Obituary: Dianne Smolen Kaufman

Dianne Smolen Kaufman was born in Philadelphia, Penn., on July 21, 1963, to Herbert and Carol Smolen (nee Eisenberg). She graduated from Friends Select High School in Philadelphia and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from George Washington University.

In 1990, she moved to New York City and worked in advertising sales for the Hollywood Reporter and Video Age International. In 1994, she moved to Atlanta, Ga. Dianne obtained her real estate sales license. While living in Atlanta, Dianne became involved in Democratic politics, serving as a community organizer for many local and statewide candidates. In 2016, she traveled to Florida, remaining there for several months, working to get out the vote for the Hillary Clinton campaign.

She is survived by her parents, Carol and Herbert Smolen; her brother, Robert Smolen (Judy); nephew, Samuel Smolen; niece, Sophie Smolen; and partner, Russell Martinez. Memorial contributions in Dianne’s name may be made to the National Kidney Foundation.