Building at M by Montefiore dedicated to Lionel Green
Family and friends of the late Lionel Green gathered to honour the memory of the staunch Montefiore supporter at a dedication of a building in his name at the new M by Montefiore development in Randwick this week.
Sharon Green, Jack Green, Rhoda Green, Stephen Green
President David Freeman dedicated the building said: “Lionel Green exemplified the best of our Montefiore family – a lifelong supporter in word and deed, who was genuinely passionate about our mission to ensure all older members of the community receive leading care, support and Jewish spiritual and cultural inclusion. Now, thanks to the many generous donations he made during his lifetime as well as those planned through his estate, the Green legacy will continue for generations to come.”
Lionel’s nephew Stephen Green and his wife Sharon, trustees of Lionel’s estate, attended along with members of the extended Green family – whose association with the 130-year old organisation dates back more than a century, and members of the Board.
Lionel Green z’l with a plaque in honour of his parents
Stephen told those present: “Lionel came from a long line of people who felt that giving was better than receiving. The Green family association with Montefiore goes back forever, so it feels natural to continue Lionel’s work here.”
Lionel Green’s father Simon was a Life Member and President for a decade – during which time the land was purchased to move the Sir Moses Montefiore Jewish Home and Isabella Lazarus Children’s Home from Bellevue Hill to Hunters Hill. Lionel fondly recalled this period as a significant part of his upbringing, as he accompanied his father there on weekends as a child. He also recalled his beloved mother, Anne, was equally involved in fundraising, helping to build the strong communal organisation that remains today. Lionel himself spent his last years as a resident at Montefiore Randwick before he passed away in November 2019.
Says longtime friend and Foundation team member Rita Opit added: “Lionel was very close to his parents, and was always so proud of their contribution. Over the more than 30 years I knew him, Lionel shared their love for Monte. Both before and after he became a resident, he was greatly supportive of the care we offer to older members of the community.”
Robert Orie, David Freeman, Sharon Green, Stephen Green
The Green family named a wing at Hunters Hill for Anne in 1953, and Simon in 1973. Over the years, Lionel went on to dedicate many more spaces at Hunters Hill and Randwick to his parents, with a focus on gardens and outdoor spaces as well as generous contributions to the Randwick Campus development and Torah dedication. Lionel had also intended to name the Hunters Hill Recreation Room after his parents, a wish the Foundation will honour
