Cecilia Kalish

It is with tremendous sadness that we announce that Cecilia Cantrill Kalish, aged 69, passed away peacefully at home on June 27, 2026 in Durham, North Carolina.

She was born April 30, 1957, a daughter of Barbara and James Cantrill.

Cecilia worked as an attorney before retiring to raise her two sons, Michael and Daniel. She was passionate about all things that interested her: a voracious reader, an engaged mother, and a lover of her two dogs, Dock and Stormy. Outside these interests, Cecilia was a wonderful artist, often found in her studio at home in North Carolina. Her works will continue to bring joy and creativity to her family and friends for years to come.

Cecilia is survived by her husband, Paul Kalish of Durham, North Carolina; her two sons, Michael Kalish of Vienna, Virginia, and Daniel Kalish of Collegeville, Pennsylvania; four siblings, Claire, Susan, Maura, and James; and her grandson, Ezra.

Cecilia brought joy and conversation wherever she went, and she will be greatly missed by her friends and family.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke, DUMC 3624, Durham, NC 27710, or online at tischbraintumorcenter.duke.edu/donate. The family held a private ceremony for Cecilia on July 1, 2026.