Obituaries

Sarah Elizabeth Chatraw, 33, passed away unexpectedly at home on September 21, 2024.

Sarah was born on January 20, 1992, in Oswego, NY She grew up in Oswego until her teen years, when she moved in with her father in Mexico, NY.

Sarah had a wanderlust that led her to explore every new place she could reach. She lived in the south for a decade, residing for a time in Georgia and Florida, but ultimately settling in New Orleans. Among her NOLA friends, she was affectionately known as “Murphy”, a nickname that reflected her bright and playful spirit.

While in New Orleans, Sarah worked as a nanny for two little girls before finding her place at a popular French Quarter café, where she worked for six years. She loved meeting travelers from all over the world – including well-known faces – and took joy in seeing others enjoy the historic city she had fallen in love with.

Many years ago, Sarah returned to her home state of New York to be closer to her family, who were blessed her last years laughing, loving, and creating cherished memories with her. She continued her nurturing spirit as a nanny, and later worked as a banquet server for Hilton. In her free time, Sarah explored, thrifted, and collected rocks, and embraced a free-spirited, hippie lifestyle that was uniquely her.

Sarah is survived by her father, Harry C. Chatraw; siblings Hope C. (Chatraw) Ersek, Crystal D. (Chatraw) Small, and Holly (Chatraw) Wait; and many cousins, nieces and nephews, and dear friends who she loved with all her heart. She was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara j. Pierce; sister Heather Chatraw; and niece, Lovella Ersek.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 from 4:00 to 6:00 at the Dain-Cullinan Funeral Home in Oswego.

A private burial will take place at a later date. Friends and family are invited to come together to celebrate Sarah’s life and legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Sarah’s favorite charity, the Kia Foundation.