September 29, 1930 – July 11, 2026
Charlotte Bryer Cohen, affectionately known to all as “CC,” passed away peacefully at the age of 95 in Maryland. Born on September 29, 1930, in Quincy, Massachusetts, CC was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. One friend once said, “if you have CC as a friend, you need no other.”
CC graduated from Mary Brooks College in Quincy with an associate’s degree and in 1950, she married the love of her life, Donald Cohen. Together they built a beautiful life and raised three children in Newton, Massachusetts. CC was a devoted homemaker, mother while also becoming actively involved in the community as a volunteer. Eventually, CC became a successful entrepreneur. As part-owner of the retail bath shop “Fancy That” in Newton Center, her welcoming personality and eye for detail made shopping a delight for customers. Years later, she and Donald moved to Florida, where they ventured into retail again at the Festival Flea Market. Following Donald’s passing in 1996, CC remained active in her business while also ramping up her volunteer activities. Just a few years ago, City of Hope in Ft. Lauderdale, a charity dear to her heart, honored her as volunteer of the year. Most recently, she moved to Modena Reserve, an assisted living community in Maryland. In a remarkably short time, she became deeply involved in the facility’s community, serving as what they referred to as their shining star and the life of the party. She won the hearts of every staff member and resident alike.
CC is survived by Joy McConnell of Bethesda, MD, Paul and Lori Cohen of Wayland, MA and Lisa Millman of Colorado Springs, CO. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, her sweet younger sister Cynthia Gurwitch of Quincy MA and many cherished nieces, nephews and more.
CC’s family wishes to thank the dedicated staff at Modena for the kindness and care they showed her. She often said they felt like family and we are forever grateful that this is where she spent her final chapter.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to City of Hope (cityofhope.org) or to a charity dear to your own heart.
It’s fair to say CC was a role model to those who knew her. She was someone who made the most out of life. She truly embraced her mom, our Nana’s, words to live by: “Say a kind word and do an act of kindness. It doesn’t cost anything.” So let’s remember her smile, kindness and sweet spirit along with her profound love for her friends and family. May they serve as a reminder that these special qualities should be part of our everyday lives. She left her handprint on all our hearts. We are thankful for the many years we had with her and find comfort knowing she is now reunited with her one true love, our Dad.
Leave a Condolence