10/15/2026
In honor of Lawrence “Laurie” Cowell.
When my father passed away, I arranged for a letter of condolence from the President of the United States to be sent to my mother. It was a meaningful gesture, and I would have loved to arrange something similar for Laurie’s sister, Nancy.
But anyone who followed Laurie on Facebook knows there is one rather substantial problem with that idea: Donald Trump.
Laurie made his feelings about Trump abundantly clear—often several times a day—with outrage, sharp wit, and posts that had hundreds of us laughing, nodding, and joining the conversation. Somehow, I don’t think a letter bearing Trump’s signature is the tribute Laurie would have wanted. I can almost hear what he’d say about it.
So, Nancy, please accept these words in place of a presidential letter: Your brother was an extraordinary man. He made us laugh, made us think, and never left us wondering where he stood. He deserves to be remembered and celebrated with all the love, admiration, and affection he inspired.
Rest in peace, dear Laurie. Facebook will be quieter without you—and a lot less entertaining.
Nancy, we send you our love and deepest sympathy. No presidential signature could add to what your brother meant to so many of us.
