Obituary of Helen "Pat" MacFarlane

MacFarlane, Helen "Pat", 96, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2016 at the Meadows in Rutland, VT. Although she was a resident of the Meadows at East Mountain, she lived most of her life in Williston Park, NY. Pat was born March 17, 1920 in Washington Heights, NY to William and Helen (Mackin) Schneider. When she was 8, the family moved to Williston Park where Pat attended Park Avenue Grammar School in the Herricks School District and then Roslyn High School (1938). During her time on Capitol Avenue, she met and dated "the boy next door", Edward MacFarlane eventually becoming engaged. Ed served in the Marine Corps in WWII. While he was on leave in 1942, they were married on Christmas Day at the rectory of St. Aidan's Church in Williston Park. Shortly after, they bought a house on Park Ave where they raised their four boys. During this time, Pat was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary #144 of which her mother was a charter member and Pat was the first daughter. As a member Pat held many positions: Unit President (1954-55), County President (1965-66) installed by her mother, 10th District President (1975-76), Departmental Sectaire of 8 and 40 Chapeau (1974-75), past president, county chairman, state convention chairman, girls state chaperon, president of 8/40 and member of numerous chairs and committees. She continued her commitment by registering all her granddaughters in the auxiliary. A lifelong member of St. Aidan's Church and Rosary Society, she was also a member of the choir. Pat worked for the Nassau County Police Department for 25 years as a Keyboard Supervisor. She was also a member of the Herricks Seniors. Pat is survived by sons, James (Maureen) of VT, Thomas (Anita) of GA, Lawrence (Linda) of VT and Gerard of Stroudsburg, PA; grandchildren, Kenneth, Robyn, Sharon, Brian, Gregory, Corinne, Megan Ann and Andrew; 8 Great Grandchildren. Pat was predeceased by her husband, Edward Lawrence, daughter, Patricia Ann, granddaughter Keri Ann, parents, William and Helen Schneider, sisters, Marion and Jean and her dear lifelong friend, "Aunt Peg" Margaret (Peggy McMahon) Smith. Services entrusted to Weigand Bros. Funeral Home, 49 Hillside Ave., Williston Park, NY. Visitation Wednesday 5-9 PM and Thursday 2-4 and & 7-9 PM. Mass of Christian Burial Friday 10 AM at St. Aidan's RC Church. Interment Long Island National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to: The American Legion Auxiliary, Unit #144, 730 Willis Ave., Williston Park, NY 11596.