Patty was a lifelong resident of the Hamlet of Wallkill, and a Class of 1950 graduate of Wallkill Central High School where she met her husband-to-be, John Countryman. High school sweethearts from their first date, a May drive to view the apple blossoms, to their wedding September 30, 1951, and for the rest of her life, he was her love. Together they built a house that was to be her home and hub for the next three generations of her family, before leaving us to join her long-missed husband.
Following graduation, she worked as a secretary at Wallkill High School, before leaving to raise her children. Her love of books later led her to the Ostrander Elementary School Library, and eventually the Wallkill Public Library where she worked for 21 years. She had a warm welcome for patrons, was always eager to help with their needs, and formed lasting bonds with her colleagues. It was her ever-changing lobby displays which greeted visitors upon their arrival. Following her retirement in 2012 she was honored with a Resolution of Merrit from the New York State Assembly and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Town of Shawangunk for her years of service.
She was a member of the Wallkill, and later the New Hurley Reformed Church, where she taught Sunday school for many years. She was also a longtime member of the Shawangunk, Gardiner, and Huguenot Historical Society, where she was once employed. At one point, part of five living generations, all from the same town, with personal recollections dating to the second half of the 1800's, she was a historical resource in her own right.
She was predeceased by her parents George J. Wager and Hildred (Hilda) Griffin; brother George Charles Wager, and husband John.
She is survived by her children Timothy (“Timmy”) and partner Diane Balog; Rachel Magnanini and husband Richard; Caroline Byrne and husband Edward, all of Wallkill, who were the center of her life.
She also leaves behind four grand and four great-grandchildren who brought her immeasurable joy. Ellen (Countryman) Castro, her daughter Elizabeth Casey and husband Justin; Robert Magnanini and his partner Sarah Meredith; David Magnanini, wife Kristin and their daughters Abigail, Hannah, and Grace; and John Byrne.
She loved each new addition to her family with all her heart.
Graveside services for family and friends will be held at the New Hurley Cemetery, Tuesday, October 24, 2023, 10: a.m.
Patty’s family extends special thanks to the many Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation aides and nurses who shared their special love and caring, enhancing the quality of her last four years. In lieu of flowers, contributions to honor Hildred Countryman can be made to Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation, 80 Washington St. Suite 204, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Gridley-Horan Funeral Home, Inc. Walden.