Submitted: In the wake of the tragic loss of Batsheva Kohn A”H, who was taken from us in a devastating car accident on the 70 in Lakewood, we gather together to commemorate her life and honor her memory.
Batsheva, affectionately known as Shevy, was a radiant soul whose light was extinguished too soon. While the pain her family and friends feel is indescribable, we seek solace in the power of unity and the opportunity to preserve Shevy’s legacy.
On a fateful evening, as Shevy and her family were returning from visiting her grandparents, tragedy struck. In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Shevy was struck by a car while crossing the street. The pain that lingers in the hearts of her family and friends is immeasurable, as they grapple with the profound loss of their beloved Shevy.
During the emotional levaya, one of Shevy’s classmates read a heartfelt letter, asking, “Where are you, Shevy?” This sentiment echoes throughout our community as we mourn the loss of this vibrant soul. If you are reading this, you are undoubtedly aware of the horrific accident that claimed Shevy’s life. Although many may not have personally known Shevy, we invite you to be a part of her extended family and stand together in support.
Shevy was more than just a bright light; she was a source of joy and inspiration. Her infectious smile had the power to illuminate the world around her. While we cannot bring her back, we can ensure that her memory lives on through a meaningful endeavor. We are embarking on a project to write a Sefer Torah in Shevy’s memory.
To contribute and be a part of this noble cause, please visit https://charidy.com/shevykohnn:
Here is a letter written by one of Shevy’s Friends:
Shevy.
All I can do at this tragic moment is repeat your name in my mind over and over again. A picture of you smiling — as you always were — seems to be pasted over my eyes, and I’m blind and deaf to anything else, because all I can think of is — you.
When I found out the heartbreaking news, the first thought that came to my head was, No. Not Shevy. How could it possibly it be you? You were the most alive person in every sense of the word — animated, smiley, vibrant and energetic. How could it be you?
When you joined us in seventh grade, I remember asking people, “What’s the new girl like?” and they all answered the same way: “She’s the cutest.” I felt awkward approaching you, so you approached me. I remember it like it happened today. We were standing in the back of the lunchroom on the right side during our seventh-grade play, and you asked me my name. When I said xxx, you asked if I was related to xxxx. I still recall the feelings of surprise and slight excitement when you asked me that. How did you know my cousins? It was then, in that lunchroom that we found out that we were related.
After that, your constant presence lit up my life. Your Simchas Hachaim was so incredibly real and infectious, that just being around you made me into a better mood. I loved your smile so, so much. It took over your whole face. Your whole being smiled.
Another thing that stood out about you is your friendliness. Everyone you met, you became acquainted with. When we were arranging a ride from school to your levayah, my mother asked me, “Why are there so many girls going? I thought there were only seven girls from Bais Rochel who are in Bais Shaindel? Who else knows her?” And I answered, “Ma, Shevy was the kind of girl who everyone was attracted to, and she didn’t push anyone who wanted to be her friend away; she accepted us all with open arms.”
Shevy, you were the nicest person. I don’t think I ever heard a negative word come out of your mouth. You always complimented and spoke positively to everyone, about everyone. There was never a concept with you that “she’s not my type,” and “I don’t want to be her friend.” You loved everyone with all your heart and possessed such Ahavas Yisrael. You never turned anyone away.
Every experience experienced with you was so much more fun. You had this dance in your step and positive attitude that made everything good, even when things didn’t go as planned. Whatever it was, whatever happened, in your eyes it was always fine and great. You never kvetched about anything, like I often did when things didn’t go right.
Shevy, your specialness was so outstanding that I have nothing to say. I can talk from today to tomorrow, but you’re not a person who could be described; not the sparkle in your eyes nor the laugh in your voice. The only way to know that is if I knew you. And I was privileged to, for three-and-a-half precious years.
Shevy, I treasure every moment we spent together, whether in school, or at shared family simchos.
You taught me so much by example of what it means to be a solid, happy girl with sterling middos. Your madreigah was higher than I can ever fathom, and I can only imagine how close you are to Hashem right now, and how happy you are up there — even happier than you were down here, if that is possible.
I will never stop thinking about you and reminiscing about you. I will miss you so, so much. Go to
Hashem for me and all of us, and I’m looking forward to seeing you biyimos hamashiach, soon, soon, soon.
With much love,
To contribute and be a part of this noble cause, please visit https://charidy.com/shevykohnn: