The passing of Zeke Cohen’s mother has been met with deep sorrow in Baltimore City and among all who knew her through her work, advocacy, and teaching. She died after a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, facing the illness with resilience over many years and continuing to embody strength, purpose, and dignity throughout her journey.
She is remembered as a lifelong activist, educator, and mentor whose influence extended far beyond her family. Her life was marked by a sustained commitment to civic engagement and social justice, including early participation in movements for civil rights and voter participation, as well as broader advocacy efforts that reflected her enduring belief in equity and community responsibility.
In her professional life as an academic in social work, she dedicated herself to teaching and mentorship. She shaped generations of students through her instruction, guiding them not only in theory and practice but also in developing empathy, critical thinking, and ethical awareness. Colleagues and students alike valued her intellectual rigor and her ability to connect deeply with those she taught.
Beyond her professional achievements, she is remembered most for her humanity. She was described as a thoughtful mentor, a generous listener, and someone who invested deeply in the growth and well-being of others. Her presence left a lasting impression on friends, colleagues, and students who experienced her guidance and care.
Her passing represents a profound loss for her family, particularly for Zeke Cohen, as well as for the wider community that benefitted from her decades of service and advocacy. Yet even in grief, there is recognition of the meaningful and far-reaching legacy she leaves behind—one reflected in the lives she influenced, the causes she supported, and the values she upheld.
To her family and all who mourn her, sincere condolences are extended. May they find comfort in shared memories, strength in one another, and peace in the enduring impact of her life and work.