Sylvia Carlotta McGarry, age 90, of Valatie, NY, passed away peacefully in her home on 3/20/26. A woman of rhythm and adventure, she spent her life finding joy on the dance floor and the open water. In her younger years she was an exceptional pianist who went to the Octavo School of Musical Art. She was a dedicated Executive Secretary for NYS Taconic DDSO until she retired in May 2005.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, William P. McGarry and her daughter, Cheryl Johnson-Noel.

Together, she and Bill shared a love for cruising the world and were known for their grace while dancing—a partnership that served as the heartbeat of her life for many years.

To her family she was the "Captain" of many cherished memories.

Every year she would load her grandchildren into her camper for their annual camping trips at North-South Lake, teaching them the value of the great outdoors and the importance of family time. Bill taught the importance of Sunday morning Blueberry pancakes and bacon on each camping trip and every Sunday he spent at home with Sylvia.

She is survived by her sister, Julia Ainsburg as well as her son, Ralph Johnson, her step children, Brian McGarry and Christine McGarry; as well as her 27+ Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. Her legacy of adventure lives on through them.

A service to celebrate her life will be held 12 PM, Monday, March 30, 2026 at the Raymond E. Bond Funeral Home, Rt. 9, Valatie, NY with a viewing from 10am-12 PM. Burial will be in the North Chatham Cemetery, Rt. 32, North Chatham, NY.