Lucille Roesch, of Great Kills passed away peacefully at home on July 19, 2019. Born Lucille Poppe, she was a native Staten Islander and a lifelong parishioner of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church. Her faith and devotion to her church was an inspiration to all that knew her. Over the years she served as a vestry member and a Sunday School teacher in addition to working tirelessly organizing yearly fundraisers. There will be an empty spot this year at the holiday fair. A spot that only Lucille and her beautifully hand crocheted blankets could fill. We will be comforted by the warmth and love of her blankets, a gift she gave to many – a gift from her heart.
Lucille graduated from the Ralph R. McKee High School and pursued her career as a hair stylist. Upon marrying her beloved husband Donald, they started a family and Lucille chose to stay at home and raise their three children. It was then that she began her years of volunteering and giving back. This was the spirit of Lucille. Her children were her passion and she did everything to assure that they received the best education available for them. When PTA’s were finding their voice in the1970’s Lucille was there to assure that each child’s voice would be heard. Her time and energy helped to make parents’ roles in their children’s educational process stronger and more effective. She actively lobbied for improvements within the school district. As her children matured, she also found the time to help Donald establish his business and took an active role in the day to day running of the business. In addition to her love of crocheting and reading she also enjoyed bowling. She was in a women’s bowling league for the past 45 years and currently was a member of the Tuesday Afternoon Women’s League at Showplace.
In addition to her devoted husband of 55 years, Donald, Lucille is survived by her loving children, Donald Roesch Jr., Joseph Roesch (Joan) and Denise Schifando (Christopher). She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren. She was so proud to be their Nana and Grandma and treasured their precious times together. Lucille is also survived by her brothers, George F. Poppe III (Kathy) and John D. Poppe (Maryrose), several dear nieces and nephews and many longtime friends. Lucille was predeceased by her sister, Lillian Poppe.
Lucille’s beautiful, kind, loyal and generous spirit will live on in our hearts. When you think of Lucille think of her enjoying her ever present cup of tea and remember those talented hands that turned ordinary yarn into treasured memories. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Alban’s Church, 76 St. Alban’s Place, on August 10, 2019 at 10:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory to St. Alban’s Church will be most appreciated.
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