Category Archives: Obituaries

QUEENSBURY – Lawrence E. “Larry” Hamlin, Sr., 92, passed away Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at Glens Falls Hospital following a short illness with Liz at his side.

Born October 27, 1931, in Burlington Vermont, Larry was the son of the late Roy and Mary (Case) Hamlin.

Larry was an alumni of Glens Falls High School.

In February 1951, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served until November 1954. During his time in the Air Force, Larry received the Korean Service Medal, U.N. Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.

Following his discharge from the Air Force, Larry worked many jobs before being hired at General Electric in Fort Edward. He was a team leader in the film department. He retired from GE after 36 years of dedicated service.

Larry had six children of his own. Twenty-five years ago, Larry became part of a bonus family when he entered a life partnership with Elizabeth (Liz) Long and two more children became a part of his family.

In addition to his parents, Larry is predeceased by his wife Particia Tyler-Hamlin and his brother, Terry and Terry’s wife Linda Hamlin.

Larry is survived by his life partner, Elizabeth (Liz) Long; his children Larry (Catherine) Hamlin, Jr., Karen (Ed) Pike, Nancy (Charlie) Murone, Susan (Dan) Kelleher, Kristin (Mike) LaPointe, Amy (Charles) Jones, Susan (Jeff) Allen, and Michael (Roxy) Tyler; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.  Larry’s bonus family includes Danielle (Jim) Shaw, Michael (Beth) Long, and extra grandchildren, Brittany, Josh, Keenan, Gillian, Cole, and Aubree. Larry is also survived by his brothers, Roy (Jacqueline) Hamlin and Gary (Barbara) Hamlin.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, February 22, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A funeral service will be held immediately following calling hours at 3 p.m.

Rite of Committal will be held in the Spring.

Larry’s family would like to thank his niece Teresa (Hamlin) Winch and Dr. Potvin for all their help. They would also like to thank the staff at Glens Falls Hospital and Glens Falls Rehabilitation Center for their care and compassion during this difficult time.

LAKE GEORGE – Shirley Stevenson, 87, passed away on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at home.

She was the daughter of the late Charles and Ruth Jenkins.

Shirley was married 44 years to Charles Stevenson from January 14, 1953, until his passing September 7, 1997.

Shirley had many hobbies starting with bowling then racing cars with the Powder Puffs. She enjoyed hunting, fishing and participated in Archery shoots. She was very crafty, as she enjoyed woodworking, painting, knitting, and crocheting. In her later years she played in a pool league. She also enjoyed traveling with Ralph to places such as Maine and Canada to watch baseball games and explore, including going to the casinos.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Charles Stevenson, her daughter, Shirley Ruth and two sons, Terry and Troy Stevenson, her three brothers, David, Robert and Benny Jenkins, also two grandchildren, Kristen Stevenson and Daniel, one great-grandchild, Marissa Weatherwax.

Survivors include her children, Tracy (Michaela) of Hudson Falls, Taylor (Lisa) of Port St John, FL and Todd Stevenson of Lake George; her sister, Sharon Dumas of Queensbury; her brother, Dexter (Robin) Jenkins of Queensbury; and Sister-in-Law, Janet Jenkins of Lake George; Shirley is also survived by her significant other of 26 years, Ralph Saville of Lake George; she has 12 Grandchildren, 17 Great grandchildren and 1  Great-great granddaughter.

Friends may call on Friday February 23, 2024, from 4 to 7 pm at the Carleton Funeral Home Inc. 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

Burial will be at Seeley Cemetery on Ridge Road, in the town of Queensbury in the spring.

HUDSON FALLS – Zackery Allen Weller, 25 of Lower Elizabeth Street in Hudson Falls, passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2024.

Born January 5, 1999, at Glens Falls Hospital, Zack, also known as “Bubby,” was the youngest son of Nelson and Amy (Diffee) Weller, Jr. of Hudson Falls.

Bubby was a 2017 graduate of Hudson Falls High School. If you knew Bubby, you already know that at any given time you could drive by his house and see him working on his 85’ Big Block Monte Carlo SS with his dad and brother. Zack loved his family and friends with all he had.

He had a passion for working on cars. Zack loved bringing his Monte Carlo to the Lake George Car Show with his dad by his side. Zack and his dad also loved watching their favorite movies together. Zack had a remarkable close bond with his brother Nelson that was inseparable. Fishing, having some beers, cooking on the grill and great late-night conversations were just some of the many things they loved doing together.

Bubby was the baby of the family. As his biggest fan, his mom attended and participated in many of Zacks activities. Especially bowling. He didn’t really need a bowling coach, because she was always right there being his biggest supporter and guiding him where to throw the ball. Zack adored, loved and was very protective of his sister Katelynn. They loved going to concerts, taking road trips, and having home cooked meals. Katelynn was always cooking for him.

Zack really looked up to his papa. He always knew he could count on him. Anything he needed he just had to ask. Zack was a very hard worker. He was always willing or helping someone with whatever they needed. He got his work ethic from his papa. Zack always confided in his gram. She was a HUGE contributor to his famous sneaker collection.  Zack was truly grateful to her. He loved her for that and so much more.

Colton, Brayden, and Ashton were “his boys” and they will forever have their best memories of Zack. They spent weekends with their Bubby playing PlayStation and Xbox. Having late night snacks, watching movies, and going to Six Flags are just a few of the memories.

With their huge family, and all the parties, Zack couldn’t be without Tyler and Ryan. The three cousins did everything growing up. As youngsters, showing off on their bikes, doing tricks at halfpipe thrills they turned into young adults having bonfires and beers. They had an unbreakable bond that was clear to see. They were a part of Zacks favorite memories.

Zack had many friends, but he had the best group of friends that anyone would be honored to have. Damon, Tyler, Logan, Bailey, Chris, Cam, and Brennan knew Zack at his best and his worst.  They played Call of Duty, rode bikes, went cliff jumping, and did late night drive-thru’s. They talked about their future and took the best “Bro Pics”.

Zack loved spending time with his second family, Timmy and Cassandra, at their Lake house and garage He also loved going with them on road trips.

Lastly, Zack was a dog dad. His dogs Gunner and Charlie were his pride and joy. He would take them for rides in the truck, camping, and swimming in the river. During the winter months he loved to take them outside so he could play in the snow with them.

Bubby is predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Nelson Weller Sr., his uncle Audie Diffee Jr., great uncle, Harold Weller, and Elias LaRock.

Survivors include his loving parents Nelson “Woody” and Amy Weller, Jr., of Hudson Falls; his brother, Nelson Weller III (DeAnna) of Hudson Falls; his sister Katelynn Weller (Anthony Ure) of Glens Falls; and nephews “his boy’s”, Colton Weller, Brayden Agard, and Ashton Ure. Bubby is also survived by his maternal grandparents Audie and Patricia Diffee of Hudson Falls, and his paternal grandmother, Carolyn Weller.

Additional survivors include his aunts Kimberly (Diffee) Jerome, Gabrielle Diffee, Jinger Weller and Danyel Prouty (Dan); his uncle’s Aaron Diffee (Jacklyn), George Bougor, Edrass Jerome, Timothy Weller (Jamie), and Tim Rich (Cassandra); his cousins, Giavonna, Jahdaya, Colin, Chase, Cason, Audrie, Clifford, Branden, Kassandra, and Patrick.

As you can tell, Zack lived a life full of love, loyalty, and great times. His memory will live on in all those that knew and loved him. (P.S. Ashton says he loves you)

Calling hours will be held Tuesday, February 20, 2024, from 1.p.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A funeral service will be held at 6 p.m. following calling hours.

In memory of Zack, memorial donations may be made in honor of Elias to The Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Disorders at 43 New Scotland Ave., Albany, NY 12208.

SOUTH GLENS FALLS – Amy Marie Tranowicz, 42, most recently of Hudson Falls, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at home.

Born November 5, 1981, in Glens Falls, she was the daughter of Margaret “Peggy” Ball of Gansevoort and David Tranowicz of South Carolina.

Amy grew up in South Glens Falls and attended South Glens Falls High School. In 2008, she met the love of her life James “Jay” Etu Jr. and began their beautiful family in 2009 with their daughter Liliana. A few years later they welcomed their second daughter, Layla.

For many years, Amy was employed at CWI in Glens Falls as a Residential Aide working at their location on Bay Road.

Amy was a private person. She really enjoyed reading. She loved suspense thrillers, horror, and mystery novels by her favorite author, Dean Koontz. Amy was also a reality TV junkie. She would watch “Cops”, “Live PD”, “My 600 lb. Life” and “1,000 lb. Sisters”. Amy also liked to watch “Law and Order: SVU”, cooking shows and Dr. Phil. While watching Dr. Phil, Amy and her sister, Lori, would be on the phone with each other talking about the situation Dr. Phil was trying to resolve. Amy also loved to cook and bake. She was known to bake the best cakes.

Amy is predeceased by her maternal grandfather, Sterling Ball; paternal grandparents, Betty, and Bill Tranowicz; her uncle Larry Ball; and Jay’s father also known as Papa Blue, James Etu, Sr.  

Survivors include her fiancé, Jay Etu; her daughters Liliana Rose and Layla Bettyjean Tranowicz; her mother, Peggy Ball; sister Lori (Ed) Marble; her nephew, Jayden Perkins; her maternal grandmother, Mildred Rundell; and her father, David Tranowicz. Amy is also survived by her aunt, Karen Cozzens whom she was very close to and had a special bond, and several other aunts, uncles, cousins, and many close friends.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 23, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A funeral service will be held at 1p.m. immediately following calling hours.

A Celebration of Life will be held immediately after the funeral service at the SGF Eagles Club FOE #2486, located at 80 Main Street in South Glens Falls.

Byrle Ann Gonyea, also known as “Tiny,” passed away on February 11, 2024, after a brief battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 78 in Hudson Falls, New York. She was born on August 1, 1945, to Arthur and Myrle (Hoytt) Blair. in Saranac New York. Byrle loved animals and was not shy about hard work; she was raised on the family farm with 11 Siblings.

She met the love of her life, Donald Gonyea, as a teenager, and they married after his discharge from the service on November 13th, 1965. They had Two Daughters and spent 58 wonderful years together. Byrle was a beloved homemaker, dedicating her life to creating a warm and loving home for her family.

Fun-loving and kind, Byrle had a vibrant personality that brought joy to those around her. She had a passion for bingo, where you could find her every Friday night with the girls, Best Friends Threasa Marshall and Nancy Auffinger. She enjoyed watching her game shows and loved country music, but her biggest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren. She was blessed with two grandsons, one granddaughter, and One Very special Great-granddaughter Letty Jean, who was the apple of her eye.

She also accumulated more kids and grandchildren than she had. She was everybody’s “Grama,” Considering many of her grandson Corey’s friends as her own. She truly enjoyed watching the boys grow up.

Byrle is survived by her loved ones, including daughters Marion Gonyea, and Melissa Gonyea; Marion’s Sons Joshua Daniels and Corey Mechanick, his wife Kasey Mechanick, and great-granddaughter Letty Jean; Her brothers, Fred and wife Monica Blair, Chester Blair and wife Alberta, Larry Blair, and wife Shari, and Richard Blair and wife Leata; brothers-in law, Jerry Marshall, Marvin “Sonny” Gonyea and his wife, Jeanette, Gerald “Joe” Gonyea and his wife Virginia; and a sisters-in-law, Patty Blair, Gloria Brenn and Linda Gonyea. Also a very special niece, Sue Bruno, who helped care for Byrle during her brief illness, as well as Jerry French, who was like a son to Byrle.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald Gonyea; her parents, Arthur and Myrle Blair; and siblings, Raymond, Leon, Gerald, Merle, and Robert “bobby” Blair; sisters, Shirley Marshall and Elsie Lester; brothers-in-law, Leslie Lester, Armond, Gary, and his Wife Pat Gonyea. Sister-In-Law Verna & husband John Desourdy.

There will be a Graveside ceremony in the spring for family and friends at the St. Paul Cemetery In Hudson Falls, New York. With a Celebration of life to follow at a location and date still to be determined at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the family to help with the burial expenses. Please contact the Carleton Funeral Home in Hudson Falls, New York, for further information.

A special Thank you to High Peaks Hospice for their support and care during this difficult time.

Byrle Ann Gonyea, or “Tiny” as she was affectionately known, will be deeply missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing her. May she rest in peace.

QUEENSBURY – Steven B. Bishop, 68, formerly of Fort Ann, passed away unexpectedly Friday evening, February 9, 2024 at the Glens Falls Hospital after a brief illness.

Born on May 1, 1955 in Glens Falls, he was the son of the late Bernard and Viola (McFarren) Bishop. Steve grew up in Fort Ann and also attended Fort Ann Central School. He served his country proudly in the United States Air Force.

Steve worked for many years at Scott Paper, first as an adjuster and then as a millwright. When the mill closed, he decided to use his welding talents to go into business for himself forming A to Z Welding. His knowledge of machinery led him to travel to China where he helped install a paper machine in a new mill and teach the workers how to operate it.

Steve was a true outdoorsman and loved to hunt, fish and snowmobile. He was the co-owner of Sportfishing Charters, taking clients on fishing trips on Lake Champlain and Lake George, and had his pilot license, something he earned over 30 years ago.

Of all the things Steve loved to do, spending time with his grandchildren and his beloved Chocolate Lab, Hershey were his favorite.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by a daughter, Donna Mallory Bishop; and two brothers, Jimmy Ross and Larry Bishop.

He is survived by his beloved Chocolate Labrador Retriever, Hershey; his former wife Dawn Bishop and their children, Alishia Smith (Sean), Stephenie Bearor (Tony), Joshua Bishop (Emily), Kayla Ali (Mike), Jamie Wagnerhoppe (Isaac), and Jamie Moors (Ryan); his grandchildren, Hayden, Liam, Rileigh, Mallory, Paisley, Tucker, Dante, Demi, Sunni, and Kelsee; his long time best friend and his family, Chuck Friedman (Lisa), Adisen Friedman, and Landen Friedman; his very special nephew and his children (also his god children), Kenny Bishop, Travis John and Heather Ann Bishop; his siblings, Linda Flewelling, Lewis Ross (Judy), Elaine Walker (Jim), Cathy Blackwell (Merv); his girlfriend, Nancy Lee Mattison and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Friday, February 16, 2024 at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls. Burial will follow in Fort Ann Cemetery.

Friends may call from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, February 15, 2024 at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or to the SPCA of Upstate NY, 588 Queensbury Avenue, Queensbury, NY 12804.

LAKE GEORGE – Barbara E. Weaver, 82 of Lake George, passed away Thursday evening, February 8, 2024 at Glens Falls Hospital after a brief illness.

Born on December 20, 1941 in Glens Falls, she was a life-long area resident, growing up in Hudson Falls, and daughter of the late Richard and Lena Mae (Gokey) Harris.

A graduate of Hudson Falls High School, Barbara worked for several years at Kubricky Construction in Glens Falls, and most recently at Web Graphics in Queensbury where she worked as a machine operator.

She enjoyed puzzles and tending to her flower gardens, but more than anything else, she loved camping. She and her family camped at Riverside Pines Campground in Chestertown for over 40 years and she was even featured in an article in Adirondack Life Magazine.

In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her son, Kenneth Weaver.

She is survived by her daughters, Jamie Harris (Bob) of Greenfield Center, Barbara A. Weaver of Hudson Falls, Teresa Weaver of Hudson Falls, and Lizabeth Cipriani of Rotterdam; her siblings, Pat Morris of Queensbury, Carol Brown of Glens Falls, and Art Harris of Indian Lake; her grandchildren, Sadie Mueller, Jason Blackbird, Kimberly Cipriani, Nicholas Cipriani, and Kendra Ash; great grandchildren, Aiden, Christopher, and Paisley Grace; and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 pm on Monday, February 19, 2024 at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

Burial will be at Glens Falls Cemetery on Bay Street in Glens Falls.

Friends may call from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on Monday at the funeral home, prior to the services.

Memorial donations may be made in her name to the charity of your choice.

GEORGE’S MILLS, NH & SARATOGA SPRINGS – Beverly H. Theis, 91, formerly of George’s Mills, NH and more recently of Saratoga Springs, passed away peacefully at The Wesley Health Care Center, in Saratoga Springs on February 4, 2024.

Born on February 6, 1932, in Lockport, she was the daughter of the late Vernon and Mildred (VanMarter) Ford.  While growing up in the Buffalo area, Beverly spent many hours drawing and creating beautiful pieces of art.

She graduated from high school, near Buffalo and soon after married her hometown sweetheart, William “Bill” Theis in Newfane, NY.  He passed away on January 9, 2019, after 69 years of marriage.

During her husband’s career in the newspaper industry, Beverly lived many years in West Convia, California and in the Glenville area.  After his retirement, they moved to the family summer home in George’s Mills in New Hampshire.

Beverly loved tending to her gardens and for many years, camping with her family at Fish Creek.   Throughout her life, she had beautiful Collie dogs and while in high school she was very proud to have shown them on the circuit.  Along with her husband, Beverly traveled with their Fifth Wheel throughout the country.  For many years, they loved wintering in Palm Desert CA and Arizona.

Besides her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her son, Gary Theis and her sisters, Janice Manning and her husband Cork and Joyce Manning and her husband, Irv.

Survivors include her children, Linda Lemieux and her husband, Robert of Argyle and Brian Theis and his wife, Jennifer of California; her grandchildren, Joe Theis and his wife, Shawna, Jamie Durkee and her husband, Matthew, Nick Theis and his wife, Jessica, Jennifer Leskow and her husband, Dave, Alicia Castello and her husband, Peter, Michael Theis and his wife, Sara, and Mitchell Theis; several great grandchildren; her sisters in law, Elaine Dickenson and Joan Prost; and many niece, nephews and cousins.

Graveside Services will be at a later date at Gerald B.H. Solomon-Saratoga National Cemetery in the town of Stillwater.

Because of Beverly’s love of animals, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to News 10 Pet Connection, 341 Northern Boulevard, Albany, NY 12204 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St, Jude Place, Memphis, TN  38105.

WHITEHALL – Candace I. “Candy” Renaud, 72, of Whitehall, passed away peacefully at Glens Falls Hospital, following a long battle with numerous illnesses, on February 5, 2024, with her loving family by her side.

Born May 19, 1951, in Philadelphia New York, she was the daughter of the late Merton and Ella (Clifton) Brotherton.

Candace, known by all as Candy, grew up on the family farm in Philadelphia, NY and attended Indian River High School. She married Theodore Alguire at the St. James Church in Gouverneur and began their family with their children, Jeff and Kelly.

Throughout her life, Candy was a ‘jack of all trades’. She enjoyed working with the public at different stores and restaurants.

Candy was a huge fan of Elvis. She also loved Betty Boop. Most importantly, Candy absolutely loved gardening. It was a true passion of hers. Candy put a lot of thought into planting her flowers. She wanted to make sure she planted flowers that would attract certain birds so she could birdwatch from the windows in her house or while sitting outside in her yard. She would spend hours outside working in her garden.

She also enjoyed ceramics, knitting, and sewing. Candy was always a hands-on woman. If a coat, shirt, or pair of pants were missing a button, she was quick to grab a needle and thread to sew the button back on. There wasn’t a thing she couldn’t sew, fix, or mend.  Family trips to Cranberry Lake Campground will never be forgotten. Whether she knew what she was doing or not, Candy always managed to be the master at making wonderful meals and snacks on the open campfire.

In addition to her parents, Candy is also predeceased by her husband Theodore Alguire; her brother, Donald Brotherton; and sister Muriel Gates.

Survivors include her son Jeffrey Alguire and his wife Brittney of Queensbury; her daughter Kelly Augustin and her husband John of Lowell, NC; her eight grandsons; four granddaughters; one great-granddaughter and two great grandchildren on the way; her half-sisters Shirley Bothwell and Dolly Bullard; and several nieces and nephews. Candy is also survived by her longtime, childhood best friend, Sharon Hamilton.

Candy’s family would like to thank the Glens Falls Rehabilitation Center for all their help. They would especially like to thank Nicole Hawkins for her continuous care, extra attention, love, and support given to Candy these past several weeks.

A Celebration of Candy’s life will be held at a later date.

GLENS FALLS – Douglas L. “Peanut” Christman, 51, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at his home following a long illness with his loving mother by his side.

Born June 17, 1972, at Glens Falls Hospital, he was the son of Lee A. Clark and the late Douglas D. Christman.

Doug, known as Peanut to many, attended Glens Falls Sr. High School. He briefly worked at the Warren County Municipal Center as their groundskeeper. 

He was a diehard Dale Earnhardt fan and collected #3 race cars. Following Dale Earnhardt’s death on February 18, 2001, Peanut continued to watch the NASCAR races even though it was not the same. KISS was his all-time favorite rock band. Peanut loved to take the time to reassemble RC cars. Following a rainstorm, he would take the cars outside and chase his daughters around the yard splashing through the mud puddles. As years went on, Peanut realized the importance of spending time with family and friends making special memories. He loved his daughters Leeann and Jamie dearly.

A month prior to his passing, Peanut made the personal decision to trust in and love the Lord. He was proudly baptized at the Apostolic Christian Fellowship.

In addition to his father, Peanut is predeceased by his half brother Walter L. Jones; and his girlfriend of 11 years, Elizabeth Rucker.

Survivors include his loving mother Lee A. Clark; his daughters, Leeann Oechler (Cyrus) and Jamie Christman; his five grandchildren, Isabella, Landon, Chase, Oden, and Esmay; brothers Sandy Jones, Michael Christman, and Jeremy Christman; his twin sisters, Alisha Christman and Felicia Christman; his special nephews, Dajon Jones, and Tyler McKinney; and his uncle Steven (DeeDee) Clark. Peanut is also survived by his best friend Don Bennett, and numerous other close friends.

Peanut’s family would like to especially thank High Peaks Hospice for the care and compassion provided not only to Peanut, but his mom, Lee. They would also like to thank Fredericka Stevens for her support during this difficult time.

A Celebration of Doug’s Life will be held at a date and time to be announced by his family.

Donations in Doug’s name may be made to High Peaks Hospice and Palliative Care, 1247 Dix Ave., Hudson Falls, NY 12839, or the Apostolic Christian Fellowship at 103 Warren St., Glens Falls, NY 12801.

HUDSON FALLS – Peggy Kay (Day) Simpson, 91, slipped softly away, in the comfort of her home in the early hours of December 30, 2023.

Born in Glens Falls on July 13, 1932, the only offspring of Ernest and Helene (Clark) Day. Peggy had an idyllic childhood filled with love, skating, dancing, and playing with cousins Marshall and Jay (Skip) Stone. Surrogate brothers to her, the three remained close, until she was predeceased by each.

Love was not the only thing in abundance in Peggy’s childhood heart and home. She also enjoyed, and soon adopted her mother’s passion and efficiency in filling their house with the smells and tastes of delicious home baked goods. That passion, combined with her work ethic led from school days to a job at a candy store, and later behind the counter in her mother and father’s business in West Glens Falls. They leased Crannell’s Dairy Bar, which featured food cooked by her mother, and ice cream made by her father. Affable and accommodating, Peggy helped make it a place to which customers returned, and she enjoyed the demanding pace of breakfast, lunch, and dinner service.

In the early 50’s, a chance meeting with friends introduced her to Fred Simpson. Two years her junior, and charming, they shared a birthday, and soon the dream of a life together, raising their own family. Fred and Peggy married on June 20, 1954. She continued working at the Dairy Bar until the birth of their third child, at which point all her energies were devoted to providing and caring for her family. Following the death of her father in 1969, Peggy’s care was extended to include her mother. By 1971, all were living in their new home at 32 Elm Street in Hudson Falls where Peggy’s loving care kept her mother, until her passing in 1996.    

By all accounts, Peggy could work circles around most people. So, through losses of beloved friends and relatives, the constant in her life was her work ethic. When Peggy wasn’t cleaning, baking, nursing someone’s physical or emotional wounds, or feeding someone, she did crosswords and cryptograms to keep her mind sharp.

A consummate multi-tasker, her hours spent watching TV found her hands in constant motion crocheting beautifully intricate freehand blankets, which were then gifted to family, friends, and children she would never meet yet to whom she could provide comfort.

Over the years, Peggy donated a few shy of 300 child-sized lap blankets to Shriners Children’s Hospital in Springfield MA. Children were welcomed to their temporary rooms by her love in the form of blankets, which they could take home after their stay. In 2017, an article written by Kathy Dede about Peggy’s blanket donations was published in the Glens Falls Chronicle newspaper. This proved to be a great source of pride for Peggy. However, love, not pride, was the force motivating her hands.

Love freely given has a way of returning. In Peggy’s later years, the love she extended in caring for her own mother was returned to her by her son Ernie, along with the help of her daughter Linda, and long-distance support from daughter Susan. A stroke in Peggy’s 90th year forced her work ethic to shift, as strokes have a way of making things once taken for granted, suddenly impossible, without the help of others.

Peggy’s work while in the hospital, and during her rehab stay, was focused on regaining as much independence as possible. Ernie provided selfless air cover, and muscular support in her battle to get back to and remain in her own home. More than anything else in the world, that was where Peggy wanted to be. She planned to get back to crocheting, cooking, doing dishes and housework. Unfortunately, time had other plans, but her grace and sense of humor remained intact. In between apologizing for her inability, while Ernie and Linda helped her get ready for bed one night, she said “It’s a good thing I never beat you…”. Laughter helped the three of them through the day-to-day changes, as her end eased closer. Ernie worked patiently on little sleep, until Peggy’s hands finally rested, as he completed the circle she’d once begun, in caring for her own mother.

The family is eternally grateful to Ernie for the personal sacrifices and 24/7 care given to Peggy which extended the years everyone was able to have with her.

In addition to her parents, Peggy was predeceased by her husband of 53 years, Fred; her sisters in law, Constance (Charles Robinson) and Dorothy Burch; her beloved cousins Marshall, Jay, and Ronald Stone; and many other relatives, friends, and neighbors, all of whom Peggy missed dearly, and spoke of often.

Peggy is survived by her three children, Susan (Myron) Klos of Wevertown, Linda Abare and grandson Cody of Fort Edward, and Ernest Simpson of Hudson Falls. She is also survived by her cousin Mary (Bob) Hunsdon of Colorado and cousins Joseph (Tony Fernandez) Swenarton and Tom (Jan) Swenarton both of Florida; several nieces, nephews, and many supportive friends she loved as her own and would have happily adopted, if possible, including Jim Alden, Donna Bourgault, Nancy McDermott, and Tom Ellis.

Near the end of Peggy’s life, the family feels blessed to have had visiting nurses from HCR who were very helpful and comforting. At the end, it was Hilary and Aimee from Hudson Headwaters Homeward Bound Program that made it possible for her to be completely free from pain and anxiety so she could get the rest she deserved and eventually pass away in peace in her own home. Near the end that was all she wanted, and the family is truly grateful to them for making that possible.

Peggy’s family would also like to thank the staff of Glens Falls Hospital and aides Frank, Tony, Alyssa, Shay, and Irma at Slate Valley Center for their tender care. Peggy missed and spoke of each of them, right to the end.

Her family also wishes to thank the following special people, Al and Donna (Bourgault) Nielson, Kim (Preston) Kirby, Nancy McDermott and her children; Kim Skol, Tom Ellis and Tom Robinson for their love, generosity, day and night lift assists, home repairs, medical supplies and prescriptions, and special treats like warm donuts retrieved and delivered, and to the special “Egg Fairies” Kim Skol and Kim Kirby.

A special thanks to Peggy’s wonderful neighbors, Ray and Kathy Filipek, Alex Ramos, Benjamin Byrne, and Elizabeth (Krom) Ramos for their love over the years and taking it upon themselves to do the yard work, and snow shoveling which allowed easy access for ambulances. All of this was a huge relief to Ernie, as he cared for their mom.

A celebration of Peggy’s life will be held in the spring.   

In lieu of flowers, Peggy’s family asks that you donate to a local soup kitchen or simply feed someone you love. Their mom lived for that.

HUDSON FALLS – Martha Elizabeth Horrigan, 68, of Hudson Falls, passed away January 27, 2024 at Albany Medical Center.

Born on June 23, 1955 in Glens Falls, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Elizabeth (Leonard) Horrigan.

Martha attended Saint Mary’s school in Hudson Falls and also the Hudson Falls Central School System. Martha cherished the many friendships she made during her 35 years at East Side Center in Glens Falls.

Martha enjoyed ice skating at Derby Park, swimming at the family pool, and especially playing trivia on Christmas Eve with her family. Music was another passion of Martha’s, especially listening to Barry Manilow and Barbara Streisand. Martha was also a member of the choir at Barnwell.

Besides her parents, Martha is predeceased by her aunts and uncles, Mary F. Horrigan, Edward Horrigan, Josephine Horrigan, and John Horrigan, Bobby and F. William Leonard.

Left with heavy hearts, Martha is survived by her siblings, Mary (T.R.) Sexton, Ann (Ed) Stangle, Michael (Heidi) Horrigan, Ellen Horrigan, and Tom (Beth) Horrigan; nieces and nephews, Jennifer (Brett) Seeley, Brittany (Jeff) Rozelle, Tara (Brian) Carpenter, Laura (Everett) Voorhis, Thomas Stangle, Brendan Stangle, Laine Horrigan, and Reid Horrigan; her great nieces and nephews, Conor Horrigan, Morgan Seeley, Drew Seeley, and Hattie Carpenter; and her cousins Tim (Anne) Horrigan, Joan Horrigan Camp, Kelly Horrigan and Ann Sullivan.

In loving memory of Aunt Mart, a resilient soul who faced life’s challenges with courage. She brought warmth and kindness to those around her, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts. Let us remember the joy she shared and may her journey be a source of inspiration to embrace empathy and understanding for those navigating mental health issues.

Her family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at Barnwell Nursing Center Valatie, NY.

Friends may call from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.  A funeral service will be conducted following calling hours at 2:00 pm at the funeral home.

Following the service friends and family are invited for a Celebration of Life at the Queensbury Hotel, 88 Ridge Street, Glens Falls.

Burial will take place at Saint Mary’s Cemetery in Fort Edward in the Spring.

Donations in Martha’s memory can be made to AMH Support Services, 230 Maple St. Glens Falls, NY 12801.

UPDATE: Rite of Committal for Martha Elizabeth Horrigan, who passed away on January 27, 2024, will take place 1 pm on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at St. Mary’s Cemetery in the Town of Fort Edward.