Agnes Patch
CLAYTON — After a long illness, Agnes Reid "Betty" Patch, Clayton, passed away at River Hospital overlooking the River she loved so much, a little over one month shy of her 91st birthday, on Saturday, July 24, 2010.
Betty was born in Geneva on Aug. 28, 1919, the daughter of Norman M. and Helen Burke Reid. She graduated from Geneva High School and did her nursing training at Geneseo in Rochester. A marriage to David W. Patch ended in divorce.
As a World War II Army nurse, service to others was her hallmark and something she relished. She entered the Army on Feb. 28, 1945, and was honorably discharged as a 2nd Lieutenant on Oct. 9, 1945.
She was a communicant of St. Mary's Church, Clayton, and a member of the American Legion Colon-Couch Post 821 Auxiliary. She was an active volunteer for community activities.
She was very well known in the North Country. Her favorite role was that of Grandmother, and she helped introduce her grandchildren and newborns of other family members into this world. She could often be found on the road at the family member's house who needed her help the most. She was very quick to lend a hand to anyone in need. She is fondly remembered by her family and all who knew her.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Roxann P. & David N. Ridley, Arnold, MO; her 2 sons and 2 daughters-in-law, Patrick E. & Brenda, Clayton, and Thomas A., GA, & daughter-in-law, Mary Patch, Depauville; 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; her brother and his wife, Robert J. & Diana Reid, Brookville, FL; 2 sisters and 1 brother-in-law, Mary Jane Shaw, and Helen R. & Robert Updike, all of Geneva; and her nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her brother, Norman S. Reid, died before her.
Based on Betty's wishes, a memorial mass will be conducted in July 2011 followed by a private burial. Donations may be made to Clayton Volunteer Fire Dept., 855 Graves St., Clayton, NY 13624 or to River Hospital, 19 Fuller St., Alexandria Bay, NY 13607, in lieu of flowers.
Arrangements are with Cummings Funeral Service, Inc., Clayton.
