Funeral Details

Pearl Anne Zaid - A Life Well-Lived: Pearl Zaid, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, friend, educator, artist, avid runner, and gardener, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2024 the age of 91.
Born January 11, 1933, Pearl lived a life filled with passion, purpose, and an enduring love for learning. A true inspiration, she juggled the responsibilities of motherhood and full-time employment while pursuing higher education. Her determination led her to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree, a remarkable achievement that paved the way for a fulfilling career as a special education teacher. Her dedication to her students was immeasurable, and she was deeply respected and cherished by her colleagues.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Pearl possessed a vibrant artistic soul. She studied at the Art Institute of Chicago, and her talent as an artist brought joy to many. She continued her artwork throughout her life, most recently at the North Shore Senior Center, and would create paintings for exhibitions, and for friends and family. Pearl was also an accomplished athlete. She was a lifelong runner and often won age group awards when she raced. Pearl continued running well into her late 80s.
Pearl always enjoyed experiencing different cultures, and she travelled the world with her life-long love and late husband Pinhas “Pinky” Zaid.
Her love for nature was evident in her beautiful gardens. She was a devoted volunteer at the Chicago Botanic Garden, where she shared her expertise as a master gardener.
Pearl found comfort, joy, and community as a long time member of North Suburban Synagogue Beth El in Highland Park.
Pearl was a cornerstone of a large, loving family including three children, Gary (Debby), Rena (Jed), and Wendy (Adam), her brother Richard (Leslie), her sister Paula (Peter), and her late sister Esther (Lewis), as well as a deeply cherished circle of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. She adored her family and friends. Her great sense of humor, her ability to tell stories and always entertain the kids, and her unwavering support of family and friends will be missed by all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations:
North Suburban Synagogue Beth El in Highland Park www.nssbethel.org/donate/
North Shore Senior Center www.nssc.org/support-us
Chicago Botanic Garden: www.chicagobotanic.org/donate
Service Tuesday 10AM at Chicago Jewish Funerals, 8851 Skokie Blvd (at Niles Center Road), Skokie. Interment Westlawn Cemetery. To attend the funeral livestream, please visit our website. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals-Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com