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Margaret Reilly "Peggy" Harrigan

Margaret Reilly "Peggy" Harrigan obituary

Margaret Harrigan Obituary

Margaret "Peggy" Reilly Harrigan, 70, passed away on Monday, April 22, 2013, at home, surrounded by her family, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Poughkeepsie, NY, in 1943, and moved to Syracuse in 1954. Peggy graduated from St. Vincent's High School in 1962, and Central City Business Institute. In 1968, Peggy married Frank Harrigan. She later graduated from Onondaga Community College and began her career in education at Bellevue Heights Nursery School, where she worked as a teacher and the school's Director. In 1988, Peggy went back to school and completed her bachelors and masters degrees in education from the State University of New York at Oswego. She thereafter worked as a teacher at John T. Roberts Elementary School, located in Syracuse's Strathmore neighborhood, from 1992, until her retirement in June 2012, where she was a staff, parent, and student favorite for over 20 years.

Peggy was predeceased by her husband, Frank, in 2001, as well as her brother, John Reilly, formerly of Binghamton, NY, and her parents, Thomas and Margaret Reilly. Surviving are her children, Christopher (Erin) of Syracuse, Jeffrey (Jennifer) of Rye, NY and Molly Towne (Benjamin) of West Hartford, CT. Peggy was a loving and devoted "Grandma" to Kathleen, Jack, William, and Caroline Harrigan of Syracuse; Patrick, Mary-Kathryn, and Dylan of Rye; and Matthew Towne of West Hartford. Also surviving are her brother and sister-in-law, Kevin and Denise Harrigan of Syracuse, and sister-in-law, Susan Kucera, of Binghamton, and many nieces and nephews.

Peggy was a long-time parishioner of Most Holy Rosary Church in Syracuse. She was actively involved in the Syracuse Chargers Rowing Club, where she competed for many years with her dear friends and served as President. Peggy also spent years forging relationships with friends as a member of the Elizabeth Roberts Book Club and Bellevue Country Club.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, April 26, at 10 a.m. at Most Holy Rosary Church, 111 Roberts Ave., Syracuse, NY. Calling hours will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday at the Church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Syracuse Chargers Rowing Club, Scott Sanford Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 5643, Syracuse NY 13220.


Date of Death: April 22, 2013



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Published by Syracuse Post Standard from Apr. 22 to Apr. 23, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Margaret Harrigan

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Diane Cassetta

April 16, 2022

Gentle, that´s the word that comes to mind when I think of her. She was sweet, calm, reassuring and a loving force. You never felt unwelcome or diminished in her presence. I would have loved to have been one of her students. She was the perfect counter to Hop´s excitable ways.
Her children are as gracious and giving as she was, they learned well at her knee!
We were all Blessed to have known her and someone who lives on forever in all of us.
God Bless you all, love, Diane Phillips Cassetta

Kelly and Kerry Nichols

May 13, 2013

Molly and Ben,
Im so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

May 7, 2013

To Peggy's Family,
I went to high school with Peggy and enjoyed her company immensely. She was totally sincere and honest. My sincerest condolance on the loss of this lovely woman. Joanne Golas

April 29, 2013

What a loss for family, friends and colleagues, alike. I am so sorry to learn about Peggy. I taught with Peg and Marilyn at BHNS back in the early 80's. Peggy was so kind to me. I remember her soft voice, her introspection, her love of children, especially her Molly (who was 4 years old and came to us after school). I remember the lesson planning we did around the circular table in the Art Room every Monday after dismissal. We had so much fun, planning and laughing. Peggy had such a cute laugh! Peggy, Marilyn and I came to love each other and together we loved and cared for the students/pupils of BHNS. It was an honor to know Peggy! It truly was! My prayers are for the Harrigan children and grandchildren! I am so truly sorry.
With kindness, Barbara Tremiti

Linda Cardinale Hartmann

April 26, 2013

To Peggy's Family-
Peg and I have known each other since 6th grade. We shared many good times and had a long talk at our 50th reunion. May your memories of her sustain you through this difficult time. God bless you all.

April 25, 2013

Chris, Erin and all of the Harrigan family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I know you will cherish the time you had together and I hope you have an unending supply of wonderful memories to sustain you. You are all in my thoughts.

April 25, 2013

She was my daughters kindergarten teacher she was AWESOME, she will be missed. Our condolences to the family. Rae Martin

Mary Leonard OGRADY

April 24, 2013

To Peggy's Family, My sincere sympathy to all. Peggy was a great friend.

Michelle Schlegel

April 24, 2013

I'm so very sorry to hear of Peg's passing. I had the wonderful opportunity to work in Peg/Anne's Kindergarten classroom at Roberts before starting my teaching career. I learned many valuable lessons and will forever remember Peg's determination and calm, gentle demeanor. She touched many hearts in her years and we're lucky to have her as our angel. Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.

Marilyn & Edward Vespa

April 24, 2013

WE wanted to offer our sympathies on the passing of your mom. We trust your memories and teachings of a supportive endearing mother will help comfort you at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Marilyn and Ed Vespa

April 23, 2013

Molly and Ben, We are so very sorry to hear about your Mom. Although we only met at your wedding, she sounds as lovely and gentle as her dear daughter, Molly. May you know that your family will be in our every thought and prayer and may the beautiful memories which you hold so near and dear in your hearts bring you joy and peace. We love you, Rick and Becky Stauffer Saratoga Springs NY

April 23, 2013

Molly ,
My deepest condolences. I know your family and friends will lift you up during ths time. Im so sorry for your loss.
Love, Julie Johnson

TJ and Jessica Cowin

April 23, 2013

Our son adored Mrs. Harrigan and we could not have asked for a more patient, kind, and loving teacher. We remember the last day of school and he cried as he hugged her, refusing to let go. She touched our lives, our hearts, and our family.

Danielle Evans

April 23, 2013

My condolences to the family of Mrs. Harrigan. She was my kindergarten teacher back in 1990 and as I moved on through to high school and college, I always thought about her. She was a great teacher and wonderful person to be around!

Patrick Driscoll

April 23, 2013

Peg was the most nicest ladies I've ever met. She always lightened up everyones day. When I went to Roberts I was always glad to see her. She was a lady filled with peace and always knew how to bring the good in people. May you RIP Mrs. Harrigan

Anne Satalin

April 23, 2013

I was fortunate enough to share a classroom with Peggy for six years. I learned so much from her. Peg's patience, gentle manner, compassion and grace are unmatched. We shared many, many laughs and even a few tears during our time together. She was like family to me and I will miss her dearly. Although my heart is heavy, I cannot help but to smile when I think of Peggy. I am grateful for the wonderful memories I have and will keep them close to my heart.

Kathleen Yennock

April 23, 2013

My deepest sympathy for the Harrigan family. Peg was my colleague at Robert's School. She was a quiet, elegant lady who was dedicated to her family and students.

April 23, 2013

A great mother grandmother and a quiet friend to my family, always pleasant and truly a great person she will be missed John Anna & Julia Morrow

Julie Neugebauer

April 23, 2013

Molly, Ben, and Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your Mom. From what I've read about her, she seems like a wonderful person. I hope the many memories of her help you through this difficult time.

Ciciarelli Family

April 23, 2013

Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Julie Nolfo

April 23, 2013

Chris -

Accepting the loss of one's mom seems insurmountable at the beginning. But eventually all the good memories from her lifetime push the sadness out of your heart and mind. You will think of her daily and those warm thoughts will make you smile when you least expect it. So sorry for your loss.

Marianna Masterpole

April 23, 2013

To the Harrigan Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Fondly Nick and Marianna Masterpole

Will Kennedy

April 23, 2013

Chris and Jeff, So sorry to hear of your loss. I can only imagine what it must be like. May God bless your family and may you find comfort in memories, and her words, that you will always remember.

Linda DeFichy

April 23, 2013

Both my daughters Liz Richey Petrone and Katherine Richey were privleged to be taught by Peggy at Bellevue Heights Nursery School and my grandson Jack Petrone was privleged to have her as a teacher at Roberts Elementary and I was lucky enough to have contact with her through all that. She was always such an elegant, gracious person in her soft spoken way. We were blessed to have her in Strathmore!

Shirley Solpietro Strauss

April 23, 2013

Peggy's life is a true testimony: just keep trying and your dreams will come.
Shirley Strauss St Vincent De Paul HS and CCBI graduate. God's peace be with you and your family.

Stephanie Chatas

April 23, 2013

I will never forget the day that she took the hand of this very scared, nervous mom of a newly diagnosed child with Sensory Processing Disorder who was entering Kindergarten with more than just a little reistance, looked me in the eye and simply stated; "Everything will be fine, and so will he." It was, and he is. Thank you Mrs. Harrigan.

Melissa Hogan

April 23, 2013

Chris,
I am sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. Your family is in my thoughts and prayer.

Mary Ann Adornato

April 23, 2013

To Molly and the Harrigan family-
I am deeply sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. I wish you much strength and peace through this difficult time.... Prayers to you all.

Jill Richmond

April 23, 2013

My condolences to the Harrigan family.

Moms & More Club of West Hartford

April 23, 2013

Please accept our condolences and sympathy on this sad occasion. Our thoughts and our prayers are with you and your family.

Erin Nowak

April 23, 2013

Harrigan Family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Our children were forever touched by Mrs. Harrigan's patient and strong spirit. We are blessed to have known her and she will be missed by so very many children, families, and neighbors. Wishing you all a bit of peace during this difficult time.

April 23, 2013

Chris and Erin,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My condolences to you and your family.
Karen Piedmonte

Bev LoSurdo

April 23, 2013

There are no words to express my sorrow to the Harrigan family. The only comfort I can give is that she is with her beloved Hoppy. She was my friend , colleague , and at times-my rock. Loved her dearly. It was an honor and privilege to have her in my life.i am very,very sorry for your loss .

April 23, 2013

She will be so missed by her family and by the parents and children that were lucky enough to have her in their life. My deepest condolences to her family. I will always be grateful for her sincere, kind words and that she was my children's teacher.

Patrick Reilly

April 23, 2013

Chris, Jeff and Molly, my deepest condolences during this time.
I will always have the good memories of staying at your house during the summer when I was little and the visit's from your mom and dad during the years growing up.

Bob & Katie Doucette

April 23, 2013

Our deepest sympathies to all of the Harrigan family.

Mary Beth Jablonski

April 23, 2013

Molly and Family,
Lou and I were so sad to hear of your Mom's passing. She is at peace and now your healing begins. Hold onto your memories of her. They will keep her in your heart always!
Mary Beth and Lou Jablonski

Le Moyne College Office of Alumni and Parent Programs

April 23, 2013

Please accept the sympathy of Le Moyne College on the occasion of the death of your mother. Be assured of our prayers for her and for you and your family.

Dan Gage

April 23, 2013

My deepest sympathies to Chris, Jeff, and Molly and their families and to the extended Harrigan Family. Syracuse has lost a true lady.

Gene Staffiere

April 23, 2013

I was a classmate of Peggy's at St. Vincent. She was the kind of person everyone liked and no one had anything bad to say about her. Please accept my condolences. I will pray for peggy and her family.

April 23, 2013

Lots of love to all of the Harrigans.
-Jesse Downs

sue Ibrahim

April 23, 2013

Ms.Harrigan was such a beautiful person inside and out...a special person who was loved and adored by all..she will truly be missed..May Allah (GOD) bless her and her family.
-Ibrahim Family

Michael DeLaney

April 23, 2013

Molly, Chris, & Jeff,
I am so sorry to hear this sad news. My deepest condolences to you all at this time.
-Michael

Betty Murphy Stark

April 23, 2013

To Peg's family and friends…Being a St. Vincent de Paul high school classmate, Peg was key in hosting a successful 50th high school reunion in June 2012. She initiated and took on many efforts that only her class and diligence could bring to the event – with never a word about her illness. What a truly exemplary and beautiful person! My sincere condolences to Peg's family…certainly a wonderful legacy.

Kathy Joslyn

April 23, 2013

My first encounter with Mrs. Harrigan was full of reassurance - My daughter would be safe and well cared for during her first year at Roberts. I did not believe my daughter was a good candidate for "all day kindergarten". Mrs Harrigan assured me that, while it may be too long at first, my sweet little girl would be cared for and safe. Over the course of the year, Mrs. Harrigan kindly showed me that speaking softly and looking directly into my daughters eyes whilst giving direction would go much farther than raising my voice; that remaining calm and listening to my daughter before reacting would enrich our relationship and provide the basis for trust. At a time when I thought my daughter should "know better", Mrs. Harrigan reminded me she was just a child. She was a teacher not only to my daughter but to me and I will be forever grateful for having had her in our lives.

I am positive Mrs. Harrigan was greeted at the gates of Heaven with a hug before entering and the sound of soft tinkling chimes in the background.

April 23, 2013

Peggy was a wonderful wife , Mom and friend. We will miss her.

The Lutwin Family

Joe and Katie Sojewicz

April 23, 2013

Mrs. Harrigan was such a wonderful person. We feel blessed that we knew her and that our children had such an amazing teacher. She will truly be missed. God bless the Harrigan family during this time.

Patricia DiFlorio

April 23, 2013

Peggy was a delightful and admirable woman whom I first knew when she was pursuing her Bachelor's in a most demanding program. Balancing eveything in her life was an achievement I'll always remember and it was a pleasure observing her intensity in working to become the marvelous teacher she was. Regards to her beloved family. Sincerely, Pat DiFlorio

Nancy Rubado

April 23, 2013

I send my condolences to Peg's family. She was a great lady and I had the privilege of working with her at Roberts for many years. I know that she will live on in countless people's memories, and that her influence lives on in the character of many young people today, so in a way she never dies.

Honora Marceau

April 23, 2013

I not only had Mrs. Harrigan as a teacher at Roberts, but I had the pleasure of reacquainting with her last year when I took care of her at Crouse on 4S as a student nurse. It was so nice to reconnect; she was a lovely woman. She will be missed by many in our tight knit community in Strathmore.

Holbrook Family

April 23, 2013

Hoppy and Peg you are once together again in peace and our worlds were made much better by knowing you both - you both are truly missed- God bless you both

Susan Boyle

April 23, 2013

Mrs.Harrigan was a wonderful teacher and a great lady. Her soft friendly voice will be missed at Roberts school. She was a gentile loving person with a big heart. Rest in Peace

April 23, 2013

To the Harrigan Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Amy Campbell

Heather Goukler

April 23, 2013

My deepest sympathies to all. Peggy was one of a kind in my life and will be truly missed. I'm so glad we were able to visit in February and share a few laughs of our years teaching together at Roberts. I am a better person having known her. May she rest in peace.

Melanie (Brown) Dunn

April 23, 2013

To the Harrigan Family:
I am sorry for your loss, Peggy was a wonderful woman. You're in my thoughts and prayers.

Theresa Quilty

April 23, 2013

To the Harrigan family, sharing your loss.......sending love and warm CBA hugs:)

April 23, 2013

We wanted to offer our sympathies on the passing of your mom. I trust your memories and teachings of a supportive endearing mother will help comfort you at this time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Marilyn and Ed Vespa

Mary Ellen Andrews

April 23, 2013

Rest in Peace, Peggy.

Huib and Francine Vriesendorp

April 22, 2013

Your courage, values and friendship are a lasting inspiration to us. Your rowing friends Francine and Huib V.

April 22, 2013

Peggy, you were forever a daugher, wife, mother, grandmother, teacher and rower. Loved by all those whose lives you touched. Your legacy is this beautiful family, also strong and loving, that you raised up. They and we have been Blessed to know you. May you rest in the loving arms of Our Lord. Give Hop a big hug for all of us, we love you, Kendra and Kevin Phillips and Diane and Steve (Ryberg) Cassetta

Cristina Hatem

April 22, 2013

My deepest condolences to Peggy's family. She was the model teacher whom we aspired to be like. Peg was truly dedicated to her students. She was a great woman and will be missed!

Joanne Chestnut

April 22, 2013

Peggy, you will truly be missed! You touched so many lives, God Bless you honey, I will always remember the kind and loving way you had with your students! My heart goes out to your family, I can only hope that they find solace in knowing that you are now in peace and at rest with your love and God! Thank you for making my life richer by knowing you! Rest in peace, love and miss you already.

April 22, 2013

A first class lady. A wonderful colleague. We will miss you Peg.
Colleen M. Brennan

Robert O'Leary

April 22, 2013

I was privileged to know both Peg and Frank.

Both demonstrated the meaning of integrity, hard work, and community involvement by the way they lived their lives.

Frank was passionate about his baseball. Peg was passionate about her rowing (a/k/a/ crew). Peg will be missed by her fellow members of the Syracuse Chargers and forever remembered by by her posse of women that rowed with her and enjoyed her company.

More importantly Peg and Frank will be remembered by the successes of their children.

I was sad to learn of Peg's passing but glad to have had an opportunity to know her and Frank.

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