In Loving Memory of Gerald Cohen
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Gerald (Jerry) Aaron Cohen, beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, who passed away at the age of 64 after a courageous two-month battle with mesothelioma.
Jerry was a devoted husband to his wife, Ellen, and a loving and caring father to his sons, Alexander and Benjamin. He was a quiet, thoughtful, and deeply principled man whose intelligence was matched by his compassion and the care he showed to those close to him.
Cherished son of Gloria and Raphael Cohen, Jerry was raised on Long Island. He graduated magna cum laude from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and went on to earn his medical degree from Albany Medical College, where he specialized in psychiatry. For a large part of his career, Jerry was a Navy psychiatrist. He served as the assistant chairman of the psychiatry department at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., until 1998 and then served in the Naval Reserve medical corps. He transitioned to civilian life after many years, working for the City of New York in various public health roles. Throughout his working life, he focused on helping others.
Jerry had a remarkable mind and a lifelong love of learning. He continued his professional education later in life, earning a master’s degree in biomedical informatics from Columbia University. He especially enjoyed mathematics and chess, appreciating the logic, challenge, and beauty of both. He was also a steadfast Star Trek fan—a reflection of his curiosity about and fascination with science, ideas, and the possibilities of the future.
Above all, Jerry’s family meant everything to him. Jerry was living in the Bronx when he and Ellen met and then married. Not long after, their boys were born, and they decided to settle their young family in Hartsdale, N.Y.
One of Jerry’s greatest joys was spending time with his family. He found immense gratification in encouraging and supporting Alexander’s and Benjamin’s endeavors, including coaching their soccer and little league teams. Favorite family vacations were spent exploring the area around the Naval Submarine Base in Groton, Conn., where Jerry could share a very meaningful part of his life with his family.
Jerry was also a caring son, brother, and uncle. His family was the center of his life, and he gave family, as well as friends, his unwavering love and support. Those fortunate enough to have known him will remember him as an exceptionally thoughtful, intelligent, and gentle man whose calm and quiet strength left a lasting impression.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Ellen; his sons, Alexander and Benjamin; his mother, Gloria Cohen; his sister, Laura Brem; his brothers Darren (Tina) Cohen and Bruce (Jill) Cohen; and his beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Raphael Cohen.
Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love, service, integrity, and devotion to family. His life touched many people, through his medical career, his service in the Navy, his work in public health, and, most importantly, through the love and care he gave his family. His time with us was far too short. He will be profoundly missed, forever loved, and always remembered by all who knew him.
May his memory be a blessing.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Jerry’s name to The National Scholastic Chess Foundation, The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation or a charity of your choice.
Shiva will be observed at the home of Jerry And Ellen
21 Arden Drive, Hartsdale, 10530
Tuesday, Sep 01,2026 7:00 PM TO 9:00 PM
Wednesday, Sep 02,2026 3:00 PM TO 5:00 PM
Wednesday, Sep 02,2026 7:00 PM TO 9:00 PM
Thursday, Sep 03,2026 1:00 PM TO 5:00 PM
Thursday, Sep 03,2026 7:00 PM TO 9:00 PM
Friday, Sep 04,2026 1:00 PM TO 5:00 PM
Saturday, Sep 05,2026 7:30 PM TO 9:00 PM
Sunday, Sep 06,2026 1:00 PM TO 5:00 PM
Leave a Condolence