Barbara Cohen

Barbara E. Cohen, on February 22, 2026; a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and beloved family member, passed away peacefully at the age of 82 after a courageous and lengthy battle with dementia. Barbara lived a life overflowing with love, family, and quiet strength.

She was predeceased by her cherished husband, Mitchell Z. Cohen; her parents, Anna and Joseph Porigow; and her son-in-law, John Deodati.

Barbara is survived by her loving children, Andrea Deodati and Samuel Cohen (Ginger Cohen), and her “daughter” Courtney Malley; her adored grandchildren, Chloe Burkland-Cohen, Michelle Deodati, Keiran Cohen, and Katherine Cohen; her brother, Murray Porigow (Margaret Porigow); and many cherished nieces, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Widowed at a young age, Barbara raised two teenagers on her own while working full-time and caring for her seriously ill mother—a testament to her extraordinary resilience and selflessness. She dedicated more than 30 years to teaching in the Philadelphia public schools, where she touched countless lives and inspired the next generation. Her passion for education never wavered; she earned a Master’s degree plus 60, along with certifications in principalship and special education.

Even after retiring, Barbara remained deeply engaged—active in Hadassah and Hazak, where she delighted in book clubs, activities, and meaningful charity work. She never missed an opportunity to mentor, share wisdom, or lend a helping hand.

Above all, Barbara’s greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren. Known affectionately as “Bubbie Barbara,” she was an integral, loving presence in their lives—seeing them often and spoiling them with boundless affection.

Barbara’s warmth, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will live on forever in the hearts of her family and all who knew her. Her legacy endures through the generations she nurtured and the countless beautiful memories she created.

Relatives and friends are invited to graveside services, Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 1:00PM, at Mount Sharon Cemetery (Section P), Springfield, PA.

Shiva will be observed at the residence of Andrea Deodati.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Barbara's memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association (https://www.alz.org/), or to Hadassah (https://www.hadassah.org/).

Arr. by Joseph Levine & Sons www.levinefuneral.com