Updated 4 weeks ago ago
March 18, 1955 ~ November 28, 2025
https://www.levydelanyfh.com/obituary/RICHARDJ-ROGER
Only in Death Do We Finally Discover How Precious Life Truly Was.
— Epictetus
Life and Times
Richard Joseph Roger, a fearless believer in Love, Peace, Change, and the pursuit of a more Just world, made his peaceful transition on November 28, 2025, in Washington Heights, where he was born, raised, and spent his life planting seeds of Awareness and Care for Humanity.
Early on, growing up in NYC, Jacob Sabat showed early promise. He was valedictorian of both his grammar school (Incarnation) and his high school (La Salle Academy) He obtained a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering (top 5%) from SUNY at Stony Brook, a pre-med degree from Columbia University, was accepted to all the medical schools in New York City, and earned a Ph.D. in Comparative Religions (Ancient and Contemporary) at Union Theological Seminary, Jewish Theological Seminary, and Yeshiva University.
Richard was a man of Deep Thought — always encouraging others to question what they saw, think beyond limitations, and imagine a world where Equality, Compassion, and Human Rights were the foundation of society. He tirelessly used his voice to challenge injustice and inspire a better tomorrow. Known to many throughout his lifetime by names such as Jacob Sabat and Rick, he embraced every culture, every faith, and every background — living as a true citizen of the World, united in Spirit with all people. His passion for Spirituality, Music, and Dancing brought Joy to those blessed to cross his path. He sought truth not only in books and deep conversations, but in Nature, especially at Fort Tryon Park and the Cloisters, where the trees and flowers reminded him of the beauty worth protecting.
For over 35 years, Richard made his home in the same Washington Heights apartment — a place filled with conversation, conviction, and connection. During that time, he also served as President of the Haven Avenue Neighborhood Association, advocating for the well-being and unity of his community. He shared much of his life’s journey with his longtime friend and companion, Elizabeth, who remained an important presence throughout his life.
Richard was the beloved son of Joseph V. Roger and Sofía E. María-Roger — both gone before him in Peace. His family was always held dearly in his Heart. He leaves behind his loving sisters Leila, Belinda, Lisa, and Rosalind, as well as his cousin Anna; nieces Sara, Brenda, Rivka, and Miriam; and nephews José Ramón, Elan, and Chaim, each carrying forward a piece of his legacy and memory. He is reunited in Eternal Light with his brother David, who preceded him in passing. Richard’s message continues to Live On: Life is Short — Love Deeply. Act Justly. Dance Freely. Care Boldly. May his Spirit ascend into Eternal Peace — surrounded by Light, Music, and the boundless Love he gave to this world.
The Universe Is Change. Our Life Is What Our Thoughts Make It.
— Marcus Aurelius
Photos
Memories from the NYC trance scene
Beginning in the late 90s, Jacob became a regular at trance parties. They often occurred under a bridge in Washington Heights, near where he was raised.
Along with Swedish Astrid, he was always on the dancefloor, a living embodiment and avatar of the scene.
Jacob, along with Vladimir Voevodsky and John Draper, were literal geniuses in our midst.
I have many memories of Jacob, many stories. Could fill a book, really. Mundane and sublime. There were Shamanista aya ceremonies, deep conversations, an assault by a BTS that was relentlessly tracked to Tear Drop, and myriad 4am cosmic revelations.
He always had on a long sleeved Goa shirt.
He ended up living with Dan Covan in his later years.
To rational ears, he was awash with irrationality and sound-of-one-hand clapping absurdism – known for wild conversations outside the venue in the morning…
Direct quote from Amazura:
“Everything… is NOTHING!”
Recollections from friends
Thinking of you and everyone Jacob was friends with.. he was always so enlightening and great to be around. I saw him as recently as last year.. We danced together, and I introduced into some younger ravers.We had great conversations. So sad over this. Will miss Jacob. – Charlie Carillo
Oh no! I’m just assumed he was timeless. Transported into our timeline to show us how to let loose. – Scott Abbott
Jacob was a friend of mine too. Almost always at the same parties; he was a constant force on the dance floor with his unique and meditative moves….I will miss his wonderful vibes! – Paul Smith
See more from of the dancing video in the background!
One of Jacob’s parents was from Columbia. Here are his sisters ringing in the new year!
