Selma E. Cohen

Selma E. Cohen (nee Cohen), 94, a lifelong resident of Philadelphia and long-time social worker, died May 20, 2025.

The daughter of Russian immigrants, Mrs. Cohen grew up in Wynnfield graduating Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in sociology.

After marrying Bernard Cohen (her beloved husband of 66 years who died in 2019), Mrs. Cohen devoted herself for many years to raising her daughters, Amy and Emily.

She went back to school and received a masters degree in social work from Bryn Mawr College in 1981. Her professional career focused on child welfare and included working as Assistant Director of the Developmental Center for Autistic Children and the Children’s Aid Society of Montgomery County. One of her proudest achievements was receiving a grant to provide support services for first-time mothers in underserved communities. Each new mother received a care package, including a teddy bear.

She had an extensive knowledge of antiques and an eye for finding treasures in thrift stores and flea markets. A lover of classical music, she frequented the Academy of Music and was a volunteer at the Kimmel Center.

She is survived by her daughters Amy (Noel Rubinton), and Emily (Don Brown, previously married to the late James McGann), and two grandchildren, Bella Cohen Rubinton and Maya YaLi McGann. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research or a charity of choice. A private graveside service will be held for family.

Arrangements by Joseph Levine & Sons - Blue Bell