Carol Howe-Blair

Carol Howe-Blair, 75, died Tuesday with her beloved daughter by her side. Born in Cohoes, she was a proud lifelong resident. Carol was a graduate of the former Keveny Memorial Academy. She then attended Mildred Elley earning a certificate as an executive secretary. Upon graduation, she spent 15 years working for various offices within the New York State system. Her most treasured stories were from her days at Civil Defense and SUNY Central. In 1977, she married Richard E. Blair, who proposed to her on their first date. Three years later, they welcomed their only child. Carol left the State and devoted herself to being a mom. Tragically, she lost her husband only a few months after their daughter was born. Carol was a champion for Catholic education. She was a proud volunteer at Cohoes Catholic School from 1985 until their closing in 2004. She was a room mom, lunch mom, bazaar chair, substitute teacher, and chaperone for every field trip. She proudly served on the CCS School Board from 1987 until their closing. From 1995 on, she was the School Board President. Her dedication to Catholic education continued at Catholic Central High School. She served on the executive board of the Parent’s Committee for four years. She was also the first parent representative on the CCHS Board of Trustees. Carol returned to the workforce in the early 1990s. She proudly served her parish, St. Rita’s, as secretary until the church closed in 2009. She also lovingly led the Prayer and Worship Team for decades. She was the general Chair of the Bazaar for many years. Her favorite Mass of the year was Christmas Eve, when she would direct the Living Nativity with her daughter. She truly filled way too many jobs to list! Her church was her second home. She then went on to work for St. Michael’s in Cohoes until her retirement in 2017. Carol was an avid crafter. It wasn’t uncommon for her to get a request for something they knew Carol could manifest. She was also a fierce reader. She loved baking for her loved ones on holidays. Carol also loved spending time with her fur babies, Chelsea Belle, who passed several years ago, and Lily Grace. Carol is predeceased by her parents, George and Mary (Turino) Howe, and her beloved brother Thomas A. Howe. Carol was devoted to her family and loved them all deeply. She is survived by her loving daughter, Anne Marie E. Blair. Also survived by her cherished nephews and niece, Thomas, Timothy, Zachary, and Carly. Her loving aunt, Theresa Spencer, also survives her. Dozens of dear cousins and friends will also miss her. A very special thank you to the staff of Pine Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation who helped Carol achieve her goal of coming home after several months. Enormous gratitude to the ICU at Samaritan Hospital for their compassion and generosity. Friends and family are welcome to visit at Marra Funeral Home on Thursday, from 5:00 to 7:00pm. A mass of Christian burial will take place on Friday at 10:30, from St. Ambrose Church in Latham. Burial will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Waterford, with Rev. Brian Kelly officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to Catholic Central School, 347 Old Loudon Road, Latham, NY 12110 attn V. Bariteau. Please make sure to mark your donation in her name.

Carol Howe-Blair

August 21, 1946 - July 19, 2022