Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Esther Coopersmith

San Francisco - Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi issued this statement on the passing of Esther Coopersmith, former United States Representative to the United Nations and goodwill ambassador to UNESCO:

"Words seem inadequate to describe the greatness of Esther Coopersmith. For all my years in politics, I have been in awe of her, as a diplomat, a leader and an iconic figure in our society. She was always bringing people together, whether as a representative to the United Nations, or as a goodwill ambassador to UNESCO, or over dinners at her home. Visionary and effective, she will be remembered as a tireless advocate for peace in the world and a champion for women in diplomacy and in politics.

"Ambassador Coopersmith loved her family and loved her country - and she was so full of life. We all knew her as a person of great humor who always made us laugh, and she drew strength from the love of her family. Personally, I take great pride in and treasure our family connection. All who had the privilege of knowing her will agree, without any hesitation, that she was so uniquely effective, gifted and generous that we will never see her like again.

"The passing of Esther Coopersmith is a great loss to her family and all who love her, and to anyone who cares about peace in world. May it be a comfort to her children Jonathan, Connie, Jeffrey and Ronald, her dear grandchildren and the entire Coopersmith family that so many across America and around the world pray for them during this sad time."