Rabbi Emily Feigenson passed away Jan. 23, surrounded by her loved ones after a two year battle with brain cancer, President and Head of School Rick Commons announced in an email to alumni, faculty, staff and students.

Since 2004, Feigenson has served as a rabbi and spiritual leader for members of the middle school community. She also worked to enhance student life through several initiatives, including the Big Sibs program, the Crisis and Support Team and the Freedom from Chemical Dependency program at the Middle School.

“She was always there in times of crisis to offer us refuge, relief, and reassurance,” Commons wrote in the email. “She was our moral compass, helping us to find the right course and giving us the courage to stay on it.”

During her time at the school, Feigenson touched the lives of many students, faculty, treating those around her with compassion and respect, Commons said.

“In her interactions with students and colleagues alike, Rabbi Feigenson was wonderfully warm, good humored and optimistic,” Commons said in the email. “Her smile, her laugh and her voice touched us all and will be deeply missed.”

Feigenson’s funeral is scheduled for Jan. 28 at 3 p.m. at Mount Sinai Simi Valley, 6150 Mount Sinai Drive, Simi Valley.