Agnes Moynihan Houseknecht

Agnes Moynihan Houseknecht went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on September 25, 2026, at the age of 98. Born in Batavia on February 11, 1928 to the late Thomas and Margaret (Francis) Moynihan, Agnes lived a life Blessed with family and countless friends. A woman of deep Christian Faith, Agnes is now joyfully reunited in Heaven with her beloved husband, Ralph; her son, Edward; her son-in-law, Bill Barton, Grandson Michael; her brothers, Thomas Moynihan (Mary Jane), John Moynihan (Dorothy), and Edward Moynihan (Dorothy); and her sisters, Judy Gear (George), Mary Preston (William), Rite Conlon (William), Frances Driscoll (Dick) and Marcy Moynihan. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and treasured memories.

Agnes met Ralph during her days at Batavia High School. Though Ralph left to serve in World War II, they kept in touch by exchanging hundreds of love letters. Upon Ralph’s return, Ralph and Aggie married and were Blessed with 68 wonderful years together before Ralph’s passing in 2016. Agnes was a dedicated Wife, Mother, Grandma, Great Grandma and the best pie maker in WNY!

Aggie was a regular on the golf course and at the bridge table. She belonged to Stafford Country Club for more than 50 years, and was proudly celebrated as the Women’s Club Champion 3 consecutive years in a row. Her weekly bridge games remained an important part of her life well into her nineties, and she was a fierce competitor, even when it became difficult to hold the cards. She made many dear friends both on the golf course and over a game of bridge.

Ralph and Aggie enjoyed traveling to Pepsi Cola Conventions at numerous locations around the country, spending some winters in Florida, and taking Sunday drives following mass. Their favorite activity was spending time with their ever growing family! Agnes’ love for her Children, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren was unconditional! Her family meant everything to her!

Agnes was a member of the St. Jerome Hospital Guild, and a longtime supporter of the GLOW ARC, receiving recognition several times for her contributions and commitment.

Agnes’ family would like to recognize the loving care that was given to their Mom by every single department at the NYS VA Nursing Home in Batavia. A special thanks to Deacon Art Sullivan for the beautiful Christian Ministry that he offers for all at the VA. 

Lovingly remembering their Mom and carrying her legacy forward are her children, Greg; Buddy (Kate); Mary Kay Barton; Tom (Lynn); Tim (Sue); John (Kimberly); and Katie Berger (Gary); as well as her 15 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and many dear nieces and nephews.

Agnes’ family will greet family and friends from 4- 6pm on Wednesday, September 30th at Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main St. Batavia, NY 14020. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Resurrection Parish (Formerly St. Joseph Church) 303 East Main St. in Batavia on Thursday October 1st at 11:30 a.m.

“May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back….And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.”

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to GLOW ARC, 64 Walnut St, Batavia, NY 14020 or the NYS Veterans Home, Activities Fund, 220 Richmond Ave, Batavia NY 14020. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.