Centes Morrill Papes

She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, kindness and service. Included in this legacy are her four children and their spouses, 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Centes was a devoted wife who dedicated her life to her family, friends and to helping others. Known for her generous spirit and compassionate heart, she gave freely of her time to all who were fortunate enough to cross her path, and supported numerous charitable causes throughout her life.

Born on August 19, 1932, at Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville, Centes was the daughter of Russell DeWitt Morrill and Centes Jensen Morrill. The Morrill family lineage in America stretches back to 1638. She was raised in what is now the president’s residence at Sarah Lawrence College, a fitting backdrop for a life of quiet strength and remarkable grace.

Centes attended Chatham Hall in Virginia, where she was known for her wit and charm. Her and her classmates remained in close touch over the decades, which included a special reunion in the year 2000.

At the University of Michigan, she met the love of her life, Theodore “Ted” Papes, Jr., and graduated with a B.A. in French in 1954. The two married that same year and began a rich journey together that spanned 56 years. Their life together took them through Chicago, Gross Pointe, Chappaqua, Paris, and eventually to their home in Riverwoods in Mount Kisco, where Centes spent her final days in loving exchanges with numerous family members visiting from throughout the country.

Centes was the heart of her family and the guiding force of her home. Her commitment to her community was equally strong: she served as a class parent, president of the Chappaqua PTA, coached several youth sports teams and co-founded a spirited initiative called “Swim,” advocating for an indoor town pool for the Horace Greeley High School swim team — repeat conference champions without a pool of their own.

In 1979, she embraced the adventure of moving to Europe with her husband and daughter for an IBM assignment. While living abroad until 1983, she made the most of the opportunity — attending cooking classes, participating in the American Women’s Group, using her French and exploring the cultural riches of Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Back home, Centes split her time between the serenity of Upper Saranac Lake in the Adirondacks and the warmth of Naples, Florida. She revived her love for golf and tennis, and relished hosting family and friends in both places.

She spent her later years in peaceful contentment visiting with her many family members and friends. She enjoyed Sunday dinners with close friends, reading many books, doing puzzles and relaxing by the fire with deep appreciation for the wonderful life she lived. When asked how she was doing, she would typically answer with a content smile, “I’m perfect.”

Centes was predeceased by her loving husband of 55 years, Theodore C. Papes, Jr., her parents and her siblings Margaret Williams, Russell Morrill and David Morrill. She leaves behind her four devoted children, Matthew Morrill Papes (Deborah), Thaddeus Michael Papes (Valita), Daniel William Papes (Christina) and Karin Marie Papes Cabral (Cyril); 11 cherished grandchildren; and eight adored great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her great joy.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites contributions to the Boys and Girls Club of Mount Kisco (www.Bgcnw.com) or the Yablon Cancer Health and Wellness Center at Northern Westchester Hospital (www.nwhconnect.org/yablon).