Obituary of Candace Stroud

VESTAL, NEW YORK - Candace “Candy” Stroud was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She left this world unexpectedly on May 8, 2023 at age 74 surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor her legacy. She was born to Edward and Eileen Drachenberg (nee Kennard) on December 8, 1948 in Cleveland Ohio. After graduating from high school, Candy pursued her dream of becoming a teacher by attending Bowling Green University where she met her husband, Paul and earned her Bachelor’s degree. After moving to New York and teaching 6 years, Candy went back to school and completed a Master’s degree at Binghamton University. Candy took great pride in her students and shared her passion for learning with thousands of children over the years. The simplest pleasures brought Candy great joy. She loved a quiet evening playing bridge with friends while enjoying a glass of wine. Candy also loved spending time in the kitchen trying new recipes and creating delicious meals for family and friends. Candy looked forward to escaping winter’s grip by cruising the Caribbean with dear friends. An avid bridge player, since retiring she also enjoyed Canasta and Mahjong. A champion of fairness and individual rights, Candy served as President of the Binghamton Teachers Association (BTA) and successfully negotiated several employment contracts. She also served on numerous state and national education committees. Candy is survived and missed by her loving husband of 49 years Paul; and her family, Adam & Sabrina Stroud, Alison & Wilson Kan and Jonathan Stroud. Forever cherished and remembered by her four grandchildren, Abigail Stroud, Elizabeth Stroud, Ava Kan & Emma Kan. Her memory will be cherished by the Habusta family; Wendy (Sister) & Frank, Michael, Mark and Katie. Candy was predeceased by her father Edward Drachenberg, her mother Eileen Drachenberg (nee Kennard), her brother Terrence Drachenberg (Joan, deceased), and her brother Ronald Drachenberg (Pearl, deceased). Her legacy will carry on forever reminding us that we control our lives by the seemingly little everyday decisions we make. Candy believed we are always teaching; the challenge is teaching the lessons we intend and want to teach. There are no words that can express how grateful and blessed we are to our friends and neighbors who were there for us throughout Candy’s emergency and eventual passing. Also, a heartfelt thank you to the Vestal EMT, Our Lady of Lourdes Emergency Room staff, and the Albany Medical Center staff for doing everything they could. Cremation has taken place through the care of Simple Choices, Inc. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for June 3, 2023 11 am, at one of Candy’s favorite places, The Relief Pitcher - 197 Conklin Ave, Binghamton, NY 13903. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Binghamton Dollars for Scholars on her behalf P.O. Box 272 Southview Station Binghamton, New York 13903. Donations can also be deposited at the Celebration of Life. The family requests attendees to please wear vibrant, happy colors and casual clothes. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with Candy's Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com