Jessie Sayre

Jessie B. Sayre of Westport passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on September 9, 1931, in Elizabethtown, New York, she lived a life filled with grace, devotion, and a passion for teaching.

An educator at heart, Jessie earned her Bachelor's Degree from SUNY Plattsburgh and dedicated many years to shaping young minds as a teacher. Her commitment to education continued long into her retirement as she served as a substitute teacher until the age of 78. Jessie believed in the power of knowledge and the importance of nurturing the next generation.

She was an active member of her community, contributing her time and talent to organizations such as the Catholic Daughters, DAR and the Federated Church Women's Group. With a generous spirit, she crafted numerous blankets, showcasing her talent for crochet and sewing. Her culinary skills were equally admired; she was renowned for her chocolate cream pies and delectable salads, always offering warmth and comfort through her cooking.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Edward Viens, and her second husband Harold Sayre; her daughter-in-law Amanda Viens; and her siblings Erwin Barber, Jane Gowan, and Ruth Barber.

Jessie is survived by her loving sons, Paul (Sandy) Viens, Steven (Mary Jane) Viens, and Donald Viens, as well as her daughter, Donna Viens; her step-children Deanna McLellan, Sue Lacy, Jeanne Jenkins, and David Sayre. She also leaves behind nine cherished grandchildren: Curtis Viens, Heather Douglas, Evan Viens, Keragan Viens, Mattea Viens, Silas Viens, Lindsay Carver, Melanie Johnson, and Hillary Steen; several great grandchildren as well as several step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Earl Barber, and sister, Edith Hamilton, who will forever hold her memory dear.

The family will hold visitation at Heidrick Funeral Home, 7521 Court St, in Elizabethtown on February 6, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, welcoming friends and family to celebrate Jessie's remarkable life. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Philip Neri Catholic Church on February 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM with interment to follow in the spring at the parish cemetery.

Services were entrusted to Heidrick Funeral Home, PO Box 188, Elizabethtown, NY 12932.