Bergenfield, NJ – The Borough of Bergenfield is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Anna “Cookie” Ramirez, a beloved community leader, former Bergenfield councilwoman, and a tireless advocate for the Hispanic community. Ramirez, who passed away recently, leaves behind a legacy of dedication, service, and love for her community. She was a trailblazer who touched countless lives throughout her decades of public service.

Mayor Arvin Amatorio: “Bergenfield has lost a pillar of our community. Cookie Ramirez was more than a dedicated public servant; she was a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration to many. Her spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched, and her impact on Bergenfield will never be forgotten. She will forever be remembered for her selflessness and love for her community.”

Born on January 27, 1943, in Bronx, New York, Anna Ramirez moved to Bergenfield, where she became an active and influential member of the community. Known to all as “Cookie,” she was a longtime resident, a devoted mother of four, and a respected leader in multiple organizations. Cookie was perhaps best known for her work as a community outreach coordinator, where she consistently made efforts to uplift those around her and create an environment of inclusion and support.

As the co-founder, past president, and chairman of the Board of the Spanish American Cultural Association of Bergenfield, Cookie helped foster cultural awareness and pride among the Hispanic community in Bergenfield and beyond. She was also an active member of the United Latin Lions Club, the Bergen County Hispanic Republican Organization, the Cultural Exchange of the Arts, and the Bergenfield Republican Club. Cookie’s involvement in these organizations contributed to the betterment of the entire Bergenfield community, as well as the broader region.

Councilman Hernando Rivera: “Cookie’s legacy is intertwined with the history of Bergenfield, particularly within the Latino community. She was a pioneer who laid the groundwork for the next generation of leaders. Her work in advocating for the community will never be forgotten, and her passion for justice and equality lives on in the many lives she touched.”

“Cookie was more than just a community leader; she was a mentor and a guiding light for so many in the Latino community, both in Bergenfield and beyond. Her advocacy for latino rights, her ability to unite people, and her devotion to service have shaped the very fabric of our community. We owe so much of our progress to her relentless dedication.”

Throughout her career, Cookie received numerous accolades and recognition for her unwavering commitment to her community, including acknowledgments from the State of New Jersey General Assembly and the Bergen County Board of Chosen Freeholders and County Executive.

Cookie’s public service career began in 1989 when she worked at the Holy Name Hospital Registrar of Vital Statistics. Her contributions to Bergenfield extended far beyond that, as she served as a Councilwoman for the Borough of Bergenfield starting in 1992. In 1998, she became the Director of the Bergenfield Senior Center under the direction of Noreen Best, a position she held for 17 years, further solidifying her commitment to the senior citizens of Bergenfield. In addition, Cookie worked as a poll worker for many years, serving the residents of Bergenfield at Conlon Hall during elections.

Borough Clerk Marie Quinones Wilson: “Anna was an essential part of our community. She proudly served Bergenfield voters for many years as a poll worker, and was always dedicated to ensuring that our elections ran smoothly. Her joyous personality and unwavering commitment to the community will be remembered by all who had the privilege of working with her. She will be deeply missed.”

The Borough of Bergenfield expresses its deepest condolences to the Ramirez family and to all who had the honor of knowing and working with Cookie. Her commitment to public service, cultural awareness, and community support leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.