Barbara Patnode

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at St. Mary’s Church in Waddington with Rev. Garry Giroulx officiating. Burial will take place in the spring at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Waddington.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 23, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Fox & Murray Funeral Home in Ogdensburg.

Barbara is lovingly survived by her daughters, Denise Congleton and her companion Jim Rupert of Morristown and Dawn (Don) Washington of Ogdensburg; her son, Keith Patnode of Miami, Florida; and her cherished grandchildren Joey Bonaparte, Paul (Stacey) Congleton, Matthew (Megan) Congleton, Justine Patnode, Michael Patnode, Elizabeth Patnode, Andrew Patnode, Kevin Patnode, and Rebecca Patnode. She also leaves behind her adored great-grandchildren Evie, Maddie, Margaret, Evan, AJ, Jacob, and Maverick, along with many nieces & nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Bernard Patnode, in 1986; her daughter, Peggy Bonaparte, in 1991; her son, Kevin Patnode, in 2026; and her three sisters, Phyllis, Betty, and Sally.

Barbara was born on March 24, 1927, in Forest, New York, the daughter of the late Brayton and Mildred (Lord) Post. She was lovingly raised by her grandparents, Arthur and Alice (Chaufty) Post, a childhood fondly remembered as being raised “up the hill” where Barbara could often be found in her pretty dresses. She attended Ellenburg School and graduated from Massena Central School in 1944. Shortly after, she married her high school sweetheart, Bernard, on December 2, 1944, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love and devotion.

Barbara began her working career at Sperling’s Furniture Store in Massena as a bookkeeper and clerk before dedicating herself fully to raising her family. In 1958, she and Bernard moved to Waddington, where she created a warm and loving home for their five children while also caring for her grandmother until her passing in 1960.

A devoted member of her community, Barbara served as an election inspector in Waddington for over 40 years. At St. Mary’s Church, she was deeply involved as a parish council member, lector, and eucharistic minister. She also enjoyed bowling in the couples league at Waddington Riverlanes, earning several trophies along the way.

Family was the heart of Barbara’s life. She was a devoted and proud grandmother who rarely missed a concert, game, or special event involving her grandchildren. She treasured every accomplishment, carefully saving newspaper clippings and photographs that captured their achievements.

In 1979, Barbara returned to the workforce as a court attendant for St. Lawrence County, where she remained a familiar and welcoming presence well into her 80s. Her dedication earned her a nomination in 2003 for New York State’s Most Outstanding Older Worker. Known for her strong work ethic, she was often among the first to arrive each day, bringing energy, kindness, and a bright smile to everyone she encountered.

Barbara treated judges, attorneys, coworkers, and members of the public with equal care and respect. She had a remarkable ability to put people at ease, especially those reporting for jury duty. She will be remembered for her professionalism, her cheerful spirit, and her signature touch—always adding fresh lemon wedges to the judges and lawyers daily water.

She also had a distinct sense of style, always “dressed to the nines” and rarely without her pumps. In recognition of her years of dedicated service, she was proudly presented with the key to the courthouse.

Barbara’s legacy is one of love, service, grace, and unwavering devotion to family and community. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Church in Waddington or St. Joseph’s Home in Ogdensburg. Condolences and fond memories may be shared online at www.foxandmurrayfuneralhome.com.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the St. Joseph’s Home staff for their years of wonderful care and compassion given to Barb over the years.