that had intersected with so many others.

Holding the memorial at the JCC carried profound meaning. This space was jointly created by Na Tang and Jeffrey D. Schwartz as a place for cultural exchange—one built upon dialogue, understanding, kindness, and connection. The memorial was thoughtfully arranged in two sessions, one for family and close friends and another open to fans, allowing everyone who wished to pay their respects to do so and to remember her grace one last time.

The ceremony began with a blessing offered by Rabbi Shlomi, followed by a moment of silence in her honor. A commemorative video then reflected on Na Tang’s life—her dedication to public service, her passion for cultural engagement, and her unwavering positive spirit. What emerged was the portrait of a woman of remarkable grace and compassion, someone who lived by the values she often shared:

“Life is a one-way ticket.

Keep yourself in a state of positivity, kind words, and kind actions,

so that you may make good use of this rare and precious journey.”

Following the video, Founder Jeffrey D. Schwartz delivered a heartfelt tribute to his beloved wife, expressing gratitude to all who had come to honor her memory. He shared that Na Tang had not wished for a memorial service during her lifetime, but if one were to be held, she hoped it would be spoken from the heart rather than read from a script. Through his sincere and unguarded words, the profound bond between them was deeply felt by everyone present.

The program continued with the screening of “Avinu Malkeinu,” a Hebrew sacred song sung by Na Tang herself. This piece, left by her as a gift to the world, carried her enduring wish for peace.

The memorial coincided with the first day of Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights. A Hanukkah menorah was prepared, and under the guidance of Jeffrey D. Schwartz, family and friends lit the candles together. The meaning behind each light was inspired by the wisdom Na Tang had shared in her podcast—each flame representing a treasure drawn from her reflections on life.

At the conclusion of the memorial, Jeffrey D. Schwartz unveiled a song recorded by Na Tang that had never been released during her lifetime. Completed through the collective efforts of many in tribute to her, the song was presented that day as a gift to family, friends, and fans alike—a message carried across time.

In light and music, the spirit of Na Tang was gently reawakened.

Though she has departed, the kindness, culture, and love she gave to the world continue to shine—within the JCC, and in the hearts of all who remember her.

Related Videos:
・Memorial VCR Highlights

VCR1_1920_1217.mov

・Na Tang singing the Hebrew sacred song Avinu Malkeinu