Billie Tisch, known for her influential philanthropic work, passed away at her Manhattan home at the age of 98. As the widow of Laurence Tisch, she played a crucial role in several cultural, medical, and educational institutions.
Thomas Tisch, her son, confirmed her passing. Billie was part of a renowned family known for their substantial contributions, especially to Jewish social service agencies. These efforts have deeply benefited many New Yorkers.
Laurence Tisch and his brother Preston Robert Tisch built their fortune by expanding a kosher hotel into Loews Corporation. Forbes valued the family’s wealth at $10 billion. Billie emerged as the family matriarch after her sister-in-law, Joan Tisch, died in 2017.
In her philanthropy, Billie Tisch maintained a strong and independent presence. She was the first woman elected president of the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies, now called UJA-Federation of New York. Her leadership from 1980 to 1983 supported various programs for the poor, elderly, and Jewish cultural activities.
Billie also served as chairman of the WNYC Foundation, aiding New York Public Radio. She was vice chairman of the United Way of New York City. At age 70, she succeeded her husband on the Carnegie Corporation of New York’s board, likened to Louise Whitfield Carnegie’s succession of Andrew Carnegie.
In 1992, she partnered with Yale Professor James Comer to produce a report on youth development and community organizations under the Carnegie Corporation.
Leave a Reply