Zoe Kaplan Obituary, Death – The publishing world and the Asheville community are mourning the untimely loss of Zoe Kaplan, a talented Associate Managing Editor at Simon & Schuster, who passed away on Wednesday, October 9, 2024. Her passing has left her family, friends, and colleagues devastated, as tributes pour in from all who knew and admired her. Zoe, known for her passion for language, literature, and storytelling, was a rising star in the publishing industry, and her death is a heartbreaking loss to both her personal and professional communities.
A Passion for Language and Literature
Born and raised in Asheville, North Carolina, Zoe Kaplan’s love for language and storytelling was evident from an early age. She graduated from Asheville High School in 2014, where she was a standout student, known for her intellectual curiosity and creativity. Her academic journey led her to Appalachian State University, where she pursued a degree in English, further deepening her connection to literature and honing her editorial skills. Zoe’s time at Appalachian State University helped shape her love for both the written word and the intricate process of bringing stories to life.
Her passion for storytelling wasn’t confined to her studies. Zoe took every opportunity to immerse herself in the literary world, always looking for ways to grow and make a meaningful impact. In the summer of 2015, she secured an internship at *Lightspeed Magazine*, a well-known science fiction and fantasy publication. This experience allowed her to gain hands-on editorial expertise and explore the fast-paced, dynamic world of publishing. The internship was a formative moment in her career, solidifying her desire to pursue editing and inspiring her to leave a lasting mark on the literary community.
Nurturing Young Writers and Literary Talent
After her time at *Lightspeed Magazine*, Zoe continued to expand her career by taking on roles that combined her love for literature and her passion for mentoring young writers. She served as a Resident Assistant at Shared Worlds, a unique program designed to foster creativity among budding authors. In this role, she not only contributed to the program’s success but also helped shape the next generation of literary talent. Zoe had a natural gift for nurturing others, and her leadership at Shared Worlds left a lasting impression on many young writers who had the privilege of learning from her.
Her ability to inspire and encourage others was one of Zoe’s most defining qualities. Whether she was working with young writers or collaborating with colleagues, Zoe’s warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm for the creative process made her a beloved figure in every circle she touched.
A Rising Star in the Publishing Industry
Zoe’s career in publishing flourished as she gained valuable experience across various editorial roles. From July 2019 to November 2021, she worked as a Managing Editorial and Production Assistant at Neuwirth & Associates, Inc. This role allowed her to develop a deep understanding of both the creative and logistical aspects of the publishing process. Her versatility, attention to detail, and commitment to her work made her a standout in her field.
In November 2022, Zoe achieved a significant milestone in her career when she joined Simon & Schuster, one of the largest and most prestigious publishing houses in the world, as an Associate Managing Editor. This role marked the culmination of years of dedication and hard work, and she quickly became an integral part of the team. Her colleagues at Simon & Schuster admired her for her professionalism, creativity, and unrelenting passion for the written word. Zoe was well on her way to making an indelible impact on the industry, with a bright future ahead of her.
A Heartfelt Goodbye
The news of Zoe Kaplan’s passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew her. While the exact cause of her death has not been made public, the grief and loss felt by her friends, family, and colleagues are immense. As they come to terms with her sudden departure, they remember Zoe as a shining light, full of promise, kindness, and an unwavering dedication to her craft.
Zoe’s influence on the publishing world, her students, and the literary community will continue to resonate long after her passing. She leaves behind a legacy of creativity, mentorship, and a deep love for storytelling that will not be forgotten. As her loved ones navigate this difficult time, their thoughts and prayers are with her family, who have lost not only an accomplished editor but also a beloved daughter and friend.
Zoe Kaplan’s passion for literature touched many lives, and her spirit will live on through the stories she helped shape and the lives she inspired. She will be profoundly missed.
