Renée Cohen

Renee Sherry Cohen, 81, of Cheshire, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at her home on August 13, 2026.

Born on September 7, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York, to Aaron and Betty Hoffer, Renee graduated from Samuel Tilden High School in 1962 and earned her teaching degree from Long Island University in 1966.

Growing up in Brooklyn, Renee met Lewis, the love of her life, at just 16 years old. Together they began a lifelong journey that would span more than 50 years of marriage and build a family that became the center of their lives. Their path included several moves early on before ultimately settling in their cherished home in Cheshire, Connecticut, where they lived for more than 50 years.

Although Renee loved teaching and was passionate about education, her greatest calling was raising her family. Her professional ambitions took a back seat when she became a mother to her first son, Adam, and later to Evan. As Lewis's career led the family through several relocations, Renee embraced each chapter with dedication and grace. After the family settled in Cheshire and Lewis established his own commercial HVAC business, the two worked together for many years. Renee also remained connected to her love of teaching through her work within the Cheshire school system.

Renee enjoyed bowling but especially loved countless games of mahjong and bridge, not only for the competition but, more importantly, for the friendships she cherished. She and Lewis shared a love of travel and were happiest exploring the world alongside close friends and family. Among their favorite memories were the many family trips to Atlantis on Paradise Island.

Nothing, however, brought Renee more joy than spending time with her children and grandchildren. She devoted herself to supporting the people she loved, always finding meaningful ways to encourage their interests, celebrate their accomplishments, and help them pursue what mattered most to them. She rarely asked for anything in return and found genuine happiness in the happiness and success of others. Her generosity, guidance, and unwavering love shaped the lives of those around her, and for that we will be forever grateful.

Renee was predeceased by her beloved husband, Lewis Cohen, whose partnership, love, and devotion were the foundation of her life for more than half a century.

She is survived by her sons, Adam Cohen and his wife, Jenifer, of South Glastonbury, Connecticut, and Evan Cohen and his wife, Susan, of Southington, Connecticut; her cherished grandchildren, Andrew, Daniel, Caroline, Ethan, and Ellie; her brother, Mark Hoffer of Florida; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her love, kindness, and example will remain with them always.

At the family's request, there will be a small private graveside service on Monday, August 17, 2026. A celebration of Renee's life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Connecticut Cancer Foundation in Renee's memory.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the caregivers, family members, and friends whose love, compassion, and unwavering support provided comfort, dignity, and companionship to Renee throughout her journey.

The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Cheshire is assisting with her arrangements. www.fordfh.com