PLATTSBURGH – Mary Benjamin Krakowski, of Plattsburgh, New York, passed away on September 22, 2026, in Plattsburgh, just days before her 82nd birthday. She was born on September 26, 1944 in Lyon Mountain, the daughter of Cletus and Valeda (Charland) Benjamin.

Mary lived a life defined by compassion, service, and steadfast dedication to others. A strong and devoted woman, she spent her life caring for her family and for people throughout the community, offering support in both personal and professional ways that left a lasting mark on those around her.

Her calling to help others was reflected in a remarkable career in health care. Mary graduated from the CVPH School of Nursing, beginning a lifelong commitment to nursing and community care. She worked at CVPH Medical Center for 45 years, serving patients and colleagues with commitment and heart. Even after retirement, she continued her work as a Mental Health and Community Liaison, extending her care and advocacy to those who needed it most.

Mary also gave generously of her time and leadership beyond her career. She was a board member of the Champlain Valley Family Center and a past member of the Community Service Board, the Drug Court, and Mental Health Court. Through these roles, she helped strengthen the fabric of the community she loved and supported important work on behalf of families and individuals facing difficult challenges.

Outside of her many responsibilities, Mary found joy in simple and meaningful pleasures. She was an avid reader, and she especially treasured attending sporting events for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Supporting them, cheering them on, and sharing in their accomplishments brought her deep happiness.

Mary Benjamin Krakowski will be remembered for her strength, her generous spirit, and the many lives she touched through her work, her service, and her love. Her legacy is one of care, commitment, and quiet determination, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Those left behind to cherish her memory are her loving daughters, Tammy (Sam) Shastri, and Beth (Michael) Shaughnessy; grandchildren, Patrick (Marianne) Shaughnessy and Deven Shastri; great-grandchildren, Emma Shaughnessy, Benjamin Shaughnessy, and Ryan Shaughnessy; and many nieces and nephews.

Mary was predeceased by her husband Dr. Adam Krakowski; longtime companion and soulmate, Gary Butler; and brothers, Marvin Benjamin and Jeffrey Benjamin.

A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, September 30th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Church in Plattsburgh. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.

Donations in her memory may be made to the Champlain Valley Family Center or the CVPH Foundation for the Fitzpatrick Cancer Center.

Those wishing to share a photo, story, or condolence with the family are invited to

visit www.rwwalkerfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to R.W. Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh, NY.