Denise Jean Foerst, a long-time resident of Pawling, NY, passed away on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at The Pines in Poughkeepsie, NY; she was 79.
Born on May 23, 1946 in the Bronx, she was the daughter of Joseph and Eugenia (Ritchie) Ross. She received her high school diploma from the Manhattan School of Art & Design. In 1965 she married William Foerst in Bronx, NY; he survives.
She worked as a jewelry sales person at Michael’s Jewelers in Danbury, CT.
She was a hobby enthusiast, including all kinds of crafts and sewing. She was a scout leader for her children and loved going to Renaissance Faires. She lived for her children and grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, William, she is survived by her five children, William Foerst (Suzanne Rondinelli-Foerst) of New Fairfield, CT, Debra Knappenberger (Robert) of Pleasant Valley, NY, Steven Foerst (Alysia) of Poughkeepsie, NY, Melissa Foerst (Elizabeth) of Wappingers Falls, NY, and Monique Foerst (Nicholas Pietrantonio) of Salisbury Mills, NY; eleven grandchildren, Ashely Lawlor (Garrett), Tiffany Disher (Ryan) Greyson Foerst, Camille Foerst, Ryan Foerst, Juliana Foerst, Isabelle Foerst, Evan Foerst, Chelsea Foerst, Bella Pietrantonio, and Joseph Pietrantonio; and two great-grandchildren, Ellie Lawlor and Emerson Lawlor.
A Memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at the Freedom Plains United Presbyterian Church, 1168 State Route 55, Lagrangeville, NY 12540.
Donations in Memory of Denise may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements are under the direction of Horn & Thomes, Inc Funeral Home, 83 East Main Street, Pawling, NY.
