Obituary of Catherine C Scoones

Catherine Cunningham Scoones, 89, of Clinton, passed away peacefully Tuesday, January 8, 2013 at the Presbyterian Home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born in East Frankfort, NY, on December 26, 1923, a daughter of John and Clara (Furner) Cunningham. She was educated in Mohawk and graduated from Mohawk Central School in 1942. On May 22, 1948, she was united in marriage to Carlton Scoones. Mr. Scoones died on December 22, 1991. Catherine was proud of her Mohawk beginnings and, despite the hardships of the Depression, always reflected fondly on the struggle to help support her family. She and older brother Gene shared many adventures to that end. Certainly, her hardy spirit and amazing energy were born of those demanding times. She loved to shovel snow and mow the lawn and could out-walk anyone half her age! Cathy was a cheerleader in high school and later cheered for Clinton teams for half a century as her children's and grandchildren's most dedicated fan! She is best known for the produce stand she ran with her husband for many years at their home on Norton Avenue. Right up until her passing, former customers frequently stopped her to acknowledge the quality of Scoones' produce as well as her work ethic and ever-friendly demeanor. In her "leisure time" Catherine enjoyed reading and visits with many close neighbors and friends. She especially relished Wednesday luncheons with her dear friend Joyce Burns and their yearly shopping trips to Albany and theater getaways to New York City. She never ceased to find happiness in little things, always inspired by a ride through our beautiful countryside, no matter what the season. She loved to start her day with coffee and laughter with friends at the Sweet Shop in Clinton and, years later, well into her 80's, could be seen walking to McDonald's for that same special camaraderie. Born Dec. 26th, she brought a special passion to Christmas that her family will always treasure. She is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Warren and Lori Scoones of Vernon and Douglas and Elizabeth Scoones of Clinton; her daughter, Beth Scoones of Clinton; five grandchildren, Brian and his wife Judi Scoones of Vernon, Timothy, Benjamin and Katherine Scoones of Clinton and Michael Petrie of Clinton; her great-grandson, Spencer Scoones; her brother, Eugene Cunningham of Mohawk; her sisters-in-law, Joan Scoones and Frances Scoones; and many nieces and nephews. She was also predeceased by her parents, her husband Carlton, and beloved brothers, Jack, Harold and Francis . A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10am on Saturday, January 12, 2013 at Church of the Annunciation, Clark Mills. Burial will be in St. Bernard's Cemetery in the spring. All are invited to call Friday from 4-7pm at Owens-Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, Inc., 35 College St., Clinton. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Clinton Fire Department or COCVAC. Since her illness, she has enjoyed the very loving care of her daughter, Beth, with whom she resided, Alan Petrie, who always answered the call for assistance with a smile, and special caregivers Lillian, Gloria, and Freda.