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Mildred Freeman Penfield - Class of 1944
Submitted by Girard A. Fox Jr <gafoxxjr27@aol.com> on 08/Nov/2024
98.169.5.4
Mildred Arline Penfield, a beloved mother, retired soprano opera singer, and
dedicated educator, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2024, at Phelps
Hospital in Westchester County, New York. She was 98 years old.
Born on June 7, 1926, in Brooklyn, New York, Mildred was the daughter of the
late Harriet and Leonard Freeman. Her musical talent emerged at an early age
when she began singing at A.M.E. Zion Church in Newburgh, New York. Her passion
for music led her to the prestigious Juilliard School of Music, where she
trained as a soprano opera singer. Throughout her illustrious career, she
performed at renowned venues including the New York City Opera House, where she
was honored to serve as an understudy to the legendary Leontyne Price. In
addition to her opera performances, Mildred graced the stages of various
churches in Newburgh and New York City with her powerful voice.
Mildred was also a devoted educator for the City School District of Newburgh,
New York. She spent her career nurturing young minds, teaching students from
kindergarten through sixth grade, as well as special education classes. Her love
for teaching was matched by her love for learning. She was a proud alumna of
Livingston College in North Carolina, Columbia University in New York City, and
Syracuse University.
In addition to her professional achievements, Mildred was a cherished community
leader. After retiring from teaching, she became the director of the Newburgh
chapter of the American Red Cross, where she provided invaluable service to the
community. Mildred also gave her time as the treasurer of the Iota Alpha Omega,
the Mid-Hudson Valley chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She
was actively engaged in the sorority’s 2008 centennial celebration (Boulé) and
continued to provide support and lead activities within the local community.
Mildred was the widow of Kenneth James Penfield, Jr., and together they raised
three children: Donna Marie Penfield-Eugene, Marcel Shane Penfield, and Kenneth
Penfield III. Her legacy of love, dedication, and service will continue to
inspire all who knew her.
Mildred Arlene Penfield’s life will be celebrated at a memorial service on
Saturday, November 23 at 11AM, at St. George's Episcopal Church in Newburgh.
Interment will take place on Monday, November 25 at 12 PM at Orange County
Veterans Cemetery in Goshen. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends,
and the countless lives she touched. - June 7, 1926 ~ October 13, 2024
Brooks Funeral Home, Newburgh, NY.
https://www.brooksfh.com/obituary/mildred-penfield - Deceased 13 Oct 2024.
- Class 1944
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