PAINTED POST, N.Y. (WENY) -- The head of a local non-profit hospice care organization died Monday.

Tali Sutton, CEO of CareFirstNY, died after a sudden and unexpected medical emergency, according to the organization.

She is being remembered as an authentic friend who always put others before herself, and is being hailed as a supporter and unifier in the community

“Tali’s energy and personality were unmatched,” said Phoebe Reynolds, CFO for CareFirstNY. “The leadership she provided will have a lasting impact on our team, our volunteers, our supporters, and our community. Tali was an extraordinary, compassionate, supportive, and caring person who truly embodied the CareFirstNY mission. We will miss her tremendously.”

Reynolds will serve as interim CEO for CareFirstNY, in light of Sutton's passing.

Sutton started working at CareFirstNY in 2012 as a Volunteer Coordinator. She rose through the ranks of the organization, eventually being appointed interim CEO of the non-profit in 2023. Sutton was officially hired as the CEO of CareFirstNY in Jan. 2024.

"Our hearts and thoughts are with Tali’s family and friends, and we ask for understanding and patience as our employees, patients, and community partners process this news," CareFirstNY said in a statement sent to WENY News.

In light of this news, patient care services will not be interrupted, according to the organization. CareFirstNY said it will share additional information when it becomes available.

CareFirstNY is accepting donations in honor of Sutton's memory.