Alice R. Gokey

North Lawrence- A very loved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great great grandmother, Alice R. Gokey, 88, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family, on Tuesday evening, April 16, 2019.  Alice was born in Malone, NY on November 11, 1930 to Austin and Agnes Leahy.  She lived in the North Country all of her life.  She had many nicknames - Rosie, Rosetta, Rosieq but preferred Alice in her later years.  

Alice was a graduate of Moira High School.  She married Vernon F. Gokey at the age of 18 and raised 6 children.  She worked hard as a farmers wife, growing a big garden, harvesting and preserving, and doing chores alongside the men on the farm.  She was a devoted mother and grandmother.  She was also known as a second mom to others in the community, as her home was a refuge to friends of her children.   Alice was an amazing cook, and there was always a wonderful meal on the table.  She loved summers and looked forward to Spring as lilacs were her favorite flower.  

Alice was dedicated to remaining tech savvy so she could stay in touch with her kids and grandkids that were spread across the country.  She was often on Facebook or talking on the phone to one of her grandchildren. They all confided in her. Alice had such a wonderful sense of humor which remained with her until the end of life.  

Alice is survived by her husband of 70 years, Vernon F. Gokey (now 95 and still going!); 5 children; Vernon Jr., and his wife, Christine of Yellville, AR; Diane Brown and her husband, Ron of Potsdam, NY; Chad and his companion, Joan of Stockholm, NY; Cynthia Cowles and her husband, Nicholas of Shelburne, VT;  Robin Van Ess and her husband, Len of Brushton, NY.  She left behind 12 grandchildren; Scott Gokey (Nikki), Derek, Joseph Eldridge, (Sandra) Keegan Comins (Tyler), Joshua Brown (Kristin), Tanya Mancerella (Craig), Amber Ehrenfeld (Jessica), Dylan Cowles, Moriah Cowles (Abe), David Prosper (Jasmine), Zack Prosper (Jennifer).  Along with 21 great grandchildren, and 12 great great grandchildren.  It should be mentioned she had very special people in her life that she considered her “daughters”, Shari Donalis and Barbara Zahler.  

Alice is also survived by a brother, Austin and his wife, Joyce, of Lady Lake, Fl, as well as many nieces and nephews. Alice is predeceased by her brother, Lawrence, and her sister, Linda Hayer, a son, James Kevin, and a grandson, Kevin James.   

For those wishing to express an act of kindness, in lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley Inc., 6805 US-11, Potsdam, NY 13676.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop and in keeping with Alice’s wishes there will be no services at this time.

Memories and condolences can be shared with Alice’s family at www.hammillfh.com.