Beloved Mother, Grandmother, and Community Volunteer

Alberta A. Pitkin, 98,  of Watertown, NY, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on a Monday, November 2, 2026. Born on January 1, 1928, in Watertown to the late Floyd and Edna Moore Livingston, Alberta was a lifelong resident of the community she cherished.

A proud graduate of Watertown High School, Alberta began her career at the Watertown Daily Times, where she met her future husband, Merle Pitkin. The couple married on July 6, 1952, and later made their home in Watertown in 1968. Alberta worked as a bookkeeper for Smith and Percy retail store and continued her career with Jail's Antiques and Smitty's Antiques.

Alberta was deeply involved in her community. She was a longtime, dedicated member of the Northside Improvement League, where she served as a past president of the auxiliary. Perhaps most notably, she was the longest-serving volunteer at Samaritan Medical Center's gift shop, where she was honored with a 25-year plaque. Alberta retired from volunteering after the COVID pandemic.

Known for her adventurous spirit, Alberta enjoyed bowling, darts, and traveling. Among her many travels, she explored Germany, Alaska, Hawaii, embarked on cruises, and even rode in a submarine.

Alberta is survived by two sons: Gary Pitkin and his wife Colleen of Watertown, and Steven Pitkin and his wife Zila of Rome; 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. She is also survived by her brother, Roy Livingston, and his wife Shirley of Watertown.

She was predeceased by her parents, Floyd and Edna Livingston; her husband, Merle Pitkin; and her son, Brian.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with a funeral service to follow at 12:00 PM. Burial will be in North Watertown Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of one’s own choice.

Arrangements are with Hart & Bruce Funeral Home, Watertown.

Online condolences may be made at hartandbrucefh.com.