Stephen Werber

If you ever spent time with Stephen Jay Werber, you learned from him, whether as a student, a family member, a civic partner, or a friend. After devoting his life to teaching, learning, and giving of himself, Stephen died on August 29, 2026, at the age of 86. Stephen, the older son of Murray and Teddie Werber, was born on April 20, 1940, in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in Queens. A proud graduate of Jamaica High School, he went on to earn degrees from Adelphi University, Cornell Law School, New York University, and Siegel College of Jewish Studies. In addition to his 46-year tenure as a professor at Cleveland State University College of Law (formerly Cleveland-Marshall College of Law), Stephen specialized in products liability litigation as an attorney. While he took on many roles as a professor, one of his greatest sources of pride was watching the success of his moot court students, who he lovingly referred to as “his kids.” He was known as a devoted and demanding professor who continued to support his students decades into their careers. Everywhere he went, someone seemed to call out, “Professor!” and he was always quick to smile and greet a former student. He gave back within the legal community in many ways and took an active role in Jewish community organizations, including serving on the board of his congregation. He served as president of Chagrin Highlands Rotary Club and of the board of Front Steps Housing and Services (formerly Transitional Housing), was a founding member of the William K. Thomas Inn of Court and was especially honored to be the first recipient of the Stapleton Award for Faculty Excellence and to be inducted into the law school’s Hall of Fame. Most of all, Stephen cherished the life he built with Joan over 58 years of marriage, filled with family, friends, theater, travel, bridge games, and love. He was a loving father and grandfather who always had time to play catch, tell stories, play games, wipe tears, answer questions, coach teams, and show love. He is survived by his wife, Joan; his children, David (Lisa) and Lauren (Brian Kelly); his five beloved grandchildren, Rachel “Tess,” Samuel, Sarah, Jordan, and Marshall; and his brother, Richard. His legacy also lives on in the generations of students whose lives he helped shape. He was preceded in death by his parents, Murray and Teddie. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 11:00AM with visitation beginning at 10:00AM at Weil Kahn Funeral Home, 8350 Cornell Road Cincinnati, Ohio 45249. Services will be LIVESTREMED. Burial will follow at United Jewish Cemetery of Walnut Hills, 3400 Montgomery Road Cincinnati, Ohio 45207. Reception to follow. A gathering will be held at The Kenwood, 5435 Kenwood Road Cincinnati, Ohio 45227 on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, times TBD. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cleveland State University College of Law Moot Court Endowment Fund or Queen City Hospice, or to a cause meaningful to you.

Stephen Werber

April 20, 1940 - August 29, 2026