In Memory of Joe Goldstein.

• Author: Amar, Akhil Reed
• Position: Yale Law School professor

Joe was true--that's the best word, or at least one of the best, to describe him. Joe used words with care, and I want to do so here. So I looked up the word "true" in my dictionary, and found Joe smiling back at me on the page. Here is what I found:

true... Of persons: Steadfast in adherence to a commander or friend, to a principle or cause, to one's promises, faith, etc.; firm in allegiance; faithful, loyal, constant, trusty. Somewhat arch.... In more general sense: Honest, honourable, upright, virtuous, trustworthy (arch.); free from deceit, sincere.... unfeigned.... exact, accurate, precise; correct, right.... Real, genuine....(1) Joe was all these things; but of course a single word cannot do full justice to all that he was, and all that he means to us.

In law, the word "true" is part of a grand phrase describing the jury as "twelve good men, and true." Joe was more than "true"; he was also a "good man." He cared for his students with an intensity and a commitment that honestly put me to shame. He always had time--and a kind word--for a junior colleague. His eyes danced when he saw a child. He opened his house to us, and made us feel at home. We became family--and Joe loved family passionately. He made great popovers. He was wise, and witty, and young in spirit, even at the end. He faced challenges with courage and grace and humor.

He...