Obituary of Mary Catherine Simpson

Mary Catherine Simpson, 94, formerly of Maple Avenue, Canajoharie, New York passed from this life on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at Palatine Nursing Home. Born on April 20, 1926 in the Town of Palatine, NY she was the daughter of Mortimer P. Weaver and Albertena Mae Blakeslee. Mary was a lifelong area resident growing up on a family farm in McKinley. She graduated from Canajoharie High School in 1943. On May 6, 1944 Mary married Arthur “Roy” Simpson and enjoyed 62 years together. He preceded her in death on June 19, 2006. Mary was a life-long member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Stone Arabia, NY. Church and family were the center of her life. She always had a smile on her face and a song in her heart. Her unwavering faith carried her through all of life’s struggles. She was the church organist for 33 years, Teacher and Director of Sunday School for many years. She was the Director of Summer Daily Vacation Bible School of the Lutheran, Reformed and Methodist churches in Stone Arabia. Mary taught adult bible studies for over 30 years. She served on the Ladies Aid and attended several Lutheran Conventions. In recent years, she was the chaplain for the Canajoharie Seniors. She worked at Beech-Nut in Canajoharie as a machine operator for 19 years. Following her retirement, she volunteered for the Montgomery County Office of Aging meals program for many years. She was named Volunteer of the Year in 2008. She was an avid reader, enjoyed baking, sewing and crocheting. Her home was always open to visitors. For years, her home was the place for family gatherings where special memories were made. She loved playing Yahtzee, Rummy and Pinochle. Mary is survived by her children, Jeanette McKinney (Charles) John L. Simpson (Doris), Esther T. Simpson, Arthur R. Simpson, Jr. (Sharon), Robert E. Simpson (Amy Jo); sister, Lynn Ashley; step-brother, Wayne Winsman; step-sister, Roseanne Matthews; 13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her husband, Mary is predeceased by her son, David Arthur Simpson who died of polio in 1950; sisters, Charlotte and Florence; brothers, Stanton, Charles (Bob), Melvin and Douglas. “A life as wife, mother, and grandmother, blended with friends, it has been a wonderful journey. God has blessed her life and now a home is prepared for her and all who believe in our Risen Savior.” The family would like to thank the staff of Palatine Nursing Home for their loving care of mom during her stay. The family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday November 14th from 1:00 to 2:00PM at The Chapel of Houghtaling & Smith Funeral Home, Inc., 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY. A private family service will follow and burial will take place in Evergreen Cemetery in Fonda. Due to the Coronavirus we ask anyone attending services please wear a mask and practice social distancing. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Mrs. Mary C. Simpson may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 5430 State Highway 10, Palatine Bridge, NY 13428.