SHARON — Mrs. Clair Catherine Cohen, 76, of New York, N.Y., and Sharon, passed away peacefully in her sleep in early February 2022.
Clair was born on June 23, 1945, to the late Joseph John Joerg and Rosemary (Newcomb) Joerg in Brooklyn, N.Y. She was raised in Rockville Centre, N.Y., where she graduated from St. Agnes Cathedral School. She attended the College of Notre Dame of Maryland. She then moved to New York, N.Y., where she met her beloved husband of 28 years, Jay Jacob Cohen, who predeceased her in 2000.
For over 30 years Clair worked at Brandeis House, the former alumni house of Brandeis University in New York City, where she enjoyed planning events and welcoming visitors.
But the primary focus of her life was caring for her husband and children. She is remembered for her consistent and loving engagement with her sons throughout their childhoods and adult lives, and for her selfless care of Jay during his long illness.
She was absolutely devoted to her granddaughters. Her greatest joy was knowing that they were thriving, and she looked forward to nothing more than time with her family.
Clair embraced being a part of the daily life of New York City. She found joy in simple pleasures like stopping at a bakery, shopping for the perfect outfit for her granddaughters, or trying a new restaurant.
She attended theater performances, lunches with friends and a weekly walking group in Central Park.
She participated in many activities and volunteer opportunities at St. Thomas More Church, where she was in regular attendance for Mass.
She likewise enjoyed her time in Sharon, where she had a home. She regularly hosted her siblings there over the years, joining them for excursions to museums and music concerts during summer visits. Antiquing and perusing the surrounding towns were among her favorite activities, as well as regular visits to the local library. When in Sharon she attended St. Bernard’s Church.
Clair was generous with her enthusiasm and interest, always inquiring about others. She remembered even the smallest details regarding the lives of those in her acquaintance. She was especially quick with discerning and humorous observations that could bring wisdom and levity to about any situation or topic in a moment. Clair was easy going and fun to be with, and is warmly remembered by her family and friends.
Clair is survived by her sons, Brian Christopher (Vanessa) and Michael Andrew; granddaughters Katelyn and Elise; siblings Joseph (Mary Ellen) Jordan and Rosemary (Hans) Hinteregger; and nieces Rosemary and Ellen and nephew Peter, and their families.
A funeral Mass will be held at St. Bernard’s in Sharon on Feb. 19 at 11 a.m. with Monsignor Vittorio Guerrero officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.
Arrangements are under the care of the Kenny Funeral Home in Sharon.
