Priscilla H. Peale

"A life well-lived" falls short. Kind and loyal to her many, many friends, Priscilla always strived to do the right thing. Who sends handwritten thank you notes these days? An adventurous spirit, Priscilla hiked to Machu Picchu before most had heard of it. She summited all 48 of the 4,000-foot peaks in New Hampshire, then quietly invited some friends for pizza to celebrate instead of seeking official recognition. She took a mountaineering course and summited Mt Rainier, was one of only 2,000 foreigners allowed in that era to trek in Bhutan. She hiked the Haute Route in the Alps and ran the NYC marathon. A lifelong skier, she once worked at the Alta Lodge, where she remembers nervously serving Robert Redford "without spilling his soup". She loved exhibiting and volunteering at the Durham Fair for many years, with many "best in show" ribbons.
But what she was most proud of was making a difference in the lives of the families in Farmington, supervising recreational activities and summer programs for the town for 35 years. Innovations such as "Wednesday Walkers" brought folks from all walks of life together for hikes in CT, creating life-long bonds. She cherished her cat friends, even feeding a tiny kitten with an eye dropper until it was strong enough to survive.
Priscilla succumbed to an aggressive cancer on February 6, 2025, with her partner and close friends by her side. She is survived by her partner of 25 years, Tom Foley; her brother, Arthur; her niece and nephew, Alice and Arthur; her cousin, Sally; and countless life-long friends, many of whom provided friendship and comfort to Priscilla in her final weeks. They will always remember Priscilla for her gentle and caring spirit. She was predeceased by her sister Susan. Special thanks to the staff at St. Francis Hospital and the Smilow Cancer Center, who treated her with kindness and caring.
In remembering Priscilla, please consider spending a few moments outside in Nature, as she would. Or just show a simple act of kindness to another person. Also please consider making a generous donation to a charity most meaningful to you, in Priscilla's memory. A Celebration of Life for Priscilla will be held on Wednesday, (May 28), from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Winding Trails, 50 Winding Trails Dr, Farmington. Online condolences may be made at www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com