Dr. Barrie James Hurwitz

Dr. Barrie James Hurwitz died peacefully at home on February 18, 2026.

Born in Wolverhampton, England on December 2, 1943, he moved to Johannesburg, South Africa when he was five years old. He obtained his medical degree from the University of the Witwatersrand and trained in Cardiology in South Africa. He then changed focus. specializing in Neurology at Cornell Medical Center, in New York, before ultimately joining the faculty at Duke University Medical Center in 1978.

Barrie’s career as a Neurologist centered on advancing treatments for Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and cerebrovascular disease. He was known for his caring and thoughtful bedside manner, and was recognized by many young medical trainees for his excellent teaching skills and mentorship. His medical expertise and care was sought out by patients across the US and abroad.

Barrie and Jean met on the beach in Cape Town in December 1968, marrying in March 1969. They lived in Johannesburg where their two daughters, Lynne and Karen, were born. They emigrated to New York in 1974, and their son Steven was born during their year in Philadelphia, before the family moved to Durham.

Barrie loved to garden, tending to and talking to the plants in his greenhouse, on his patio, and in his outdoor garden; they were part of his daily life. He also enjoyed planning many of the trips that he and Jean took overseas, especially backcountry car trips. Barrie was an avid reader and storyteller, often regaling his beloved grandchildren with tales from his adventures.

He is survived by Jean, his beloved wife of over 56 years, brother Jules (Diane), daughters Lynne (Jeff) and Karen (Aaron), and son Steven (Debra). His greatest joy later in life were his eight grandchildren: Rebecca, Rachel, Samuel, Jason, Noah, Melanie, Mira and Eleora.

Funeral services for Barrie will be held at Beth El Synagogue, 1004 Watts Street on Friday, February 20, at 11:00 am. Burial will follow immediately after the service at Durham Hebrew Cemetery, located across the street from 840 Kent Street in Durham. Detailed directions to the cemetery are available here.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to contribute in memory of Barrie Hurwitz to the Duke Hospice Program; Beth El's Chevra Kaddisha or Community of Caring Fund; the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina; or Jewish For Good's Food Pantry (in drop down box under Campaigner)