Michael P. LaJoie

Michael P. LaJoie of Liberty, NY passed away Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at his home. It is with great sadness, and after a long debilitating illness, that Mike went to join his family and friends waiting for him in heaven. The family patriarch passed away at age of 77. 

Born to Lawrence and Beverly LaJoie of Dannemora, NY, he was one of three children. Mike graduated from Dannemora High School and then graduated from Adirondack Community College before joining the Army Reserve Medics; attaining the rank of Specialist 5. Then, he decided to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather becoming a New York State Corrections Officer, which landed him in Sullivan County where he met his devoted wife, Bettie (Claire). 

Mike and Bettie married in 1970 and eventually settled in the quaint village of Jeffersonville to raise their family. He spent several years serving as a Village Trustee and one year as mayor during the time he lived in Jeffersonville. Mike remained a corrections officer at Woodbourne Correctional Facility for 33 years retiring in 2002. 

With their three children grown, Mike and Bettie decided to move to higher ground in 2009, settling in Liberty, NY. Mike is survived by his wife of almost 54 years, Bettie LaJoie, at home; daughter, Carrie LaJoie; daughter, Nicole and her husband Tim Phipps; son, Lawrence LaJoie and fiancée Diana; his grandchildren Alex, Sarah, Ella, Amara, Alexa, and Mykynzie; one sister, Linda Criaris of NJ; several nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he loved dearly. 

Mike was predeceased by several family members including his parents; one sister, Sally LaJoie; brother-in-law, Henry Peters and his wife Rosemary; brother-in-law, Athan Criaris; his mother and father-in-law, Henry and Helen Peters as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

Mike’s family would like to thank Stephanie whose unwavering support and compassion transformed her role from a private home health aide to a cherished family member. Additionally, the LaJoie’s would like to express their gratitude to Mike's other Home Health Aide, Missy, as well as Hospice of Orange and Sullivan for providing such compassionate care. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: All Paws Matter, 1980 State Route 52, Liberty, NY 12754.

Funeral services will be private. Burial will be in the Calvary Cemetery, Youngsville, NY.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Harris Funeral Home, West St. at Buckley, Liberty, NY 845-292-0001 or 845-439-5200 or www.Harris-FH.com