Kathleen Anne Hickey

Kathy Hickey, (nee McCloskey), of Saint James and Cutchogue passed away suddenly on Thursday, November 28, 2024. Kathy was the beloved wife of Dennis for over 53 years and adoring Mother of Sean, Brian and Brendan, Mother-in-law to Brian’s wife Jessica and joyous Grandmother to Oliver. She is also survived by her loving brother Kevin, Sister-in -law Lori and nephew Thomas.

Kathy was a proud Brooklynite by birth and grew up in Brentwood. She graduated from St. Anne’s grammar school, St. Joseph’s Academy and ultimately Dowling College.

It was in college that Kathy decided she wanted to become an elementary school teacher and upon graduation she pursued that career to the fullest. She began teaching at St. Patrick’s School in Smithtown in 1970. She maintained that relationship with only brief interruptions for the birth of her children, retiring in 2017.

Over the years she taught hundreds of children and in later years often was found herself teaching the children of former students. She frequently ran into prior students, who were now grown adults, who she recognized immediately. Upon her retirement she received many notes and calls thanking her for the impact she had on former students’ lives and noting the caring example she set for everyone.

That caring nature set the tone for how she lived and interacted with everyone. She never asked for anything and was always there for anyone needing assistance. She also knew that there was never a challenge that couldn’t be overcome, and had a favorite expression of “it’s all good”, simply to indicate that everything will work out.

She personally exhibited that determination and spirit when she had a cancer diagnosis in 2020. She put her trust in God and her the doctors at MSK. The road was not always smooth, but she persevered and ultimately was cancer free in all her recent scans.

Kathy had several hobbies. She always had a green thumb and had a passion for gardening and raising plants at home. This was complemented by her love to paint, especially flowers and landscapes, with her painting friends in Smithtown. She also enjoyed exercising and was an avid walker/hiker always setting a brisk pace.

In retirement, Kathy loved to travel, and host gatherings with family and friends. She and Dennis took many trips, with some of her favorites being river cruises in Europe. It was amazing how many friendships she made on these trips and people always spoke of her warm and caring nature.

Kathy will be missed terribly by her family and friends. Clearly, she was taken much too soon. The memories will be there forever to hopefully sustain her loved ones through this

difficult time. As will the legacy of positivity, caring and faith in God and the Blessed Virgin; for as she always said, “It’s All Good”.