Rae Ann Kieffer Cohen

Rae Ann (Kieffer) Cohen-a 60 year resident of Newport Beach -known as a radiant spirit, a devoted mother and wife, a passionate community leader, and a person who "lived a full measure" and always gave generously-passed away on June 24, 2025, in Scottsdale, Arizona, surrounded by her three children. She was 89.

Rae was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the eldest of five children of Raymond and Ruth Kieffer. She spent her formative years in Midland, Michigan, where she first revealed her talent for leadership and communication as Editor of the Midland High School newspaper. Her best childhood friend said "Rae was a free spirit, bright and fun and her eyes held a twinkle...she was friendly, curious and life-loving", clearly traits that would define her for life!

A move to Cincinnati during her senior year proved life-changing: it brought her across the street from Stanley Cohen, the man who would become the love of her life and her husband of 62 years. When Stan's path took him to New Orleans, Rae followed-characteristically unafraid-joining the inaugural freshman class of the newly integrated Louisiana State University New Orleans (LSUNO), where she earned a full academic scholarship. It was an experience she often felt was one of her proudest accomplishments, a landmark moment of progress she would carry with her forever.

Rae and Stan were married on August 28, 1960, and soon welcomed sons Gordon (1961) and Gary (1964). The family moved to Newport Beach, California, in 1965-just in time for their daughter Sharon to be born at Hoag Hospital on Rae and Stan's fifth wedding anniversary. There, in Newport Beach, Rae would go on to build a life of purpose, service, and deep impact.

Rae believed in the potential of people, always seeing the best in everyone. Her life was guided by a simple but profound belief she passed on to her children: "First the dream." She said it often-and lived it daily. Whether it was encouraging her children to believe in themselves or helping others discover hidden potential, Rae inspired action with quiet determination and endless love. She was the ultimate "giver," someone who always put others first and whose generosity was felt far and wide, often in ways never publicly known.

Rae never stopped contributing to her community. She served as PTA President and Cheerleading Advisor at Newport Harbor High School. She co-owned a music school, where she offered piano and guitar lessons to generations of local children. She was a board member and Sisterhood President at Temple Sharon, and served as President of Friends of the Newport Beach Library. She volunteered for the Assistance League and worked as a dental assistant in a clinic for underserved populations. She even helped name and establish Heritage Pointe, a senior living facility grounded in Jewish values.

In civic life, she chaired the Newport Beach Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission for 8 years and helped organize what became a cherished tradition in her neighborhood: the Mariners 4th of July Parade, now celebrating its 50th year. She saw what her community needed and quietly worked to make it happen-never seeking recognition, her fulfillment came from the satisfaction of just giving back.

Without a doubt, Rae's most visible legacy is the Newport Theatre Arts Center (NTAC), which she helped found in 1979. With no background in theater, she took on the challenge of helping launch a community playhouse that has evolved into a treasured gem. Within a short time, Rae assumed the responsibility of Theater President, and immersed herself in the role for nearly 40 years. During her years, she mentored actors, directors, and volunteers, always with the belief that everyone had talent waiting to be discovered. As one article about NTAC asked: "Can the destiny of one person be so closely tied to that of an organization that the two are almost thought of as one? That seems to be the case for Rae Cohen and the Newport Theatre Arts Center." In 2022, the main performance space was formally named the "Rae A. Cohen Theater," cementing what the community had long known.

For her tireless service, Rae was honored with the Silver Anchor Award from the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce in 1986 and the Sunshine Award in 2006. But those who knew her best know she never did it for the accolades. Even those close to her often had no idea of the depth of her involvement-just as she intended.

Rae's home was a haven. It was a safe place not only for her children but for their friends, neighbors, and later, her grandchildren and their college classmates. She welcomed everyone-without judgment, without limits. She let kids "move in" temporarily when they needed shelter, always making sure their families knew. Her warmth and openness left a lasting impression that rippled far beyond her family.

Even into her 80s, Rae's curiosity was unstoppable. She embraced gardening, Hallmark TV, world events and playing "Words with Friends". She loved a well-made latte and spent time learning how to use technology with the help of her grandkids. She remained deeply connected, active, and inspired.

She is survived by her three loving children and their spouses-Gordon (Trisha), Gary (Leanne), and Sharon (Bill)-who adored their mother and carry forward her values of service and love. She also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Brandon, Kiefer, Jason (Marika), Nathan, and Aaron. Her devoted twin sisters, Jean Ferraro and Joan (Steve) Hutter, will miss her dearly.

Rae is reunited in eternity with her beloved husband, Stan; her brother, Richard Kieffer; her sister, Gail Kieffer; and her brother-in-law, James Ferraro.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Pacific View Memorial Park in Corona del Mar, officiated by Rabbi Adam Greenwald. A meal of honor will follow at the home of Gary and Leanne Cohen.

Rae Ann Cohen lived a life of boundless compassion, quiet strength, and meaningful service. She gave far more than she ever received, and the world is better because she was in it. Her legacy will continue through every person she lifted up, every organization she strengthened, and every dream she helped bring to life.

First the dream. Forever the giver. Always our Rae.