Obituary of Mary Margaret Freer

Mary Margaret Freer of Poughkeepsie and formerly of Wappingers Falls, died peacefully on December 24, 2023 after a short stay in Hudson Valley Hospice House. 

Mary was born November 25, 1966 in Poughkeepsie.  She lived a full and active life; she never let the fact she was born with Down Syndrome slow her down. She graduated from Roy C. Ketcham High School in 1988 with special recognition as most improved student. Mary participated in the Special Olympics, as well as horseback riding and swimming. She also formerly worked for Friendly’s Restaurant.  She loved a challenge, especially in checkers and UNO.  Always quick to smile, Mary’s impact on all who knew her was “special” and profound

Mary loved being with family; she was predeceased by her parents, Harrison and Margaret “Peggy” Freer. She is survived by her 8 siblings: Becky (Steve) Greene, Harrison (Tricia) Freer, Marsha (Chris) Bogart, Peter (Lea) Freer, Lisa (Chris) Browne, Claudia (Steve) Will, Tracey (Dean) Thomas, and Timothy (Corinne) Freer; as well as many nieces and nephews. 

Her family is grateful for the excellent care she received in ARC house at Roberts Road in Wappingers Falls, and her final years at the ARC house at Hillcrest Drive in Poughkeepsie. Her caregivers were devoted and loving, always making sure that Mary’s comfort and needs were a priority.    

Family will receive their friends on Sunday, January 21, 2024 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Straub, Catalano & Halvey Funeral Home, 55 E. Main Street, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Monday, January 22, 2024 at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 11 Clinton Street in Wappingers Falls.

 In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Mary’s name to The Arc of Dutchess Foundation, 84 Patrick Lane Suite 130, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 or Sparrows Nest, www.sparrowsnestcharity.org.