It is with great sadness that we confirm Liz Cooke died this morning at her home in Great Tew. Her son, Ollie, was with her at the time.

Liz was an extraordinary woman who cared deeply about Somerville since coming up to read History in 1964. Her role in alumni relations was transformational, not just for our College but for the Collegiate University. She was in so many ways the quiet, beating heart of Somerville. We owe her a debt of gratitude impossible to repay, and she will be hugely missed.

There will be no funeral, but a private cremation. We will, of course, hold a memorial at Somerville in due course, at which Liz’s many friends and admirers will be invited to pay their respects. We are also inviting Somervillians to sign the condolence book here.

SIGN AND VIEW THE Condolence Book

Liz Cooke

Liz at the Somerville Spring Meeting, 2023

Further reading?

Student Stories: Sana Shah and ‘A stillness that consoles’

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24 June 2026
Student Stories: Sana Shah and ‘A stillness that consoles’

Research Highlight: Focal Pricing Constraints and Pass-Through of Input Cost Changes

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24 June 2026
Research Highlight: Focal Pricing Constraints and Pass-Through of Input Cost Changes

From Most Vulnerable to Most Valuable: Elevating Children in the Climate and Health Agenda

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22 June 2026
From Most Vulnerable to Most Valuable: Elevating Children in the Climate and Health Agenda