Helen Ronk McKay

Walden, NY

Helen Ronk McKay, a longtime resident of Walden since 1927, entered into rest on Saturday, September 13, 2008, at Elant at Newburgh. She was 91.

The daughter of Frederick and Beatrice Emma Rhodes Ronk, she was born August 15, 1917 in Highland, NY.

Her greatest devotion was her family and their accomplishments. She was a graduate of Walden High School and attended Orange County Community College and Syracuse University. She was a member of the Walden United Methodist Church for over 70 years, and served as past Supervisor of the Cradel Roll Dept. and past President of the Methobelles, and also worked with the boy's choir. She was past President and Treasurer of the Walden Woman's Club and past member of the Eastern Stars; a member of the Quassaick Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution; The Walden Sunshine Society, and the Walden Historical Society. She also earned inclusion in "Who's Who in American Women". She previously worked for the Interstate Bag Co. and was Village Clerk, Deputy Treasurer and Registrar of Vital Statistics of Walden for 22 years. She received numerous citations from the N.Y. State of Conference of Mayors. Helen was the first woman to hold the office of Village Clerk in the Village of Walden since its incorporation in 1855. She was also responsible for the N.Y. State book, "Responsibilities of the Village Clerk", sponsored by the N.Y. State Conference of Mayors.

Survivors include her two sons and their families, Nelson Craig McKay and his wife, Patricia Knack McKay, and granddaughter, Nelle Harrison McKay of New York City and Barrytown, NY, and Brian Glenn McKay and his wife, Marilyn Carroad McKay of New Paltz; one nephew and niece, and several cousins.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., at Gridley-Horan Funeral Home, Inc., 39 Orchard St., Walden, NY.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, September 20, at the funeral home. Burial will be in Wallkill Valley Cemetery, Walden, NY.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

Arrangements are by Gridley-Horan Funeral Home, Inc.; 845-778-3811.