PORT HENRY, N.Y. — Kathleen Adams Ciociola passed away on Dec. 19, 2022. She died peacefully in the loving presence of her family.

Kathy was a long-time Addison County resident before moving to Naples, Florida, in 2020. She and her husband, Mark Ciociola, returned to the region in 2022 to be closer to family and friends after her diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

Kathy had a profound love and respect for the youth in her community. Her ability to connect with young people made her a mentor and guardian angel to many; often during the most difficult times of their lives. She had a special place in her heart for young people who were the hardest to reach or were facing the most daunting challenges. It was often said of her that “the more difficult the kid, the more she loved them.” Kathy always spoke highly of the youth she came to know through her work with area high schools (including the SCRUBS), the Boys and Girls Club, and the Vergennes Thundercare program. Even her home (also known as HQ) came to be known as a safe and fun place for teens to gather. So many of us came to grow into better people because of her influence and love when we were younger.

Kathy leaves her family with a lifetime of fond memories. She is survived by her husband, Mark, who was the love of her life and her best friend. She is also survived by her sons and daughters-in-law: Bill and Melanie Clark, Brian and Jenn Clark, Chris Clark, and her grandchildren: Adam, Acadia, Will, Casey, Nathan and Paisley, and her brother and sister-in-law Allen and Arlene Ciociola. Kathy beamed with pride and love when speaking of her family and her family will always remember her hugs, kindness and great sense of humor.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Ferrisburgh Town Hall (3279 Route 7) on Tuesday, Jan. 3. The celebration will begin at 4 p.m. and will be followed by a 5 p.m. reception with light food and beverages. Kathy requested that we gather to share happy memories amongst friends and family. Please dress casually and bring your best stories and memories of her.

In lieu of flowers or donations, please honor Kathy by passing on a kindness to someone in need. ◊