Joan Therese Cohen

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joan Therese Cohen (Weber), who went to be with the Lord on October 18, 2024, at the age of 81. Joan was a devout Catholic, known for her generosity and her unmistakable laugh, which was cherished by all who knew her.

Joan was born on May 10, 1943, in New Jersey. She spent a happy and fulfilling childhood in Boston, Massachusetts, with her parents, Pearl “Nana” and Joseph “Jopie” Weber. Joan was an only child and attended Catholic school in Boston during a time when classes were taught by nuns. She always told stories of her time in Boston and how much she loved that city. Joan graduated from Father Matignon High School in Cambridge in 1961. Growing up, she shared many fond memories of watching her father cheer on the Boston sports teams and was thrilled when the Red Sox finally won the World Series in 2004.

In the years following high school, Joan and her parents moved to Lakewood, California, where she met and married the late Harry Cohen. Joan was an active member of the St. Cyprian’s Catholic Church community in Long Beach and occasionally attended Mass at St. Peter Chanel in Hawaiian Gardens. She formed many lifelong friendships through her involvement in women’s groups and prayer circles. Joan was deeply passionate about the sanctity of life and dedicated both her time and financial support to causes advocating for the unborn. She was especially supportive of Pastor Al’s “His Nesting Place” in Long Beach, which helps mothers in need.

Joan was a proud graduate of California State University, Fullerton. She was an avid game player, especially enjoying Scrabble, Bingo, and Bunco, which she often played with her family and friends. Joan also loved to travel, frequently embarking on trips with her best friend, Cathy. While Joan had many cherished friendships, she was especially close to the “two Jan’s.” She was often seen walking her beloved Yorkie, Dixie, around the neighborhood, bringing joy to those she encountered.
Joan is survived by her daughter, Melissa McGee, her son, Matthew Cohen, and her beloved grandchildren: Eric, Kevin, Kaitlyn, Kristen, Sophia, and Isabella. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

A funeral Mass in Joan’s honor was held on November 13, 2024, at St. Cyprian Church. Joan has been laid to rest at All Souls Catholic Cemetery in Long Beach. She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.