Remembering Remarkable Lives: Tributes to Our Local Legends

Princeton, NJ, USA - Edith (Edie) Esther Kelman Jeffrey, a vibrant contributor to her community and a passionate voice for civic engagement, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on October 10, 1932, in Boston, Massachusetts, she spent much of her life enriching the Princeton, New Jersey area. Surrounded by loved ones, she is survived by her son, Daniel Jeffrey, and daughter, Pamela Jeffrey, who is married to Sean O’Connor. Additionally, her granddaughters, Sophie and Juliet Jeffrey O’Connor, uphold her legacy, married to David Lonergan and Ben Klein, respectively. Family ties also include her sister Bernice Kelman, nephew Dan McCormack, and great-niece Heather McCormack. She was buried on February 3, 2025, at Princeton Cemetery, where friends and family gathered to pay their respects.

Edith’s academic journey began at Brandeis University, culminating in a Master’s Degree in History from Princeton University. Her profound intellect and endless curiosity saw her involved in a variety of causes. As a staunch political activist, she participated actively in the League of Women Voters, Community Without Walls, Evergreen Forum, and the Princeton Research Forum. Wherever she roamed, her artistic talents shone through, painting her experiences with storytelling that captured the imaginations of those fortunate enough to hear her tales.

A Life of Dedication

Edith was not alone in her journey; she was preceded in death by notable figures in her community. Carol M. Kahny, who passed away on January 27, 2025, at 89, was remembered for her calm demeanor and commitment to special education as a teacher in Lawrence Township and the Syracuse City School District. Moreover, she left behind a magnificent family including 20 nieces and nephews. Carol’s funeral mass took place on February 7, 2025, at St. Paul Parish in Princeton.

Another recent loss was Anna Kost, who died just shy of her 97th birthday on January 28, 2025. Anna, a former First Lady of Lindenhurst, was beloved by her daughters and grandchildren, highlighting the familial bonds that play such an important role in shaping our lives and communities.

Honoring Unsung Contributions

These women, like many unsung heroines throughout history, played pivotal roles in their families and communities but often remain overshadowed. The tales of unsung women, as highlighted in backintimetoday.com, reveal how countless female figures, from students to social reformers, have shaped our society without the accolades they deserve. Stories of women like Lise Meitner, who contributed to the discovery of nuclear fission, and Katherine Johnson, whose calculations were critical for NASA, serve to remind us of the remarkable impact women have historically made.

As we reflect on the lives of these remarkable individuals, it is clear that their legacy lives on in the work they dedicated themselves to, the families they nurtured, and the communities they transformed. Edith Jeffrey’s life stands as a testament to the power of civic engagement, education, and the quiet yet substantial impact women have on society, reminding us that their tales are worth preserving and celebrating.

In the spirit of remembrance, we encourage friends and family to share thoughts, light candles, and send flowers in memory of Edith and those who have left us.

For more details on Edith’s life and memorial, visit echovita.com. To explore more about the lives of recently departed community members, check towntopics.com.