Carolyn B. Cookingham, 96, a longtime resident of Staatsburg, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Baptist Home in Rhinebeck.

Born on March 1, 1929, in Burlington, Vermont to the late Clifford V.K. Barker and Grace Rumball Barker.

Carolyn was a devoted mother and a dedicated professional, serving for many years as Cook Manager in the Hyde Park Central School District's foodservice program.

Carolyn was deeply involved in her community. A life member of the West Clinton Fire Department, she was one of the first volunteers to alert firefighters of a call within the district and remained a loyal and

supporter for many years. She was also active in the ladies Auxiliary. As a young girl, she was proud to be a girl scout and became a troop leader when her daughters were in scouting.

A woman of faith, Carolyn was a longtime member of the Pleasant Plains Presbyterian Church, where she served the church as both a Deacon and an Elder.

Following in family footsteps, Carolyn ran the Pleasant Plains Presbyterian Cemetery for many years, often alongside her family. She was also a devoted member of The Grange for more than 80 years and was recently honored for her remarkable longevity and commitment. In addition, she was always willing to lend a helping hand on the family farm.

On May 10, 1947, at the Pleasant Plains Presbyterian Church, she married Donald C. Cookingham. Her husband predeceased her in 2000.

She is survived by her children, Betty McGlashan, and Sally Graybill and her husband, Dave; seven grandchildren, Melissa Montgomery, Jamie Riordan, Jason Mulford, Stacy McGlashan, Shawn Graybill, Christopher Cookingham and Carolyn May; and five great grandchildren, Shea Montgomery, Wade Bishop III, Savannah Bishop, Warren May, and Brealynn May.

She is also survived by her sister, Marion Jural, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Carolyn was predeceased by her son, Donald Cookingham; her sister, Patricia Coon; and an infant sister, Barbara Barker.

Cremation has taken place. Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 PM, Thursday February 12th, at Sweet's Funeral Home, Rte. 9, Hyde Park.

A celebration of Carolyn's life at the Pleasant Plains Presbyterian Church and burial of her ashes in Pleasant Plains Cemetery will be scheduled for the Spring.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully request memorial donations to the West Clinton Fire Dept., 219 Hollow Rd., Staatsburg, NY 12580 (www.wcfdny.com), or the Pleasant Plains Presbyterian Church, 2 Fiddlers Bridge Rd., Staatsburg, NY 12580.

To leave an online condolence or for directions please visit Carolyn's obituary page at www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.