Ralphine Isabelle "Grandma" Risse

SCHENEVUS – Ralphine Isabelle Risse, age 87, passed away peacefully Sunday night, December 21, 2025. For over two decades she lived in Schenevus.

Ralphine was born June 11, 1938, and raised in Yonkers, a daughter of Philip and Isabelle (Lane) Steitz.

She later moved to Putnam Valley where she raised her three children and built a life centered on family, faith, and service. She worked as a bus driver for the Putnam Valley School District, a role that reflected her steady presence and care for others.

An Episcopalian, Ralphine was deeply devoted to her faith and lovingly taught Sunday School at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Schenevus and later in life taught Head Start, sharing her kindness and values with generations of children. Known for her warmth and welcoming spirit, she introduced herself simply as "Grandma" – a title she lived up to fully, extending her love far beyond her immediate family.

She was predeceased by her parents, Isabelle and Philip Steitz; her brother, Philip Steitz, and her first grandson, Skyler C. Levesque, who died August 30, 2016.

Ralphine is survived by her sons, Frank Risse and Robert Risse; her daughter, Kathleen; her granddaughter, Veronica Levesque; her grandson Lucas Risse; great grandchildren Hunter and Michaela Johnson; and many others who proudly and lovingly called her Grandma.

Her legacy of love, generosity, and faith will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A memorial service was offered at 10 a.m. Saturday January 3, 2026, 2025 at The Church of the Holy Spirit, 5 Arch Street, Schenevus, with Mother Nancy Truscott, Priest-in-Charge, officiating.