Agnes Cosgrove Goudie

Agnes Kathryn Cosgrove Goudie left us peacefully on January 16, 2025.

Predeceased by her loving husband, John Joseph Goudie, and her devoted parents, Arthur and Marie Cosgrove. Agnes is undoubtedly reunited with them, armed with a to-do list and her trusty teacher’s planner.

Born and raised in Lindenhurst, Long Island, New York, Agnes mastered the art of blending her quick Irish wit with sophistication and style at an early age. She earned a B.A. degree from Good Counsel College in White Plains, New York, followed by a Master’s degree in education from Hofstra University.

Agnes’ teaching career began with 4th graders in West Babylon, New York, where her genuine love and care for her students shone through. She then moved to Copiague, New York, where she taught for thirty years, always creating a nurturing environment where every child felt valued and supported. Agnes believed deeply in the potential of her students and worked tirelessly to inspire them both in and out of the classroom. Many of her students fondly recall her warmth, encouragement, and unwavering belief in their abilities.

Devoted to her faith, Agnes was a faithful and valued member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where she participated actively in parish life and lived her faith through service and kindness. Her devotion to her faith was evident in her everyday actions and her deep sense of compassion.

Agnes was also an accomplished baker and a gifted “cook”, known for her kitchen creations that could brighten any gathering. Her love for travel was equally renowned, with a particular fondness for Ireland, where she cherished touring the rolling green hills and connecting with her Irish roots. Despite her many adventures and travels, Agnes never forgot her roots in Lindenhurst, a place that held a special spot in her heart and where she will finally rest. Agnes was a founding member and first treasurer of the Copiague Teacher’s Association. As President, she launched the Teacher’s Association Scholarship and awarded the first one to Michael Hazelton. Agnes also established the Teacher’s Blood Bank, proving her ability to multitask was second only to her love for her students and fellow teachers. She and John were the ultimate cheerleaders for Copiague High School, referring to all CHS students as "their kids" – whether the kids agreed or not!

In retirement, she and John moved to Hillsboro, West Virginia, where she swapped her teaching hat for a hospital auxiliary hat, serving Pocahontas Memorial Hospital with the same fervor. Agnes held roles as secretary, vice president, and finally president for eight years, likely re-organizing everything in sight with a twinkle in her eye.

A viewing will be held from 10-11a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Carlisle, PA immediately preceding a celebration of a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. on Wednesday., January 22, 2025.

A second viewing will take place at Johnston’s Wellwood Funeral Home, 305 North Wellwood Avenue, Lindenhurst, New York on Friday, January 24 from 5-7 p.m. and a final Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 210 S. Wellwood Avenue, Lindenhurst, New York at 9 a.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025. Burial will follow at Breslau Cemetery, Lindenhurst, New York, where Agnes has undoubtedly earned a rest for a life well-lived.

In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome and may be made to: Copiague Schools’ Teachers Association Scholarship, Copiague, New York 11726 or the Pocahontas Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, 150 Duncan Road, Buckeye, West Virginia 24924.

Agnes’ legacy of her Irish wit, wisdom, faith, and sheer determination will forever be remembered by those lucky enough to have known her. She taught us to laugh, to learn, and, most importantly, to always keep the faith!