February 5, 1928 to July 22, 2026
Lillian “Lilly” Podwinski of Maplecrest, New York, passed away peacefully early on the morning of July 22, 2026, in Catskill, New York where she lived the last few years of her life. Formerly of Teaneck, New Jersey, Lilly was born on February 5, 1928 in the Bronx, New York to Marion Podwinski and Anna Podwinski, née Wowk.
Lilly was the fourth of six siblings: Casmir “Charlie,” Edward “Eddie,” Miriam “Midge,” Emily, and Jeanette. Throughout her life, she was known as a favorite sister and aunt. She was cherished for her warmth and affection and especially the no-nonsense New York attitude and sense of humor she brought to every aspect of her life.
Lilly was a groundbreaker professionally, serving as the first female Executive for General Motors, working at their worldwide headquarters on 5th Ave overlooking Central Park in NYC.
As everyone knew, she loved the country home she built in Maplecrest—The Crow’s Nest—where she settled after her decades of work with GM. The ‘maverick in the Malibu’ loved deer spotting, riding her tractor and snowmobile, watching the changing seasons of the surrounding mountains, and engaging with nearby relatives and neighbors in town.
She lived life with gusto and held a deep affection for the Catskills, the Bronx, her Ukrainian heritage, dogs, and dessert! Most of all, she held her family and her Christian faith with strength, conviction, and unwavering devotion. She was stalwart with an undeniable soft touch for all those she loved.
Faith was an important part of Lilly’s life, and she was always active in her church community, most recently as a member of Mitchell Hollow Mission Church, serving for years as treasurer and VBS volunteer.
Lilly is survived by her sister, Jeanette Kosack; nine nieces and nephews; 32 grandnieces and grandnephews; and 22 great-grandnieces and great-grandnephews. She will be lovingly remembered by those whose lives she touched and by the family who will always hold her dear. Her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be at Mitchell Hollow Mission Church Windham, 1:00 pm August 8th with a Memorial Service at 2:00 PM and graveside service immediately following.
In lieu of flowers the family welcomes donations in Lillian’s memory to Mitchell Hollow Mission Church.