Obituary of Everett M. Rood

Everett Monroe Rood passed away peacefully on October 15, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

The son of Clifford Asabel Rood and Louise Young Rood, he was born on August 2. 1931 in Poughkeepsie, NY.  Everett graduated from Poughkeepsie High School and entered the Navy shortly thereafter. He graduated from Farmingdale College with a degree in landscape architecture. Everett married Alice Starr on September 26, 1961 in Sharon, Connecticut.

Everett joined the family business, Rood’s Garden Supplies and Tree Service, and promptly added a florist shop that would become the premiere florist in Dutchess County. Everett loved his clientele, and they adored him for his creative genius. One of his many accomplishments included decorating the Governor’s Mansion for Christmas, and providing the flowers for the Cuomo weddings.  Everett also provided Christmas decorations for the Chrysler Building in NYC the year the Chrysler Building won an award for “best holiday decorating.”  His accomplishments were many, yet Everett was never one to seek accolades.

A passionate advocate for local causes, Everett lovingly facilitated countless fundraisers and served on various nonprofit boards. He was actively involved with the DC Horticulture Society and the DCSPCA, and for over 30 years he organized award-winning flower shows at the Dutchess County Fair.  Everett played a significant role in organizing events at the Eleanor Roosevelt Center at Val-kill, and he collaborated with the Bardavon and local schools, enriching the lives of many through his love of flowers and education.

As a personal friend to Annette Young, Everett was the guiding force behind the Locust Grove Historical Home, dedicating his time and energy to preserving its rich history. His contributions and leadership in this endeavor will always be remembered by those who cherish the Morse Home and its significance. His passion for the community and commitment to historical preservation made a lasting impact, ensuring that future generations could appreciate the rich heritage of the area.

Known for his incredible sense of humor-a true Rood trait, Everett’s playful sarcasm and mischievous wit brought joy to all who knew him, ensuring that laughter was never far away.

Everett was preceded to heaven by his mother, father, brother Clifford Y. Rood, niece Drucilla Rood, and a host of spoiled and beloved pets.  He is survived by his beloved wife Alice, and his beautiful daughter Diane Rood of Wappingers Falls, NY. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Carolyn Lioy, niece Donna Davies and husband Matt, brother-in-law Tom Starr and his wife Mary; niece Marcia Rood ONeill and husband Thomas J. ONeill, along with their children, grand-niece Emily ONeill and grand-nephew Andrew ONeill; nephew Clifford A. Rood and his wife Cara and children; niece Jeni Rood and son Adam; and his always faithful dog, Khole.

Memorial donations may be made to the Young Morse site at Locust Grove, Hudson Valley Hospice, or a charitable group of your choosing.

A memorial service will be held at the Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery Mausoleum, 342 South Avenue in Poughkeepsie at 10 am on Friday, October 25, 2024.

 Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of Straub, Catalano & Halvey Funeral Home, in Wappingers Falls. To send the family a personal condolence, please visit our website at www.StraubCatalanoHalvey.com.