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Rochelle Hermina McAdam

Rochelle McAdam Obituary

June 7, 1930 - October 9, 2025 Rochelle McAdam (née Rubinstein), community activist and cofounder of Urban Partners Los Angeles (UPLA), died peacefully on October 9, 2025, in Santa Monica. She is survived by her daughter, Pilar, cousin Gail, sister-in-law Jackie, niece Keturah, great niece Calla, stepdaughters Suzanne and Penelope, stepson Rodney, and step-granddaughter Brook, as well as countless friends, cousins, and intellectual sparring partners. Rochelle was born in Detroit, relocating to Los Angeles in 1943 with her parents, Julia and Louis Ruby and her brother Richard. A member and former president of the First Unitarian Church of Los Angeles, she was an activist who advocated for the rights of the community of Central Americans that surrounds her church, helping to start a weekly food bank and grocery distribution program that is still going strong after more than 30 years. To honor Rochelle's values and commitments during her life, donations may be made to Urban Partners Los Angeles (https://urbanpartnerslosangeles.org/).

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times on Oct. 19, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Rochelle McAdam

6 Entries

Tom Brandlin

Yesterday

Rochelle and I know each other through Ann Maupin. In addition to being a character, she is a woman´s of great courage.

Tom

October 19, 2025

Rochelle leaves big shoes to fill

Pat Allen

October 19, 2025

I didn´t know Rochelle personally but have been friends with her daughter Pilar for a number of years and was aware of her larger than life personality, and the impact she made on others and the community. My condolences to Pilar and the entire family.

Irene Montantes

October 19, 2025

Rochelle will always be remembered for her big heart for those in need and her commitment to the community.

She will forever have a place in my heart.

Melanie Menders

October 19, 2025

I cannot adequately describe how much of an impact Rochelle had on my family's life. I will deeply miss my profoundly intelligent, energetic, fearless friend of forty years. Rest in power.

Gail

October 19, 2025

A beautiful tribute to a formidable woman.

Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

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Rochelle Hermina McAdam

Rochelle McAdam Obituary

Memories and Condolences for Rochelle McAdam

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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

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