Catherine R. Kriff

Catherine “Kate” Reed Kriff passed away on the morning of May 21, 2026, at her home in Plattsburgh, New York, with her husband Larry by her side. After a long struggle with health issues, she died peacefully and will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Born October 9, 1952 in Newburgh, New York, to Ben and Betty Cashin Reed, Kate (or Cathy in her youth) graduated from Newburgh Free Academy in 1970. She attended The College of New Rochelle and then lived the majority of her life on Lake Champlain where she and Larry raised their two children, Benjamin Kriff and Meghan Kriff (Ben) Freiberg. Kate was devoted to her two grandchildren, Elise and Leah Freiberg now residents of South Carolina with their parents.

Kate dedicated much of her career to supporting young children and families in the North Country. She worked for several years in local school districts providing counseling services for elementary-aged students. Kate had a natural gift with children, meeting them with patience, playfulness, and genuine care in a way that shaped both her career and the way she moved through the world. Her deep connection with those she worked with left a lasting impact on the many lives she touched.

In addition to her husband, children, and grandchildren, Kate is survived by her sister, Mary McTamaney, and brother-in-law David of Newburgh, New York; two first cousins, John Cashin of Fultonville, New York, and Erin Loffredo (Rick) of Denver, Colorado, and their families; her aunt, Phyllis Cashin of Schenectady, New York; sister-in-law Leslie Kriff of North Brunswick, New Jersey; nieces Rachel Denno of Washington, D.C. and Sara Denno of New Jersey; and nephew

Max Kriff of Burlington, Vermont. She was predeceased by her brother, Robert Reed and his wife Lucille of Quincy, Massachusetts, and brother-in-law Peter Kriff of Burlington, Vermont.

She will be remembered for her warmth, quick humor, and the way she made people feel instantly at ease. She had a deep love for animals, especially her dogs, Patrick, Woody and Murphy. She was also a loyal Yankees fan who enjoyed celebrating every win. Kate found deep peace and joy in Lake Champlain and the beauty of the Adirondacks, places that felt like home to her in every sense. Beneath her sharp wit was a deeply caring and sensitive person whose presence brought comfort, laughter, and connection to so many.

A celebration of life is being planned by the family.