Faith, Service, and Connection: Honoring the Life of Harry Schwartz

Gilchrist offers a range of compassionate services, from specialized medical care to spiritual support and companionship. For Harry Schwartz—a World War II veteran and a devoted member of his Jewish community—Gilchrist’s care brought comfort, connection, and dignity in his final days.

A Life of Service and Dedication

Harry was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1925. After serving overseas during World War II, he settled in Baltimore with his wife, where they raised two children together. In Baltimore, Harry worked as a chemist and later became Vice President of Lasting Paints before transitioning to work as a consultant. Harry’s commitment to family, faith, and community shone brightly throughout his life.  From helping to establish the Beth Israel congregation in Owings Mills to fostering close friendships in the community, Harry made a lasting impact on everyone around him.

A Circle of Care and Lasting Connections

Harry first came to Gilchrist in 2022, where he received compassionate care in his assisted living community. During this time, Gilchrist’s dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and aides helped him transition from being 100% tube-fed to eating three meals a day, with only minimal tube feeding. This progress greatly improved his quality of life, and he was eventually discharged. After nearly a year of stability, his health began to decline again, and he returned to Gilchrist in 2024. The familiar faces of his nurse practitioner and aide helped reestablish trust and comfort for both him and his family, providing a reassuring continuity of care. Laura Liebermann, Harry’s daughter, appreciated Gilchrist’s regular communication, which allowed her to focus on work and family without constant worry. “I received updates regularly. It made everything so much easier for me,” she says.

Harry’s relationship with his Gilchrist team provided much-needed companionship and comfort. He formed a close bond with one hospice aide in particular, who offered not only medical support but also genuine friendship. “They would give each other life advice all the time, and my father would always counsel her,” Laura shares. This connection brought warmth and humanity to Harry’s days, making Gilchrist feel like family.

Specialized Services: Music Therapy, Spiritual Support, and Veteran Honors

Harry’s Jewish faith was central to his life, and Gilchrist’s spiritual care team worked closely with him and his family to honor his beliefs. Gilchrist provided regular visits from rabbis, which became essential to Harry’s experience. “Even upon his death, the rabbi contacted me and offered to do the service,” Laura remembers.

Gilchrist also honored Harry’s military service with a Salute to Service, a special ceremony offered to all veterans in our care. These ceremonies celebrate the sacrifices and dedication of our veterans, allowing them and their families to reflect on the impact of their service. For Harry, this recognition was deeply meaningful, acknowledging his role in defending his country and honoring his legacy.

Another way that Gilchrist enriched Harry’s life was through music therapy, a beloved part of our care that helps patients reconnect with cherished memories and emotions. For Harry, music therapy became a source of joy and comfort, bringing him peace in his final years.

A Message of Gratitude and Encouragement

Reflecting on her father’s journey, Laura hopes other families considering hospice will recognize the profound benefits of Gilchrist’s services. “Hospice is not just for people who are dying,” she says. “The support they offer is phenomenal. Don’t be afraid to use their services.”

We are grateful to have served Harry and his family and for the opportunity to celebrate his life, honor his service, and support his faith. Through personalized care, lasting connections, and compassionate support, Gilchrist strives to bring peace, dignity, and love to every family we serve.

To learn more about Gilchrist’s programs, such as Music Therapy, Faith Services, and Veteran’s services, visit: https://gilchristcares.org/services/hospice-care/specialized-hospice-programs/