HUDSON FALLS – Courtney David Walsh, left this realm last winter at Albany Medical Center in the presence of his cousin Bill and beloved dog Snooker, with support from his sister Michaele, due to heart failure.
He is predeceased by his mother, Lynne C Walsh, his father Douglas (Helen) Walsh, and cousin Mickey Walsh. Courtney will be lovingly remembered by his family, sister Michaele (James) Babcock, nephews Michael and Jason, and cousins Bill (Sue) Carmichael Walsh.
“Courtney was a Renaissance man, a good friend to many, a writer, a connoisseur of all things enjoyable, who loved his animals.” ~ Andy Nolte, his dear friend.
Courtney found pleasure in teaching, writing, and a varied taste in literature. His favorites were James Joyce, Shakespeare, Isaac Asimov, and The Tibetan Book of the Dead. He enjoyed bicycling, cross country skiing, rollerblading, and dancing, playing squash, racquetball, and basketball, being a basketball referee, and rooting for the Celtics. He practiced Reiki, yoga, dream interpretation, and tracked his biorhythms. He often was camping, swimming, and boating at Thousand Islands, Dippikill, Harriman Reservoir, and Cape Cod. Courtney loved theater, good restaurants, and Jazz. He was a gourmet cook, a master of puns, and travelled extensively, most often in Canada and Italy. His favorite B&B was his cousin’s The Emerson House, VT. Courtney’s pets brought him great joy: cats Sarah & Mabel (the latter named after his adored grandmother), dogs Molly & Snooker, who accompanied him on many adventures.
Courtney grew up in East Syracuse, graduated from Brown University in 1966, completed his Masters at SUNY Albany. Ties to Brown remained strong; he interviewed prospective students and attended reunions; last seen there at the 50th. He was dedicated to his students, started his career in South Glens Falls, then taught English at Hudson Falls High School for 29 years. Always an innovative teacher, he positively influenced many students’ lives, and passionately participated in creating and teaching the Advanced Placement English program.
In 1968, Courtney and Susan Gilmore (Bacon Hill) were married, they parted in 1976. Courtney met Patricia Varney (SGF) in 1982, when both lived in Saratoga. They were married in 1983 through 1992.
Upon retirement, Courtney focused on writing, and achieved his goal of being published. He worked as a Hospice volunteer and established the “safe crossing flags” for pedestrians in HF. He valued his time with family and friends.
A celebration of life was held at Carl R’s Cafe, arranged by his sister and his good friend, Rene Roberge.
He liked having the last word:
“Rely on your friends, they will get you through.” ~ Courtney D. Walsh
He was my favorite teacher! He was so passionate about literature ans made so many works come to life. I am 47 now and have a teen that loves to write. I have shared many great stories about him. I still see him clearly in my mind as he taught in the classroom. God Bless his family.
My condolences to “Mr. Walsh’s” family. He did so much for me in a very difficult high school. Reading and writing are my job now and I love it, more every year. He recognized that potential in me, I think, and pushed me to hone it. Courtney also set me up with a work-study job for my first year at college, connecting me with a woman who was my mentor as I transitioned into college living (Jerry Lyle). Stepping into adulthood under her guidance was an enormous blessing and it happened because of Courtney’s ability to see people well, to really recognize them. I know that he was not a perfect teacher but finding him and being taught by him gave me so, so much that I needed and added many blessings to my life. He was brave, bold, funny, smart, open to life’s mysteries, and a bright light in a shady place. I am grateful for Courtney. My sympathies to his friends & families during this adjustment to life after Courtney.
You were a friend to many, and positively influenced the lives of many more. You will be missed. It brings me comfort to know you are reunited with sweet Molly. I envision SoFar, Sarah, and Mabel, playing nearby as well. May your present journey be Joyful!