David's obituary
It is with great sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Dr. David A. Cohen on March 26, 2024. Born on February 15, 1955 in Bronx, NY, to the late Murray Cohen and Gladys Cohen, David flourished to become a beacon of warmth, curiosity, and passion. He had a vibrant personality, a distinctive sense of humor, and a keen intellect that touched the lives of all who knew him. His laughter and wisdom will be profoundly missed.
David graduated from Harvard University in 1977 and later from Weill Cornell Medicine in 1981. He was a highly respected Neurologist, running the small private practice Adult Neurology of North Atlanta for thirty years, and then transitioning to working as a physician at Veterans Affairs in Winston-Salem, NC, and, most recently, in Asheville, NC. In these roles, David was deeply committed to his work, his patients, and his colleagues. Beyond his career, his greatest accomplishments include being a beloved husband, a nurturing father, and an adoring grandfather.
David leaves behind his wife of over 40 years, Jeannie MacLeod, his son, Alexander (Sandy) Colts, and his daughter, Maggie. He is survived by his sister, Rebecca Cohen, his daughter-in-law, Gena Colts, his child-in-law, Sam, and his sister-in-law, Debbie MacLeod. He was a proud grandfather to Leander Colts and Marguerite Colts. David's tremendous love for his family was apparent in his interactions, and he was thrilled to be a grandfather for the past five and a half years.
David had a varied array of interests. He loved folk and classical music, and he enjoyed singing throughout his life, having been in a choir for many years. He savored simple foods, loved the challenge of house projects, cherished playing family games like Yahtzee and chatting with dear friends. He especially enjoyed spending time in his second home in Highlands, NC, and vacationing in Maine, Cape Cod, and South Carolina's coast.
He cared deeply about liberal politics, particularly as the child of first generation parents, and he was raised in a progressive family that valued Unions and workers' rights. His heart always had room for the cats and dogs he and Jeannie adopted over the years. More than anything, David's legacy is one of kindness and generosity. He left an indelible mark on his colleagues, friends, and family who will never forget his impact.
A virtual memorial service to celebrate his life will be held on Zoom on April 13, 2024, at 11:00 AM. If you'd like to attend, please visit https://everloved.com/life-of… to RSVP. Donations are being welcomed to Appalachian Animal Rescue Center at https://everloved.com/life-of…
David will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones, and his legacy will continue to inspire those he left behind.