William D. Ghee

William Donald Ghee, age 91, passed away Thursday, January 20, 2022, peacefully with his family by his side.

The son of William H. and Lena Ghee, Bill was born in Poughkeepsie, New York, on September 3, 1930.  A lifelong area resident, Bill was a graduate of Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School and Fordham University's School of Pharmacology. 

On January 4, 1953, Bill married his high school sweetheart, Joyce Connelly.  Together with Joyce, who predeceased him in 2018, he helped raise four children: Michael, Kathleen, Terrance, and William C.

Two weeks after Bill and Joyce’s marriage, Bill was drafted.  As a father-to-be, rather than accept a deferment, he answered his nation’s call and served honorably in the United States Army, both in the US and overseas.  Following his return from his service overseas, Bill enjoyed a nearly 40-year career as a hospital pharmacist.  Bill began his career at Vassar Brothers Hospital, where he served as the department head for 25 years.  He later worked as a pharmacist for the Hudson River Psychiatric Center, the State Department of Corrections and lastly, before his retirement in 1995, St. Francis Hospital. 

Loved for his senses of both humor and charity, Bill, along with Joyce, was a devoted congregant of the Hyde Park United Methodist Church.  In his spare time, Bill was an avid golfer as well as a great fan and follower of thoroughbred horse racing and professional baseball.  He and Joyce also enjoyed traveling and sightseeing.  

Among his honors, Bill served as President of the Hudson Valley Society of Hospital Pharmacists, and he was also a lifetime member of the American Legion.

In addition to his four children, Bill is survived by nine grandchildren, who all lovingly referred to him as “Papa Bill” – Maureen Frischknecht, Colleen Nuendorffer, Hayley Prosser, Patrick Ghee, Carly Ghee, SSGT Raymond Prosser, Leland Prosser, SSGT William T. Ghee and James Aidan Ghee.  As well, Bill is survived by four great grandchildren, along with his nephew, James Outwater, and niece, Jodi Bingham.

Bill’s family especially thanks those caregivers and aides who assisted him in his final years: Gulsina, Manisa, Michelle, Dalton, John, Melinda and so many others from Hudson Valley Hospice and other organizations. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Hudson Valley Hospice.

Calling hours will be held at the Dapson-Chestney Funeral Home on Wednesday January 26 from 3 pm to 5 pm, 51 W. Market St., Rhinebeck, NY.

Burial will be private at the Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery.

To send an online condolence, please visit www.dapsonchestney.com

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