Harriet E. Haggerty
March 7, 1942 ~ September 8, 2023



It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of Harriet (Har) Sturdevant Haggerty's passing on September 8, 2023. She peacefully left this world with her loving big sister, Arlene Sturdevant Hotaling, by her side.

Harriet was born on March 7, 1942, in New York City, the youngest daughter of Charles Sturdevant and Eleanor Goodfellow Sturdevant. At the age of seven, she moved to Newburgh, New York, where she made numerous cherished friends and memories. However, she always held a special place in her heart and would often say I prefer concrete and steel over greenery and missed her beloved New York City, particularly the diamond sidewalks in front of the old Madison Square Garden.

Harriet graduated from NFA (Newburgh Free Academy) in 1960, reconnecting with old friends and reminiscing about their shared experiences. They often delighted in retelling stories of Harriet's moves on the dance floor, especially when she danced with her late brother, Charles Sturdevant, at Malinowski hall in Ducktown or other popular hangouts of their youth. Known for her sense of humor, love of fashion, and penchant for stiletto pumps, Harriet also had a keen eye for exquisite home decor. Many friends and family sought her guidance when decorating their own homes, and she happily obliged. She often advised adding a touch of whimsicality to create a truly unique space.

In 1974, Harriet met and married the love of her life, Jimmy Haggerty, and they enjoyed 35 years of devoted and caring marriage until Jimmy's passing in 2005. Together, they began the next chapter of their lives with their daughter Arlene on Northgate Drive in Walden, New York. Their home became a hub of happiness, hosting joyful family holiday dinners and legendary cocktail parties that brought together their extended family and friends.

In the early 1990s, Harriet and Jim moved to Florida. Harriet worked her way up to a management position at Century Village in Delray, Florida, while also caring for Jimmy, who had suffered a stroke a few years prior. After Jimmy's passing, Harriet remained in Florida, where she received a diagnosis of stage four metastatic breast cancer in 2012. Despite an earlier battle with cancer in 1981, which she triumphed over with the support of her loving husband, daughter, and unwavering positive attitude, Harriet faced this new challenge head-on. Those who knew her understood that no one could dictate her path, especially cancer. Against all odds, with the help of exceptional doctors, treatments, her positive attitude, and her strong conviction in her Catholic faith, and her unwavering love for Mother Mary, Harriet defied expectations, living a full and happy life for over a decade with little to no signs of sickness. Her doctors often referred to her as an outlier, and even Dr. Lesson from Florida remarked, "Harriet, I wish I had a publicist because I would tell your story."

In 2017, Harriet made the decision to move back to be closer to her family, particularly her beloved daughter, Arlene. She cherished the time spent with her family and looked forward to Monday night dinners with her sister, her niece, Brenda, and her daughter. Bonding with Harriet, included shopping trips, dining at Applebee's, a glass of Dewars and water on the rocks
and of course, browsing the aisles of HomeGoods.

Harriet's unique laugh, love for life, and spiciness will be greatly missed. During her final months, her family rallied together to care for her, her daughter Arlene, and her sister Arlene were a constant by her side, ensuring she could remain in the comfort of her own home. We would like to give a special mention to our dear family friend, James Pillmeier, for his unwavering support during her final days. Without him, we would not have been able to navigate this difficult journey. We are also grateful for the care provided by the hospice nurses, Sonja and Sandy, and the support of our extended family.

Harriet was predeceased by her husband, James Haggerty, her mother, Eleanor Goodfellow Sturdevant, her father, Charles Sturdevant, and her brother Charles Sturdevant.
She is survived by her adoring daughter, Arlene Henry Woodroof, Grandson Brent Woodruff and wife Kerri, She also leaves behind as well as her great-grandchildren, Lukas Ian and Roslyn Fae, all residing in Raleigh, North Carolina. Harriet's doting sister, Arlene Sturdevant Hotaling , her niece, Brenda Hotaling Pagentine, Reyna and Jim Kassman, and her grandnieces and grandnephews Ava Pagentine, Stephanie and Pat Nunnari, Julienne Pagentine (Caroline)Erica Pagentine, and Michael Casanova, along with great grandnieces and nephews, Gavin Pagentine, Mia,Livi, and Leo Nunnari, and Lennox Casanova.

Funeral arrangements have been made by Brooks funeral home, on Gidney Ave. in Newburgh NY, and a celebration of life will be held on Thursday September 14th from 4-6.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Saint Judes children's hospital.
A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date to be announced.