Renowned sex therapist and Holocaust survivor Dr. Ruth Westheimer, famous for her candid advice on sexuality, has died at 96 in her New York City home, her publicist confirmed.

Dr. Ruth, who became a household name with her groundbreaking 1980s radio show 'Sexually Speaking,' leaves behind a legacy of nonjudgmental and humorous sex education. Known for her advocacy on gay rights and her vocal support during the AIDS epidemic, her influence extended well beyond the media, with prominent roles in academia and public service. Born in Frankfurt, Germany in 1928 and an orphan of the Holocaust, her life story, including her early years as a sniper for the Haganah in Israel, was chronicled in the 2019 documentary 'Ask Dr. Ruth.'

Dr. Ruth’s death was confirmed by her publicist, Pierre Lehu, who did not announce a specific cause of death. Her passing marks the end of a prolific life dedicated to sexual education, broadcasting, and advocacy. She is survived by her two children and four grandchildren.

Dr. Ruth was born Karola Ruth Siegel in Frankfurt, Germany, in 1928. She experienced the horrors of the Holocaust firsthand, becoming an orphan after losing her parents to the Nazi genocide. After World War II, she emigrated to the United States and later became an American citizen, beginning a new chapter that would eventually see her emerge as a leading voice in sex therapy and education.

Her career took a significant turn in 1980 when she began her radio segment ‘Sexually Speaking’ on New York’s WYNY radio network. The show, which started as a 15-minute segment, quickly gained popularity due to Dr. Ruth's candid and humorous approach to discussing sexual health and relationships. This success led to her hosting TV shows and writing over 40 books on the subject, making her a trusted figure in millions of households.

In addition to her popular media presence, Dr. Ruth dedicated herself to education, lecturing at prestigious institutions such as Columbia, Princeton, and Yale. Her efforts in the academic world further solidified her reputation as a knowledgeable and credible expert on sexual health.

Dr. Ruth's influence extended beyond traditional sex education. She was a staunch advocate for gay rights at a time when such issues were not widely accepted. Her outspoken support during the AIDS epidemic demonstrated her commitment to public health and sexual safety, earning her respect and admiration within the LGBTQ+ community.

Another lesser-known aspect of Dr. Ruth’s eventful life was her involvement with the Haganah, the Jewish paramilitary organization, during Israel's War of Independence. Trained as a sniper, she contributed to the fight for the establishment of the state of Israel, showcasing her resilience and courage.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently appointed Dr. Ruth as the honorary ambassador to loneliness, acknowledging her lifelong dedication to helping people connect and communicate. Throughout her career, Dr. Ruth remained a private individual concerning her personal life, including details of her three marriages.

Continuing to work and share her knowledge until late in her life, Dr. Ruth remained a dynamic presence in both public forums and media. Whether through television appearances, lectures, or books, she consistently provided insight and advice reflective of her vast experience and unique perspective.

In 2019, the documentary ‘Ask Dr. Ruth’ was released, offering a comprehensive look at her life and career. It recounted her journey from her childhood in Germany to becoming one of the most famous sex therapists in the world. The documentary contributed to a broader understanding and appreciation of her impact on both the personal lives of individuals and the field of sexology.

Dr. Ruth’s work has left an indelible mark on society. Her approach to discussing subjects that were once considered taboo paved the way for more open and honest conversations about sexual health and relationships. Her legacy is reflected in the many lives she touched and the advancements in sexual education and advocacy that she championed throughout her career.