Pauline Dubkin-Yearwood was an original. She was a longtime journalist in the Jewish press, a lover of animals, a devoted mother–and an all-around free spirit.

Dubkin-Yearwood, the managing editor of The Chicago Jewish News for nearly two decades, died on Dec. 22 at the age of 73. She lost her yearlong battle with pancreatic cancer in New Paltz, N.Y.. She died in her sleep, surrounded by family.

“She brought just as much determination, verve, and feminist pep to her many projects and passions,” remembers Pauline’s daughter, confectionery chef Lagusta Yearwood. “Everyone she came in contact with was touched by her kindnesses and awed at how widely she projected her concern and compassion.”

Dubkin-Yearwood was born in Chicago in December of 1941. Her parents were Leonard Dubkin, a naturalist and journalist, and Muriel Schwartz, an actress and writer. She attended Francis W. Parker School, Bryn Mawr College, and the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University.

In the 1960s, Lagusta explains, her mother “gave herself over to the societal transformations taking place, resolving to never wear a neutral-colored item of clothing again.”

For 50 years, starting in 1965, Dubkin-Yearwood earned a living through her writing. She was the entertainment writer and theater critic for the Phoenix New Times and the Scottsdale Progress Tribune . Later, she edited and reported for Jewish newspapers, including nearly 20 years as the managing editor of The Chicago Jewish News .

She was also active in the American Jewish Press Association, serving on several of its editorial committees.

Additionally, Dubkin-Yearwood devoted countless hours to animal-related volunteer projects. She was a volunteer for Community Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.) in Evanston for 17 years. Most recently, she filled the role of adoption counselor, helping dozens of homeless cats find new homes.

Dubkin-Yearwood is survived by her daughter Lagusta, her son Leonard, and her cats Angel and Shanthi. Memorial services have been held. She wished that her body be used to spare animal suffering; an anatomical gift has been made to New York Medical College in Valhalla, N.Y. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to CARE.

A celebration of Dubkin-Yearwood’s life will take place from 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 24, at Spertus Institute, 610 S. Michigan Ave. Her daughter and son will be present.

~JUF News staff and JTA staff