Patricia King, 82, of New Paltz, New York passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 14, 2021 at Woodland Pond at New Paltz.
Born March 15, 1938 in Mt. Vernon, New York Patricia was the daughter of the late Richard and Alice (Shepardson) Gisin. Raised in New Rochelle she spoke fondly of her childhood. Stories of “Morgan Street” always included mischief, exploring, friends– her older sister Marie and younger sister Judy–and they always put a smile on her face.
In 1956 she left New Rochelle to study Elementary Education at The New York State Teacher College in New Paltz, earning that degree in 1960. While at new Paltz she joined the Arethusa Sorority, and met many life-long friends. Studying one evening in the library she met Hal King who borrowed some change from a friend to buy her a cup of coffee. They were married January 30, 1960 and together raised 2 children, Alison and Harold.
Upon graduation Patricia began a 30 plus year career with the Wappingers Central School district teaching Kindergarten at James S. Evans and Sheafe Road Elementary school where she was a much admired professional and colleague. She believed strongly in the importance of early education and instilled in hundreds of pupils the value of sharing, caring, reading and love of learning.
She retired from teaching in 1996 but continued to be involved in the community and education programs volunteering at Duzine Elementary School, serving on the board of the New Paltz Child Care Center, working with the SUNY New Paltz Foundation and Presidents Alumni Council (winning their distinguished alumni award in 2018 along with her good friend Rosemarie McBride.) She was a sister in PEO, a member of the New Paltz Garden Club and co-founded the Twice Blessed Thrift Shop at the Reformed Church of New Paltz.
Patricia loved flowers and was an avid gardener, taking pride in her home gardens and house plants. She was also passionate about books and reading. She had an eye for excellent children’s literature, and she loved Agatha Christie mysteries, especially those featuring Miss Marple. This passion she passed along to her children and grandchildren Abigail and David King, whom she adored.
During her retirement she was blessed to develop a special friendship with Rod Dressel. This would bring her much happiness and fulfillment later in her life.
She is survived by one daughter: Alison (Jerry) Brannon of St. Augustine, FL and one son: Harold (Amy) King of New Paltz, NY; her sister, Judy Finch of Dallas, GA; her two grandchildren, David King of Brooklyn, NY and Abigail King of Albany, NY; her close friend & companion, Rod Dressel of New Paltz, NY. Many nieces and nephews and many, many friends – all of whom she cherished.
In addition to her parents and husband she was predeceased by her sister, Marie Belt.
A memorial service is being planned for the spring. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to PEO, The Washburn House, The SUNY New Paltz Foundation, or any education charity of your choice.
Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist Patricia’s family with the arrangements.
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