Laurie Conason Morganteen

Laurie Conason Morganteen passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026, at the age of 69, surrounded by the love of her family.

Laurie lived a life defined by care—for her family, her friends, her patients, and even strangers who quickly found comfort in her presence. She had a way of showing up for people that felt both effortless and profound: a steady, generous presence that made others feel safe, understood, and deeply loved.

Born May 29, 1956, Laurie was the beloved daughter of Robert and Dorothy Conason. Laurie spent her younger years living in Brooklyn, NY, before moving to Great Neck, NY, where she attended middle and high school. She later earned her undergraduate degree from SUNY Brockport, followed by a master’s degree in early childhood education from Manhattan College, and later a master’s degree in social work from Columbia University

Laurie built a career as a therapist, running her own private practice in Westchester. Her work wasn’t just a profession—it was an extension of who she was. She listened deeply, supported tirelessly, and carried an unwavering belief in people, even when they struggled to believe in themselves. Those who knew her personally saw these same qualities in every corner of her life: she was always the one checking in, offering help, and remembering the small details that mattered—always exuding positivity and perseverance.

Earlier in life, Laurie was married to Tom Cimarelli, and together they became devoted parents to their daughter, Liz. Motherhood was one of Laurie’s proudest and most cherished roles, and her bond with Liz shaped so much of the love that defined her life.

Her love story with her husband, Edward Morganteen, began on a dance floor—fittingly, because they never really stopped dancing. At weddings and celebrations, they were always among the last to leave, holding onto the music and each other just a little longer. Laurie and Ed lived in Mount Kisco, where their home became the go-to gathering place for her daughter Liz and her friends—full of laughter, warmth, and an open-door spirit that reflected Laurie perfectly. Later, they moved to Mahopac, where they embraced a quieter rhythm surrounded by nature—birds, deer, and even the occasional bobcat wandering through. It was a place that reflected Laurie’s spirit: peaceful, alive, and deeply connected.

Laurie’s greatest joy was her family. She adored her daughter Liz—not just as a mother, but as a best friend. They spoke often, planning menus, scheduling gatherings, and finding humor in everyday moments, grateful for every moment spent together. Their bond was effortless and strong, built on love, laughter, and mutual admiration.

Nothing brought Laurie more happiness than her three grandchildren—Zachary, Emily, and Benjamin—whom she lovingly described as her “exhausting joy.” She delighted in spoiling them at every opportunity (much to her son-in-law Michael’s chagrin), pouring her energy and affection into every visit, every hug, and every small moment that became a lasting memory.

She also cherished her extended family: her brother Rick, his wife Edwina, and their son James; her sister Alexis (“Mishu”), her husband Greg, and their daughters Robbie and Millie; her sister-in-law, Mary Ellen; her brothers-in-law Rob and Jim and her many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews and friends who were such a vital part of her life. She lived for holidays, Wolf Lake visits, and Swing Your Owns—quality time gathered around a table filled with food, music, and laughter. This was where Laurie felt most at home. She loved being surrounded by people, and people loved being near her.

Laurie was also a fighter in every sense of the word. For nearly two decades, she battled a rare cancer, and later a second cancer, with resilience, grace, and unwavering determination—never defined by her illness, never giving up. Even in the face of her own challenges, she continued to advocate for others, actively supporting Memorial Sloan Kettering’s Cycle for Survival and helping raise awareness and funding for cancer research.

Laurie leaves behind a legacy not just of accomplishments, but of connection. She made people feel cared for, seen, and supported in ways that will endure long after she’s gone. Her life was a testament to the power of kindness, the importance of showing up, and the beauty of loving deeply. She was grateful for life, in both big moments and small. Her smile lit up a room.

She will be missed beyond words—and remembered in every shared meal, every burst of laughter, and every song that invites one more dance.

A celebration of Laurie’s life will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Laurie’s memory may be made to Cycle for Survival - Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. (http://mskcc.convio.net/goto/InMemoryofLaurieMorganteen)