Leona (E.) Cohen

Leona E. Cohen, 91, of New Britain, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on January 10, 2014. Born in New Britain, she was the daughter of the late Samuel A. and Dorothy V. (Chernaik) Cohen. Leona was an active participant in the Jewish community; she was a member of the former Temple B’nai Israel in New Britain and a life-long member of Hadassah where she volunteered countless hours. Prior to her retirement, Leona had a career as a physical therapist in Johnson City, New York and then, upon her return to Connecticut, became the office manager/medical assistant for the late Gerald Pitegoff, M.D. Well suited for these endeavors, Leona loved people and everyone loved her in return. She traveled extensively; cruising with a dear friend from New York was one of her favorite pastimes. When not off on one of her adventures, she would summer in Cornfield Point, Old Saybrook; she loved nothing more than spending time “at the cottage.” Leona was a devoted fan of UConn women’s basketball; they have lost a committed follower. Leona was predeceased by her brothers, Gerald A. Cohen of Berlin, CT and Donald M. Cohen of Fallston, MD. She is survived by Gerald’s sons Michael and Andrew; Donald’s daughters Donna and Cynthia, and son Alan; 4 grand nieces, and 10 great-grand nephews and nieces. She is also survived by Jamie Temple and her son, Ethan-both of whom had a very special place in Leona’s heart. In her last years she had many caregivers who tenderly cared for her: Marguerite Pearson, Lori McLeod, Sylvia Smith, Janice Jeffreys and LaVerne Jefferys, all of whom are sincerely thanked for their comfort and compassion. Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 13, 2:00 P.M. at Beth Alom Cemetery, Allen St., New Britain. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hadassah or a charity of your choice . Arrangements are entrusted to Weinstein Mortuary, Hartford. For further information, directions, or to sign the guest book for Leona, please visit online at www.weinsteinmortuary.com/funerals.cfm