Alice Irene Cohan

It is with deep sadness that the family of Alice Irene Cohan announce her passing on January 24, 2026 in Arlington, Virginia. Alice was the daughter of the late Gerald and Bertha Cohan. She was born on December 10, 1950 in Trenton, New Jersey where she grew up. She attended American University and graduated from Rider University.

Alice was a leader in the National Organization for Women traveling around the country to work for the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment in the 1970s. She was a co-founder of the Feminist Majority where she served as Political Director until her retirement. She was the lead coordinator of the 2004 March for Women's Lives which gathered more than a million people in support of abortion rights, and she remained a mentor and inspiration to many young women throughout her life.

Alice was also known for her original creations of beaded necklaces which she bestowed on friends and family. They were so popular that they became known as "Alice Beads". She was an expert knitter and loved to entertain and amuse others with her spoon playing. All who knew her will remember her drive and determination, her compassionate nature, and her hearty laugh.

Alice was predeceased by her partner Janet Welch. She is survived by her brother David Cohan (Linda) of Doylestown, Pennsylvania. She is also survived by her niece Dana Hunter (Matthew), and nephews Adam Cohan (Kristen), Jonathan Cohan (Cherie Lynn), and Matthew Cohan (Laura) who will remember her kindness and generosity and whom she loved dearly. Alice also leaves behind eight great-nephews and four great-nieces to cherish her memory.

In 2014 Alice underwent heart transplant surgery at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. For anyone wishing to honor her memory, the family requests donations to the University of Maryland Medical System Foundation: UMMS Foundation, 110 South Paca St. 9th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201.

Funeral services are private. A Life Celebration will take place at a later date.