Bess Cohen

Bess is survived by her 3 children, Bonnie Cohen Alstrom (Bill Alstrom), Acton, MA., Mark Cohen, (Carol Tsimekles Cohen), Park City, UT; Philip Cohen, Merritt Island, FL., her brother, Herb Passo (Barbara Cohen Passo) Longmeadow, MA and sister-in-law Jean DeMayo Passo, Longmeadow, MA. She is blessed with three grandchildren, Rachel Wulsin, Seth Wulsin and Gabriel Cohen and three great grandchildren, Liam and Sam Conti, Reese Wulsin and several devoted nieces and nephews.

Bess is preceded in death by her loving husband, Irving (Doc) Cohen; parents; Mayer and Clara Passo; brother, Abraham Passo; sisters, Sarah Kanner, Rachel Cohen and Pearl Nuger.

Bess was born in Brooklyn NY and in her elementary years her family moved to Holyoke, MA where she attended Holyoke High School.

Bess was very devoted to her family creating a home where everyone was welcome at her table. She was a great and gracious cook and loved to entertain. After a lifetime career as a waitress she continued to lift others up with her beautiful voice as she pursued her passion of singing and entertaining.

In her 50’s, Bess, Doc and their youngest son Phil moved to Merritt Island where Bess continued waitressing and became a member of the Sweet Adelines Singing Group and later a founding member of “Hot Cocoa” where she performed songs of the Big Bands throughout Brevard County. She later performed independently as “La Senora” bringing smiles and awakening joyful memories for others in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult daycare centers with her angelic voice until her passing.

In addition to entertaining and creating a loving home for her family and friends Bess worked with United Order of True Sisters raising money for individuals facing cancer. She also enjoyed participating in Great Decisions at the local library as well as dancing and listening to her nephew’s band.

Bess lived life to the fullest, making the most of every opportunity to celebrate and make memories with her family and friends. She leaves a legacy of love and comfort for others and will always be remembered for her zest for life.

Graveside services will be held on January 10th , 10am at the Life Event Center At Florida Memorial 5950 S. US Highway 1 Rockledge, FL 32955