In Memoriam – Richard Julius Sherins, MD

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of RICHARD JULIUS SHERINS, M.D., on November 2, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife, Audrey, and their three daughters. Dr. Sherins was a pioneering figure in the field of andrology and male infertility, whose legacy will continue to impact the lives of many. Born on July 6, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York, Richard was primarily raised in Los Angeles alongside his identical twin brother, Robert. He attended UCLA for his undergraduate studies, where he met his beloved wife, Audrey. Dr. Sherins graduated with honors from the University of California at San Francisco School of Medicine in 1963, where he was elected to the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha honor society and the Gold Headed Cane Society. His distinguished medical career began with an internship at the Wadsworth VA Hospital, followed by an internal medicine residency at UCLA, where he served as Chief Resident. He later completed an Endocrine Fellowship at the University of Washington. Dr. Sherins became board certified in internal medicine and endocrinology, dedicating his career to male reproductive endocrinology and andrology. Dr. Sherins had a remarkable 20-year tenure at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), serving as a clinical investigator and Section Chief of reproductive endocrinology. His research focused on male reproductive physiology, clinical application of treatments, and the effects of cancer treatments on male fertility, among other vital contributions. He trained numerous endocrine fellows and chaired the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Clinical Research Sub-panel. In 1988, he transitioned to private practice, where he played a crucial role in providing advanced treatments for infertile couples and developed innovative techniques, greatly improving patient care. Throughout his career, Dr. Sherins authored more than 200 papers, served on the editorial boards of major scientific journals, and lectured around the world. He was a founding member and Past President of the American Society of Andrology and contributed significantly to the field’s international development, including extensive work in China. Dr. Sherins was not only dedicated to his profession but also cherished his family. He enjoyed a wonderful marriage of over 64 years to his forever partner Audrey, and he leaves behind three loving daughters, Lisa Robbins (Rich), Dana Stutman (Michael) and Mara Rosenthal (Brett) as well as grandchildren Max (Caroline), Ellie, Jackson, Alyssa, Zach, Julian, Noah, Amelia and Henry. A private graveside service will be held, with a memorial service to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (michaeljfox.org). Dr. Richard Julius Sherins will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking contributions to medicine but also for his passion for teaching and his most treasured roles as husband, father, and grandfather. Arrangements entrusted to TORCHINSKY HEBREW FUNERAL HOME, 202-541-1001.