Obituary of Mary Lackaff

 Mary  Jeanne Lackaff, 74, died peacefully on November 9, 2022 at her home in Windham.  Born May 29, 1948 in Vancouver, Washington to Frank and Evelyn Lackaff, Mary was the youngest of nine children. Predeceased by her brother Dan and sister Sylvia, she is survived by brothers Peter, Frank, Fred, Paul and Bob, sister Annette, and many nieces and nephews.

Mary grew up in Washington State, settling in Windham in 1970 with her long- time partner and friend, Elizabeth Dewell. They built a home on North Settlement, mostly created and built by Mary.  She later added barns and a workshop to house horses, sheep, goats and chickens, making a small sustainable farm. Her love of building developed into a passion for creating handsome and unique pieces of furniture, often incorporating stained glass and objects found in nature. Known locally as “Mary the Carpenter,” she named her business Lavender Hill Woodworking.

Besides her love of nature, creative woodworking and gardening, Mary loved music and the Arts.  She played guitar, piano and even built her own harp; her intellect and creativity touched every aspect of her life. She returned to college in the 1990s graduating from Maria College as a registered nurse.

Mary was a good neighbor and friend, always available, willing to help others.  She will be missed in her mountain neighborhood. In the community at Gloria Dei Episcopal Church in Palenville, Mary participated as a wise and loving presence.

In her final days, Mary expressed her deep beliefs and sincere gratitude for a beautiful life.

A mass will be offered in Mary’s name and a memorial event will be scheduled at a future date.

Memorial donations can be made to the Sierra Club.