Obituary
Mary Cobb, a musician and mentor from Sarasota, Florida passed away at 92 years on August 2, 2025 at 81 Oaks Senior Living. Her husband of 42 years, David Cobb, preceded her on July 20. Mary was born on a stormy and dramatic night in Rutland, Vermont to Bertha and Carroll Dodge. Though her life took her to many places, she always returned for summers to the family house her father created in his hometown of Pawlet, Vermont.
Mary was a violist and during her youth spent an important summer studying at Tanglewood where she performed under Leonard Bernstein. She later was a member of the Honolulu Orchestra, Albuquerque Symphony, Albany Symphony, Lake George Opera Festival, Vermont Symphony, and for many years, the Venice and Sarasota Symphonies. She loved to teach viola and loved helping future generations of musicians to thrive.
After David Cobb inherited a cranberry bog business, she enjoyed raising cranberries with him as part of the Ocean Spray cooperative. She was also passionate about sailing, playing music, entertaining at home, gardening, and traveling.
She is survived by her children Darrell, Gregg, Karen, and John Van Citters and her grandchildren Kristina Ruekert, Matthew Van Citters, Michael Van Citters, Emily Van Citters, Nicholas Robbins, and Liam Van Citters.
A joint memorial service for Mary and David Cobb will take place in Sarasota on January 10 (details will be forthcoming).
Mary’s memory would be honored and blessed by donations to the music school created by one of her favorite students, Caitlin Sparace, Sounds of Carolina Music Academy through the link below: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/B6CQFR9PXXCL6
Mary (2023) reflected in photo of young Mary, Pawlet, VT
Dave and Mary at dinner, The Silver Fork, Manchester, VT