Jacob Rothschild, a leading financier and philanthropist from the prominent Rothschild banking family, has passed away at age 87. His family announced that he died on Monday.
Over his long career, Rothschild made major contributions in finance, business, philanthropy and the arts. He began working at the family bank NM Rothschild & Sons in 1963 before leaving to start his own ventures like the investment trust company RIT Capital Partners, which he led as Chairman until 2019. He also co-founded insurance firm St James’s Place.
Beyond business, Rothschild gave generously to support Jewish causes, education, the environment and the arts. He served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for London’s National Gallery and chaired the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair was among those praising his civic leadership and peacemaking efforts in the Middle East.
Rothschild married his wife Serena over 50 years ago before she passed away in 2019. They had four children – Hannah, Beth, Emily and Nat – and many grandchildren. His daughter Hannah will take over as Chair of the family foundation that manages the Waddesdon Manor estate.
The family statement emphasized Rothschild’s “towering presence in many people’s lives,” calling him a “superbly accomplished financier,” a devoted public servant and “much-loved friend, father and grandfather.” He will be remembered for his wide-ranging civic, financial, and cultural accomplishments over many decades.
Source Jacob Rothschild, Financier and Philanthropist of Famous Banking Family, Dies at 87.Published in Time.com