Kathleen Anne (DeSantis) Avery, 77, of Vestal, NY fell asleep in the arms of the Lord after a short illness on March 3, 2024 surrounded by her loving family.
Kathy was born in Syracuse, NY on March 12, 1946 the only child to Louis and Alberta DeSantis. From an early age, Kathy showed a deep compassion for others, which led her to pursue a career in nursing. She graduated from North Syracuse High School and St. Joseph School of Nursing. Kathy worked at St. Joseph Hospital until she met her loving husband Ralph in 1967 and moved to the Endwell area. They eventually settled in Vestal, raising 4 children. Kathy ran a daycare for many years, enriching the lives of so many children. In the late 80s, Kathy decided to go back to school for her bachelor’s degree in Human Services. After graduating from Binghamton University, Kathy worked at Wilson Hospital and Binghamton General as an ambulatory nurse. After retiring from UHS, Kathy worked at the Vestal Library and volunteered at Mercy House.
Kathy was the most loving and caring wife, mother, aunt, nana and great-nana, who touched the lives of everyone she encountered. Kathy was everything to them as they were to her. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family and creating treasured memories
Kathy was predeceased by her parents, Louis and Alberta DeSantis, and her two grandchildren Andrew and Jacob Avery. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 56 years Ralph, her children, Scott (Louise) Avery, Jeffrey (Nancy) Avery, Jennifer (Florent) Berger and David Avery. Also by her cherished grandchildren, Amanda (Lance), Olivia, Mary, Ashley, Micaela (Dakota), Gabe (Alie), Kylie, Tessa and Emilie and her great-grandchildren Brin, Dez and Ivy. She is also survived by her faithful canine companion Toby, who rarely left her side.
The family would especially like to thank her hospice nurse Brittini and all the other healthcare professionals who cared for her these past months. And a big Thank You to all the special people who came to visit with her, especially Patti Kelley and the “Endwell Ladies”. Her friendship with all of you was so important to Kathy and her family.
A Funeral Mass for Kathy will be held on Tuesday, March 12th at 10 am at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 801 Main Street, Vestal. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City. The family will receive friends Monday, March 11th at the Allen Memorial Home, 511-513 East Main Street, Endicott from 4-6 pm and Tuesday at church from 9 am until Mass time at 10 am.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Kathy’s name can be made to your favorite charity.