FEURA BUSH — Anna Elizabeth Crosier Houghtaling of Feura Bush “was welcomed into the gates of heaven on Friday, May 10, 2024, surrounded by her adoring family,” her family wrote in a tribute. She was 86.

“Anna, known as Ann, was born April 24, 1938, into the loving arms of her parents, William and Helen (née Warner) Crosier,” the tribute said. “Ann grew up in Feura Bush as the oldest of five children. She graduated from Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Central School in 1956.

“Because of Ann’s caring and compassionate nature, she was drawn to nursing, and graduated from Albany Memorial School of Nursing in 1959. Following Ann’s education, she was employed as a registered nurse for Albany Memorial Hospital, and St. Margaret’s House and Hospital for Babies. Even though her job could be challenging, she found it rewarding, especially at St. Margaret’s. 

“As her nursing career began, Ann fell for her life-long love of 62 years, Charley. Because of their dedication and devotion to each other, their lives are forever intertwined and joined at the heart.

“The couple was blessed with three boys: Dale, Darryl, and Scott. Ann and Charley raised their boys in Feura Bush, a place dear to their hearts, surrounded by family. Together, Ann, Charley, and her boys, went on many adventures, and enjoyed the outdoors, especially camping, and fishing.

“In 1976, Ann left her career of nursing for another. Ann became a well respected Feura Bush businesswoman, hand-in-hand with Charley. For 32 years, they owned and operated Houghtaling’s Market, proudly serving the community they adored so much.

“She could make anyone feel welcome with her bright, smiling face, and kind greetings. Ann was fondly known for scooping up babies entering the store, so parents could shop, and ‘triaging’ family and friends.

“Her continued compassion, and care for others, would shine through. Especially when Ann not only gave directions to those lost on the road, but direction to the lost, in life. Numerous friendships formed, and were cherished well beyond those 32 years.  

“In addition to her careers, volunteering, and contributing to her community, were held in high regard. In the 1970s, and 1980s, Ann was a member of the Helderberg Women’s Club, a lifelong member of the Jerusalem Reformed Church, and a 61-year lifetime member of the Onesquethaw Fire Company. She gave of herself freely, and inspired those around her. 

“In time, Ann’s family continued to grow with three girls for her boys, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Ann’s family was her greatest joy. Her humor, strength, and support, helped her family navigate life’s ups and downs. Her dedication, time, and boundless love created many priceless memories for her family to keep close to heart.”

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Anna Elizabeth Crosier Houghtaling is survived by her beloved husband, Charles Houghtaling Jr and her children, Dale Houghtaling and his wife, Peggy; Darryl Houghtaling and his wife, Maureen; and Scott Houghtaling and his wife, Lori.

She is also survived by her grandchildren, Aaron Houghtaling, Andrew Houghtaling, Daniel Houghtaling, Jessica Houghtaling, Timothy Houghtaling and his wife, Katie, and Kate Houghtaling; her great grandchildren, Mia Houghtaling, and a baby girl Houghtaling due in June; her sister, Patricia Shultes; her brother, Richard Crosier; and her brother-in-law, Wayne Groesbeck.

Her parents, William and Helen (née Warner) Crosier died before her, as did her brother, William “Billy” Crosier Jr; her sister, Sandra Groesbeck; her brother-in-law, James Shultes; and her sister-in-law, Joanne Crosier.

“The family is also very blessed with, and thankful for, the special caregivers that worked alongside the family to care for Ann these last few months,” the tribute said.

A celebration of life will be at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made in Anna Elizabeth Crosier Houghtaling’s name to the Capital City Rescue Mission, 259 South Pearl St., Albany, NY 12202, https://capitalcityrescuemission.org/, or to the Onesquethaw Fire Department, 2178 Tarrytown Rd, Clarksville, NY 12041.