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Sophia Cohen, a longtime resident of Albuquerque, passed away in Modesto, California on December 1, 2003, just prior to her 92nd birthday. She was preceded in death by her husband, Abe Cohen, her sister Florence Price, and her brother Steve Kitzes. Following the death of her husband, she relocated to Modesto, CA where her daughter Bonnie lives. Sophia was born in Denver, CO, where Abe and Sophia were married in 1935. They moved to Albuquerque in 1936, where they founded the Pay Less Drug Stores chain, which later merged with Walgreen's. Sophia was an active member of the Albuquerque community, serving as President of Hadassah and President of Toastmistress as well as performing in several local theater productions. She enjoyed singing the songs of her era, and she will be fondly remembered for her singing style which delighted and entertained many people. Her contributions to Congregation B'nai Israel and the Ronald H Gardenswartz Jewish Community Center were many, including the gymnasium and athletic facility at the Jewish Community Center, named in honor of Abe and Sophia. A devoted and loving mother, she is survived by her children who were all born and raised in Albuquerque: Bonnie Strauss and husband Alan of Modesto, CA; Joyce Bloch of Aventura, FL; and Morty Cohen and wife Barbara of Corralitos, CA. She is also survived by her sister, Sadye Epstein of Emeryville, CA. Her grandchildren include Robert Strauss and wife Leigh, Randall Strauss and wife Katy, Richard Strauss, Adam Bloch and wife Brenda, Jason Bloch, Kai Connor, Matt Cohen and Abe Cohen. Her great-grandchildren include Aaron Strauss, David Strauss and Alec Bloch. She is also survived by nieces and nephews, including Jeffrey Epstein, Robert Epstein, Mark Epstein, Sally Metzgar, Steve Burrell, Mark Burrell and Carol Potocki. Remembrances may be made to one of Sophia's favorite charities, including Congregation B'nai Israel and the Ronald H Gardenswartz Jewish Community Center. Services will be Sunday, December 7 at 3 o'clock p.m. at Fairview Memorial Cemetery, 700 Yale Blvd., SE. Officiating will be Rabbi Arthur Flicker and Cantor Michael Dzubin.
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