Brenda Chatland

Brenda Kay Chatland, age 68, of Westville, New York, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026, at Alice Hyde Hospital in Malone, NY.
Brenda was born on July 9, 1958, in Malone, New York, to James and Dena (Henault) Chatland. She grew up in Westville and graduated from Franklin Academy in 1976 before earning an associate degree from North Country Community College.
Brenda was a caregiver by nature, and much of her life was spent caring for others. She was a beloved member of the ARC community, working at the ARC Children’s Residence, where she found great joy in caring and advocating for children. She later worked as a teacher’s assistant with Malone Central Schools until her retirement in 2021. Brenda also cared for the elderly as a sitter at the Alice Center and provided private care for elderly members of her community, offering the kindness, patience, and companionship that came so naturally to her.
Brenda’s strong faith was at the center of her life, and Our Lady of Fatima Church in Westville held a special place in her heart. She served her church as a Eucharistic Minister and Lay Minister and could often be found quietly helping behind the scenes, cleaning and preparing the church for Mass.
Her generosity was also woven, quite literally, into the things she made for others. A gifted crocheter, Brenda handmade mittens for every child in her class each year, and crocheted blankets for hospice and law enforcement to distribute to those who needed comfort. She was a member of the Wead Library’s Knot Just Knitting group, where she shared her love of creating with others.
Brenda was also an active member of the Brushton American Legion Auxiliary, where she once served as First Vice President and Chaplain. When the unit needed someone to step in, Brenda took responsibility for organizing and preparing the dinners and meals, another reflection of her willingness to care for others and lend a hand wherever she was needed.
Brenda enjoyed puzzles, rock-n-roll music, nature, and the beauty of the world around her. She had a deep love for animals, especially birds and deer, and she adored her cat, Buddy. Above all, Brenda treasured her family and the time she spent with them.
Brenda is survived by her brothers, David (Janice), Samuel (Anna), and Thomas (Marlea) Chatland; and her sisters, Donna Lewis, Constance (John) Lewis, and Deborah (Roland) Edmonds. She is also survived by 17 nieces and nephews, several grandnieces, grandnephews, great-grandnieces, and great-grandnephews, as well as many beloved cousins.
She was predeceased by her parents; her brother-in-law, Dennis Lewis; and her niece, Heidi Smith.
Brenda will be remembered for her smile that could light up a room, her laughter and singing, her strong faith, and the warmth she brought wherever she went. Whether she was caring for a child, sitting beside an elderly person, making something by hand for someone who needed it, watching the birds and deer, or simply spending time with the people she loved, Brenda gave of herself freely.
Her life was rooted in faith, family, compassion, and care for others. Those who knew and loved Brenda will carry those gifts, and her memory, with them.
A small service will be held Saturday, October 10th at 11:00 AM at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Malone with Reverend Thomas Higman officiating. A celebration of life will be held at the Fort Covington American Legion following the service.
Burial will take place at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Bombay, NY at the convenience of the family. The family has entrusted care and arrangements to Frary Funeral Home, 530 East Main Street, Malone, 518-483-5750.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider planting a tree in Brenda’s memory or making a donation to your local American Legion. We invite all family, friends, and former students to share their memories of Brenda, and upload photos to the memorial page. This will be a beautiful way to remember Brenda and celebrate the wonderful life she lived. Condolences may be made online at www.fraryfuneralhome.com.