ONEONTA – Pauline "Polly" D. Coats, 96, passed away Tuesday, December 10, 2013 at Chestnut Park Nursing Home, Oneonta.

She was born December 9, 1917 in Oneonta, the daughter of Charles & Hazel (Gardner) Coats.

Polly graduated from Oneonta High School. She worked at the West End Ice Cream Bar, Karmel Korn Shop, Polar Bear, was a clerk at Bresee's Department Store for 33 years, and was a receptionist at the First United Methodist Church from the late 80's to December 31, 2010.

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church and of the Bell Choir for 25 years.

Polly lived a long and wonderful life. She left such an impression on the world, has gifted so many with her wit and her laughter, and her love, especially for children. Her passing was peaceful and she is up in the hallways of the heavenly home telling people to "stop running" and singing her quirky little songs.

Polly was predeceased by her parents; sisters, Dorothy and Ruth; her second family, Willard and Mildred James and Doris (James) Fox.

She is survived by nieces, Carol Tomek, Linda Muehl and Susan Gray and nephews, Steven Fox and Dr. Byron Chesbro and their families.

A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 18, 2013 at the First United Methodist Church, Oneonta, with the Rev. Theressa Sivers, officiating.

Inurnment will follow at the First United Methodist Church's Columbarium.

Donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY 13820.

Expressions of Sympathy may be sent to, www.lhpfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are with the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta.