In Memory of Theo Cookinham Lafferty

Obituary

Theo Cookinham Lafferty, 99, formerly of Clinton, died May 11, 2018, at her home after a short illness.

She was born March 3, 1919 in Utica, daughter of the late Dorothy Bolles and Erle D. Cookinham. She graduated from New Hartford High School and worked at Robert Fraser’s Department Store and managed the Ormond Hosiery Shop in Utica.

On September 29, 1944 she married Jack C. Lafferty and both of them claimed that for over 60 years they never missed a day without a disagreement!

She had been a member and President of the Hugh R. Jones School PTA, the Junior Chamber Guild, the Faxton Hospital Council, Planned Parenthood, the 100,000 Club and the New Hartford Presbyterian Church.

She and Jack moved to Clinton in 1961 in order for Jack to have a part time Optometric office in their home.

For many years Theo was a member of the Utica Curling club. She was an avid golfer belonging to the Skenandoa Club, The Yahnundasis Golf Club and the Thendara Golf club. She and Jack were also members of The Royal Poinciana Golf Club in Naples, FL and Theo worked in the “Women’s Welcome to Florida”.

Theo and Jack move to Preswick Glen in January of 2008, where Theo enjoyed playing Bridge, Bingo and almost never missed one of its Happy Hours!

She was predeceased by her husband Jack in 2008, and her grandson Joshua Turner in 1981. She was also predeceased by three sisters and their husbands, one sister-in-law and her husband.

Theo is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Jennifer and Bill Turner of Utica, and Joan Lafferty and Nick Goodhew of New Hartford and one grandson Rick Turner of Utica.
Theo had a Great Life, A Long Life and a Fun Life!

The family wishes to extend their thanks to her Physician Dr. Jerry Sloan; her friends and the staff at Preswick Glen and her helpers especially Teresa and Jamie.

Calling hours are on Wednesday from 4-7 PM at the Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford. Interment will take place at the convenience of the family at Crown Hill Memorial Park.

Those wishing to do so, please consider honoring Theo’s memory by donating to the Joshua Turner Children’s Room at The New Hartford Public Library, 2 Library Lane, New Hartford, NY 13413 or The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, 2608 Genesee St., Utica, NY 13502