Violet Akerley

Violet I. Akerley, 82, of Grahamsville, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, at the Sullivan County Adult Care Center. She was the daughter of the late Gilbert Hendrickson and Lillian Van Deuser, born on April 28, 1943, in Livingston Manor, New York.

Violet loved country music, especially Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty. She was protective of her family and took great pride in her home and property, always working hard to keep things just right. Violet enjoyed doing word search books, taking rides in the car-especially to yard sales-and spending time with her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who could do no wrong in her eyes.

She loved bird watching and had a special fondness for her black squirrels. Feisty, funny, and never afraid to speak her mind, Violet was known for her quick wit and sarcastic sense of humor. She enjoyed having company, watching her grandson's race and play sports, and always had a special dessert set aside-her "secret stash"-to share only with the grandkids.

Violet is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, Robert Akerley; her children Robin (Thomas) DeMarmels, Denice (Robert Lewis) Smith, Janine Matthews, Laurie Paes, Donald Akerley, Susan Conrad, and Jessie Powell; 11 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and one great-grandchild on the way who will be named in her honor. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Maxine Buck, Kathy Akerley, and Hazel Akerley, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her siblings Robert, Gilbert, Ted, and Lewis.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Colonial Memorial Funeral Home, 396 State Route 52, Woodbourne, New York 12788. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Violet will be remembered for her strong spirit, sense of humor, and unwavering love for her family.

Arrangements were under the care of Colonial Memorial Funeral Home, for further information please call 845-434-7363.