Remembering Edryce Cadden

Edryce Cadden receiving the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award at JUF’s Lion Event in 2014.

Edryce Cadden, known for her quiet strength, gracious leadership, and lifelong commitment to Jewish philanthropy, died on Sept. 20 at the age of 98. She leaves behind a legacy that spans generations of family and service to the community. 

The wife of the late Edgar L. Cadden, Edryce shared with her husband a deep commitment to Jewish life and philanthropy. Together, they were active in Jewish philanthropy, serving as role models for their children and demonstrating the importance of giving back. Their dedication reflected a shared belief in strengthening the Jewish community and ensuring its future for generations to come. 

As President of JUF’s Women’s Board, Cadden’s leadership emerged during a period when women were gaining greater opportunities to shape Jewish communal institutions. She became part of a generation of determined, thoughtful women who helped expand the role of women in Jewish philanthropy and leadership. 

Her daughter, Jane Cadden Lederman, described her mother as a “pioneer” who helped change the face of philanthropy and women’s leadership in the Jewish community. “She was part of a generation of women that really changed the face of women’s philanthropy and the face of women’s leadership in philanthropy in general,” she said.  

Philanthropy would become a defining part of Lederman’s life, as well. In 2014, Edryce received the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award, which honors women who exemplify the spirit of the Lion of Judah through leadership in her local Jewish community, in Israel, and around the world. A decade later, Lederman received the same honor. 

“It’s very genetically encoded,” Lederman said of her philanthropic work. Lederman served on JUF’s Board of Directors and as Chair of the Resource Development Committee. She has also served as President and Campaign Vice President of both the Women’s Board and Young Women’s Board. She is also a Trustee of the Jewish Women’s Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago as well as a member of the Board of CJE SeniorLife. “Philanthropy has always been part of the fabric of our life.” 

Both mother and daughter also became Endowed Lions, reflecting their enduring dedication to sustaining the Jewish community. “We felt the long-term commitment to having the Jewish community continue on in perpetuity,” Lederman said. 

Dr. Steven B. Nasatir, Executive Vice Chairman of JUF, remembered traveling with Edryce and her husband to Israel and other countries where Jews faced challenges. “Edryce was always up to go, listen, and act, and will fondly be remembered as a very humble and classy lady who throughout her life quietly but effectively did much for many,” he shared.  

Wendy C. Abrams, former JUF Board Chair, remembered Edryce’s warmth and grace. “Edyrce led with Jewish values, quiet grace, and warmth, and was deeply committed to improving the lives of others, Abrams said. “She was an inspiration and role model to so many, and I feel blessed to have had her as a dear friend. Edye will be deeply missed.” 

“She was very committed to what she believed in,” Lederman added. “That was a hallmark of who she was.” 

Cadden was preceded in death by her husband Edgar L. Cadden. She is survived by her children Betsy Cadden, Jane (Scott) Lederman, Peggy (Jeff) Nitzkin, and John (Mary Jane) Cadden; grandchildren Rafi (Ilana) Shure, Jacob (Candace) Shure, Rebecca (Alison) Garber, Lauren Lederman, Josh Lederman, Jack Cadden, Janie Cadden, and Keith Cadden; and great-grandchildren Eden, Caleb, Solomon, Miri, Meier, Aliza, and Levi. A private service was held in September.