We are saddened to announce the passing of Edith “Edie” Sommers Sosnow on September 20, 2024, at the age of 95. Born on October 5, 1928, at the Women’s Hospital in Manhattan, New York, Edie led a life rich with love, family, and adventure.
She was predeceased by her cherished husband, Sidney A. Sosnow, with whom she shared 65 years of marriage, as well as her parents, Arthur and Helen Sommers (née Meyerhoff). Edie is survived by her four children: Stephanie Leonard (James William Leonard), Michael Sosnow (Ruhama Sosnow), Melanie Whaley (Robert Whaley), and Valerie Sosnow. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren Kari Hilwig (Jay Hilwig), Megan Coryat (Blossom Coryat), Kiela Sosnow, David Sosnow (Ellen Brown), and Yael Hundelt (Michael Hundelt), as well as her great-grandchildren, to whom she is affectionately known as “Gigima,”: Sasha Hilwig, Benjamin Hundelt, Isadora “Izzy” Shepard, Lenny Coryat, Lucas Hundelt, Rusty Coryat, Abby Hundelt, and Isaac Sosnow.
Edie was known for her infectious energy and warmth, effortlessly making strangers feel like old friends. Her genuine curiosity about others—whether a server at her favorite restaurant, one of her caregivers, or a merchant in an Israeli bazaar—shone through in every interaction. She once dreamed of becoming a social worker or journalist, captivated by the stories of the world around her.
A graduate of Liberty High School in Bethlehem, PA, Edie met her soulmate, Sid, during a local theater rehearsal where he was delivering beer from his parents’ store. The handsome newcomer was talked into joining the production, and Edie would find reasons to linger after rehearsals, hoping he would take notice of her. One evening, Sid offered Edie a ride home; soon they married, thus beginning a bond of love and devotion that was the envy of all who met them.
As Sid served in the Air Force through three major wars, Edie raised their four children, navigating frequent relocations across North America, from Sherman Oaks, CA, to Goose Bay, Canada. After Sid's retirement, they lived for many years in Albany, NY, before finally making Las Vegas their home. In the sunny vibrancy of Las Vegas, Edie thrived, joining a tap dancing troupe, enjoying the local culinary scene, and building a community of friends in Sun City.
Edie's passion for the arts was evident in everything she did. She sang in choirs, crafted costumes for themed parties, and was known for her impromptu performances, especially her delightful renditions of “Mairzy Doats” on family road trips. Both she and Sid volunteered at the Albany Performing Arts Center and appeared as background actors in several films, including the 1987 movie Barfly.
An avid traveler, Edie explored the world, collecting stories and experiences from each destination. In 2022, she inspired her grandchildren to join her for a memorable trip to Sarasota, Florida, where they created silly songs (including one about Cottonelle bath tissue), indulged in pedicures, savored delicious meals on Melanie’s lanai, and fulfilled Edie’s wish to dip her toes in the sand one last time—memories they will cherish forever.
Edie was laid to rest on September 27 beside her husband in a private ceremony in Las Vegas. A celebration of her life will be planned at a later date, allowing friends and family to gather and share their memories.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Park Place at Winghaven, in O’Fallon, MO, and the compassionate caregivers of AW Health Care, for their unwavering support during Edie’s final years.
Edie’s life was a celebration of love, adventure, and connection. She will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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