Several notable individuals from diverse fields passed away recently, leaving behind legacies marked by dedication, leadership, and community engagement.

Wendy Cohan of Los Angeles died peacefully on June 29, 2026, after a courageous battle with dementia. She was widely recognized for her lifelong commitment to education, serving as chair of the Learning Center at the Ethical Culture Fieldston School. Cohan is remembered fondly for her vibrant social life and close relationships with friends and family. She is survived by her sons Ethan and Jed, and grandsons Abel and Adrian. Donations in her memory have been suggested to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Katharine Edgar Fleming, 94, passed away on August 30 in Manhattan. She was the widow of Charles F. Fleming and sister to James A. and William H. Edgar. A memorial service is scheduled for September 24 at St. James Episcopal Church in New York City. In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to The Chapin School or The National Society of Colonial Dames in the State of New York.

Gloria Goldman died at home on September 6, 2026, at the age of 91. Born and raised in the Bronx, she pursued higher education at Columbia University and established a successful interior design business after years of teaching piano. Goldman was married first to Victor Kermulka and later to Irving Goldman. She was an avid bridge player and enthusiast of culinary arts, known for her refined tastes and elegant demeanor. She is survived by her children Michael and Ronna, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

James R. Hamilton, 90, passed away on September 13, 2016, in Pleasantville, New York. A New York City native and graduate of West Point and Harvard Law School, Hamilton had a distinguished military career, including airborne and Ranger training. He later practiced law and engaged extensively in transatlantic business and cultural organizations, serving on the Advisory Council of the London Symphony Orchestra and working on environmental law initiatives. Hamilton contributed significantly to historic preservation efforts, notably the acquisition of Olana, the home of artist Frederic Church. He is survived by his son, Jeremy, and extended family.

Nancy Morehouse, a longtime New York City resident noted for her life of travel, design, and family, passed away on September 9, 2026, at age 80. She had lived in London and Hong Kong before returning to New York. Married to the late Gerrard E. Middelvoet, Morehouse spent time between Florida and New York while nurturing a close family. She is survived by her sons Charles and Thomas and their children.

Dorothy VanWinkle “Mike” Morehouse died on August 28, 2026, surrounded by family. Born in Paterson, New Jersey, she was an accomplished equestrian, winning the Good Hands Cup at Madison Square Garden in 1946. Mike graduated from Cornell University and married Curtis B. Morehouse in 1950. She was deeply involved in community and cultural institutions, including serving as executive director of the Monmouth Museum for 27 years and participating actively in local education and civic organizations. Morehouse is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Nancy Christie Pirtle, 91, a naturalist, gardener, and adventurer, died peacefully on September 5, 2026. Born in Glen Cove, New York, Pirtle dedicated much of her life to environmental advocacy and education. Her enthusiasm for exploration took her to remote regions such as Antarctica and the Galapagos Islands. She contributed to organizations including the Teddy Roosevelt Audubon Sanctuary and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, Pirtle was remembered for her vibrant spirit, hospitality, and lifelong commitment to learning and nature.

These individuals are mourned by family, friends, and communities touched by their varied contributions to education, the arts, the environment, and public service.