Obituary of Kathy Coughlin

Kathleen E. Coughlin, age 70, passed away on August 25, 2018. Former Deputy Commisioner at NYS/ NYC Government Addiction-Criminal Justice. Kathy was a native Staten islander who loved her family, her friends, her career, New York and traveling, She visited many countries. She split her time between her homes on the Island and in Manhattan. After graduating from Hunter College, she spent her career of over 45 years, in high levels of State and City government; working with NYC Governors, Mayors and Commissioners. She tirelessly advocated for the underprivileged and addicted; initiating and managing programs to help clients re-enter society productively and better their lives after rehabilitation and incarceration. Kathy was caring and generous both personally and professionally even while she courageously battled her own health issues. In her younger years, while building her career and throughout her life, Kathy always found time for family. She was involved in the care and concern of her younger siblings, especially her brother Mickey, who predeceased her in July. In her retirement years, Kathy bought a house in Westerliegh for her mother (a native Islander - now 99) to come home to after her own 30 year retirement in Florida/SC. Kathy is survived by her Mother, Anne Coughlin and seven siblings; Judith O'Donnell; Edward Coughlin, Martin Coughlin, James (Chopper) Coughlin; Charles (Pat) Coughlin all of Staten Island; Donna Czekay of New Jersey and Dorothy (Dolly) Carannante of Virginia and her beloved aide and friend, Marilyn Durana. Kathy also leaves behind nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and Godchildren as well as many life long friends, which includes her treasured Dynasours. Funeral from the Matthew Funeral Home, Inc., 2508 Victory Boulevard, on Tuesday, departing at 9:15 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated in St. Sylvester's R.C. Church at 10:00 AM. An interment to follow in Ocean View Cemetery. Family and friends may visit on Monday, from 2:00 to 4:00 and 7:00 to 9:00 PM.