Susan Montanino, 84, a beacon of warmth and love, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on February 16 at her home in Hyde Park, New York. Born Susan Camilla Roberts on March 21, 1939, in Poughkeepsie, Susan's life was a testament to her unwavering dedication to her family, her work, and her passions.

Susan's true journey began as the beloved wife to Michael. Their marriage of 67 years revolved around their dedication to each other and the four children they raised. They include devoted daughter, Marilyn, and son-in-law, David, son, Alfred, and daughter-in-law, Cynthia, and daughter-in-law, Shirley, wife of Gary, their late son.

She was a guiding light to her grandchildren, Adam (Kristen), and Aimee Serino, Joshua (Angelina) and Brian Montanino, Katie Montanino and Gabriel Montanino, each of whom will carry her spirit of generosity and love into the future. Her great-grandchildren, Sophia, Kingsley, and Camilla Serino, Channing, Charley, and Corbett Olker, and Austin Montanino brought her immense joy and pride.

Though Susan was predeceased by her sons Gary and Michael Jr., their memories remain a cherished part of the family's history, never to be forgotten. It is with these memories, and the many lessons Susan imparted, that her family will continue to honor her life.

Susan had a deep sense of community that would define her life's work. Her devotion to service was evident in her longstanding career in the hospitality industry, which included impactful years with Hyde Park's Meals on Wheels. She continued to nurture and feed the community until her retirement from the Hyde Park Central School District's Food Service Department. Susan's caring hands and kind heart left an indelible mark on all those she served.

Susan's passion for life extended to her love for the many neighborhood cats she provided for, as well as her flower beds, which were as vibrant and varied as their beauty. She possessed a remarkable talent for crafting, creating intricate arrangements with artificial and dried flowers that brought beauty to every room they graced. Her love for travel was encapsulated in her vast collection of porcelain dolls, each a memory from road trips across the United States with her adoring husband and family.

Susan's presence was a gift to all who knew her, a source of laughter, wisdom, and comfort. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her spirit will continue to inspire those she loved to live with the same compassion and enthusiasm she embodied every day.

Susan Camilla Montanino's life was a beautiful journey of love, service, and joy. Her story does not end with her passing but continues in the lives of those she touched. May she rest in peace, knowing that her legacy will flourish, much like the gardens she so tenderly cared for throughout her life.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Route 9, Hyde Park. There will be no calling hours, burial will be private.

In keeping with Sue's wishes, she has requested that donations be made to the DCSPCA, 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538; Meals on Wheels of Greater Hyde Park, C/O Hyde Park United Methodist Church, 1 Church Street, Hyde Park, N.Y. 12538; or Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation, 80 Washington Street, Suite 204, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.

To send an online condolence, please visit Susan's obituary page at www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.