United States: CFWIJ pays tribute to the AP’s religion writer Rachel Zoll

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May 10, 2021, Amherst – Rachel Zoll, who was a religion writer for The Associated Press (AP) for 17 years, died at the age of 55, fighting cancer she had battled for three years. The Coalition For Women In Journalism (CFWIJ) mourns the sudden loss of Rachel and offers sincere condolences to the journalist's family, friends and colleagues.

According to The AP, Rachel Zoll, who served as a religion writer for 17 years, endeared her to colleagues, rivals, and sources with her warm heart and world-class reporting skills, and died in Amherst, Massachusetts after three years of brain cancer at the age of 55.

Rachel tackled all aspects of religion, from spirituality to politics, and her stories reached a global audience. Her effect was much greater than that. Other publications also followed her lead, and her colleagues around the world relied on her generosity and guidance.

Speaking to the news outlet, AP’s managing editor, Brian Carovillano said she was one of the most universally beloved colleagues the newsroom had. He also added that “She was also one of the best reporters, on any beat. She had a knack for finding the story or angle that no one else considered but is packed with insight and surprises.”

Rachel’s colleagues also took Twitter to pay tribute to her. Italy reporter of the AP, Frances D'Emilio said about Rachel that “Warm, smart, kind, thoughtful, helpful, considerate, funny. Lucky enough to be her AP colleague and have shared some meals, laugh.”

Episcopal priest and activist Susan Russell also mourned the loss of the religion writer. Susan said, “Terribly sad news to wake up to this morning as we have lost a brilliant journalist and wonderful friend in AP religion reporter Rachel Zoll. May her memory always be for a blessing as we give thanks for her life.”

Laurie Goodstein, Deputy International Editor at The New York Times, said, “Unbearable to lose Rachel Zoll, reporter of remarkable integrity, heart and soul. Condolences to Rachel's family, friends and colleagues and to David Crary who wrote this tribute to a dear friend.”

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is saddened by the sudden loss of admired writer Rachel Zoll, whose service will surely be remembered.  We express our condolences to Rachel’s friends, family and colleagues in this time of mourning.