Obituaries

Ronnie Barbara Kolodny Cobbler passed away on February 23, 2026, at Mountain Valley Hospice in Yadkinville, NC, at the age of 81. Born September 24, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York, she grew up in Martinsville, VA, and spent most of her life there.

She was a proud Kolodny, deeply connected to the local community through her parents and grandparents and the clothing boutiques they ran for many decades. Ronnie forged so many relationships in Martinsville that it became virtually impossible for her children to go Uptown or to a restaurant in Martinsville without someone sending her their regards, asking after her, or telling a uniquely Ronnie story. For many decades, she sold clothes to people who came to depend on her for her style, her taste, and her sense of humor. She had an incredible laugh, strong opinions, and a way with words.

Ronnie is survived by her devoted husband, Earl Cobbler; her son Scott Kolodny (Charlotte), her daughter and son-in-law Gayle and Jeremy Cole (Winston-Salem); her grandchildren Benjamin, Aedin, and Annie; her brother and sister-in-law Joel and Susan Kolodny, and their daughters, Lisa Boes and Ali Finnegan (Colorado); additional extended family across the country who treasured her; friends of all ages who loved her like family; and the most beloved four-legged child, Truffle.

For those who wish to honor Ronnie’s memory, the family encourages donations to charities that support animals or children, like the ASPCA or St. Jude’s, because Ronnie dearly loved dogs and kids. Shortly before her passing, Ronnie left clear and firm instructions: “When I am gone, do not lament my passing, because we all have ups and downs, but I had a good life!”

A graveside service will be held Sunday March 8, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Ohev Zion Cemetery in Ridgeway, VA.

McKee-Stone Funeral Home of Martinsville is serving the family.