Greece, NY: April 7, 1948 to July 1, 2020.
Kathleen Grace Neylon Peterson has gone ahead of us – a vital, loving individual and pioneering spirit to the end of her time on Earth. Those who loved her – whether friend, co-worker, or relative – are better human beings because she lived and breathed.
Kathy was the beloved mother of John, understanding sister to Michael, Bridget, and Mary Regina, cherished aunt to five nieces and two nephews, as well as a valued mother-in-law, daughter-in-law, and sister-in-law. In addition, Kathy loved numerous great nephews and nieces, whose adventures she followed and found delightful, even though they may have never met.
Born in Bath, NY, to Joseph and Grace (Andres) Neylon, Kathy’s beauty, intelligence, and vitality were noticeable as soon as she could smile, play, and speak, revealing an effervescent zest for life. Her parents commented in mock wonderment at Kathy’s ability to “start a conversation with a stone.” However, her gift of gab was only one aspect of her sparkling – yet thoughtful and profoundly kind – personality. Kathy helped anyone she encountered with a dazzling smile, a kind word, brave persistence, and lifelong loyalty.
Her infectious spirit was clear in every pursuit – whether riding herd on her three lively siblings, nurturing her endearing and creative son, or simply leading the way in pioneering sports activities for young women, running political activities, or discussing books, art, and human nature. Educated at Notre Dame High School in Elmira, NY, Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry, NY, and SUNY at Buffalo, Kathy’s remarkable work ethic shone in managerial and sales positions in offices, retail, and volunteer groups, including Wegmans, City Mattress, and the Breast Cancer Network.
In lieu of flowers, Kathy can be remembered through the Open Door Mission, Foodlink, National Breast Cancer Foundation, Lifetime Care Hospice, and/or an animal shelter of your choice. Most of all, Kathy’s presence may be evoked in remembered laughter and through a simple act of kindness.
“But you have gone now, all of you that were so beautiful when you were quick with life. Yet not gone, for you are still a living truth inside my mind. So how are you dead, my brothers and sisters, and all of you, when you live with me as surely as I live with myself?” –Richard Llewelyn, How Green Was My Valley
Oh, what sad news today to learn of Kathy’s passing so untimely! We were classmates at Elmira’s Notre Dame High School(1962-66)! I remember Kathy as your obituary depicts her: energetic, smiling, kind, reaching out to others in assistance, and those beautiful blue eyes and long eyelashes!! God has another angel 7 we, who knew and loved her, have a classmate looking down on us with untold affection! Rest in Peach dear one!