Stephanie Woods Mauri

Stephanie Woods Mauri, 86, a longtime resident of Hyde Park, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 17, 2022, at home.
Born May 23, 1936, in Buffalo, NY, she was the daughter of Robert J. and Betty Schlegel Woods. Stephanie enjoyed a wonderful childhood on Grand Island, NY surrounded by water and books. With a love for learning and a natural aptitude, Stephanie entered Cornell University at age 16 to begin her architecture studies.
In 1958 Stephanie married Albert R. Mauri, who survives at home. Together with their young son, Ross, they had the tremendous opportunity to live in Italy, as Stephanie had been awarded a Fulbright Scholarship. It was there that Stephanie honed her historical and landscape architectural expertise and learned how to cook in the authentic Italian way.
With her family, Stephanie began her life in the Hudson Valley in the early 1960s; initially in Highland and then moving to Hyde Park in 1970. A devoted mom to her son Ross, she often took he and her 'second sons' (nephews) Har and Mark on road trips throughout the northeast. Exploring historical areas, museums, scenic beauty and different cultures were often smattered with a trip to a local 'kids' venue. Sharing her passions for the arts, history, learning, and books was one of the ways Stephanie showed her love to family and friends. A mind that appreciated the beauty of the arts and most especially operas in numerous languages, was the same mind that was accepting of all people, cultures, and beliefs.
Stephanie's love of the Hudson Valley was evident in the time she dedicated and the knowledge she shared with local organizations. Most notably, Stephanie was involved with various historical societies throughout the Hudson Valley, including serving as Chair of Dutchess County Landmarks Association as well as Research Coordinator for the Dutchess County Historical Society with a focus to preserve and an expertise in mapping and interpretation of historic maps.
Stephanie's son's interest in dirt bikes and motocross in the early 1970s led to a 50-year volunteer position as the Secretary/Treasurer for the District 34 Sports Committee that oversaw amateur motocross racing in the tri-state area (and long after her son stopped competing!) For those of us at the dinner table who knew nothing about this sport, it was impossible to follow conversations between Stephanie and Ross!
As a skier, Stephanie was always abreast of the latest and greatest technology and apparel in snow sports, as a 40-year employee of Potter Brothers Ski & Snowboard shop in Poughkeepsie.
While Stephanie will always be remembered for her cultural appreciation, her true legacy lies in her communication through cards. Every holiday, big and small, was cause for Stephanie to send cards to so many family members and friends. Every wedding anniversary, every Thanksgiving, every Halloween, every Valentine's Day and so on. Upon her death a stack of addressed and stamped orange envelopes and packages (undoubtedly filled with candy and orange and black Halloween decorations) were on the table waiting to be sent. In a world where time is barely spent answering a text, Stephanie knew the meaning and importance of a hand-written card. Opening the mailbox to an envelope with Stephanie's writing will be truly missed.
In addition to her husband, Stephanie is survived by her son, Ross A. Mauri, and his wife, Barbara, of Craryville, NY; and two grandchildren, Tyler Woods Mauri and his wife Clara and Dale L'Heureux Mauri. Stephanie was predeceased by her sister-in-law, Lynn Laman, (with whom she was a close friend) and is survived by Lynn's two sons - Mark Laman and his wife, Mary, and Har Laman and his wife, Stacy, and their families.
In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place. Memorial calling hours will be Monday October 24, from 2-5PM at Sweet's Funeral Home, Route 9, Hyde Park.
Her ashes will be entombed privately at Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the Mauri family respectfully requests memorial donations to Bardavon.org; or The Mauri Family Scholarship at Marist College; Office of College Advancement; 3399 North Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601; or ScenicHudson.org
To send an online condolence, or for directions, please visit Stephanie's obituary page at www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.