Nina Postupack, the Ulster County clerk who retired in August, died Thursday following a long illness.

“Nina Postupack was an extraordinary public servant whose dedication to the people of Ulster County was unparalleled,” said Peter Criswell, Chair of the Ulster County Legislature. “What set her apart even further was her deep commitment to honoring the residents who came before us, and her passion for preserving and celebrating our shared history.

Postupack began her career in the Ulster County Clerk’s Office in 1979, quickly rising through the ranks. By 1982, she was appointed Deputy County Clerk, and in 1990, she became Chief Deputy County Clerk. In 2006, Postupack made history as the first woman elected as Ulster County Clerk. Over the years, she has transformed the Clerk’s Office into a beacon of public service, marked by transparency, accessibility and historical preservation.

Ulster County District Attorney Sajaa S. Ahmed called her an unforgettable human being and public servant.

I saw her with my own eyes treat people on a long DMV line with dignity and respect,” Ahmed said. “That meant so much for me to see.”

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger has ordered flags at county buildings to be flown at half staff.

“Nina touched countless lives during her many years of public service, and her generosity of spirit was unmatched,” Metzger said. “She embodied everything a public servant should be — professional, fair, compassionate and responsive. I deeply enjoyed every moment working with Nina, and feel fortunate to have had such a wonderful colleague.”