Obituary of Catherine H. Raycroft

Schenectady - Please join us in celebrating the life of Catherine H. Raycroft, who passed away August 29, 2017. Mother of Carolynne and David, Jr. and grandmother of Christopher and Evan. She is survived by her loving husband, David D, Raycroft. Cay Raycroft was born in Cleveland, on November 24, 1924. She was a graduate of Baptist Womens College, Chicago, Ill. and of Bryn Mawr College, Bryn Mawr, PA with an MSW degree in Community Organization. Catherine was a world traveler, traveling to France in a converted destroyer to help rebuild orphanages, after WWII. With her family, she worked and lived in Bolivia and Greece, eventually settling in Schenectady. In Schenectady, Cay became a leader in the community as the Director of the Human Service Planning Council where she helped to develop the County Public Health Department, Youth Board, and Office of the Aging, among many other services. Cay's communicant to the community expanded as she became involved in the NYS Business and Profession Women's organization. She was president of this group from 1992-1993. As an advocate for women, she was honored with the Susan B. Anthony Award from the Schenectady Leagues of Women Voters. In honor of her contributions to the life and work of working women, The Catherine H. Raycroft Scholarship Award was created to support women over 25 who are returning to pursue future studies in pursuit of a career, sponsored by the Schenectady Business and Professional Women. Cay's influence could not be felt stronger than in her own home and with her family. Always an amazing hostess, Cay taught the importance of hospitality to her two children. She created many holiday traditions that are still followed by her family. One of many fond memories was the tradition of creating Christmas Cookies (From Scratch)- all seated around the large dining room table decorated and sneaking bites when she was not looking ! She instilled a love of arts, theatre and music for generations, and of course fostered a commitment and faith in the whole family. A memorial service will be held in her honor on Saturday, November 4, 2017, 1:00 Emmanuel-Friedens Church 218 Nott Terrace Schenectady , New York 12307. Memorial contribution maybe made to The Catherine H. Raycroft Scholarship Fund c/o Schenectady Business and Professional Women 2215 Nott St. P.O. Box 117 Niskayuna, NY 12309. Arrangements by Daly Funeral Home, Inc,. 242 McClellan St,. Schenectady, NY 12304.