In Memory of Kate B. Greer Longley

Obituary

Kate B. Greer Longley, 75, of Sauquoit, passed away peacefully, Friday, September 22, 2023 at her home surrounded by her children.

She was born on March 2, 1948, in Utica, NY to the late Sherrill Jr. and Jane Thomas Sherman. She graduated from New Hartford High School and started a family with her late ex-husband Thomas H. Greer. During those early years, Kate followed in her mother’s footsteps teaching piano lessons out of her home. As her family grew, Kate focused primarily on being a stay at home mom and raising her beloved eight children. Once her youngest child entered school, Kate pursued her education at St. Elizabeth’s School of Nursing, where she earned her degree to be a licensed practical nurse. She enjoyed being a caregiver for several nursing facilities including the Sitrin (Gan Kavod) and Hospice. She found love again and married Richard (Dick) Longley, on March 18, 2006 at Historic Old St. John’s church in Utica, NY.

Kate loved coming from a large family and was very close to her brothers and sisters. Her parents provided them with opportunities to travel to Europe and those trips were often recounted through the years. In more recent times, Kate created many cherished memories vacationing in New Smyrna Beach, Florida in the winter and relaxing at the St. Lawrence River in the summer. Kate was always happiest when her family was gathered together, celebrating a birthday or a holiday. Kate always requested taking a group photo at these gatherings which she would happily display. She looked forward to her annual harvest dinner and holiday traditions. She was also an avid shopper, always looking for a good bargain. At home she loved to read books and share recommendations with her daughters and friends. Kate enjoyed spending many of her days on the phone and face-timing grandchildren, children, siblings and friends.

She is survived by her eight children, Todd Greer, Tammy (Vinny) Guarno, Kelly (Jerry) Savicki, Melissa (Mike) Bartoletti, Sarah (Joe) Bono, Megan (Dave) Sergott, Amanda (Jasen) Catalfamo, Courtney (Ben) Farnham, 16 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild on the way. She is also survived by her siblings, Sherrill Sherman, John (Janny) Sherman, Susan (Rick) Stephan, Diane Owens, Elizabeth (Craig) Williams, Pat (Patti) Sherman and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Richard Longley, her brother Andrew and her sister, Mary (Middi).

The family would like to thank Dr. Jarnigan from Memorial Sloan Kettering as well as Dr. Detraglia and all the nursing staff from Faxton St. Luke‘s & Healthcare for their care over the past several years and most recently Hospice.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Kate’s Mass of Christian Burial and celebration of Life which will be held September 29th 2023, at 11:00 at St. Anthony’s St. Patrick’s Parish in Chadwicks, NY with Father Robert Weber and Deacon Jim Henck officiating. There will be an opportunity to greet the family following the service. A burial will be held following at Forest Hill Cemetery, 2201 Oneida St. Utica NY. The needs of the family have been entrusted to the care of the Friedel Williams & Edmunds Funeral Cremation Services.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and Hospice and Palliative Care. cholangiocarcinoma.org or hospicecareinc.org