Obituaries
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Obituary: James Richard Drake, Jr.

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

James Richard Drake, Jr.

Age 65, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at Arnot Odgen Medical Center. James was born in Montour Falls on May 4, 1961 to the late James R. and Lois (Dean) Drake, Sr.

James grew up in Odessa, NY and graduated from Odessa-Montour Central School with the Class of 1980. He worked as a delivery driver for NAPA Auto Parts in Horseheads, NY. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially when the youngsters were around. Fishing was his favorite pastime, and he was an avid Yankees baseball fan. James always had a canine companion, and most recently had a cat to love and spoil.

James was predeceased by his parents; a sister, Tammi L. Peterson; and a great-nephew, Colson J. Thompson.

He is survived by his sister, Wendy (Steve) Weber; brother, Michael (Elaine) Drake; brother-in-law, Ken Peterson; nieces, Megan (Ryan) Thompson, Ella Drake and Andrea Catolfano; nephews, Kevin (Mindy) Weber, Matthew Peterson and Hunter Hood; great-nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly and enjoyed spoiling with sweet treats, Paige Weber, Mallory Weber, Kase Thompson, and Clara Thompson.

Services will be private. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Service: Mary (Bishop) Nichols

The following notice was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Mary (Bishop) Nichols

Age 98, of Valois Point, NY, died peacefully on January 15, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 11:00 am at the Hector Presbyterian Church, 5511 State Route 414, Hector, NY, followed by burial in Seneca Union Cemetery.

Obituary: Douglas J. Eggersdorf

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Douglas J. Eggersdorf

Age 65, of Newfield, NY passed away on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at Bampa’s House in Corning, NY.

Doug was born to David J. & Phyllis (Benson) Eggersdorf in Montour Falls, NY on February 10, 1961, the youngest of five children. He graduated from Watkins Glen High School in 1979.

Doug was a "born mechanic," following in his father's and three older brothers' footsteps. Many vehicles were torn apart, fixed and put back together! He and his father built a tractor from many different vehicles. His co-worker named it the "Franken-tractor."

He worked for American LaFrance in Elmira, and Shepard Niles Crane & Hoist in Montour Falls. He would later become employed in Ithaca as a maintenance worker, mostly up in Collegetown, for 40 years. His most recent employment was for Ashley Management Group, and he received his 15-year award. He worked hard and was always willing to help someone out, or show new employees how to fix things. Even when he wasn’t feeling good, he still showed up and did his job. Whenever anyone, family or not, had an issue with something electrical, plumbing, furnace, building a shed, or most anything, he was right there to help fix it!

He loved riding motorcycles. He and brother Gene started riding on the benefit rides such as the American Pride Ride, the Troop Ride, the Cops, Kids & Toys ride, and a few other benefit rides. Doug only missed 3 or 4 of the American Pride Rides in 30 years! He became an Outrider. Sister Emily was his passenger and co-outrider for many years. He got our Mom to go for her first motorcycle ride when she turned 70. She loved it!

Doug was an avid NASCAR fan! He AND our Mom loved Jeff Gordon! Between them, they had nearly every piece of memorabilia there was! After Jeff retired from racing, Doug became a Chase Elliott fan.

Doug is survived by a sister, Emily Kerns (Randy Fish); brothers Ronald (Pat Dense) and Bernard; nieces Veronica, Tammy, Carrie and Alicia; nephew Shaun, and cousin Stella. He was predeceased by his parents, brother Leslie in 1967, brother-in-law Owen Kerns in 1996, sister-in-law Kathy Eggersdorf in 2006, grandparents, and beloved cat, Princess.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. His funeral service will follow at 1:00 pm. Burial in Montour Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Bampa’s House, 170 E. First Street, Corning, NY 14830, or the Humane Society of Schuyler County, 124 Marina Drive, Montour Falls, NY 14865.

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Memorial Dedication: Judge Philip Roche

Judge Philip Joseph Roche

A memorial dedication honoring the life and legacy of former Steuben County Judge Philip J. Roche -- who passed away on March 25, 2026 -- will be held on Saturday, Aug. 1 at 11 a.m. in the Steuben County Courtyard.

The ceremony will commemorate Judge Roche's lifetime of service to Steuben County with the dedication of a granite memorial bench recognizing his many years of leadership, integirty and commitment to justice.

The dedication will be a brief service, and all friends, family, former colleagues, members of the legal community, and the public are warmly invited to attend as we gather to honor Judge Roche's lasting contributions and celebrate a life of distinguished public service.

Obituary: Emily Mead Geiger

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member.

Emily Mead Geiger

Age 91, of St. Petersburg, Florida and formerly of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, July 9, 2026.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on May 24, 1935, Emily was the daughter of the late Francis W. Mead and the late Carolyn Brill Mead.

Emily is survived by her husband, Grant Geiger; her six children, Barbara Coon, Beverly Nowlan, David Licht (Sally), Gerie Licht, Libby Licht, and Carrie Licht; her step-son, Grant Geiger II (Autumn); her sister, Nancy Baxter (Frank); her brother, Robert Mead (Patricia); her sisters-in-law, Ruth Geiger and Melissa Walsh; her grandchildren, Ryan Coon (Shannon) and Breana Coon (Rob); her great-granddaughter, Edie; her nephews, Robert Baxter (Barbie), Greg Mead, Jeff Mead, Eric Geiger (Kaye), and Philip Geiger (Laura); and her nieces, Hillary Evert (Justin) and Janine Shinagawa (Nate).

She was preceded in death by her niece, Anne Baxter Yokopenic (Craig), mother of Kevin Yokopenic; her brothers-in-law, Frank Baxter, Greg Geiger, Gary Geiger (Deborah), and Patrick Walsh; and her sister-in-law, Patricia Mead.

Emily moved to Watkins Glen as a child. Her family was brought to the area by her father's employment with International Salt Company. Emily grew up in Watkins Glen and graduated high school there. As a young woman, she worked at the Seneca Lodge.

In the early 1950s, she met Geneva, NY native Ed Licht while he was racing at Watkins Glen. They married and soon relocated for Ed's military service and subsequent employment with Westinghouse Electric Corporation. They returned to Watkins Glen in 1970, built a home, and raised their six children, three of whom still live in the area. Emily was very involved in the racing community, coordinating communications in the pit at Watkins Glen International, where she was known by her handle "Mother Able."  

Emily traveled the world, making homes in many places before settling in St. Petersburg with her husband, Grant. She was a gifted seamstress, cook, and artist; an avid auto-racing fan; and a devoted lover of farmers markets, flea markets, theater, music festivals, gardening, and cats. She loved to chat, and following a phone call with Emily, her father often told other family members, “I listened to your sister or mother today.” With her sharp memory and storytelling talent, Emily served as a valued and reliable family historian.

A private Celebration of Life will be held by the family in the fall.

Emily’s family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of St. Anthony’s Hospital, Bayside Care Center, Bayfront Hospital, and Suncoast Hospice/Empath Health for their compassionate care.

Those wishing to honor Emily’s memory are invited to donate to Hospice, the Humane Society, or an organization of their choice.

Obituary: Dr. Robert A. Marciniak

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member.

Dr. Robert A. Marciniak

On Tuesday, July 14th, 2026, Dr. Robert A. Marciniak, loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away in Sarasota, Florida while staying with his daughter, at the age of 87.

Bob was born on July 3rd, 1939 in Watkins Glen, New York to Adam and Lucy Marciniak. He is survived by his son Adam (Alisa) and their children Alex and Alivia; his daughter Catherine (Kevin) and their children Ally, Connor, Max, and Hannah; and his son Matthew (Julia) and their children Anneke, Hannah, and Alena. He was predeceased by his brother, Ted, and reunited in passing with his beloved wife of over 50 years, Judith "Judy" Marciniak.

A gifted scholar-athlete, Bob graduated high school as salutatorian of his class, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball -- accomplishments that would later earn him induction into the Watkins Glen Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995. He went on to Cornell University, graduating in 1961, where he had participated in ROTC, before earning his medical degree from Temple University Medical School in 1965 and ultimately choosing to return to Watkins Glen as a general practitioner and primary care doctor.

Bob served his country on active duty from 1964 to 1970, rising to the rank of Major, and was deployed as a flight surgeon to Vietnam, where he survived the Tet Offensive and was awarded the Bronze Star, the Army Air Medal for meritorious service while in flight, and the Army Commendation Medal.

Bob grew up on 8th Street in Watkins Glen, just a block from the girl he would one day marry, Judy Roberts of 7th Street -- the two having known each other since the 8th grade. Bob and Judy married on July 10th, 1964, and built a life together that carried them across the country and back again -- Philadelphia, El Paso, Colorado Springs, and eventually home to Watkins Glen, before retiring to split their time between Lakeland, Florida in the winters and Watkins Glen in the summers.

As a doctor, Bob dedicated his career to caring for others, keeping regular office hours while also carrying Schuyler County Hospital emergency room responsibilities and medical rounds, where he served as Chief of Medicine. People would reach out to him daily, at all hours and in every setting, to ask his advice or simply to thank him for the care he'd given a family member, a friend, or themselves -- care they felt had genuinely extended their quality of life. He was one of the last doctors in the area to still make house calls, carrying his iconic black alligator-skin doctor's bag and stethoscope to bring relief to those who couldn't otherwise get care in the remoteness of Schuyler County.

Bob leaves behind a legacy that lived out the oath framed on the wall of his office -- a life spent easing the suffering of others and placing their welfare above his own, carried through in the classroom, on the field, in his practice, in service to his country, and above all, in his devotion to his family.

Friends and family will gather at 11AM on August 11th, 2026 at St. Mary's of the Lake in Watkins Glen for a Mass, followed by a celebration of his life at Seneca Lodge.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that, in honor of a man who spent his life helping others as a doctor, you consider a donation to the charity of your choice supporting the search for cures to medical ailments, in the name of Dr. Robert A. Marciniak.

Obituary: Andrew Ciccone Holmes

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member.

Andrew Ciccone Holmes

Age 82, of Burdett, NY, passed away peacefully at home on July 11, 2026 after a brief intense struggle with liver cancer. He was cared for in his last months by his devoted wife Marie and many close friends. The family also deeply appreciates the assistance of CareFirst hospice services.

Andrew had a many-faceted life. He was born July 28, 1943, at Arnot-Ogden Hospital in Elmira, NY to James Forrest Holmes and Rose Mary Ciccone. He grew up in a very traditional Italian family in Watkins Glen. From the beginning he was inquisitive about many things and loved spending time outdoors fishing and hunting. His childhood and youth ended abruptly when he lost his father at the age of 17 and he took the reins to support the family, leaving school and working at various jobs, including his mother’s pizza business and his uncle’s construction company.

In the late '60s he married Connie Fadale who, he would say “saved his life” after what he often called his “misspent youth.” Together they took on the wildly successful pizza stand, remembered fondly by local residents. He received his BA and MA from Elmira College and developed a love of English literature which he passed on to his students during a 25-year career teaching English at Watkins Glen High School. His students remember him reciting poems by his favorite poet, Robert Frost. He was known for being committed to his students at all academic levels.

Andrew had a passion and a gift as a woodworker, greatly respected for his craftmanship, building fine furniture and small boats. A friend said, “He was never afraid to tackle a project.” One summer, he worked with Merle Hopkins, learning the skills to build a log home. Soon after, life changed when he met Anthony Damiani, a teacher of philosophic traditions and meditation who offered classes in his son’s bookstore in Ithaca. When Damiani expressed the need to build a study center on his land in Hector for the large group that had developed around his teaching, Andrew immediately volunteered to build a log building.

This began a labor of love that would never end. Over a period of 10 years, Andrew directed a large group of volunteers, many of whom had little or no experience, in building a lovely meditation/classroom hall, library, retreat cottage and residence at Wisdom’s Goldenrod Center for Philosophic Studies in Hector, NY. Many may recall that the Dalai Lama, interested in the notion of a non-sectarian study center, visited Wisdom’s Goldenrod on his first trip to the United States in 1979, and dedicated the newly completed library.

Andrew developed a commitment to Tibetan Buddhism, and from then on would arrange for various Buddhist lamas, teachers and monks to visit and speak at the Center. He also was a founding member of the Board of the Paul Brunton Philosophic Foundation, dedicated to preserving the writings of the English philosopher-sage Paul Brunton.

In the early '90s, Andrew retired from teaching. He and Connie parted ways and he married Devon Cottrell. They moved to Florida where he developed a process to vectorize images for the signage business. They created a very successful business called Vector Art. Vector Art has been used by the sign industry around the world. They received grateful messages from small shop owners that Vector Art helped keep their businesses alive and expanding.

Andrew and Devon moved to California and continued their dedication to Buddhism. They supported the creation of a small Tibetan Buddhist monastery (now a large one) in Berkeley. They initiated the Breakfast Fund for the monks at Sera Je Monastery. They offered a weekly Buddhist class in Pacific Grove, California.

Sadly, Devon passed away in 2004. Andrew married a fellow student of Buddhism, Marie Buniger. Together they continued the business and, in 2007, moved back to Hector where Andrew indulged his passion for boating and fishing, getting his Coast Guard Captain’s License and guiding fishing tours on Seneca Lake.

Andrew and Marie both became actively involved at Wisdom’s Goldenrod upon their return to the area. He facilitated a regular Buddhism class which continues on Tuesday evenings, as well as participating in classes devoted to the writings of Paul Brunton.

Andrew’s last and perhaps most stunning building project is the torii gate that now stands at the entrance to Wisdom’s Goldenrod. The torii was dedicated with the chanting of monks from Namgyal Monastery in August 2018.

Andrew is survived by his wife, Marie; his brother, James Forrest Holmes (Sherry), and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. His presence is sorely missed by family and many friends.

Memorial donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Wisdom’s Goldenrod www.wisdomsgoldenrod.info, Schuyler County Habitat for Humanity www.schuylerhabitat.org or a charity of one’s choice.

Wisdom’s Goldenrod will host a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Obituary: Keith Thomas Voorheis

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Keith Thomas Voorheis

Age 87, of Burdett, NY, passed away on July 11, 2026.

Keith was born on May 18, 1939, the son of Keith C. Voorheis and Mary B. (White) Voorheis. He married Nancy L. (Bush), and together they celebrated 60 years of marriage until her passing on June 1, 2022. He was also predeceased by their son, Keith L. Voorheis; brothers Doug and Paul Voorheis; sister-in-law Carolyn Voorheis, and brother-in-law Arvine Pike.

He is survived by his daughter Gen (James) Switzer of Candor; daughter-in-law Kelly Voorheis-Brimhall of Burdett; brothers Charles and John (Tracy) Voorheis of Burdett; sister-in-law, Doris Pike of Burdett; seven grandchildren, Christopher Switzer, Cindy (Josh) Briggs, Courtney Switzer, Clifford (Danielle) Switzer, Taylor Voorheis, Keith Ryan Voorheis, and Jessica (Cody) Bryans; 13 great-grandchildren, Loren, Layla, Liam, Lydia Switzer, Gracie Lee, Brantley, Wayne, Payton - Delgado, Freya Baker, Fiona, Keith Colton, Cooper Voorheis, and Thomas Bryans; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He served our country in the United States Air Force, and was employed by Borg Warner for 42 years. He was a great caregiver to Nancy in her later years. He was a member of the Reynoldsville Community Club and Church, American Legion and Moose Club. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and breakfast at the Burdett Firehouse with family and the retirees at Chef's Gathering.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Saturday (July 25th) from 10 am-12 noon; followed by a funeral service at 12 noon; and burial at Hector Union Cemetery in Burdett. All are welcome at the Burdett Firehouse for food and reminiscing after the committal service.

In lieu of flowers, donate to your favorite charity.

Obituary: James N. Colunio Jr.

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Haughey-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

James N. Colunio Jr.

Age 81, of Watkins Glen, NY passed away on July 8, 2026.

James was born on August 5, 1944 in Montour Falls, NY, the son of James and Josephine Colunio. He was predeceased by his parents, sister Patricia A. (John) Williams, and sister Anne M. (Charles) Mathews.

James is survived by his sister Lisa (Kerry) Kelly, along with aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

James joined the United States Navy (USN) on January 15, 1964, and served as an E-3 Boatswain aboard the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Vietnam War. During his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device. He honorably separated from military service on January 4, 1968.

James had worked for the Village of Watkins Glen Highway as the superintendent, retiring after 32 years.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Haughey-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. A graveside service with military honors will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Holy Cross Cemetery, State Route 14, Watkins Glen. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit haugheywoodzinger.com

Obituary: Vernabelle C. Welsch

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Vernabelle “Vern” C. (Hunter) Welsch

Age 95, of Burdett, NY passed away on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at home, surrounded by her family. Vern was born on January 29, 1931 in Newport, VT to the late Russell and Helen (Lawson) Gibb.

Vern graduated from Newport High School and went on to attend the Mary Hitchcock School of Nursing, graduating with the Class of 1952. A year later, she married the love of her life, Ronald Welsch, in Honolulu, HI. She worked proudly as a Registered Nurse in long term care after she had raised her family on Long Island, NY.

Vern was an active congregant of the Burdett United Methodist Church, where she volunteered her time to care for anyone in need, and was often found working dish-to-pass dinners. She was also a voracious reader, accomplished pianist, enjoyed singing and bird watching, and always made sure there was a chair for everyone at the table. She delighted in her friends and family, and will be missed by many.

Vern is survived by her daughters, Susan (Joseph) Silhan, Kathy (Joseph) Yaskulski, and Kim (Rick) Suddaby; sisters, Genevieve Hoyt and Marie Sloan; son-in-law, Daniel Cofone; grandchildren, Caryn (Nick) Dileo, Caty Silhan (Sarah Altobelli), Ryan Yaskulski, Alexa (Ryan) Ward, Deanna (Dan) Shipman, Mikaela (Tom) Parker, Lindsey Suddaby (Nathan) , Madelyn Suddaby, and Alicia (Jarad) Titus; along with great-grandchildren, Avery, Carly, Troy, Elawyn, Saoirse, Flynn, Brayden, Sierra, Oliver and an expected baby-to-be.

She was predeceased by her loving husband, Ronald; daughter, Tara Cofone; and sister, Donna Murphy.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Sunday, July 19, 2026 from 1-2 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. Her funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. with private burial to follow. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Marleigh D. Wood

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Marleigh D. Wood

Age 80, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on Friday, July 10, 2026. She was born at Myers Hospital, Sodus, NY on August 18, 1945, the daughter of the late Kenneth Lloyd VerHow and Beulah M. DeHond.

Marleigh worked at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility for many years. “Her main passion was taking care of and always being there for her boys. A true mother!”

Marleigh is survived by her loving sons, Mark (Tammy) Wood, Terry (Jennifer) Wood, and Christopher Wood; beloved sister, Joselyn of Columbus, OH; her treasured grandchildren, Victoria, Alexzandria, Zac, Zoey, and Matthew; and many nieces and nephews.

Marleigh’s family would like to thank all the nurses, CNA’s and doctors from Schuyler Hospital, Arnot Ogden Hospital and Seneca View Nursing Facility for keeping her close to family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held privately by the family. Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Virginia Townsend

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Virginia "Ginny" Townsend

Age 95, a long-time resident of Montour Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2026 at Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls.

Born on July 30, 1931 to her mother, the late Mabel Davenport, Ginny lived a full life defined by dedication to her family and a strong work ethic. She held a number of jobs throughout her life, always stepping up to do what was needed. She is perhaps best known in the community for the 30 years she spent as a rural route driver for the Elmira Star Gazette. Rain or shine, Ginny reliably navigated the country roads, ensuring her neighbors received their daily news and becoming a familiar, friendly face to many.

Beyond her hard work and devotion to her family, Ginny will be remembered for her fun spirit and many talents. Music was a source of joy in her life. Having taken organ and piano lessons as a child, she cultivated a lifelong pleasure of playing. She shared her music with her community, playing the organ at her church and occasionally providing dinner music at area establishments. At home, she spent countless happy hours at the keys of her cherished Hammond organ.

Ginny never lost touch with her inner child. A lover of all kinds of games, she was just as likely to be found playing video games like Wii bowling as she was a classic game of dominoes. In fact, she always kept a set of dominoes in her car -- ready just in case she could find a willing opponent for an impromptu game. Her warmth and unpretentious spirit made her a beloved staple at the Senior Service Center in Montour Falls. For many years, she thoroughly enjoyed the lunches there, sharing meals, stories, and laughter with her many friends.

Her sense of adventure extended far beyond the game board. Ginny possessed a fearless and surprising love for thrills, proving that age is just a number. She was a huge fan of high-intensity amusement park rides and loved traveling to Walt Disney World as well as amusement parks in New York state and New Jersey. She eagerly braved attractions like the Tower of Terror and the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, and when it came to thrill rides, she had one rule: the scarier the better!

Her perseverance, spunky spirit and love will live on through her family. She is survived by her beloved Yorkshire Terrier Coco; son John (Lisa) Townsend of Clinton, NJ; daughter Cate (Vince) Mazzarella of Ithaca, NY; daughter Lynda (Leon) Kochian of Ithaca; sister Dori Copas of Faribault, Minnesota, and son-in-law Bill Myers of Union Springs, NY as well as 9 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Mabel Davenport, her daughter Nancy (Bill) Myers, her sister Marie Perkins and her son-in-law, Vincent (Cate) Mazzarella.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, July 20, 2026 from 10-11 a.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122  N. Genesee St., Montour Falls.  Her memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. Burial will follow at the Montour Cemetery, 174-198 Mill St., Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Helen Roberts Kelly

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Helen Roberts Kelly

Age 89, of Catherine Court Apartments in Montour Falls, NY, went home to be with the Lord on July 2, 2026 after a brief illness at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca, NY.

Born on March 18, 1937 in Hillburn, NY, Helen was the daughter of Daniel Francis and Elsie Ayers. When her family later moved to Watkins Glen, NY, she met Stanley E. Roberts -- and discovered they shared the same birthday. Helen and Stan were married in August 1957 and built a life together in Rock Stream, NY, until his passing in 1981.

In June 1993, Helen married Charles E. “Pete” Kelly. Together they shared many happy years until Pete’s passing in April 2017.

Helen worked over the years at Seneca Foods in Dundee, NY, Isley Hardware in Watkins Glen, and Montour Pharmacy in Montour Falls. She was also affectionately known as the “Avon Lady” and spent many years working in the vineyards while raising her children. No matter where she worked or whom she met, Helen was known for her kindness, warmth, and genuine love for people.

Helen was predeceased by her parents; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Howard and Frances Ayers and Harold and Marian Ayers; her infant sister, Evangeline Ayers; her sister-in-law, Geraldine Ayers; her brother- and sister-in-law, Milo and Shirley Roberts; her brother-in-law Keith Roberts; her brother- and sister-in-law, George and Ellen Goltry; her brother- and sister-in-law, Don and Priscilla Kelly; her stepdaughter, Dawn Hendrix; several beloved nieces, nephews and extended family members; and her faithful four-legged companion, Winston.

She is survived by her son, Marty (Peggy) Roberts; her daughter, Marlita (Peter) Schreurs; her stepson, Vic (Mary) Kelly; her grandchildren, Ashley (Honorio) Borba and their children, Nick and Lily; Sarah (Guy) Robinson and their son, Mack; Olivia Schreurs; and Emily Schreurs; brother, Daniel F. Ayers, Jr.; sister-in-law, Penny Roberts; along with numerous wonderful nieces, nephews and extended family members; her Catherine Court family; and dear friends Sandy Monroe, Liz Lawton, and Mary Marlatt.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Cayuga Medical Center for the care and compassion shown to Helen in her final days.

Helen will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend whose kindness touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her gentle spirit, caring heart, and love for family and friends will be deeply missed.

In keeping with Helen’s wishes, a private graveside service will be held at Pleasant View Cemetery in Reading Center, NY, at the family’s convenience. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Helen’s memory to the Humane Society of Schuyler County. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Marialana Travis Kennedy

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Marialana Travis Kennedy

Age 76, of Beaver Dams, NY, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2026 at home, surrounded by her family.
 
Marialana was the beloved wife of Lewis C. Kennedy (Junie), with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and cherished memories. She devoted more than 20 years of her life to caring for others as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and home health aide. Her compassion, kindness, and dedication touched the lives of countless patients and families.

Marialana was predeceased by her parents, Ernest and Lorena Travis, and her son-in-law, Richard Robinson.

Above all, Marialana’s greatest joy was her family. She was a loving mother to five children: Christina (Mike), Shelly, Kevin, Scott, and Wendy. She was a proud grandmother of 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. She treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren, who brought her immense pride and joy. She also leaves behind her beloved four-legged companion, Peanut, who brought her endless comfort and companionship.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Marialana’s life on Tuesday, July 14 at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St. in Watkins Glen, NY. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Sugar Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Schuyler County Humane Society in Marialana’s memory, honoring her love and compassion for animals.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family, friends, and all whose lives were blessed by knowing her.

Obituary: Virginia E. Rappleye

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Virginia E. (Bush) (Ellison) Rappleye

Age 89, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2026.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Monday (July 27th) from 1pm-3pm; followed by a memorial service at 3:00pm. She will be interred at Tyrone Union Cemetery.

Born on April 16, 1937, in Montour Falls, NY, Virginia lived a life marked by hard work, independence, and a love for adventure. She spent 38 dedicated years as an NC Machinist at Moog Inc., where her strong work ethic and dedication earned the respect of those who worked alongside her.

Virginia was known for her independent spirit, outgoing personality, and love of riding motorcycles. She embraced life with enthusiasm and enjoyed the freedom of the open road. A faithful member of her local Baptist church, she found strength in her faith and cherished the friendships she made throughout her life.

She is survived by her two sons, Jamie L. Ellison and his wife, Rose, and Claude R. Ellison; her stepsons, John Rappleye and his wife, Peggy, and Winston Charles “Charlie” Rappleye; her sister, Mary (Bush) Marlatt; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, DeForest James Bush and Cecil May Bush (Ameigh); husbands, Jesse L. Ellison and Winston J. Rappleye; two sisters, Jean Bedient and Grace Andrews; and step-children, Steve, Gary, Jim and Kevin.

Virginia will be remembered for her resilience, her warm and outgoing personality, and the practical wisdom she often shared. One of her favorite sayings, “Save it for a rainy day,” reflected the common sense and thoughtful outlook on life that she passed on to those who knew and loved her.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched.

Obituary: Marion E. Barron

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Haughey-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Marion E. (Madigan) Barron

Age 93, of Montour Falls, NY passed away on Monday, June 29, 2026 at Schuyler Hospital.
She was born in Olean, NY on April 7, 1933, the daughter of the late William H. and Mary H. (Thompson) McCann.

Marion worked at Stone’s Restaurant and Sar & Aggie’s in Watkins Glen for many years.

She is survived by her son, Daniel D. Madigan of Bath, NY; grandchildren, Gidget, Douglas, Donovan, Danielle, Jonathan, Katina, Michelle and Roger; sisters, Marilyn Carey of MT and Marge of Rochester; several great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her daughter, Kathleen LeShure, on December 30, 2017.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 from 12:30-2:30 pm at the Haughey-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. Burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery in Watkins Glen, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.haugheywoodzinger.com

Obituary: Cathy Elaine Krnotch

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Cathy Elaine Krnotch

Age 74, of Montour Falls, NY passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center. She was born in Penn Yan, NY on April 29, 1952.

Cathy attended Dundee Central School. She then furthered her education at BOCES and began work as a CNA at Schuyler Hospital, where she worked for 26 years. She served as a Girl Scout leader in Watkins Glen, NY and in her spare time enjoyed reading at the park with her dog, archery, riding motorcycles, and spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Cathy was loved by many close friends and neighbors.

Cathy was predeceased by her mother and stepfather, Floyd “Dick” and Sandy (Johns) Nageldinger; and siblings, Barb (Eddie) Champlain, Richard Axtell, Eddie Nageldinger, Troy Nageldinger and Theresa Nageldinger.

She is survived by her husband, Tom Krnotch; beloved daughters, Stacy (Nahdeen) Walter and Crystal Brown; siblings, Larry Nageldinger and Dwyte (Carryl) Nageldinger; sister-in-law Helen Axtell; grandchildren, Chris Mundt, Courtney Mundt, Alaina (Howard)Krnotch, Tori Krnotch, and Jonathan “Bubby” Krnotch; and great-grandchildren, Brayden Krnotch, Sean Krnotch, Carter Krnotch, Alexander Krnotch, and Howard Clugstone, Jr.; and by several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff in the ICU at Arnot Ogden Medical Center for their kindness and compassion in Cathy’s final days, especially Stephanie, Courtney and Alyssa.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family. Memorial donations may be made to the Falck Cancer Center, c/o Arnot Health Foundation, 571 St. Joseph’s Blvd., EMAC Suite 102, Elmira, NY, 14901.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Patricia A. Hodge

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Patricia A. Hodge

Age 78, of Penn Yan and formerly of Rock Stream, NY, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 29, 1948, in Montour Falls, Patricia was the daughter of Edward and Lona (Thompson) Perigo. She was employed for many years as a talented seamstress at Michaels Stern and was a loving and devoted housewife.

Patricia found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved crafting, playing cards (especially euchre) with family and friends, and spending hours working on puzzles. She will be missed by friends from the Seneca Lake Duck Hunters Club, where she enjoyed volunteering. She had a kind heart, a creative spirit, and treasured the time she spent with those she loved most. Her family was the center of her world, and she delighted in watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow.

Above all, Patricia will be remembered for her big heart and generous spirit. She was the kind of person who would give whatever she had to help someone in need and never hesitated to put others first. Her love was shown through countless acts of kindness, quiet sacrifices, and unwavering support for her family and friends. Whether sharing her time, offering support, or creating something special with her talented hands, she found joy in caring for others. The warmth and generosity she shared throughout her life left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

She was predeceased by her former husband of many years, Jack Hodge, in 2013, and by her parents, Edward and Lona Perigo.

Patricia is dearly remembered by her son and daughter-in-law, Jack II and Eva Hodge of North Tonawanda, NY; her daughters, Sheila Backer and Rollin Orr, whom lovingly shared their home with her, and Kimberley Smith of Rock Stream; her brother, Edward Perigo II; her sister, Sylvia Johnson-Hoke; her grandchildren, Cory, Sonja & Dom, Briana, Brandon, and Hunter; her great-grandchildren, Anthony and Jack; several sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews; and her beloved grand-fur baby, Reese.

Family and friends are invited to call at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th Street, Watkins Glen, on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.  A memorial service will follow at 3:00 p.m. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery in Dundee at 4:00 p.m. followed by a reception at 5:00 p.m. at the Penn Yan American Legion, 2001 Himrod Road.

Patricia’s warmth, creativity, kindness, and love for her family will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Her guestbook may be found at www.RoyceChedzoy.com

Obituary: Carol Ann Michener

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Haughey-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Carol Ann Michener

Age 88, passed away peacefully in Montour Falls, NY on June 20, 2026. Suzanne Michener, her beloved sister-in-law and care giver over the past several years, was by her side when she was greeted by her Savior Jesus.
 
Carol was born on December 1, 1938 in Norfolk, VA to her teenage mother. After entering into foster care, Carol was adopted by Thomas and Hazel Byrns. In 1995 Carol’s birth mother, Irene Van Austin, found her after searching for her lifetime. Irene never had other children. One look at Irene and there was no doubt the two were mother and daughter. They reunited and were able to spend 10 years catching up and celebrating life together before Irene’s death in 2004.
 
Carol married the love of her life, Donald Michener, in 1995. They enjoyed traveling to see family, dancing and good times with friends. Don preceded Carol in death on December 14, 2022. Carol was also preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Hazel Byrns, and her daughter, Tammy Michelle Hanley.
 
Carol is survived by her sons, James T Greer (Joanie), Jeffrey A Greer (Jessica) and Gregory W Greer; her son-in-law Denis Hanley (Bonnie); grandchildren Ryan Hanley (Gabie), Matthew Hanley, Allison Greer Lumpkin, Elle Greer, Sydney Greer, Casey Greer, Avery Greer Melton (Chris), Mason Greer, and Niki Clancy; and great-grandchildren Zella Lumpkin, Jack Clancy, Emma Clancy, and Greyson Hanley.
 
There will be a private committal service at a time to be determined.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Haughey-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.haugheywoodzinger.com

Obituary: Shirley (Rhodes) Shaffer

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Shirley (Rhodes) Shaffer

Age 82, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026 at Chemung County Nursing Facility in Elmira, NY. Shirley was born on July 17, 1943 in Montour Falls, NY to the late Norris and Mildred (Harrington) Rhodes.

Shirley worked in several industries over the course of her life, including retail in Watkins Glen, which included Walmart, and as an event coordinator at Edgewater Casino in Laughlin, NV. Her adventures also took her to California, Florida and Arizona, before returning to Montour Falls in her later years. She volunteered locally at the Schuyler County Historical Society, and in 2002 took great pride in her baptism at the South Corning United Methodist Church, where she vowed to love the Lord through her service to those around her.

Shirley had a great love for her family and friends. She never had children of her own, but was considered an adoptive parent by many of her nieces and nephews. She was an avid crafter, cook, storyteller, hostess, collector of spoons and thimbles, lover of cars and motorcycles, and intrepid traveler. She also had a love of décor, outfitting her homes beautifully. Shirley was also quite famous for her homemade potato salad, as well as her heart of gold, thoughtful and kind nature, and her boisterous laugh that would light up any room.

Shirley was predeceased by her parents; her loving husband of 25 years, Lloyd Shaffer; and her beloved companion of over 20 years, Patrick McDaniel. She is survived by numerous cousins from both the Rhodes and Harrington families that will miss her dearly.

Shirley is now with the Lord, and her family knows that she is laughing with joy because she is with all of the wonderful family and friends that went before her.

There will be no services at this time. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Joseph Charles Ector Sr.

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Joseph Charles Ector Sr.
January 11, 1951-June 19, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Ector, age 75, of Watkins Glen, NY, on June 19, 2026. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love, loyalty, and kindness that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Joe was born and raised in Montour Falls, NY. Once out of high school and always a patriot, he joined the US Air Force. Joe served proudly for 8 years, including a tour during the Vietnam War. After he returned, he began his career at Borg Warner (formerly Morse Chain). Working alongside his friend Mike Miller, Joe ran a riveter for many years, and retired after 33 years as a Production Supervisor.

Joe was a biker through and through. The open road was where he found freedom, peace, and lifelong friendships. He embraced the biker lifestyle with enthusiasm and loyalty that touched everyone who rode alongside him. He was also an avid outdoorsman who found great joy in deer hunting and going on his annual bear camp weekend in the Adirondacks with friends. He also spent many memorable moments fishing on Seneca Lake, surrounded by the beauty of the hometown he loved.

Joe was a loving and devoted husband to his wife, Vicky, sharing a life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Some of his happiest moments were the simple ones -- sharing a cold PBR with friends, listening to music, and taking Vicky by the hand for a dance. Whether at a gathering, or simply enjoying time together, dancing with Vicky brought him great joy and reflected the deep love they shared.

Above all else, Joe was a devoted father and family man. He was always there to help his children and family members through life’s challenges, offering guidance, support, and a helping hand whenever it was needed. His strength, wisdom, and unwavering presence made him a pillar for those who loved him.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of almost 40 years, Vicky; his children Angie (Kyle) McFall, Bill (Emma) Merrill and Joe Jr. (Savannah) Ector. His siblings Walter (Rita) Seidel who reside in Germany, Blanche (George) Bowen, Louise (Les) Sills, Charlie (Joy) Ector, Walter "Skip" (Denise) Ector and Danny (Helen) Teed, as well as his cherished grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Gary (Katrina) Ector, his father Walter, beloved stepmother Dorothy Ector, and also his mother Ethel Ector.

Joe's passing leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of his family, friends, fellow riders, and the community that knew and loved him. He will be remembered for his love of family, his devotion to Vicky, his passion for motorcycles, and the countless memories made along the way.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, June 29, 2026 from 12-2:30 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. A brief service with military honors will be held at 2:30 p.m. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at the Montour Moose Lodge. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Timothy G. Carlton

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Timothy G. Carlton

Age 76, of Burdett, NY passed away peacefully at home on June 18, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on June 7, 1950, in Syracuse, NY, Tim was the son of Harold E. and Norma Jean Carlton. He graduated from Southside High School in 1968 and later attended SUNY Oswego.

On June 13, 1981, Tim married the love of his life, Phyllis D. Carlton. Together they built a beautiful life over 45 years of marriage.

Tim dedicated much of his professional life to New York State Parks, where he served as a manager. He took pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic.

Earlier in life, Tim worked alongside his father in the family bakery, an experience that helped shape the hardworking and dependable man he became.

A talented craftsman and artist, Tim designed and built the log cabin home where he and his family lived. He found joy in creating with his hands, whether wood burning mushrooms, drawing, or painting. Music was another passion, and he loved playing guitar.

Every September he looked forward to his annual fishing trip to the Adirondacks, a tradition he treasured. He also enjoyed hiking, golfing, and spending time in nature.

Tim loved his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Phyllis; his daughter, Elyse Baker and her husband, Judah; his son, Christopher Carlton and his wife, Blanca; and his beloved grandchildren, Ariel, Audrey, and Isabelle Baker; Ethan and Caleb Carlton.

He is also survived by his sisters, Susan Carlton, Julie Ferris, and Janet (Milo) Osmun. Tim was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Norma Carlton.

Those who knew Tim will remember his creativity, knowledge, sarcastic humor, and excellent storytelling.

There will be a celebration of life on June 27, 2026 at 1:00pm at The Gathering; 72 W. Tioga St., Spencer, NY.

Memorial contributions may be made to Renovation House in Spencer, NY.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obit: Cheryl Ann Williammee Sublette

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member.

Cheryl Ann “Annie” (Williammee) Sublette

Age 67, of Homosassa FL and formerly of Schuyler County, NY, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. She was born in Blossburg, NY on March 3, 1959, the daughter of Richard and Linda Williammee (predeceased).

While living in Alpine, NY, she attended Odessa-Montour Central High School, where she formed many lasting friendships and memories. A lifelong lover of antiques and hidden treasures, she owned Annie's Attic in Florida for many years. She found great joy in attending yard sales and estate sales, always searching for special finds to buy, sell, and share with others.

Among her many joys while lving in Alpine during the 1980s and 1990s was exploring Buttermilk Falls and Robert Treman State Parks, where she cherished countless hikes and picnics with her family. She moved to Florida for the warmer weather in the late 1990s.

Family and friends will fondly remember her for many things, including her famously delicious Bloody Marys. The message of Footprints in the Sand held special meaning for her -- a belief that she was never alone and was carried through life's challenges. 

She is survived by her three daughters, Tonja Williammee of Wellsburg, NY, Jacquelyn (Jim) Blizzard of Waysayville, NY and Patricia “Taylor” (Lori) Lederman of Willow Springs, MO; sisters, Lynn Williammee of Trumansburg, NY and Marleen (Mike) Williams of Waverly, NY; two grandchildren, Anne Myers and Hunter Kirk; great grandchild Sophia Moon, and many nieces and nephews: Damien Conklin, Adam Gardner, Sara Gardner, Missy (Ryan) Sorenson, and Brandy (Chris) Besemer.

Memorial Services will be announced at a later date. 

Obituary: Shirley Bell West

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Shirley Bell West

Age 91, of Odessa, NY, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at home.

She was born in the Town of Dix on July 15, 1934, the daughter of the late Edward and Florence (Barnes) Parlett. Shirley worked as a vine dresser at Barber Vineyards in Hector for many years. She enjoyed crochet and collected salt and pepper shakers.

She was predeceased by her husband of over 60 years, Mervin West; son, Mark West; and grandsons, Travis West and Jacob West.

Shirley is survived by her son, Mike (Jessica) West; daughters, Barbara (Bob) Burleigh and Diane Smith; brother, Ed (Ruth) Parlett; 10 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and 7 great great grandchildren.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the nurses and caregivers that came in to help Shirley.

A Celebration of Life will be held privately by the family.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Deanna L. Pike

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Deanna L. Pike

Age 88, of Montour Falls and formerly of Watkins Glen, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026 at Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, with loved ones by her side.

The family will receive friends and relatives on Monday (June 15th) from 10am-11am at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen. A funeral service will follow at 11am; and burial at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Deanna was born on April 10,1938 in Williamsville, NY, the daughter of Clark and Vivian Young. She was a stay-at-home Mom and provided daycare to many children in the local area. Deanna had a great love for her whole family. Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the love of her life. She enjoyed word search puzzles, bowling, embroidery, flowers, birds and watching various wild animals from her living room window. She also had a love for pets; the most recent was for Holly, a very lovable German Shepherd.

She is survived by daughters, Vivian (Harold J.) Rappleye of Horseheads and Mary Teed of Watkins Glen; sons, William R. "Bill" Pike of Montour Falls and Scott Pike (Shelley Cullen) of Burdett: six grandchildren, Jason (Lindsey) Rappleye, Stephanie Rappleye (Shane Bond), Anthony (Kaylinn) Teed, Stacey (Kyle) Benjamin, Nicholas (Shaina) Pike, and Brett Cullen-Pike; great grandchildren, Leah, Mya, Dawson, Dean, Gianna, Harper, Paisley and Leon; and several brothers, sisters, and a sister-in-law.

Deanna was predeceased by her loving husband Robert C. Pike; both her parents; step-mother, Marie A. Young, and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

She will be remembered as a very sweet, loving and kind person.

Memorials may be made to a charity of one’s choice. You may view her memorial or express condolences to the family online at www.RoyceChedzoy.com

A special thank you to her nephrologists, nurses and staff at Ivy Dialysis for their compassionate care for the past two years.

Obituary: James Peter Kuhn

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member.

James "Jim" Peter Kuhn
April 16, 1935 - May 26, 2026

James "Jim" Peter Kuhn, age 91, passed away peacefully at home in Rotonda West, Florida, among his family on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

Born on April 16, 1935, in Carbondale, Pennsylvania to Marie and Vincent Kuhn, Jim grew up with his brother Vincent "Buddy" Kuhn in Watkins Glen, New York. He attended Padua Minor Seminary and Preparatory School before continuing his education at St. Bonaventure University.

Following his studies, Jim served in the U.S. military before beginning his career working for the State of New York.

Jim started a family with his first wife, Carolyn, in Vestal, New York. Together, they had three sons. Later, Jim married Ruthe, and they shared many happy years together until her death in 2024.

Jim and Ruthe were inseparable, sharing a deep and enduring bond. After taking early
retirement from the State of New York, Jim and Ruthe relocated to Rotonda West, Florida,
where they embraced their new community and lifestyle. Ruthe pursued her passion for
watercolor painting, while Jim worked at Gasparilla Inn in Boca Grande. In Florida, Jim became an avid cyclist, regularly riding 50 miles a day with a group of guys 30 to 40 years younger than himself. He continued cycling well into his late 80s and remained committed to health, fitness, and disciplined living throughout his final years.

Jim is survived by his blended family, including his sons: Dave Kuhn of North Port, Florida,
husband of Kim and father of Megan, Jamie, Davey, and Danielle; Jim Kuhn of Aspen,
Colorado, father of Cassidy and Stefan; and Vince Kuhn and his wife, Heidi, of Vail, Colorado.

He is also survived by his daughter, Jan Mapes and her husband Rick of Deposit, New York,
and parents of Stefanie Ferry and Niki Finn. He is further survived by his special granddaughter, Erin Egleston of Old Forge, New York.

Jim was also blessed with close, enduring friendships. His longtime friend Dick Krajcir, originally from New York and later of Florida, remained a steadfast companion throughout Jim’s years in Florida. He is also lovingly remembered by Kim Dougherty, a cherished family friend of over 30 years and part of the extended family.

A joint memorial celebration honoring both Jim and Ruthe will be held in Watkins Glen in the fall of 2026. Details will be announced at a later date.

Jim will be remembered for his devotion to Ruthe, his commitment to health and perseverance, his quiet strength, and the example he set for those who knew and loved him.

Obituary: Michael Patrick McClain

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Myrtle Beach Funeral Home, South Carolina.

Michael “Mike” Patrick McClain

Age 56, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones, after a long battle with kidney failure.

Born in Montour Falls, New York, on December 14, 1969, Mike graduated from Charles O. Dickerson High School in 1988. He loved NASCAR, golf, bowling, baseball, and working with his hands. His many hobbies included RC cars, boats, puzzles, and anything else he could take apart and put back together. Mike was happiest spending time with family and friends and driving anything with wheels -- especially big trucks.

Mike was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Robert and Alberta McClain; his maternal grandparents, Elizabeth and Richard Sheesley; his father, Merrield “Mick” McClain; his stepmother, Ellen McClain; his brother-in-law, Mario Craft; his son-in-law, Jason Cowen; and, of course, his beloved dog, Tillie.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 20 years, Jennifer; his daughters, Amber Cowen and Jessica Davis; his son, Brayden; his mother, Nancy Boylan, and stepfather, William Boylan; his brothers, Ed Pike of Watkins Glen, New York, William Boylan (Lindsey) of Greenville, North Carolina, and Matthew Boylan (Amy) of Chapmanville, West Virginia; and his sisters, Kimberlee Boylan (Craig) of Ithaca, New York, Marlea Craft, and Veronica Boylan of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

He is also lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Baylee, Bentley, and Paislee Cowen of Florida, as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Mike will be remembered for his big heart, quiet strength, and the joy he found in life's simple pleasures. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the friends who will miss him dearly.

A Memorial Service for Mike will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. The service will be held at Myrtle Beach Funeral Home, 4505 US Highway 17 Bypass South, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Mike's name to the National Kidney Foundation https://www.kidney.org/

Service: John Patrick Callanan Jr.

The following notice was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

John Patrick Callanan Jr.

John Patrick Callanan Jr. of Burdett passed away on May 4, 2026.

The family will receive friends at St. Mary’s of the Lake Catholic Church, Watkins Glen, on Saturday, June 6 from 10 a.m.-11 a.m.; followed by a memorial mass at 11:00 a.m.

Following the funeral mass, an Elks Memorial Service will be held at 12:30 p.m. at the Elks Lodge followed by his Celebration of Life.  All are welcome to join.

Obituary: Ernest M. Drake

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Ernest M. Drake

Age 76, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on May 25, 2026. He was born in Montour Falls, NY on September 22, 1949 to Charles and Jean (Blanchard) Drake.

Ernie is survived by his loving wife Josanne, son Cory (Teri), and granddaughters Mia and Rianne. He is also survived by his siblings Sylvia (Al, deceased) Waite, Linda (Dave Costley) Richardson, and Charles (Debbie) Drake, along with many loving nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, sisters Paula and Shari (Charles) Parmenter, and in-laws Anthony and Rose Pangallo.

After graduating from Corning Community College, Ernie enlisted in the Navy in 1971 with his good friend (later to become his brother-in-law) Frank (Ellen) Pangallo (deceased).

He retired from the Watkins Glen Post Office after 37 years.
.
He married Josanne in August 1981 and they enjoyed nearly 45 years together. He deeply loved spending time with his family and extended family. They were his greatest source of joy. He loved quiet nights at home with his wife and sitting with their little dog Emma on his lap. He took great pride in working in his yard, and enjoyed watching NASCAR, going to the casino, going out to lunch, and puttering in his shed.

Ernie will be loved and missed ... forever and always.

For anyone wishing to attend, there will be a memorial service with military honors at Holy Cross Cemetery, 3700 NY-14, in Watkins Glen on Tuesday, June 16 at 3:00 p.m.

Thank you to Seneca View for their compassion care extended to not only Ernie but to his family. Arrangements are under the direction of the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen. 

Service: Hayley J. Scholtisek

The following notice was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Hayley J. Scholtisek

Age 48, of Watkins Glen, passed away February 12, 2026 at Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls.

A graveside committal service will be held Tuesday (June 2nd) at 11:00 a.m. at Lakeview Cemetery in Watkins Glen.  Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home is assisting the family

Obituary: Cathie M. Randall

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Cathie M. Randall

Age 75, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

She was born in Elmira, NY on January 16, 1951. She graduated from Watkins Glen High School and Corning Community College, where she received her nursing degree. Cathie married her high school sweetheart, Randy Randall, on September 26, 1970. Cathie worked at several places throughout her career but mostly at Schuyler Hospital and Seneca View SNF.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Randy; children, Tracie (Mike) Felenchak and Mark Randall; grandchildren, Trevor (Paige) Felenchak, Dawson (Nina) Felenchak, Trenton Tanner and Madison Randall; great grandson, Wyatt Felenchak; sisters, Connie (Phil) Schoonover and Chris (Dale) Miller; brother-in-law Tarry (Roxann) Randall; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother, Colleen Abreu.

Cathie’s family would like to thank all the nurses and doctors that helped her during her treatments at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital and Schuyler Hospital. They would also like to thank Jill Laughlin for watching their dogs and for all she did.

We love you Mom!!

There will be no services. Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Sandra M. Berry

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Sandra M. Berry (Nusbaum)

Age 88,  formerly of Reading Center, NY, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2025 at Rochester General Hospital.

She was predeceased by her parents, Truman Nusbaum and Marion Nusbaum Sheeler, and by her loving husband of 63 years, Raymond. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Susan and David Smugereski, and the light of her life, her precious grand-daughter Catherine. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Sandra worked at Watkins Glen Middle School for many years -- first in the reading program, then ultimately working with 5th through 8th grade students in the computer room. Even though Sandra was blessed with only one child, each of her “kids” held a special place in her heart.

Sandra was an active member of the Reading Community Church prior to her move to Webster, NY. She could always be counted on to help in any church activity, including participation in numerous church fundraisers. Her favorite fundraisers were the famous pig roasts, where the entire community came together to show their support for the church.

Sandra will be remembered for her infectious smile, her humorous nature, and her love for anything chocolate, but most of all for her love of family and friends. We will not mourn that she is gone, but will celebrate that she lived and touched many lives.

A Celebration of Life and gathering will he held on June 6th from 2-4 p.m. at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen.

The family is grateful for the care Sandra received at Rochester General Hospital during her final days. We are also grateful for the staff at BayCreek Dialysis for the wonderful care she received during her dialysis treatments.

Donations can be made to RRH BayCreek Dialysis, 2010 Empire Road, Webster, NY 14580 or to a charity of your choice.

Obituary: Barbara Bucklaew

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Barbara (Bowers) Bucklaew

Age 75, of Bradford, NY, passed away on April 14, 2026, after a brief illness.

She was born in Buffalo, NY to Paul E. and Mildred (Greene) Bowers on December 14, 1950, the third of seven siblings. She graduated from Williamsville East High School in 1968. In 1972, she married Richard F. Bucklaew and had two daughters.

After many years as a stay at home mom, she went back to school. She graduated from Corning Community College in 1990 with an AAS in Chemical Technology. She worked at Corning, Inc. for a couple of years. She later became a Waste Water Treatment Operator and worked for the City of Ithaca, and then Steuben County.

She was predeceased by her parents and husband. She is survived by her siblings, Paul (Mary) Bowers, Doug (Marg) Bowers, Richard Bowers, Thomas Bowers, Laura (Henry) Brozyna, and James Bowers; her daughters, Sara Bucklaew and Jaclyn Bruner; grandchildren Andrew (Paige) Bruner and Jacob Bruner; great-grandson Damien Bruner; as well as many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Saturday, May 30 from 11am-1pm; followed by a memorial service at 1pm. A reception will be announced.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to Pathways, Inc. (www.pathwaysforyou.org/donate)

Service: Otto K. Miller, Jr.

The following notice was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Otto K. Miller, Jr.

Otto K. Miller, Jr., age 77, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026 at the Fred and Harriett Taylor Health Center in Bath. 

A Service with military honors will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Woodlawn National; Cemetery, 1825 Davis St., Elmira, NY.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the Montour Moose Lodge, 2096 State Route 14, Montour Falls, NY. 

Obituary: Antonia Hirtler

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member.

Antonia Hirtler

Age 88, of Burdett, NY passed away on January 30, 2026 at her home.

Antonia Hirtler was born on June 6, 1937 in Jamaica, New York to Anna (Pulke) and Anton Udovich, immigrants from Latvia and Slovenia. She lived her earliest years with her parents and elder siblings Mildred and Arkady Koltunak in a neighborhood where JFK Airport now stands.

When she was in third grade the family moved to Seaford on Long Island where her younger brother John Udovich was born. It was in Seaford that she met Richard Hirtler. Richard would row his boat past her family’s dock hoping to catch sight of her and in their teenage years the two would offer to do their family’s shopping as an excuse to meet and talk outside the grocery store. Antonia graduated from SUNY New Paltz in 1959 with a degree in Elementary Education and married Richard Hirtler on Christmas of the same year. Antonia gave birth to Daniel Hirtler in 1961, Lisa Hirtler in 1963 and David Hirtler in 1964.

As a young family they visited the Finger Lakes area and purchased some land with a rustic cabin in Rock Stream. Antonia said she immediately fell in love with the Finger Lakes and eventually convinced the whole family to move here in the summer of 1973. They fixed up an old Greek Revival house on Lake Avenue in Burdett where their fourth child, Adrianna Hirtler, was born in 1975.

The Hirtler children remember their mother fondly for her vibrant spirit, open mind and creative and enthusiastic nature. She was always a very supportive mother and extended her loving care to almost everyone she met. She taught briefly at the old Burdett school during its final years and then was the lead teacher at Schuyler Nursery School from the mid-1970’s into the 1990’s. She was always very proud of the later accomplishments of her nursery school kids. In the 1990’s she extended her nurturing care for others to pregnant and parenting teenagers as a social worker for the Schuyler Economic Opportunity Program.

Always curious about people and life and adapting her skill set to meet current needs, she also worked for a while as a real estate agent, satisfying her curiosity and love for houses and people. In her later years she spent some time working as a “Mystery Shopper” through online platforms that would send her on assignment to local businesses to assess staff courteousness, ensure conformity to standards and other random requests. She especially loved when she was allowed to reward staff for meeting expectations. For a number of years Antonia volunteered as an election monitor for Burdett village elections and much enjoyed the opportunity to chat with everyone as they came to the firehouse to vote.

Anyone who ever walked on Lake Avenue near the western Village of Burdett boundary, is also likely to have chatted with Antonia in passing. She loved sitting on her porch, amidst pots of overflowing flowers and getting and sharing the latest Village gossip with passersby. Antonia is sorely missed but she will never be forgotten. There will be a gathering at the Hector Presbyterian Church on her birthday, June 6, where all who knew her are invited to share their memories and fellowship of others who cared about her. The gathering will take place from 2-3 p.m. in the church fellowship hall. 

Obituary: William H. Coston, Jr.

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

William H. Coston, Jr.

Age 89, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

He was born in Farmington, NY on August 3, 1936, the son of the late William H. Coston, Sr. and Almeda (Miles) Coston.

Second to his love and dedication to his family, Bill was a lifelong truck driver, delivering feed to local farmers for well over 40 years. Following his retirement, he returned to driving truck, working for a local farmer until the age of 79.

He loved anything with wheels and an engine. Most of his spare time was spent as a backyard mechanic, keeping himself and others on the road. He was, of course, an avid NASCAR fan, and he had a special place in his heart for his four legged friends, most recently Buddy then Pee Wee.

He was predeceased by his son, William A. Coston; and grandson, Rick Clugstone.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Ruth Mary (Fitzsimmons) Coston; four daughters, Karen Hadley of Waverly, Marjorie (Byron) Thompson of Watkins Glen, Cindy (Jeff) Dezell of Lisbon, and Ruth (Jeff) Rhodes of Alpine; daughter-in-law, Angela Coston of Watkins Glen; 13 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren; 7 great great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, May 11, 2026 from 2-3 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. His funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Schuyler County, 124 Marina Dr., Montour Falls, NY 14865 or the Burdett Volunteer Fire Department, 4124 Lake Ave., Burdett, NY 14818.

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Thomas Jon Hayes

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Thomas Jon Hayes

Age 59, of Montour Falls, NY, died on May 2, 2026.

He was born in Montour Falls on May 18, 1966, the son of Charles A. Hayes and Ruth O. Hayes. Tommy graduated from Odessa-Montour High School.

Tommy was a lifelong farmer and a gentle giant of a man with a big heart to match. He loved all animals, but especially his cows. He loved time on his farm, long conversations and, like most farmers, a good, hearty homemade meal. Tommy will be missed by his family and many friends.

Tom is survived by his mother, Ruth O. Hayes; sister, Susan Hayes (Douglas Miles); brothers, Stephen Hayes and Michael Hayes (Patricia); 10 nieces and nephews, and many cousins. He was predeceased by his father, Charles A. Hayes.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: John Patrick Callanan Jr.

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

John Patrick Callanan Jr.

John Patrick Callanan Jr. of Burdett, NY passed away on May 4, 2026 at Schuyler Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Born in Buffalo, NY to John Sr. and Charlotte Callanan, John relocated to Watkins Glen, NY with his family at a young age, making him a true child of Western New York -- a place where his roots ran deep. He was raised in a family of professionals: lawyers, engineers, judges. Academic aptitude was never in short supply. John, however, was always on a different path.

His place in the world was with a tool in hand. He was a builder -- of boats, racquetball courts, buildings, and homes. His work evolved over the decades, but the throughline remained constant: the lifelong friends he seemed to effortlessly collect at every stop along the way.

It was that handiness that brought him to The North Shore of Boston, where he met his wife, Eleanor Honan -- who, to her credit, was charmed by the long hair, the motorcycle, and the mustache. They spent the rest of their lives building something far more important: a family, rooted in Burdett, NY.

John will be remembered for his remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Buddhists and hippies, Elks and Rotarians, hunters and motorheads -- "JC" or “Harry” could find common ground with just about anyone, and he made sure to keep it. Whether prowling an obscure museum, playing 18 holes, or tailgating with his buddies, John was equally at home in all of it -- which probably explains why he got along with just about everyone. He'll be remembered for his mischievous smile, his quick wit, and his slow stories.

But his legacy is firmly rooted in the family he and Eleanor built together. His two children, Shannon (Matthew Schamel) and Neil (Laura) and their families were the center of his universe, and he spent his final years surrounded by the people he loved most -- his grandchildren Callan, Finn, Lida, Charlotte, and Shea.

In addition, he is survived by his siblings Karen (John Sims), Kevin (Kathy), Margaret, and Connie (Matthew Bennett), as well as many close cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

A memorial mass and celebration of life (i.e., Party) will be held on Saturday, June 6th, in Watkins Glen. The family will receive friends and relatives at the Link at  St. Mary’s of the Lake Church from 10am-11am; followed by a Memorial Mass at 11:00am at the church.  A reception will be announced. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Hector Foundation Playground Fund in his honor (c/o Hector Foundation, PO Box 132, Hector, NY 14841). Or better yet, call an old friend.

As JC would say, Go Bills.

Obituary: Joanne (Shepherd) Parrott

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Joanne (Shepherd) Parrott

It is with heavy hearts that we announce that Joanne Parrott, 82, of McAllen, TX passed away on May 3rd, 2026 and has joined our heavenly father, after more than a year of courageously battling cancer.

Joanne was born on August 24,1943 to the late Harlowe and Isabelle (Smith) Shepherd. She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Raymond Parrott; her daughters Diana Mathews (Greg) of Virginia Beach, VA, Debra Giordano (Kip) of Greenville, SC and Denise Sanderson of Palm Harbor, FL, as well as seven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother David Shepherd and several nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her infant son Raymond Scott “Scotty” and brother Robert Shepherd.

Joanne grew up on the Shepherd family farm in Odessa, NY and was a graduate of Odessa-Montour Central School, class of 1961. She married her high-school sweetheart and moved to Norfolk, VA, while her husband was enlisted in the Navy, later returning to Upstate New York. She spent several years living in the Cayutaville community, where she was an active member of the Cayutaville Methodist Church. Joanne later moved to the Parrott Family Farm as 4th generation dairy farmers on Parrott Hill.

Joanne loved boating and being on the water, especially the St. Lawrence River where she loved to fish with family and friends. Vacations with friends and cruises were among her favorite getaways. She enjoyed hosting BBQ’s and celebrating many of life’s milestones with those she loved.

After retiring from farm life, Joanne and Ray set out to travel with their 5th-wheel RV. They enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, spending winters in McAllen, TX and summers on Cayuta Lake, before eventually settling in McAllen year-round with annual treks to visit family and friends. Joanne treasured their warm and welcoming Adobe Wells community, where she made many cherished friends and enjoyed playing a variety of card games and Mahjong. Community activities and weekly dinners out with friends were highlights she looked forward to. Joanne found joy in volunteering and giving back to her community, as well.

Friends are invited to visit the family on Friday, May 15, 2026 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. followed by a Celebration of Life at 3:00 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. A reception will follow at the Montour Moose Lodge at 4 p.m.

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: James Vernon Ameigh

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

James Vernon "Poppy" Ameigh

Age 66, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on April 29, 2026 at home surrounded by his loving family.

He was predeceased by his parents, Lynn Ameigh Jr. and Ida (Friends) Ameigh. Also, his sister and brothers, Linda, Joseph, and Jonathon Ameigh; and best friend Don "Duck” Friends.

He is survived by his partner, Janet Blankenship of Watkins Glen; children, James (Tara) Ameigh of Watkins Glen, Kristin (Nick) Haner of Watkins Glen, and Angel Rappleye (Mike Zaric) of Tyrone; brother, Mike (Brittany) Ameigh of Rock Stream; sisters, Kathleen Hartford of North Carolina, and Susan Farr (James Augustine) of Hector; and his three grandbabies, whom he loved, Amber, Bradley, and Joelene Ameigh; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and feline friends.

A Celebration of Life and Pig Roast in his honor was held a week before his passing! He loved the time he spent hunting and fishing with family; and shooting pool at Matt’s Place. Although he worked in other places, he was a dedicated fixture at Watkins Glen Central School for 30 years, spending 15 of them in the middle school.
 
The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen,  on Friday, May 15th from 4pm-6pm; followed by a memorial service at 6:00pm.

The family would like to express a special thank you to the crew at CareFirstNY for all of their support.

Celebration: Charles Michael Davis

The following notice was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Charles Michael "Mike" Davis, age 75, of Waterloo, NY passed away on November 15, 2025, at home. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 4-6 p.m. at the Reynoldsville United Methodist Church, 5170 State Route 227, Burdett, NY. Mike will be laid to rest in Montour Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Trumansburg Rifle and Pistol Club, PO Box 10, Trumansburg, NY 14886. Funeral services are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Dale Arden Heichel

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Dale Arden Heichel

Age 88, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca, NY. He was born to Ralph and Louvah Heichel in Harrisburg, PA on September 22, 1937.

Dale is survived by his children Dale II (Brook), Denice Markley, John, Thomas (Tracy Wixson), and William; grandchildren Timothy (Leah) Markley, Justine and Abbie Chapman-Heichel, Arden and Benjamin Heichel; great grandchildren Evan and Easton and Sawyer Markley; sibling Bonnlyn Dickerson, and his many loving nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Dale was predeceased by his beloved wife, Betty (Schaffhouser); parents; siblings Doris (Smithqual), Harley, Marion (Godwin), Robert, Ralph, and David.

After graduating high school, Dale enlisted in the Marines, serving from August 1955-August 1959. After leaving the Marines, he met and married Betty in 1962. He worked at Corning Incorporated for 40 years, retiring in 1999. He also taught welding at Padua. After retiring, he filled his time helping his wife with her entrepreneurial endeavors and spending time with his grandchildren. He enjoyed gardening and took pride in his vegetable and flower gardens. He deeply enjoyed spending time with his family and extended family. They were a great source of joy in his life.

Anyone wishing to remember Dale may contribute in his name to the Meals on Wheels Program at the Schuyler County Office for the Aging, 323 Owego St., Montour Falls, NY 14865.

The family will hold a private service at Highland Cemetery in Odessa, NY on Friday, May 1st, followed by a celebration of life at Dale and Betty’s residence on Winton Road from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Friends are welcome to come and pay their respects.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Helen (Bailey) Jelliff

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Helen (Bailey) Jelliff

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Helen (Bailey) Jelliff, formerly of Odessa, NY. She peacefully passed away on April 23, 2026 at the age of 81 in Rockingham County at Ancora Compassionate Care in Wentworth, NC.

Helen was born on May 31, 1944 in Van Etten, NY, the last child of 13 born to Clarence and Mary (Harrington) Bailey. She married her late husband Carl Jelliff Jr. on March 6, 1963. They had a very successful business named Jelliff’s Scrap Yard, where they lived on State Route 228 in Odessa for over 20 years. During that time she had three sons, Keith, Joe, and Andy, and a daughter, Rose.

Besides helping run the business, she also did part-time home health care. When they moved to Port Charlotte, Florida she obtained her CNA license, working at a couple of nursing homes for over 20 years. A short time after her husband passed away in 2006, she retired and moved to Madison, NC to be closer to her daughter and family.

Some of her favorite things to do were playing the slots at the casinos, spending time with family, and baking. She was jokingly called the crazy cat lady because she had a thing for taking in strays and had many cats at one time.

Now that she has passed, she will be rejoining her husband, parents, two infant grandsons, and all her siblings in heaven as they are all already there waiting for her.

She is survived by her children, Keith (Peggy) Jelliff, Joe (Trish) Jelliff, Andy (Kathy) Jelliff, and Rose (Leif) Cole, along with several others that she was blessed with who called her mom; as well as many wonderful grandchildren and great grandchildren whom she loved deeply and were so special to her.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Cemetery. After the burial service, there will be a gathering at the home of Andy and Kathy Jelliff. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Joyce McKinney

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Joyce McKinney

Age 90, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026 in her home overlooking the pond and hillside.

She was born on February 9, 1936 in Dayton, Ohio, to Loren and Louise Jameson.

Joyce graduated from the University of Cincinnati and began her career in nursing, later advancing her education to become a Nurse Practitioner. She devoted her career to caring for others and worked throughout the community, including with Head Start, St. Joseph’s Hospital, and the Elmira City Schools.

Joyce had a deep connection to her church, First Presbyterian Church of Watkins Glen. While living in the manse and raising her four sons, she sang in the choir, served on the church session, was elected as a deacon, and volunteered for nearly every event. She was especially known for her time in the fellowship hall, where she could often be found making pies, preparing potatoes, and contributing countless dishes to gatherings.

To many, Joyce was simply “Grandma Joyce.” She was a devoted and loving grandmother who cherished her family above all else. She rarely missed a sporting event, play, or graduation, often traveling long distances to be there. Her family was her greatest pride and joy.

She is survived by her four sons, Tim (Beth), Jeff, Greg (Denise), and Barry (Kathy); her grandchildren, Rachel (Brad), Kaleigh (Graham), Brett, Hannah (Solomon), Jacob, Elizabeth, and Tata (step-grandchild); her great-grandchildren, Finn, Isla, Maisie, Charleigh, Shaya, and MaKenna (step great-grandchild); and her brother, Dick Jameson, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Jack, and his wife Connie Jameson, her sister-in-law Sally Jameson, her dear Aunt Mary, and her daughter-in-law, Susan McKinney.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 16 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Watkins Glen, 520 N. Decatur St, Watkins Glen, followed by a luncheon.

Joyce will be remembered as a humble and kind person who was deeply loved by all. A memorial guestbook may be found in her obituary at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family.

Obituary: Esther Stocum

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Esther Stocum

WATKINS GLEN -- We are heartbroken to share that our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother Esther Louise Kenyon Stocum passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at the age of 88.

Born to Hugh and Grace Louise Kenyon on May 5, 1937, Mom grew up in Canisteo, NY with her brother Ken. Her brother Shirley died at age two. She loved helping on their farm and took great pride in graduating as salutatorian of her class. She watched the Hornell Dodgers play baseball in the 1950’s. Later, she became a lifelong NY Yankees fan. After getting married, Mom moved to Corning, NY, where she and our father began careers at Ingersoll Rand and started a family. In 1959 they moved to Watkins Glen, NY, where Mom would live the rest of her life as the Best Mom and Grandma Ever.

It is hard to fully capture what an extraordinary mother she was. In 1973, she lost both of her parents one month apart. Around the same time, she became a single parent of her six children ages 3 to 15. She faced these challenges with remarkable strength, grace and resilience. For the rest of our childhood, she worked two and sometimes three jobs to provide for us. She worked for Schuyler County then Schuyler Hospital and was a favorite waitress at Savard’s, Scuteri’s, Chef’s, and most recently at Curly’s Restaurant. Although she juggled relentless work schedules, our busy school schedules, and unreliable transportation, she never missed a game, concert, or important moment in our lives.

Everything she did was for us, she never put herself first. Growing up, on the outside it may have looked like we did not have much but on the inside we were millionaires because of the love, support, and unwavering dedication of our brave, sweet, strong, funny, beautiful mother.

Mom encouraged us to work hard, be honest, respect others, and help those in need. She never said no to helping us or anyone else. She was honored to be named a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow, and we are proud to have followed her example in becoming upstanding citizens in our communities. As adults, it has been a joy to watch her surround her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with the same strength, integrity, and love.

Mom taught us to enjoy life! She loved cooking, gardening, watching all sports, playing Euchre, gambling with her girlfriends, and spending time with family. She watched her grandchildren in the summer and took them swimming then treated them to ice cream. They loved her potato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. Her spaghetti and meatballs and peanut butter fudge were favorites for all. Her home, stocked with pasta, cookies and jigsaw puzzles, was always open to any of us. She was in her element presiding over family gatherings, especially during the holidays; we often wondered if she slept during the Christmas season. There was never a dull moment with Mom. She was the heart of our family, always smiling, supportive, and so very generous.

To say Mom will be missed is an understatement. Her legacy lives on through her grateful and loving family. She is survived by her six children and their spouses: Teri and Phil Baccile, Wendy and Craig Cheplick, Don and Brenda Stocum, Darrin and Susanne Stocum, Susie and Jim Chaffee, Jim and Becky Stocum. She cherished her grandchildren Chrissy, Jason, Katey, Rachel and Nat, Sarah, Claire and Will, Ethan and Katey, and Eli and her great-grandchildren Madyson, Kamryn, Cadyn, Mia, Natalie, and the newest addition, Margot Esther. Mom also had several special nieces, nephews, and friends. The friendships she cultivated in the WG community are too many to name.

We welcome you to join us at the Seneca Lake Events Center at 586 East 4th St. in Watkins Glen to celebrate our mother’s life on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 1:00-4:00 p.m. Parking is free for guests. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Watkins Glen Sports Booster Club, 303 12th St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891 or your local food bank. A special thank you to Sherri Kelly, Schuyler County Ambulance, Schuyler Hospital, and all of the medical staff and first responders that helped us care for Mom as her health declined. Her family was grateful for the opportunity to care for her at home surrounding her with love and comfort in her final years with the dignity and respect she so richly deserved. We love her more than words can say and will carry her with us always.

The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting our family.

Obituary: Doris L. Howell

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Doris L. Howell

Age 95, of Watkins Glen, NY, died on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at home.

Born in Camptown, PA, she was the daughter of Glenn and Edith White Peet. She grew up on a farm in Camptown with her older brother, Elwin (d. 2015).

Doris graduated from Wyalusing Valley High School in 1948 and from the Robert Packer Hospital School of Nursing, Sayre, PA in 1951. Initially, she practiced as an operating room nurse and then in 1960 moved to become the School Nurse at Bradford Central School. She served there for many years.

On February 22, 1962 she married Edson N. Howell (d. 2018) and moved to the family farm near Tyrone, NY. Doris enjoyed working outside on the farm and in her garden for many years after retirement.

Surviving are three daughters, Glenna Traiger (spouse Saul Traiger) of Los Angeles, CA, Linda Howell, Watkins Glen, and Donna Lynd, Canastota, NY. She leaves four grandchildren, David, Sarah, Morgan and Taylor; and two great-grandchildren, Molly and Calvin.

According to her wishes there are no services. Those wishing to remember Doris may consider a memorial donation to the Tyrone Vol. Fire Department, PO Box 69, Tyrone, NY 14887.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen. You may express condolences to the family or “Light a Candle of Remembrance” online at www.RoyceChedzoy.com

Obituary: Jalyssa Jennae Bohart

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Jalyssa Jennae Bohart

Age 18, of Corning, NY, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026.

She was born in Elmira, NY on July 19, 2007. She attended Corning-Painted Post High School. She had big hopes and dreams, and wanted to pursue a career in mortuary science. She was a member of His Tabernacle Church in Horseheads, NY.

Jalyssa loved spending time with her boyfriend Alex, hanging out with friends, doing her hair and makeup, listening to music and singing. She enjoyed cooking, exercise, crocheting and shopping with dad’s money. She loved animals, kids and especially her family. She was fascinated by Japanese culture.

Jalyssa was a loving, beautiful, kind, encouraging and selfless person. She was strong, resilient, determined, empathetic, funny, sassy, witty, smart, and persistent.

She was predeceased by her maternal grandparents, Donna and Roger; brother, Tyler; cousin, Harmonei; cousin, Katie; and childhood friend, Adam.

Jalyssa is survived by her parents, Anthony Bohart (Christa) and Stephanie Kelley (Kristie); siblings, Dylan Churchill, Maleia “Mo” Bohart, Kirstie and Haleigh; boyfriend, Alexander Davis; Grandma “G”; aunts and uncles, Carolynn, Heather, Misty, Jess, Gretta (Judson), Rebecca (Galen); cousins, Courtney, Brittany, Aaliyah, Jordan, Haleigh, Stella, Casey, Laurie, Micaela (Austin), Clayton, Gianni, Kyra and Zack (Kaylin); second parents, Ben (Sherry), Lisa, Rebecca (Galen); close friends, Mikey, Emmy, Jade Chloe, Logan, Alex, and Cayden; her pets Moose, Zeus and especially Minnie.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, April 24, 2026 from 1-3 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. A Memorial Service will begin at 3:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at the Burdett Volunteer Fire Department, 4124 Lake Ave., Burdett, NY.

Contributions may be made in her memory to Chemung County Humane Society & SPCA, 2435 NY-352 NYS, Elmira, NY 14903. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Barry P. Bruner

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, Trumansburg.

Barry P. Bruner

Barry P. Bruner, a man whose life was defined by quiet devotion and a profound connection to the natural world, passed away on April 15, 2026, doing what he loved most -- fishing.
 
Born on April 29, 1967 in Monroe, Louisiana, Barry lived a life steeped in the simple pleasures of family, friendship, and the great outdoors. For the past 17 years, he enjoyed his work at Schickel Construction Company, where he carried an utmost respect and admiration for his boss, Bruno Schickel. Yet, it was beyond the construction site that Barry’s true spirit shone brightest. As a Master Fisherman and an avid outdoorsman, Barry’s love for fishing transcended mere hobby -- he was an inspiring teacher who opened the world of fishing to countless others, from children to adults. His dream was as vivid as it was heartfelt: to charter and captain his own fishing boat, creating a life devoted to sharing the joy of fishing and the serenity of the water. Barry found community and kinship among a close-knit group of fishing friends whose bonds he treasured deeply. His affection for Seneca Lake drew him to its shores, where fate led him to meet his wife, Cindy, on the pier in Watkins Glen.

Barry’s life was a testament to the beauty of the simple things -- a welcoming home, the laughter of friends, and the quiet moments spent casting lines into tranquil waters.

Barry leaves behind his wife, Cindy Bruner; children Miranda Taylor and Cody (Crystal) Bruner; stepchildren Adam (Kristen) Dobson and Tammy (Wagner) Jean-Francois; grandchildren Mario and Maggie Jaquez, James Bruner, Carlton Prescott, and Alexus Jean-Francois; siblings Kimberly Goodreau and Haywood (Sara) Herriott; several nieces and nephews; and his faithful feline companion, Oliver. He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Fifield; his mother-in-law, Mary (Michael) Lisowski; sister-in-law, Terry LaFever; and brother-in-law, Timothy Doland.

The family will be present to receive friends from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South Street, Trumansburg. A Memorial Service will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.
 
The family asks those who would like to make a contribution in Barry's memory to kindly consider Stay Wild Animal Rescue in Trumansburg.

Obituary: Michael C. Smalley

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Michael C. “Big Mike” Smalley
 
Age 71, of Rock Stream, NY, passed away on April 11, 2026 at home.

Mike “Pops” was born on February 12, 1955, the son of Nathan Lester and Florence Smalley. He graduated from Watkins Glen High School in 1973. His greatest hobbies were dirt track racing and keeping up with the grandchildren! He loved racing the #002 stock car at the track in Dundee and spending time there with his family and good friends. He worked for Parmenter Tire, Auto, and Truck Services in Odessa for many years.

He was predeceased by his wife, Ida J. Smalley, on March 6, 2020; brothers, Gene, Tom and Robert; and sisters, Valnetta Crissinger and Sharon Bingell.

He is survived by his loving children, Michael C. (Rebecca) Smalley, Jr. of Shiloh, NC, and Jennifer Davis of Elmira Heights, NY; sister, Kathy Lynn (Samual) Ector of Watkins Glen; four grandchildren, Garrett, Cierra, Jonathan, and Ashley; five great-grandchildren, Hailey, Jayden, Jonathan, Autumn, and Anakin; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Monday (April 20th) from 2 p.m.-3 p.m., followed by a memorial service celebrating his life at 3 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately following at Reading Community Church in Reading Center; 2671 Church Rd.
 
If anybody would like, we are honoring Big Mike at Outlaw Speedway Friday night, April 17th, with a moment of silence and prayer.

Memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice. You may express condolences to the family or leave a memory of Mike online in his guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com

Obituary: Josephine N. Tomassi

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Josephine N. Tomassi

Age 88, passed away on Monday, April 13, 2026. She was born in Montour Falls, NY on January 9, 1938, the daughter of Pio and Michelina (Scarapiccio) Tomassi.

Josephine graduated from Watkins Glen High School. She was a cook at Glen Motor Inn and was in food service at the Jefferson Hotel and Watkins Glen Central School. She was a member of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church.

She was predeceased by her parents; and brothers, Dominick Tomassi, Michael Tomassi and John Tomassi.

Josephine is survived by a brother, Ralph Tomassi; sister, Marguerite DeFilippo; and by several nieces and nephews.

Josephine will be laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Watkins Glen, NY at the convenience of the family.

The family would like to thank the staff at Seneca View Skilled Nursing for the care and compassion shown to Josephine throughout her time there.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Service: Edward Lee Ames Sr.

The following was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Edward Lee Ames Sr.

Edward Lee Ames Sr., age 90, passed from this life on Monday, November 17th, 2025 in Burleson, TX. A graveside service will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Montour Cemetery, Mill St, Montour Falls, NY. Vedder -Scott & Zinger Funeral Home of Montour Falls NY is handling the arrangements.

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Donations can be made to the International Motor Racing Research Center, 610 South Decatur Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Celebration: Roger Ward Townsend

The following was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Roger Ward Townsend

Roger Ward Townsend, age 86, of Horseheads, NY, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 1-5 p.m. at the Trumansburg American Legion Post 770, 4431 E. Seneca Rd., Trumansburg, NY.

Military honors will be held at 3:00 p.m.

Please RSVP to Sue or Melissa. If you are unable to reach them, please contact Grace at the Trumansburg American Legion, 607-387-4212.

Obituary: Lila Edminster

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Lila Edminster (Utter)

Age 78, of Alpine, NY, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at Seneca View in Montour Falls, NY with her family near.

Lila was born to the late Grant and Grace (Keen) Utter on February 20, 1948. She was the fourth of five children and graduated from Romulus Central School. 

For many years, Lila was a loving stay-at-home mother to her children, Eric and Jennifer, before making a career in the home health field and becoming a nurse’s aide. 

Lila enjoyed many things: she delighted, most, in doting on her grandchildren. She would mail packages and cards to them for any and all occasions. She cherished her time with them by planning countless fun outings and activities to do at home together. 

She also enjoyed spending time with her husband, her friends and family by preparing delicious home-cooked meals, playing card games and Rummikub, and watching movies. She often looked forward to going out to eat and hosting many picnics and cookouts. An avid word puzzle solver, she challenged friends and family to Words With Friends battles, as well as being competitive while watching her favorite show, Wheel of Fortune. 

Lila loved country music and attended many live shows. Her hobbies included making crafts, and firing up her sewing machine to make clothes for her children and grandchildren while also making gorgeous tablecloths, runners, placemats and more. She was also known for beautiful crocheted pieces. For many years, planting breath-taking gardens brought her much joy.

She leaves behind a legacy of kindness through her volunteer work at Cayutaville Methodist Church; she was a dedicated volunteer at the Southern Tier Food Bank, where she worked tirelessly alongside others for over 10 years; she also volunteered at The Gemm Shop in Trumansburg. 

She is survived by her daughter Jennifer and her husband Jonathan; grandchildren Elizabeth, Lillian and Nathan; sisters Marian Gable and Debra Albro, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; also a church family who was so dear to her.

Lila was predeceased by her parents; her husband Leroy Edminster; her son Eric Bishop; her brother Ronald Utter; and her sister Anna Louise Walker.

All who knew Lila are invited to call between 9:30-11:00 a.m. with a service to follow at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at Cayutaville Methodist Church, 3231 County Route 6, Alpine, NY. 

While flowers are beautiful, the family welcomes donations to Bampa’s House to honor Lila’s endless appreciation for the care her late husband, Leroy, received there: https://www.bampashouse.org/donate

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Celebration: Fred Millspaugh

The following was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member.

Fred Millspaugh

A military celebration honoring the late Fred Millspaugh of Trumansburg, who passed away peacefully on February 8th, will be held at 12 noon April 25th at Grove Cemetery with a reception to follow at the Trumanburg Golf Course.

Born and raised in Trumansburg, Fred lived his entire life in the community he loved -- except for the years he bravely served his country as a member of the United States Navy during the Vietnam War.

Fred was a devoted husband to his wife of 44 years, Elisa Millspaugh, a proud father to his daughter Jessica Kanfer and her husband David, and an adoring grandfather to their two children, Jackson and Charlotte.

Obituary: Patricia Ganascioli

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Patricia Ganascioli

Age 93, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026 surrounded by love. She now rests in God’s care, reunited with those who went before her.

Patricia was a devoted wife, mother and sister who loved her family deeply. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Richard, and her daughters, Maria and Lisa. While she carried the sorrow of their loss, she also carried their love with her every day, holding onto faith and the hope of being together again.

Patricia is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Shelby, Vanessa, Joseph, and Maya; her great-grandchild, Milo; and her great-grand dog companion, Rooney. She treasured each of them deeply and found great joy in seeing her family grow.

She will be remembered for her kind heart, her quick wit, her quiet strength, and the comfort she brought to those around her. Patricia had a simple but strong faith, trusting in God through both joyful and difficult times.

May she rest in eternal peace, and may her memory live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home in Watkins Glen, NY is assisting the family.  A Guest Book may be found at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.

Obituary: Charlotte L. (Thorpe) Bond

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Charlotte L. (Thorpe) Bond

Age 85, of Burdett, NY, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026, surrounded by family at Schuyler Hospital.

Charlotte was born on September 10, 1940 to Bernard and Marion Thorpe. She is survived by her daughter Margaret (Kirk) Gray; sons Scott Bond and Benjamin (Diane) Bond; grandchildren, James, Kenneth, Bryanna, Travis and Jonathan; and two great-grandchildren, Jimmy and Josie.

Charlotte was predeceased by husbands Nicholas, Douglas and Peter Bond, daughter Tamara, and grandson Brandon. She and Douglas owned and operated Bond’s Fruit Stand in Hector for many years.

A graveside service will be held at a later date and will be announced.

The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home is assisting the family. You may leave condolences and memories of Charlotte for her family in her guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com

Obituary: Kathleen M. Dunn

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Kathleen M. Dunn

Age 72, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on Monday, April 6, 2026. She was born in Montour Falls, NY on October 19, 1953, the daughter of Daniel and Janet (Campbell) Ayers, and graduated from Watkins Glen High School.

Kathy was a housekeeper at Lakeside in Ithaca for many years and later at St. Mark’s Terrace in Dundee. She loved spending time with family and friends, and playing Bingo.

She was predeceased by her parents; brothers, Ronald Ayers and Gary Ayers; and daughter-in-law, Judy Chrisman.

Surviving are her children, Andy P. Chrisman, II of Horseheads, NY, Jeremy R. Dunn of Fayetteville, Arkansas, and Amber R. Pratt (Adam) of Waverly, NY; stepchildren, Richard Dunn, Roger Dunn, Kevin Dunn and Cheryl Young; brother, Don (Becky) Ayers of Montour Falls; sister-in-law, Denise Ayers of Montour Falls; grandchildren, Makaylah, Alyssa, Rian, Jaid, Zakkary and Alexander; great grandchildren, Colton and Caroline; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and her beloved cat, Cali.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls.
Kathy’s funeral will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by burial in Lakeview Cemetery. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Mae Victoria (Hoose) Keen

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Townsend-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Penn Yan.

Mae Victoria “Vicki” (Hoose) Keen

Age 76, formerly of Penn Yan, NY, passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at Newark-Wayne Hospital. Vicki was born on February 2, 1950 in Penn Yan to the late Durwood and Katherine (Swarthout) Hoose.

Vicki is survived by her sons, Jimmy (Becky) Keen, Jr. of Penn Yan and Robert “Robbie” Keen; step son, Greg (Elisha Marie) Hoke; a sister, Susan Hoose of Branchport, NY; grandchildren, Dustin Keen (Jessica MacMillan) and Brittany (Branden) Rumsey; great-grandchildren, Holden, Jackson and Raelynn; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents; her loving husband of 25 years, Jimmy Keen, Sr.; a son, Carl Hoose; brothers, Clark Hoose, Sr., Richard Hoose, Smith “Smitty” Hoose and Charles Hoose; sisters, Polly Hoose and Ethel Hoose; and nephew, Clark “Buddy” Hoose, Jr.

Vicki graduated from Penn Yan Academy. She worked locally in the vineyards tying grapes, babysitting, as a production worker, and also a home health aide. She enjoyed Bingo, coloring, word puzzles, listening to music, talking on the phone, and watching WWE and the Hallmark Channel on television.

She especially delighted in time spent with family and friends, with her great-grandchildren being the light of her life in recent years.

Relatives and friends are invited to call from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Monday, April 6, 2026 at the Townsend-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, 201 East Elm St., Penn Yan. Her funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. She will be laid to rest in Branchport Cemetery.

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.townsendwoodzinger.com

Obituary: Nancy Jean Lewis

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Altmeyer Funeral Homes in Virginia.

Nancy Jean Lewis

Nancy Jean Lewis passed away peacefully into eternal life on March 30, 2026, surrounded by her family after a long, courageous battle with Dementia/Alzheimer's.

She was born on Aug 8, 1943, in Elmira, New York, to the late Aley and Teresa White. She spent her childhood years with her family residing in Pine Valley, NY.

Nancy dedicated 52 years to Elmira College as the Baker. After her husband Frank passed away, she moved to Watkins Glen, NY, to be with her daughter, Teresa Tornari, until she retired and moved to Virginia with Teresa and her son-in-law, Dominick Fazzary Jr.

She was preceded in death by her husband and love of her life, Franklin Lewis, her brothers Sonny and Stephen White, sister Shirley Edmondson, and ex-husband Joseph Tornari.

She leaves behind her children -- Joel Tornari (Helaine Fingold) and Teresa Tornari (Dominick Fazzary Jr.) -- who will forever carry her love with them. Nancy also leaves cherished grandchildren, Louisa and Mattea Tornari, sisters Patricia Strader and Vickie Gush, and other extended relatives, along with dear friends who will miss her warmth and steady presence.

She loved her family immensely, which included her cats and grand-dogs. She enjoyed
gardening and crafting. She was always out in her yard making it beautiful. She was a strong, compassionate, and hard-working woman who would give the shirt off her back to anyone in need.

There will be no calling hours. A private graveside ceremony will be held at a later date.

We have loved each other since the beginning
-- love each other still.
And forever

Thank you, Mom, for everything.

Donations to the Schuyler County Animal Shelter or Alzheimer's Association in lieu of flowers.

Obituary: James Searles Bower

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

James Searles Bower

Age 85, of Odessa, NY, passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility. James was born on March 22, 1941 in Montour Falls, NY to the late Fredrick and Helen (Searles) Bower.

James is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Sharron (Medlock) Bower; children, Thomas (Brandy) Bower and Tammie Bower; brother, Roger (Bonny) Bower; sisters, Carmelita Mix and Cheryl (Russ) Doucett; brother-in-law, Robert Traphagen; grandchildren, Kaleb and Alivia; along with several nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his parents-in-law, Kenneth and Daisy Medlock; sisters, Marian Traphagen and Connie Woodrow; his granddaughter, Rachel Bower-Taber; and brother-in-law, Robert Mix.

James attended Trumansburg High School, and then proudly served in the United States Army from 1961-1967. He was a carpenter by trade, owning and operating James S. Bower Building and Remodeling. He was an active member of the Odessa American Legion, Post 676, and in his spare time enjoyed stock car racing, farming, taking care of his cows and completing odd jobs with his beloved grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank the staff and providers at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility for their kind and compassionate care, and is especially grateful for his roommate George Schumacher, with whom he shared a special bond.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Friday, April 3, 2026 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 noon at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. A graveside service with full military honors will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Union Cemetery of Hector, State Route 79, Burdett, NY.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Odessa American Legion, Post 676, P.O. Box 137, Odessa, NY 14869. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Philip Joseph Roche

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family friend.

Philip Joseph Roche

The Honorable Philip Joseph Roche, 69, formerly of Painted Post, NY, passed away surrounded by his family on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, following a recent diagnosis of a rapidly progressing cancer.

Phil was born in Bath, NY to Mary (Purcell) and Robert Roche on July 31, 1956, and graduated from West High School in 1974. Phil earned a Bachelor of Arts from the State University of New York at Oswego in 1978. He then completed a Juris Doctorate at the Western New England University School of Law in 1985. He began his professional career at a law firm in Painted Post which would later be named Yorio & Roche when he was named partner. In 2012, he was appointed as the Steuben County Public Defender. He was elected as County & Family Court Judge for Steuben County in 2017, where he served until his retirement in 2024.

Phil married Brenda (Althaver) of Howell, NJ on October 22, 1988, at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Painted Post. They shared a wonderful 37 years of marriage and were blessed with three children. Phil made his family his greatest priority. Despite the demands of a busy professional life, he was a devoted husband and father, never allowing his schedule to come before the moments that mattered most.

Phil was predeceased by his parents and is survived by his wife Brenda; his children, Michael (Emily) of Long Island, NY, Jennifer (Mark) Papuzza of Albany, NY, and Becky (fiancé Brian Lemons) of Arlington, VA; his siblings, Michele Marinera of Venice, FL, John (Charlotte) of Venice, FL, Robert (Christine) of Venice, FL, and Ellen (Mark Yecies) of Sarasota, FL. He is also survived by his grandson, Noah Papuzza, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Phil was active in the Corning-Painted Post community as a member of several boards and associations, including the Steuben County Industrial Development Agency, the United Way, and others. He also served as the Guthrie Corning Hospital Board Chairman where he was instrumental in the construction of a new hospital.

Phil enjoyed his summers spent at Keuka Lake sampling wines and hosting friends and family at numerous gatherings. In retirement, Phil bought a home in The Villages, FL where he and Brenda planned to spend the winters. He enjoyed reading, taking daily walks, and attending educational seminars. Phil had a rare and enduring gift for friendship, forming bonds early in life that stood the test of time. Throughout his life, he was intentional about nurturing those friendships and developing new ones. His loyalty, warmth, and genuine care for others will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to call him a friend.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, March 30 from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at the Haughey Funeral Home, Inc., 216 E. 1st St, Corning, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, March 31 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 8508 Main St, Campbell, NY, with Father Patrick Connor officiating. Friends and family are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Keuka Lake Association, Keuka Lake Association - Gifting & Donations or the Saint Isidore & Maria Torribia Parish, 51 Maple St., Addison, NY 14801.

Obituary: Jane Gail McComis

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member.

Jane Gail McComis

Jane Gail McComis, of Waverly, NY, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

She is survived by her children, Geophrey (Tina) McComis, Rachel (Jermaine) McComis-Williams, Curtis McComis Jr., James (Sally) McComis, and Rebekah (Richard) Carroll; her niece, Elizabeth; her grandchildren, Ryanna, Alexandria, Esmond, Ruby, Ayden, Emily, Austin, Kyle, Katherine, and Evvie; and her great grandchild, Chloe. Jane was predeceased by her husband, Curtis McComis Sr.; her parents, Sidonie and James (Jr.) Lounsbury, and her brother, James Lounsbury.

Jane was a loving wife, a devoted mother, a dedicated friend, and a faithful servant of God. She grew up in Charlestown, MA and aspired to be a star! She learned ballet at a young age and went to acting and singing school at Emerson College. However, God had other plans when she met the love of her life in a grocery store. From the moment she met Curtis, she was smitten and happy to hang up her dancing shoes to become a homemaker, a pastor’s wife, and one of the most talented song leaders in the region.

Jane and Curtis were married for 38 years before Curtis went home to heaven in 2008. During their years together, Curtis pastored many churches that took them through the northeast (and Arkansas), and eventually they settled in Millport, NY for 24 years. During these years, she was busy raising children, tending to her beautiful gardens, nurturing friendships, preparing the books for the church, and supporting her husband in their church ministry.

Throughout Jane’s life, she was most proud of her role as Pastor’s wife. Most recently, she faithfully attended the Chemung Christian Fellowship and was involved in many Christ-led groups and initiatives within her community. She forged many friendships during these years. You would often find her singing in church, laughing with friends, or trying to figure out how to take care of those in need around her.

Jane financially supported many organizations including Greater Grace World Outreach, the Friends of Israel, Children of Africa, and many more. Although she had a flair for the dramatic, she also enjoyed giving her love, time, and energy in private and with no fanfare. Jane was a dear soul and will be missed by many. Without a doubt, God prepared a special place for Jane in heaven where she most certainly has already received many crowns. Jane was loved by many and will be sorely missed.

Family and friends are invited to visit the Barber Funeral Home, 413 S. Main Street, Horseheads, NY on Friday, March 27 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. A funeral service is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28 at the Chemung Christian Fellowship, 726 Main Street, Chemung, NY. Jane will be laid to rest immediately following in Millport Cemetery. Flowers and condolences may be offered at the Barber Funeral Home.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jane McComis, please visit Tribute Store

Obituary: Laura Specchio DeNardo

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Laura “Laurie” Specchio DeNardo

Laura “Laurie” Specchio DeNardo passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026 at her home, surrounded by love. She was born on November 28, 1961, in Montour Falls, New York, to the late Barbara Lee and Theodore Specchio.

Laurie was a lifelong resident of the beautiful village of Watkins Glen, a community she loved deeply and served with unwavering dedication. She began her career at the Schuyler County DMV before joining the veterinary school at Cornell University. Over the course of 40 years at Cornell, Laurie worked her way up while earning her degree, ultimately becoming Director of Human Resources. She was known for her strength in leadership, her expertise in budgeting, and her commitment to those she worked alongside.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Laurie devoted herself to public service. She served eight years as a trustee on the Watkins Glen Village Board and, in April 2023, was honored to become Mayor. In this role, she proudly led her community and contributed to many meaningful initiatives. Laurie also served on numerous local boards, including Watkins Glen Promotions, the Schuyler Health Foundation, and as co-chair of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative.

While Laurie’s impact on her community was profound, her greatest joy was her family. She loved being a mother and “Nonnie,” and her love for them was constant and unconditional. She will be remembered for her warmth, strength, and the deep care she showed to those around her.

Laurie is survived by her daughter, Patti DeNardo Beall, her husband Jeremy, and her beloved grandchildren, Teddy and Brinlee. She is also survived by her partner, Robin Burnett; her brother, Larry Specchio and sister-in-law Laura; her niece, Alyssa; her Uncle Louis Specchio and cousins whom she loved like sisters, affectionately known as “the K’s.” She also leaves behind many dear cousins on both the Lee and Specchio sides.

In addition to her parents, Laurie was predeceased by her sister, Karen, as well as several beloved aunts and uncles, including her special Aunt Pat Angelo.

Laurie and her family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Cayuga Cancer Center and CareFirst NY for their compassionate care, as well as to her cousins her “K’s” and dear friends Bob, Barb, and Sherry and Jack for their love and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CareFirst NY or the Schuyler County Historical Society in Laurie’s memory.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 905 N. Decatur St., Watkins Glen.. Family and friends are invited to gather afterward at the Seneca Lake Event Center at 12:30 p.m. to celebrate her life and send her off in the style she would have loved.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: David L. Havens

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

David L. Havens

Age 72, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Corning Hospital.

He was born in Montour Falls, NY on March 12, 1953, the son of the late Earl M. and Lena A. (Shaffer) Havens.

David enjoyed hunting, fishing, flower gardening and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his sister, Joyce Havens; and his niece, Keri. He was predeceased by his parents and brothers, Douglas and Thomas Havens.

In keeping with David’s wishes, there will be no services.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Kendall L. Welch

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Kendall L. Welch

Age 66, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on March 10, 2026.

He was born in Gaylord, Michigan on November 14, 1959, the son of the late Robert and Marge (Williams) Welch.

He was predeceased by his wife, Michelle Welch; and siblings, Roberta, Duane and Donnie.

He is survived by his brother, Tracy (Angela) Welch; and by several nieces and nephews.

There will be no services.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: John J. 'Jack' McCormack

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

John J. “Jack” McCormack

Age 83, of Burdett, NY, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026.

Jack was born on October 30, 1942, in Bayshore, New York, the son of John and Gertrude McCormack.

Jack proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard from 1966 to 1970, exemplifying honor, dedication, and courage. In 1969, he married the love of his life, Harriet Miller, and together they shared an extraordinary 57 years of marriage filled with devotion, partnership, and unwavering love.

Jack’s legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Harriet; his son, Shaun (Kristi) McCormack of Burdett; his brother, Michael (Martha) McCormack of Dallas, TX; his cousin, Anne (Erwin) Dejoseph; and his cherished granddaughter, Eleanor Rae McCormack.

A passionate mentor and educator, Jack shared his knowledge and love for mechanics as a teacher at BOCES Ithaca, inspiring countless students throughout his career. His dedication extended far beyond the classroom as a proud member of the Valois-Logan-Hector Volunteer Fire Company, where he served his community with selflessness and pride.

Jack’s passions were as rich and vibrant as the life he lived. He had a deep love for farming, finding peace and purpose in working the land and embracing the rhythms of rural life. He was also an avid supporter of the local wineries of the Finger Lakes region, where he enjoyed not only the craft of winemaking but the community and beauty that surrounded it.
A skilled sailor who cherished time on the open water and an admirer of classic cars, Jack also found simple joy in sharing a good glass of wine with family and friends. His warmth, wisdom, and zest for life left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jack’s life at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Friday, March 27, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 5:00 p.m. A burial with full military honors will take place at Glenwood Cemetery on Saturday, March 28, at 10:00 a.m. Attendance at the cemetery service will be limited to family and close friends.

In memory of Jack’s enduring commitment to service and community, memorial donations may be made to the Valois-Logan-Hector Volunteer Fire Company, 5736 NY-414, Hector, NY 14841, or online at www.HectorFire.com.

Condolences may be shared with the family in the online guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.

Jack McCormack’s life was a shining example of dedication, love, and passion -- an inspiring legacy that will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him.

Service: Betty Anita Bond

The following was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Betty Anita (Watkins-Mapes) Bond

Age 85, of Hector, New York, will have a Celebration of Life and memorial service to remember her life on Sunday (March 22nd) at 2:00 p.m. at the Valois-Logan Hector Fire Department, 5736 NY-4124, Hector, NY.  A reception will follow.
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Betty entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Monday, December 1, 2025 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Obituary: Wilbur E. (Pete) VanIdistine

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Wilbur E. (Pete) VanIdistine

Age 96, of Trumansburg, NY, passed away on March 7, 2026 at Cayuga Medical Center surrounded by loved ones.

Pete was born on Aug. 15, 1929 in Livingston, New Jersey, the son of Charles and Janie VanIdistine. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend to many. He served with honor in the Marine Corps from 1946-1948 and 1950-1951. He qualified as sharpshooter and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sgt.
 
Pete was a police officer for the city of Caldwell, NJ and city of Ithaca until he retired as captain in 1985. He was a member of the PBA and Odessa Conservation Club. Pete enjoyed spending time with his family, woodworking, reading, hunting, and gardening.

He was predeceased by his wife Rose Marie in 2002. He is survived by his son Peter (Sally) VanIdistine of Trumansburg; daughter Vicki Merritt (Gary Bryant) of Cosby, Tennessee; and granddaughter, Jade Merritt (Nick Bradley) of Royse City, Texas.

A graveside service with full military honors will be presented at Sampson Veteran Memorial Cemetery, Romulus, NY on March 16th at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (online at www.t2t.org ).

Condolences may be offered to the family in his guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.

The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen, NY is assisting the family.

Obituary: Ralph Edward Carl

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home, Gainesboro, Tennessee.

Ralph Edward Carl

Ralph Edward Carl was welcomed into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior on March 7, 2026 in Livingston, Tennessee, concluding a long and faith-filled life that began on July 14, 1937 in New York. A man of deep Christian convictions, Ralph's life was a testament to the love and grace of God, which he exemplified in every role he undertook -- be it as a husband, brother, father, or friend.

Ralph was a true patriot, having honorably served in the United States Navy. His dedication to his country was matched only by his commitment to his work and his faith. After his military service, Ralph pursued his passion for entrepreneurship and community service. He attended barber school in 1958, subsequently joining his father in the family barber shop business, where he honed his craft with precision and care. His professional journey later led him to management at the Accelerated Christian Education Company in Louisville, Texas, where he influenced many through his leadership and Christian witness.

Ralph's love for knowledge and learning was insatiable. An avid reader, he found joy and inspiration in the pages of countless books, which fueled his intellectual curiosity and his profound understanding of the Bible. His intelligence was matched by a loving heart and a faith that shone brightly, guiding him through life's challenges and triumphs.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Frank Edward Carl and Thelma Sanky Carl. Ralph's legacy is carried on by his beloved spouse of 68 years, Beverly Carl, and his cherished siblings: David (Alice) Carl of Dodson Branch, TN, Calvin Curtis (Diane) Carl of Burdett, NY, and Barbara Tennity of Titusville, FL. Ralph was a beloved brother to the late Douglas Carl of New York and Allen Carl of TN; sisters: Shirley Davis of NY, Dora Vanvlett of TX, Beverly Angel of NY, and Marie Carl of NY. He was a proud father to his two daughters: Tina Renee Carl of NY and Tonya Ralane Ratje of TX, whose memories he held in his heart until his death.

Ralph E. Carl's life was a reflection of his enduring faith. Those who knew him were blessed by his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his beliefs. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, we celebrate a life well-lived and a journey completed in the assurance of eternal peace. Ralph's influence will continue to be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will remain a beacon of light for the path ahead. We are comforted by the knowledge that Ralph now rests in the glorious presence of the Creator he so faithfully served.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026 at the Dodson Branch Cemetery at 11 a.m. Billy A. Sheesley will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Ralph's honor to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation by contacting the business office of the funeral home.

Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931) 268-1550.

Obituary: Joseph F. Oswald

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Joseph F. Oswald

Age 82, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on March 1, 2026.

Joe was born in Baltimore, Maryland on May 25, 1943, the son of the late Frank X. Oswald and Ruth (Gorman) Oswald. He worked as a Direct Support Professional for the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities in Watkins Glen, NY.

Joe honorably served in the United States Navy from 1961-1966, completing two tours in Vietnam. Joe enjoyed simple things in life like reading, writing and sharing his poetry, and especially gardening.

Preceding him in death were his parents; three of his siblings, Betty Kordell, Jim Oswald and Mary Ekstrom, and his beloved dog, Makayla.

He is survived by his son, Matthew T. Oswald of Rochester, NY; brother John M. (Camelia) Oswald of Bradford, NY; sisters Ann Oswald of Florida and Elizabeth (Ric) Pollock of Maryland; sister-in-law, Lore Oswald of North Carolina; and grandsons, Elias and Benjamin Oswald.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Saturday (March 14th) at 12 noon. There are no prior visiting hours.

Condolences may be offered to the family in his guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com

Obituary: George J. Pyhtila

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

George J. "Georgie" Pyhtila

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of George J. “Georgie” Pyhtila, age 30, on March 4, 2026. He was a beloved son, brother, family member, and friend, whose presence brought warmth, joy, and love to all who knew him.

Born on February 21, 1996 in Montour Falls, NY, Georgie grew up surrounded by family who cherished him. From an early age, he spent countless hours playing with his siblings, nieces, and nephew, enjoying the simple joys of childhood. He loved sports, fishing with his dad and approached life with a natural energy and curiosity.

As a student Georgie attended Odessa-Montour School District, where he was remembered for his genuine warmth and welcoming spirit. He formed friendships easily, connecting with students from many backgrounds and interests. His ability to make others feel included and valued was one of the qualities that made him so special. As a standout multi-sport athlete, he brought energy, determination, and enthusiasm to every game, excelling particularly on the basketball court. He also had a strong curiosity for hands-on activities and history, enjoying classes like Technology and exploring the stories that shaped the world around him.

Like many, Georgie faced the challenges of addiction. He struggled bravely, sometimes quietly and sometimes openly. Addiction is a tragic disease, but it does not define his character, the love he carried, or the impact he had on others. While this illness was a part of his life, it does not overshadow his generosity, compassion, and the light he shared with those around him.

Georgie is survived by his parents, George and Jane Pyhtila; his siblings, Sarah (Pyhtila) Yonts, Matt Pyhtila, Matt Redmond, and Rachel Pyhtila; and multiple nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his infant daughter, Wrenleigh Pyhtila.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Georgie’s life on Saturday, March 14, 2026 from 1-3 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. In honor of his memory, the family encourages acts of compassion toward those struggling with addiction. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Finger Lakes Addiction Counseling and Recovery Agency (FLACRA).

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Gabriel John Santos

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Gabriel John Santos

Gabriel John Santos, of Hector, New York, left this world on February 22, 2026, at just 21 years of age. His passing was sudden, and our hearts are profoundly saddened. We share this not only with deep grief but also with gratitude for the joy and light he brought into our lives. His love, laughter, and spirit remain woven into us forever.

Gabriel is survived by his loving family: parents Allison and John Santos and brother Jude Santos; grandmothers Susan Hazlitt of Hector, NY, and Dorothea Santos of Auburndale, MA; aunts and uncles, Andra Moffett (Marijn) Dekkers, Timothy (Wendy) Moffett, Diane Noecker (Parrish), Alyce (Lee) Coffey, Rob Merletti, Mark Merletti, and Kathy (Matt) Licata; cousins; Jacob and Samantha Moffett, Theodore and William Coffey, Marina, Stephanie and Alexandra Dekkers, Matthew Licata, Lucca and Milan Merletti, Grace and Phebe Wickham, the Hazlitt family; Eric (Tina) Hazlitt, Kristi Hazlitt, Jason (Rose) and Zephyr Hazlitt, and Erin (Brian) Hanley, Ryan and Austin Hazlitt; Santos family; Gerda and Heidi Seufert of FL, Linda Marcantonio (Tony) of NJ; and the Leach and Swanson families of Excelsior, MN. He was predeceased by grandparents: Bill and Hope Moffett of NY, Dr. George P Santos of MA, and Jim Hazlitt of NY.

A 2023 graduate of New Roots Charter School in Ithaca, NY, Gabe was never happier when sharing laughter with his friends exploring the wilds of Ithaca, especially 6 Mile Creek and Fall Creek. He loved being the center of attention; the daredevil clown who could warm a room in seconds and draw laughter from everyone around him. People were instantly taken by his infectious smile, his big, bright blue eyes, and that unmistakable unibrow!

His intrepid spirit shone in activities of single-track/mountain biking, running, diving, climbing, cliff jumping, and most especially downhill and telemark skiing. He lived to push the limits of gravity, speed, and freedom. His graceful form on the hill was poetry in motion. Many joyful memories were made with friends and family, traversing East Coast ski mountains in search of the next epic run. Summers too were special, as countless hours were spent with family on Seneca Lake, swimming, laughing, and celebrating the joy of this life together.

Gabe showed a tender, curious heart toward all of Earth's offerings. He had an affinity for the numerous farm animals he helped raise under his mom's wing, but especially the goat kids he helped birth, the pigs whose bellies he loved to rub, and his border collie, Isis, whom he took to the New York State Fair for an agility competition. In his later years, he took up gardening and an interest in viticulture. He began exploring his family’s passion for winemaking under the mentorship of Alexandra Bond at Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards and Vagabond Wines, where he found purpose and joy in the craft.
 
Our time with Gabe was cut short, but the fearless, authentic spirit he showed us will always remain to guide us. We live forward in the stories we tell, the mountains we ski, the flowers we share, the music we vibe to, the homegrown food we eat, and the wine we drink, when together.

A celebration of life is planned for May 2, 2026, at the Curry Creek Farm, 6088 Beckhorn Road in Hector, NY.

The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Obituary: Joyce L. Switzer

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Joyce L. Switzer

Age 81, of Reading Center, NY, passed away on February 22, 2026.

Joyce was born in Montour Falls, NY on October 5, 1944. She was a lifelong resident of Reading Center and the Reading Community Church.

Joyce was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, James H. Switzer Sr. in June 2025.
She is survived by two sons, James H. Switzer Jr. (wife Gen Switzer) of Candor, NY and Ken Switzer of Rock Stream, NY; four grandchildren, Christopher Switzer, Cindy (Josh) Briggs, Courtney Switzer, and Clifford (Danielle) Switzer; three great-grandchildren, Loren, Layla, and Liam Switzer; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

According to her wishes there are no services. She was laid to rest with her husband at Pleasant View Cemetery in Reading Center. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements are with the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Obituary: Philip William Gardner

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member.

Philip William Gardner

Philip William Gardner, born to Phyllis Hager Gardner and Andrew “Jud” Garder on April 8, 1955, departed this world on March 2, 2026.

Phil lived his life his way -- with good music (Bob Seger, of course), motorcycle rides, hunting and fishing (the animals are rejoicing in the news of his passing), a good Tito’s and plenty of laughter along the ride.

He is survived by his wife Lorraine, who was his best friend, soulmate, and the only woman he wouldn't trade for a winning lottery ticket.

He leaves behind his daughter Mandee Gardner Allen (Josh Allen), his son Cody Gardner (Chasiti Porter), step-sons Michael and Daryl Madigan, beloved granddaughters Alexis, Ashlyn, Cailynn and Kinslee, siblings and their spouses Douglas Gardner (Gayle), Karen Slaven (James), and Nancy Fraboni (Mickey), and his various collections of Harley Davidson ornaments, salt and pepper shakers, and Pioneer Woman cookie jars.

Phil was predeceased by his parents and his sister Cindy.

Phil will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. There will be no services at this time. To honor him, raise a glass and send him a toast.

He had a saying -- “Rock and roll never forgets” -- and we won’t either.

Obituary: Daniel Neumire Sr.

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Daniel Neumire Sr.

Age 89, of Reading Center, NY, passed away on February 17, 2026.

Dan was born in Montour Falls, NY on August 1, 1936, the son Albert and Marie (Wallenbeck) Neumire. He graduated from Dundee Central School in 1955 and worked for R&L Perry Construction Co. for many years.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Ann (Landry) Neumire. He is also survived by his sons, Daniel Jr. (JoAnn) of Montour Falls, Donald (Tracy) of Watkins Glen, NY, Dale (Janet) of St. Rose, LA, and Dana (Christine) of Rochester, NY; daughters, Nancy Crouch of Montour Falls and Cindy Neumire of Spartanburg, SC; brother Mickey (Brenda) Neumire of New Hampshire; sisters Arlene of Corning, NY and Sally of Watkins Glen; and eleven grandchildren. He was predeceased by a brother, Fran Neumire, sister Becky Bush, and son-in-law, Calvin Crouch.

According to his wishes, there are no services. A memorial donation may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.

Obituary: Zachary R. Pifer

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Zachary R. Pifer

Age 26, of Dundee, NY, died unexpectedly from an unknown medical emergency on February 20, 2026.

Zachary was born on December 12, 1999, the son of Daniel Pifer and Megan (Kurtz) Howard. He attended elementary school in Hammondsport, NY, middle school at the Alternative School for Math and Science in Corning, NY, and high school in Hammondsport. Throughout high school, he participated in the Corning robotics program as a member of Team TARDIS.

Zachary attended the University of Southern California and received a bachelor’s degree in Bio Chemistry. He performed quality assurance testing as a chemist at Norwich Pharmaceuticals.

Zachary enjoyed hiking, tree climbing, singing in the car, wearing eccentric clothes, painting, drawing, creating board games, ventriloquism, unicycling, wine making, and many other activities. He had a carefree approach to learning and creating. He was unconcerned with his current experience level, skills, and training. He created just for the joy and intrinsic value of the act itself.

He is survived by his father, Daniel Pifer of Wayne, NY; mother, Megan (Doug) Howard of Wayne; and three siblings, Madison Pifer, Cade Tobias Howard, and Matthew Charles “Charlie” Howard. He is also survived by his paternal grandparents, Royce and Lynn Pifer of Bath, NY; maternal grandmother, Maureen Kurtz (predeceased by grandfather Ronald) of Wayne; great grandmother, Carmelita Tomich; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

The family received friends and relatives to celebrate his life at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 East Fourth Street, Watkins Glen, NY on Sunday (March 1st), followed by a funeral service. He will be buried at a future date at McDowell Cemetery in Dundee.

Zachary was deeply concerned with human suffering and injustice. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Zachary’s memorial fund at https://gofund.me/de8ff5435 to support humanitarian causes or to unbound.org in Zachary’s memory to support the poor and marginalized of the world.

Obituary: Jeffrey George Lovell

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, Trumansburg.

Jeffrey George Lovell, 72, of Ithaca and formerly of Schuyler County, NY, passed away on February 26, 2026 after a courageous two-year battle with cancer, faced with his trademark grit, humor, and an impressive number of stories. He was born on June 30, 1953.

Jeff is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Nancy McCune Lovell; daughters Jessi (Tony) Nasto and Gretchen (Ian Hilburger) Lovell; and five adored granddaughters -- Nova, Atlas, Aria, Aster, and Aurelia. He was predeceased by his daughter Eliesha Lovell, his parents Maurice and Pinky Lovell, and his brother Martin Lovell.

Jeff, who attended school in Schuyler County in his youth, loved people and had an easy gift for conversation that turned strangers into friends. His hugs were legendary, and his humor ever-present -- including his playful warning during back rubs: “I’ll give you an hour to cut that out.” When something met his enthusiastic approval -- especially food or power tools -- he expressed it with unmistakable “Tim-the-Tool-Man” grunts of satisfaction.

A devoted father, Jeff taught his daughters life’s essentials: how to fish, ski, travel, pitch softball, tell the truth, ride a tractor, perform boldly, build fires, play poker with pretzels for chips, and grill with conviction because Vegetarian = Old Native term for "Bad Hunter." Jeff and Nancy shared a lifelong love of bluegrass music -- as Jeff insisted, “There’s two kinds of music -- bluegrass and all that other stuff.” A banjo and guitar player, he performed anywhere an audience could be found, from living rooms to festivals, and often proving that banjo players don’t steal the spotlight -- they replace the lighting system entirely.

His storytelling talents extended to the grill, where his Cornell chicken tutorial always began with the famous line: “Let me tell you how I make my chicken.” And even in those difficult final days, Jeff’s humor never left him -- once joking, “I’m going to burn the house down, but not my banjo,” a reminder that laughter and music were always his constants.

Jeff served in the U.S. Air Force and later worked in financial planning for military families. In retirement, he spent ten years driving school buses for the Ithaca City School District, proudly helping students evolve from rowdy passengers to helpful co-pilots.

Known as Boppa, Jeff adored his granddaughters. A treasured moment came when Atlas snuggled beside him and assured him, “There’s always enough room for a little girl with you, Boppa” -- a sentiment that captured Jeff’s life perfectly: a man whose heart and couch both made room for everyone.

A Memorial Celebration will be held at Forest Home Chapel, 224 Forest Home Drive, Ithaca, on Saturday, March 7 at 1 p.m., followed by a reception. Burial will be at Green Springs Cemetery, Newfield, NY, on Thursday, March 5 at 1 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity in Jeff’s honor.

Jeff’s life was proof that there is always room for one more story, one more song, one more hug -- and, as he might remind us, one more helping of chicken.

Obituary: Mary Ann Rentschler

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Mary Ann Rentschler

Age 82, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026.

She was born in Brooklyn, NY on June 18, 1943, the daughter of the late Michael and Ursula (Fazio) Koloski. She graduated from PS 18 High School in Brooklyn, NY. She was an Activities Aide at Seneca View SNF in Montour Falls. Mary Ann was a member of the Montour Moose Lodge. She enjoyed gardening, cooking and traveling.

Mary Ann was predeceased by her husband of 42 years, Michael A. Rentschler; sister, Helene Koloski; and brother, Michael Koloski.

Surviving are her three children, Mary Kay (James) Cilley, Suzanne Blake, and Michael G. (Sue) Rentschler; along with her beloved grandchildren, William Morgan, Jeffrey Morgan, Christopher Welch, Robert (Yvonne) Blake, Joseph Blake, Thomas (Kelsey) Blake, Brian (Courtney) Rentschler, and Timothy (Paige) Rentschler, and eleven great grandchildren.

The family would like to extend their thanks to the Schuyler Hospital staff for the kindness and care given to Mary Ann.

A private burial will be held in Holy Cross Cemetery, Watkins Glen, NY in the spring.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Patricia A. Williams

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Patricia A. Williams

Age 76, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on February 20, 2026 after a hard battle with cancer, surrounded by her loved ones.

Patricia was born on March 30, 1949 in Montour Falls, NY, the daughter of James and Josephine Colunio. She was predeceased by her parents and her sister, Anne Maria (Charles) Mathews.

Patricia is survived by her husband, John Williams; daughter, Tracy (Lisa) Williams; son, John (Kristen) Williams; grandchildren, Noah, Parker and Everett; brother, James Colunio; sister, Lisa (Kerry) Kelly; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Patricia was the heart of her family, and her unconditional love radiated throughout her community. Her caring spirit created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and acceptance. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and cherished. Always the first on the dance floor and the last to leave it, Patricia lived with joy, energy, and a contagious zest for life. Her light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Calling hours will be held on Friday February 27, 2026, from 4 p.m.-6 p.m., at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. In lieu of flowers, we would like to request donations to Kevin Guest House Inc. in connection with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Robert 'Bob' Bradley

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Robert “Bob” Bradley

It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert “Bob” Bradley of Spencer, NY on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at the age of 93. 

Bob was born on January 19, 1933 in Elmira, NY to Theodore and Eleanor (Wrigley) Bradley, the seventh of nine children. In the 1940s, his family moved from Bradley Farms on Elmira’s Southside to a smaller farm in Montour Falls, NY. It was there that Bob thrived as a student-athlete in the Odessa-Montour Central School District, earning 13 varsity letters during his high school career. In recognition of his exceptional athletic accomplishments, he was inducted into the district’s Athletic Hall of Fame on October 6, 2000. 

Bob proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War as a Tactical Communications Operator, an experience that remained a source of pride throughout his life. 

Following his return home, Bob began his career with “Ma Bell,” working for New York Telephone until his retirement in 1992. He was deeply involved in his community, serving as Past Master of Myrtle-Jefferson Masonic Lodge #131. He was also a lifetime member of the American Legion, the Mechanics Club, and the Moose Lodge. 

Bob found great joy in his love of John Deere farm tractors and took pride in the collection he built over the years. More than anything, he was known for his kind heart, steady presence, and remarkable knowledge. He was always willing to lend a hand to family, friends, and neighbors -- ready to answer the call for any project that needed his expertise. 

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Carol; his children, Dale (Sonnie) Bradley, Dan (Sherie) Bradley, Donna (Tom) Taber, Nora Barnett-Jordan, Brian (Keri) Barnett, and Loren (Nichole) Barnett; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and another great-grandson expected to arrive in March. 

In accordance with Bob’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. 

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Timothy Jay Ector

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Timothy Jay Ector

Age 64, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Montour Falls, NY on November 20, 1961, the son of Robert John and Fledra Rose (Parmalee) Ector. Tim attended Watkins Glen High School. On April 14, 1984 he married Starlene J. (Thompson) in Rock Stream, NY.

Tim spent many years as a farmer. He also drove tractor trailer trucks for years all over the United States. He was an avid reader and enjoyed playing Canasta.

He was predeceased by his parents; and brother, Robert James Ector.

Surviving are his wife of 41 years, Starlene Ector; children, Joshua (Stephanie) Ector, Jessica (Richard) Perry, William (Tonya) Ector, Patrick (April) Ector and Travis Ector; grandchildren, Augustus, Kole, Aubriella, Hayden, Starr, Hunter, Robert and Asher; siblings, John Ector, Daniel Ector, Bonnie Rappleye, Holly Ector (Gordy Sherwood), Samuel (Kathy) Ector, and Andrew (Ruth) Ector; and by several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 from 12:00-1:00 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. His funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery in Dundee in the spring.

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Lucille Ann Allen

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Lucille Ann Allen

Age 75, of Beaver Dams, NY, passed away unexpectedly on February 14, 2026. Born on October 3, 1950 in Corning, NY, she was the cherished daughter of the late William and Margaret Bryington.

Lucy, lovingly known as “Mema,” was the heart and soul of her family. For 53 beautiful years, she was the devoted wife of Milton Allen Sr., standing faithfully by his side through every chapter of life. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. She devoted 17 years of her life working as a housekeeper at the Radisson.

She was a loving mother to her sons, Milton Allen Jr. (Dawn Smith) and Luke Allen (Suannah), and to her daughter, April Morseman (Marshall). Her family was her greatest pride and joy.

Mema adored her grandchildren: Zack Allen (Kaylyn Jimmerson), Addy Allen, Dana Allen (Larry Adams), Jocelyn Sawyer (Dominic Woodward), Breanna Sawyer (Stuart Perry), Kendra Bartholomay, Kelsey Morseman, Madisyn Morseman and Dalton Plumley. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Ariella, Desirae, Brycen, Ryver, and Brelyn, who brought endless light into her life.

She is also survived by her brother, Kenny Bryington; her sister, Sheila Bartholomay; her brothers-in-law Albert Allen (Audrey), Tom Allen, and Keith Allen (Maxine); along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Lucy was predeceased by her siblings William, Clyde, Dorothy, and Nancy; her beloved grandson Dustin; her brothers-in-law John, Rick, and Tim; and her sisters-in-law Sharon and Robin.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures -- puzzles, reading, watching Hallmark movies and game shows, cooking and baking, and most of all, playing games and spending time with her family and friends. Her home was a place of comfort, warmth, and unconditional love. She had a gentle spirit, a generous heart, and a way of making everyone feel welcome and cared for.

Lucy’s legacy is one of selfless love, strength, and devotion to family. She raised not only her children but helped raise her grandchildren alongside her beloved husband, shaping their lives with her kindness and guidance. Her love will continue to live on in every story shared, every recipe passed down, and every family gathering filled with laughter.

A Service will be held at Noon on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at the Beaver Dams Fire Department, 1165 County Road 19, Beaver Dams, NY followed by a Celebration of Life at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, any donations may be made to the Beaver Dams Fire Department or the American Heart Association in her memory.

She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Stanley 'Skip' Young

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Stanley “Skip” Young

Age 78, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on February 17, 2026.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday (February 22nd) starting at 2:00 p.m. at Matt’s Place, 1237 CR-16, Beaver Dams. All are welcome!

Affectionally called “Teddy Bear” by his wife Sharon, they shared 45 years together.

Skip worked 35 years for Corning, Inc. He was known for being stubborn and strong-willed, but had a good heart. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, rodeos, boating, and spending time with his family, and especially his great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Sharon; children Reginald Tostanoski, Sr. of Monterey, NY; Anna Marie Tostanoski of Monterey; Mary (Matthew) O’Dell of Monterey; Brandie Beaird of Lewisville, TX, and Tina Young of Monterey; two brothers, Jessie “Stub” Lozier (Audrey Boyd) and Bayard (Donna) Lozier; 10 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Condolences and memories of Skip may be shared in his guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.

Obituary: Mary Louise Campbell

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Mary Louise Campbell

Age 78, of Burdett, NY, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at home.

She was born in Elmira, NY on November 20, 1947, the daughter of James M. Rennels Jr. and Mary Jane (Rose) Rennells. Mary Louise graduated from Odessa-Montour High School in 1966.

Mary Louise worked in Data Processing at Shepard Niles Crane & Hoist and later was a Certified Nurse Assistant at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility. She was a member of Hedding Methodist Church (Infancy to Marriage) in Elmira, NY and was married there to her husband, David N. Campbell, on November 1, 1969.

Mary Louise loved helping others. She was a volunteer for Chemung County Habitat for Humanity and was a Boy Scout Mom and Leader. Mary Louise enjoyed baking apple pies, needlepoint, boating-navigation and was a skilled markswoman.

She was predeceased by her father and stepmother, James M. and Photine (Barends) Rennells, Jr.; mother and stepfather, Mary Jane and Carl Henrich; sister, Joan Baker-Harvey; brothers, Richard Rennells and Michael Barends; and nephew, Nicholas Little.

Surviving is her husband of 56 years, David N. Campbell; children, Madi L. Campbell and Daniel N. Campbell; siblings, Marcia, James M. Rennells, III, Thom Barends (Toni), Kris Barends, Kathy May (Mike), Donna Little, Cherie Mazda and Ted Rennells; and granddaughter, Honey Adele Campbell.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 12:00 noon-1:00 p.m at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. A memorial service will follow at 1:00 p.m. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Hayley J. Scholtisek

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Hayley J. Scholtisek

Age 48, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on February 12, 2026 at Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls, NY.

Hayley was born on September 27, 1977, the daughter of Henry and Dorothy Scholtisek.

She was predeceased by her parents. She is survived by her brothers and sister, Melissa (Robert) Teed of Reading Center, NY, Michael (Teresa) Scholtisek of Trumansburg, NY and Eric (Amy) Scholtisek of Watkins Glen; aunts, Deb Ribble (Jim), and Beverly Naylor; niece, Allison Teed; and nephews, Regan Scholtisek, Owen Scholtisek, and Jaydon Scholtisek.

Hayley made many lasting friendships along her journey. She loved her family and spending every holiday together.

Hayley survived many challenges with a smile and a positive attitude, always telling everyone “I’m good.” She had the sweetest soul with a heart and smile as big as the sky.
 
Hayley was Reba McEntire’s #1 fan, enjoying her music, TV shows and concerts. Hayley enjoyed shopping, dinners out and spending time with friends and family.

The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Friday (Feb. 20th) from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. A private burial will be held at Lakeview Cemetery in Watkins Glen.

Memorial donations may be made to The Arc of Chemung-Schuyler or a charity of one’s choice. You may express condolences to the family or “Light a Candle of Remembrance” online at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.

Obituary: Fred Millspaugh

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, Trumansburg.

Fred Millspaugh

Fred Millspaugh, a lifelong resident of Trumansburg, passed away peacefully on February 8th. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 44 years, Elisa Millspaugh, a proud father to his daughter Jessica Kanfer and her husband David, and an adoring grandfather to their two children, Jackson and Charlotte.

Born and raised in Trumansburg, Fred lived his entire life in the community he loved -- except for the years he bravely served his country as a member of the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He was part of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 1, where his extraordinary courage and selflessness were evident in his duty: jumping from helicopters to rescue downed pilots during missions.

Before the war, Fred was a gifted athlete, known for his natural talent and competitive spirit. Throughout his life, he embodied kindness, bravery, and unwavering mental toughness.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gertrude and Arthur Millspaugh, and his brother Jimmy. He is survived by his loving wife, Elisa; his daughter, Jessica, and her family; his brothers, Dale and Roger; his sister, Brenda; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and many dear friends who will miss his early morning coffee companionship, his steady presence, and his smart jokes.

Fred found joy in life’s simple pleasures -- fishing, golfing, helping both animals and people, and working with his hands, whether building small intricate projects or an entire home. His craftsmanship and character will live on in the things he built and the people he loved.

A service honoring Fred’s life and service to his country will be held in the spring. An announcement with a date and time will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Fred's honor may be made to Fisher House Foundation. Fisher House Foundation builds homes where military & veterans families can stay free of charge, while a loved one is in the hospital.

Obituary: Grace Louise Stratton

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Grace Louise Stratton

Age 64, of Hector, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. She was born on January 11, 1962 in Montour Falls, NY, the daughter of the late George and Doris (Osborne) Beese.

Grace graduated from Watkins Glen High School in 1980. She worked as a Nurse’s Aide for many years at Reconstructive Home in Ithaca and Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls. She also worked as a part-time cook at the Schuyler County Sheriff’s Department and was an inspector with the Schuyler County Board of Elections.

She was a member of the Hector Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary and the Women of the Moose at the Montour Falls Moose Lodge. Grace enjoyed camping, crocheting and watching Drag Racing.

Grace married her husband, Rick, on May 26, 1990. Grace loved her family, friends and everyone she met. Even though she couldn’t have her own children, she had many nieces, nephews and adopted children. The world will be a quieter and emptier place without her.

She is survived by her husband, Rick Stratton; brothers, John (Kathleen) Beese and Rob (Lisa) Beese; and by many nieces and nephews.

There will be no services at this time. Contributions may be made in her memory to the Humane Society of Schuyler County, 124 Marina Dr., Montour Falls, NY 14865.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Clayton Henry Sauberan, III

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Clayton Henry Sauberan, III

Age 86, of Horseheads, NY, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026 in the comfort of his home. Clayton was born on May 9, 1939 in Long Island City, NY to the late Clayton H. and Sophie (Heller) Sauberan, Jr.

Clayton attended Bayside High School, graduating with the Class of 1957. He went on to receive his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from SUNY Oswego in 1962, and later received his Master’s in Education from Elmira College. He married the love of his life, Nancy E. (Tuma) Sauberan, on July 7, 1962 at the Catharine United Methodist Church, and they shared 63 wonderful years together. He had a long career in the Elmira City School District, as an Industrial Arts teacher at Southside High School and also as a Technology teacher at Broadway Junior High.

Clayton was a very active member of his community, belonging to the Kiwanis Club, acting as Assessor for the Town of Veteran for many years, and holding the position of Treasurer for the Odessa-Catharine United Methodist Church, where he was a faithful congregant. He was passionate about flying, being a private pilot for many years, and exploring all 7 continents of the world on his many adventures with Nancy. Boating and boat building were also beloved pastimes, and he was very proud that “all 5 of the Claytons” in the family built a boat together. Clayton’s greatest achievement was his family, and he was always very proud of both his children and grandchildren, and the people that they have become.

He is survived by his children, Jennifer Sauberan and Clayton H. (Pam) Sauberan, IV; sister, Diana (Roger) Sauberan Wolf; and grandchildren, Hanna Sauberan and Clayton Sauberan, V. He was predeceased by his parents; and his loving wife, Nancy (November 10, 2025).

The family would like to thank Clayton’s caregivers, who allowed him to stay at home the last four years, and the special friends and family who visited and checked in on him, especially after Nancy passed away.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Monday, February 16, 2026 from 10:30 a.m.-12:00 noon at the Odessa-Catharine United Methodist Church, 305 Church St., Odessa, NY. A Memorial Service will follow at 12:00 noon. He will be laid to rest at Maple Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Odessa-Catharine United Methodist Church. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Tracie H. McIlroy

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Tracie H. McIlroy

Age 68, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away unexpectedly on February 6, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones.

Tracie was born on August 19, 1957 in Poughkeepsie, NY, the daughter of Roger and Kathryn Herrick.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Richard McIlroy, her sister Lee Herrick, and her brothers Michael and Greg Herrick.

Tracie is survived by her daughter Keri (Jesse) Schubmehl; sons, Philip (Alicia) McIlroy and Alan (Amelia) McIlroy; grandchildren, Isaac (Dayna), Lucas, Lydia, Graham, Darren, Levon, Evelyn, and Baby McIlroy arriving in May; brother, Scott Herrick; sister-in-law, Cathy Herrick; brothers-in-law, Tom (Fay) McIlroy and Bob (Wannetta) McIlroy; nieces, nephews and cousins, and an abundance of good friends.

In honoring Tracie’s wishes, there will be no formal services. It was her desire to have a "big party." Therefore, a Celebration of Life will take place on Monday, February 16, 2026 from 4-7 p.m. at the Scale House Brewery, 5930 State Route 414, Hector, NY.

Tracie leaves behind a legacy of hard work, giving, and supporting the youth of our community. Those wishing may consider a donation in her memory to the Watkins Glen Sports Booster Club (303 12th Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891), the Glen Gators Swim Team (P.O. Box 614, Montour Falls, NY 14865), or Schuyler County Youth Baseball and Softball (P.O. Box 309, Watkins Glen, NY 14891).

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in her obituary at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.

Obituary: Mark Knuckles

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by a family member.

Mark Knuckles

Age 58, of Armonk, NY and formerly of Schuyler County, passed away on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Mark was born to Bev Owens Knuckles and Judith Arlene Johnson in St. Louis, Missouri, but spent his childhood in the Finger Lakes playing baseball: a sport that was instilled in him by his grandfather Walter Johnson, who played for Cornell University. Mark earned his Bachelor's Degree at Niagara University, where he played baseball and tennis and was active on campus as the Student Government President. He earned his Juris Doctorate from Quinnipiac University School of Law in Connecticut, where he met his wife, Dolores. After brief employment at several firms, Mark grew his own law firm, now known as Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, of Tarrytown, NY, from the ground up, where his determination and grit earned him great success. Running a firm came naturally to Mark, where he led by example with grace and intelligence.   

However, his most celebrated achievement was supporting his two sons on the baseball field. From tee ball to high school ball to college ball, Mark was actively involved in coaching, planning, training, and spectating Casey and Brady. Mark and his wife, Dolores, loved watching their sons play. In fact, Mark’s affinity for sports did not stop on his sons’ baseball fields. He was a devoted Mets fan, attending the Mets/Yankees World Series in 2000. He also cheered on the Dolphins, the Tennessee Volunteers, and the Kentucky Wildcats.  Another love of Mark’s was the golf course where he was a member at Manhattan Woods Golf Club. 

To say that Mark was bigger than life is an understatement. He ran with the bulls in Spain, traversed the Burgundy Wine Trail in France, and played golf in Ireland. He was the life of the party and could spin a tale like no other. But perhaps his most outstanding trait was his generosity. Mark would give anyone the shirt off his back. He was an avid supporter of St. Joe’s in Montvale, NJ, where his sons attended high school. Hopefully, Mark is listening to the Foo Fighters hit “Everlong” right now while playing the nineteenth hole, where the sun never sets, and the fairways are always green. 

Mark was preceded by his father, Bev Owens Knuckes, and survived by his wife Dolores, his children, Casey and Brady, his mother, Judith Arlene Johnson, his sister Karisma Judith Hendley, his brother Kevin Owens, his brother Jacob Alexander and his wife Beth, his brother Adam Black and his wife Kristen, and several nieces and nephews. 

Friends may visit with the family at the Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ, on Monday, February 9, 2026, from 3:00-8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be celebrated at Vander Plaat Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 10, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Maryrest Cemetery and Mausoleum, 770 Darlington Avenue, Mahwah, NJ. 

Flowers are welcome, or memorial gifts may be directed to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. mskcc.org  Direct donations by check, payable to “Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center,” to P.O. Box 27106, New York, NY 10087. 

Obituary: David C. Teeter

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

David C. Teeter

The Teeter family mourns the loss while celebrating the remarkable life of David C. Teeter, 85, who went Home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

Born on November 29, 1940 in Erin, NY to parents Merrill F. Teeter and Hazel M. (Barwell) Teeter, David lived a life rooted in faith, love, and quiet strength. He was a devoted husband/father/grandfather/great grandfather, and his greatest joy was caring for his family and serving God.

He had a strong conviction to share the hope that he found in Jesus Christ, with everyone he met! “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

He lived out his beliefs through kindness, integrity, and service to others. David loved to cook and worked at several restaurants throughout his career -- Ithaca College, Turback's, Glen Motor Inn, Blue Ribbon, and Curly’s, to name a few, as well as opening two family restaurants, The Alkazar and The Soup Kitchen, where he was known to many for his famous cheese soup and pizza! He loved sharing his love of cooking with his children and grandchildren and many of them have made him proud by following in his footsteps in the food service industry.

Besides his love for cooking, David found much enjoyment and relaxation in gardening! At one time, he cultivated/harvested four big gardens. He loved sharing the fruits of his labor with family and friends and at one time he even had contracts with Wegmans and P&C because of such an abundance! In addition, David was challenged, but not often bested, in his amazing talent of the game of Ping Pong!

David is survived by his loving wife of 62 1/2 years, Patricia L. (Maine) Teeter, and his children, Kelly (John) Armstrong, Jeff (Tamara) Teeter, and Paul (Felicia) Teeter; son-in-law, Jonathan Burns; 19 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren (plus a new great granddaughter due in March); sisters Dorothy Hill, Arlene Webster, and Lois Brooke, and brother Wayne Teeter.

He was preceded in death by brothers Alan and Durwood, sister Lorraine Lent and his beloved daughter, Traci (Teeter) Burns.
 
His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the relationships he built, and the family he cherished. We have no doubt that when David took his last breath and stepped into Heaven that he heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” ~Matthew 25:23.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to many of David’s caretakers at Seneca View, Unit 1, especially Samantha and Tina who became like family, and we are forever grateful for the love and care that they gave to our husband/daddy.
 
A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026. Calling hours are 11:00 a.m.-12:00 noon with a service at 12:00 noon, at the Alpine Baptist Church, 5950 County Road 14, Alpine, NY 14805. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of David to the Alpine Baptist Church building project.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Steven Michael Fazzary

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Steven Michael "Fuzzy" Fazzary

Age 65, a lifelong resident of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away unexpectedly on February 2, 2026.

Steven was born on January 25, 1961, the son of the late Michael "Mickey" Angelo and Linda Fazzary. He worked as an electrician and in maintenance at Watkins Glen International.

He is survived by his daughter, Mikel Fazzary of Cortland; sister and brother-in-law, Shelly and Bill Carufe of Naples, FL; nephews, Kyle Carufe and Brian Carufe; special aunt and uncle Joey and Barbara Fazzary; several close cousins; girlfriend Tammy Davis; and his four-legged friend and buddy, Annie.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date and held in the spring. Condolences to the family may be offered in his guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.

In his memory, please consider a memorial donation to Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association (https://senecalake.org/giving/).

The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.

Obituary: Donna D. Driscoll

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Donna D. Driscoll

Age 76, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away unexpectedly at home on January 21, 2026.

Donna was born in Ithaca, NY, daughter of the late John and Mabel Driscoll of Ithaca and Newfield.

A lifelong seeker of wisdom and beauty, Donna studied philosophy through Wisdom’s Goldenrod and the Center for Philosophic Studies, inspired by the writings of Paul Brunton. She also attended teachings with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama on three occasions, experiences she treasured deeply.

At home, Donna expressed her love through cooking and hospitality. She delighted in preparing food from many cuisines, entertaining guests, and creating a warm and welcoming table. She loved animals and regularly supported humane societies. She found joy outdoors -- swimming in the Finger Lakes, visiting New York State Parks, boating on Seneca Lake, watching sunsets, and traveling to Maine and other parts of New England, as well as Nova Scotia. She also loved music, art, and quiet reflection.

For over twenty years, Donna devoted part of her life to caring for individuals with developmental disabilities through her work with New York State. Those who knew her saw this not as a job, but as another expression of her patience, gentleness, and deep compassion.
Above all, Donna’s greatest devotion was to her son, Stefan, whom she loved with unwavering pride and tenderness.

She is survived by her husband, Stephen M. Trego; her son and daughter-in-law, Stefan Driscoll-Trego and Alyssa Benjamin-Trego; her sister, Michelle Saraceni of Ithaca; sisters-in-law, Dorinda K. Campbell and Tammy A. Morris of Muncie, Indiana, Sue Driscoll of Ithaca, and Kathy Driscoll of Prescott Valley, Arizona; several nieces and nephews; and her lifelong best friend, Mary Ann Schmeltzer of Portland, Oregon.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Donna’s memory to the Schuyler County Humane Society, PO Box 427, Montour Falls, NY 14865, or online at SchuylerHumane.org.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen, NY is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.

Obituary: Jeanine Schoonover

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Jeanine Schoonover

Age 53, of Elmira, NY, a caretaker and loving mother, unexpectedly passed away on January 17, 2026.

Jeanine is survived by her son, Schaefer Scarritt; her siblings, Jeanette Cleveland and William T. LeRoux III; her stepfather, John J. Sebring, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews, and their children.

She was predeceased by her parents, William T. LeRoux Jr. and Sandra A. Sebring, and her brother-in-law, Dale E. Cleveland.

Jeanine was born on June 25, 1972 in Montour Falls, NY. She grew up locally, graduating from Dundee High School in 1990. As a young adult, she married and moved south, eventually settling in Daphne, Alabama, where she had her only son. She spent these years raising her son in the company of her dearest friends. In 2009, Jeanine moved back home to New York, where she worked as a Direct Support Professional.

Jeanine was a passionate and empathetic soul who cared deeply for her loved ones. She always went out of her way to make another’s day shine a bit brighter. She will live on through the beautiful impact she has made on the lives of those who knew her.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, February 7, 2026 from 1-3 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. A Memorial service will follow at 3:00 p.m. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Leone Ruth Bedient Dolliver

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.

Leone Ruth Bedient Dolliver

Age 71, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on January 17, 2026.

Leone was born in western Allegany County in Cuba, NY, the fourth daughter of nine children to Stanley and Ruth Bedient. Her career followed a path of compassion and caring for others as a private home health care giver. Her belief was that while she never did anything spectacular, or made a lot of money, she touched the lives of people when they most needed it, including keeping small children safe after school, dressing, feeding, caring, comforting so many souls, and making a difference in their lives. She hoped to be remembered for that deed.

She was predeceased by her parents; a brother, Brian Bedient, and a grandson, Camden German.

She is survived by three daughters, Corey Dolliver, Sara (Daniel) German, and Katie Dolliver. She is also survived by her siblings, Jeanine (Ron) Watson, Sharon (Jim) Carpenter, Cynthia Bedient (Ellie Ward), Stephen (Debra) Bedient, Khristine Bedient, Betty Lou Bedient and Emilie Bedient; grandchildren that meant the world to her, Alexis Dolliver, Ryan Ames, Olivia Ames, Natalie Cagle, Allyson Cornish, Hannah Ball, Tyler Ball, Emily Ball, Cody Ball, Colby German, Keegan German, Kayleigh German, and Ciara German; one great-grandson, Jordan Kade Jennings; and best friend, Linda Frazier.

The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family in her guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com

Obituary: Mary (Bishop) Nichols

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Mary (Bishop) Nichols

Age 98, of Valois Point, NY, died peacefully on January 15, 2026. 

Mary was born in Alpine, NY on April 17, 1927, the daughter of the late Perry and Eliza (Hendricks) Bishop. 

Mary spent her first 20+ years in the Alpine/Odessa area, marrying Jack Porter Nichols on July 12, 1947. She followed her husband to new adventures as he pursued his career in highway construction/supervision all around upstate New York and into Connecticut. She made a home for her family wherever the next job was, returning each summer to the family home at Valois Point.

Mary was predeceased by her parents; her father-in-law, Claude Nichols; her beloved husband, Jack; her brother, Robert; and her sons-in-law, David Bragg, Joseph Radoll, and Larry Cassady. She is survived by her children: Polly Cassady of Christiansburg, VA, and her children Melani (Adam) of Tarzana, CA, and Jack (Leigh) of Christiansburg, VA and their daughters, Ella and Audrey; Andrea Nichols of Valois, NY and her son Geoff (Tawnya) Bragg of Santa Barbara, CA and Tawnya's daughter Danielle (Matthew) Cervantes of Colorado Springs, CO; Joan Radoll and her children Jackson (Kelsey) Radoll, and Stephanie (Toby) Radoll, all of Seattle, WA.

Mary was a loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend.  Mary will be remembered by all who knew her for her kindness.

She centered her life around her family, working in school-related jobs (teacher assistant, computer lab, even cafeteria) until her girls were out of school. She created a loving home in each new location and made good friends along the way. Mary loved reading, gardening, sewing, knitting and hand crafts. She absolutely loved living by the lake every summer, and then every day for the last 50 years. She loved bird watching, collecting rocks and watching the day start on the lake. She will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.

A celebration of her life will be held in late summer 2026. The family will announce the actual date as it comes closer. Contributions can be made to the EB Pert Library or the Valois Logan Hector Volunteer Fire Company, both in Hector, NY.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, visit www.vedderscottzinger.com.

Obituary: Roger Ward Townsend

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Roger Ward Townsend

Age 86, of Horseheads, NY, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility in Montour Falls, NY. Roger was born on November 4, 1939 to the late Alfred S. Townsend and Alma C. (Townsend) Hogben.

Roger was predeceased by his parents; his stepfather, Norman Hogben; and a daughter, Sally (Townsend) Ormsby.

He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Joann (Semski) Townsend; his children, Susan (William) Borden, Sherry (Mark) Lombardo, John (Carol) Dunbar, Christie Anderson, and Melisia (Richard) Reilly; son-in-law, Dan Ormsby; brother, Chauncey (Kathy) Townsend; sisters-in-law, Diann (Mark) Murphy, Susan Kelly, and Carolann (David) Dreisbach; grandchildren, Dawn (Ben) Edwards, Jeff (Autumn) Ormsby, Matt (Heather) Ormsby, Tiffany (Nick) Joseph, Brandisue (Doug) Perry, Justin (Faith) Townsend, Katrina (Mitch) Woodward, John Michael Wood, Carrie Dunbar, Celeste (Adam) Leach, Steven Shaffer, Zackary Shaffer, Erica (Joseph) Westervelt, Courtney (Paul) Flahive, Kaylee Reilly and Julia Reilly; along with 21 great-grandchildren, and one that is on the way.

Roger attended Trumansburg High School. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, where he served as a helicopter mechanic on the USS Wasp. He spent most of his career as a heavy equipment operator with the New York State Department of Transportation, based in Ithaca, NY. In his retirement, he continued to work as a full-time bus driver in Alexander County, NC. Roger was an active community member and volunteer, serving as past Fire Chief for the Interlaken Volunteer Fire Department, and maintaining active membership in both the Trumansburg American Legion and the Interlaken Sportsman Club. He was also a faithful member of the Trumansburg United Methodist Church. Roger was also an outdoor enthusiast, and in his free time enjoyed hunting, gardening, camping, traveling, and watching NASCAR.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of Seneca View Skilled Nursing, Unit 3, for their kindness and attentive care.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Trumansburg American Legion in May. Memorial contributions may be made to the Interlaken Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 274, Interlaken, NY 14847. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Edward Lee Ames Sr.

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Edward Lee Ames Sr.

Age 90, passed from this life on Monday, November 17, 2025 in Burleson, TX.

Ed was born on April 1, 1935 in Elmira, NY to the late William and Hazel Ames. Growing up in Bennettsburg and Burdett, NY with four siblings, he graduated from Watkins Glen Central High School in 1955. He worked and raised his family in Watkins Glen, where he continued to reside until he moved to Harrisburg, NC and eventually Burleson, TX.

Having been bitten by the auto racing bug at age 13 when the first sports car races came to the streets of Watkins Glen, Ed was a lifelong fan of many forms of motor racing, but NASCAR was his favorite. He raced Go Karts in his early years and worked as a mechanic for Swarthout’s Garage and The Ford Garage in Watkins Glen before joining Central Asphalt. He was proud of his work and loved the camaraderie and brotherhood of the company. Ed retired from Central Asphalt after 38 years of dedicated service.

In retirement, he made every effort to gather his family for holidays, birthdays, picnics, boating, racing and just goofing around. Prior to wife Sandy’s passing, NASCAR at the Glen, Vintage Grand Prix weekends and traveling to different tracks in their RV or camping around the Finger Lakes were a shared passion and annual ritual for many years. He enjoyed traveling, but home with family was the best.

He was pre-deceased by wife, Sandra Ames, parents William and Hazel Ames, brothers William, Robert, Richard and Daniel Ames, sister-in-law Marie Ames, brother-in-law Richard Bradley and step-children Kim Cherkis and Kevin Rudy.

He is survived by his children, Edward Ames (Melissa) of Crowley, TX, Susan Maccou (Alberto) of Myrtle Beach, SC, Pamela Ames (Tony Dempsey) of Rochester, NY, Mark Ames of Hood River, OR and step-daughter Kay Rogers (Ty) of Watkins Glen.

He is also survived by sister Ann Bradley of Florida and sisters-in-law Connie Palmer of Horseheads, NY and Anna Ames of NC. Surviving grandchildren are Dr. Elana Maccou , Manuel Maccou, Megan Olson (Michael), Shannon Williams (Jake) and Bridger and Lily Ames. Surviving step-grandchildren are Christin Bressett, Christopher Cherkis, Kyle Rogers, Kayla Rudy and Andrew Rudy. Surviving great-grandchildren are Caleb, Felipe, Harrison, and Charlotte. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Montour Cemetery, Mill St, Montour Falls, NY.

The Vedder -Scott & Zinger Funeral Home of Montour Falls and Lucas Funeral Home of Burleson, TX are handling the arrangements. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Donations can be made to the International Motor Racing Research Center, 610 South Decatur Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Obituary: Harry Davis

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Harry Davis

Age 71, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, January 17, 2026. Harry was born on November 4, 1954 to the late Walter and Isabella (Landon) Davis, Sr. He was the eighth son of thirteen children.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Lewis Davis, Walter Davis, Jr., John Davis, Sr., David Davis, Dan Davis and Ransome Davis, Sr.; along with sisters, Sandy Davis and Carol (Davis) Kinner.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria (Ganung) Davis; his daughter, Jamie Davis; and son, Justin Davis; a brother, Dale Davis; sisters, Diane (Davis) Carnes, Cynthia (Davis) Miller and Rebecca (Davis) Johnston; sisters-in-law, Betty (Ganung) DeNardo and Donna (Ganung) Henley; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Harry was employed as a machinist at Ingersoll Rand/Dresser Rand for 28 years. He was also employed by Bill’s Machine Shop & Target Builders before retiring due to health concerns.

He and his wife were married on August 16, 1975 at the Watkins Glen State Park Pavilion. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last year. Harry was a devoted member of the Jehovah’s Witness Congregation in Watkins Glen for over 40 years.

Harry enjoyed working on cars and tinkering around his home with his son. He took pleasure in cooking meals and liked sharing his food with friends and family. He was a fan of country music and Western TV shows. He enjoyed listening to the original songs and videos from the JW Broadcast.

Harry’s family would like to extend their appreciation to the Carefirst NY Hospice team that cared for him during his final days.

According to his wishes, Harry will be cremated and interred alongside his parents in Beaver Dams.

Family and friends are invited to call on Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls. A funeral service led by Eddie Duet will follow at 1:30 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall, 2590 State Route 414, Montour Falls.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Gerald Russell Crainey

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Gerald Russell Crainey

Age 90, of Cayuta, NY, passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Schuyler Hospital. Gerald was born on June 13, 1935 in Cayuta to the late Russell and Myrtle (States) Crainey.

Gerald was predeceased by a son, Russell Crainey; a daughter, Andrea Brookes; sister, Gladys Beebe; son-in-law, Michael Merrick, and grandsons, Levi Merrick and Joey Besecker.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 56 years, C. Joyce Crainey, at home; his children, Tammy Merrick of Waverly, NY, Julie Pfister of Ohio, Randy Besecker of Horseheads, NY and Monica Gardner of Burdett, NY; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Nick Schroth (Cassie Povero) and their children, Kristine (Jennifer) Gardner and their daughter, Ashley Schroth, Danielle Schroth and her children, Russell Crainey and his son, Tyler Crainey, Brandon Besecker and his family, Riley Merrick and his daughter, Cody Merrick and his family, Amber Merrick and her children, Matthew Brooke, Becka Pfister and her family, and Bradley Pfister.

Gerald attended Odessa-Montour High School, graduating with the Class of 1953. He worked for the Schuyler County Highway Department as a mechanic and supervisor, retiring in 1998 after 27 years of devoted service.

He loved the outdoors. After making his home in Cayuta, he found joy in making maple syrup, as well as hunting and fishing.

A special thank you to Nick, Cassie and Tammy for their love and care.

There will be no funeral services at this time. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Howard Tallman Searles

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Howard Tallman Searles, Jr.

Age 95, of Odessa, NY passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026 after a brief illness. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Odessa Baptist Church, 111 Fowler Place, Odessa.

Howard was born in Geneva, NY on May 19, 1930, to the late Howard and Elizabeth Searles. He graduated from Geneva High School and SUNY Delhi with a degree in Construction Management and SUNY Oswego with a degree in Industrial Arts Education.

Howard was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Marietta Knisley Searles, in 2010. He is survived by his son, Alan Searles of Odessa, and daughters, Carol French (Rick) of Bradford, NY and her children Shannon (Mat) and Aaron (Megan) and their children Dominik and Colton; and Mary Beth (James) Huber of Raleigh, NC and her children Bryan and Timothy. He is also survived by his sisters Christine Milne, Dorene MacDonald, Marion (Richard) Buck and Isabel (Jack) Mroczkowski and sister-in-law Patricia Searles. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Fred Searles and sister Sally Booth and brother- and sister-in-laws Edward MacDonald, Bruce Milne, Eugene Knisley, John Knisley and Kathleen Blackburn.

Howard was a long-time member of the Odessa Baptist Church, where he served as a Trustee and Treasurer for many years. He retired from Odessa-Montour Central School where he taught wood shop for 25 years. Howard was a master woodworker whose work can be found in many homes in the area.

He was a long-time member of the Odessa Lions Club and was also an Odessa Village Trustee from 1964-1968 and Mayor of Odessa from 1968-1974, overseeing the construction of the Village Hall that included a Community Center and Fire Station completed in 1970. Howard and Marietta enjoyed going on many trips with family and friends. Howard also loved working on jigsaw puzzles, especially when his grandchildren and great-grandchildren assisted.

Howard was drafted in the Korean War, serving from May 1951 to February 1953. He spent 10 months in Korea with the 7th Infantry Division, 31st Regiment, Heavy Mortar Company.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Odessa Baptist Church, PO Box 149, Odessa, NY 14869.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Helena Fern VanDyke

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Helena Fern VanDyke

Age 83, of Ithaca, NY passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. She was born on December 29, 1942 in Auburn, NY to the late Horace and Dorothy (Andrews) VanDyke.

She was predeceased by her parents; and her brothers, Arthur “Art” VanDyke and David T. VanDyke.

She is survived by her sister, Cora Sue Davis; sister-in-law, Francis (Oliver) VanDyke; along with several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Helena was an active volunteer in the Ithaca area, where she made her home. She also competed in the Special Olympics, and faithfully attended the Church on the Rock (Reliant Center) for over 40 years.

Helena will be laid to rest at Pleasant View Cemetery in Reading Center, NY. Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Audrey M. Brand

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Perkins Funeral Home, Dryden.

Audrey M. Brand
Age 61, of Ithaca, NY

Audrey Marie Brand, a beloved sister and aunt, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025 following a brief illness, surrounded by the love of her family.

Audrey’s life was an endeavor of love. From her weekly calls to the cards she never failed to mail, she made it her mission to keep our family connected.

She will be truly missed by her sisters Marian Hovencamp, Joanne Brand, Patricia (Jim) Meenen, Kathy Hunger, and Margaret (Tim) Munroe; brothers Edward (Tina) Brand, Joseph (Karen) Brand and twin Michael (Amy) Brand; and many nieces and nephews who she cherished.

Audrey was born in Mineola ,NY, the daughter of the late Marian and Joseph Brand. She spent many years in Burdett and Watkins Glen, NY before relocating to Ithaca, where she lived for the past 18 years and built many meaningful friendships at Lakeview.

Audrey lived a life defined by extraordinary strength and an unshakeable resilience. Regardless of the challenges she faced, she met them with a spirit that inspired us all. Audrey’s legacy will continue through eye and tissue donation. Just as she lived her life with a generous heart, she has now given the gift of healing and sight to others. Her strength lives on not only in our memories but in the lives she has forever changed.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Perkins Funeral Home. www.perkinsfuneralhome.com

Obituary: Robert C. Lewis

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Robert C. “Bobby” Lewis

Age 72, of Horseheads, NY, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026.

Bobby was born in Corning, NY on May 5, 1953, the son of the late Jack and Fannie (Ector) Lewis. He attended Watkins Glen Central School before going on to serve with the U.S. Navy from 1971-1972.

He worked at RKB in Elmira for 27 years and later worked at US Salt for many years. Bobby married his wife, Zandra, on September 4, 2004.

Bobby enjoyed running 5K’s with his children, motorcycle riding, hunting and taking care of his lawn. He will be sorely missed by his family!

He is survived by his wife, Zandra; children, Robert Lewis, Samantha (Jacob) Rouse, Amanda Lewis (Shawn Murphy), Cassandra (Aaron) Thomas, Jared (Lacey) Lewis and Randall (Samantha) Ribble; step son, Justin May; sixteen grandchildren; brother, Jack (Joanne) Lewis; sister-in-law, Margaret Sherman; and by several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, Thomas Lewis; and sister, Rebecca Lewis.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. A graveside service with military honors will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Beaver Dams Cemetery.

To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Joann K. Whitted

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Joann K. (Inman) Whitted

Age 70, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Thursday, January 1, 2026 at Schuyler Hospital. Joann was born in Ithaca, NY on April 14, 1955 to the late Calvin C. and Etta E. (Tyler) Inman.

Joann was predeceased by her parents; brothers, Michael Inman and Calvin Inman; and a sister, Linda Smith. She is survived by a son, Timothy Whitted; three daughters; siblings, Russell (Stacy) Whitted, Patricia (Mike) Allen and Sandra Inman; longtime companion Robert Franklin; along with eight grandchildren.

Joann worked in the Catering Dept. at Cornell University for many years. She enjoyed gardening, helping friends and watching wildlife. She will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.
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A Celebration of Life will be held in late spring. Contributions may be made to your local animal shelter, veterans or mental health organization. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com

Obituary: Raymond K. Emery

The following obituary was submitted to The Odessa File by the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.

Raymond K. Emery

Age 86, of Montour Falls, NY passed away on January 6, 2026 at Schuyler Hospital after an illness. The day before, he enjoyed calls from family and visits from friends, making his 86th birthday memorable. He joins Patty, his wife of 60 years, in eternal rest.

Ray was born in Zephyrhills, FL, the son of Kenneth V Emery and Deloris (Geiger) Emery.  At 17 years old he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, assigned to the USS Howard W. Gilmore (AS-16) as an EMFN with specialized training as the ship's diver. When honorably discharged, Ray relocated to Cortland, NY, where he met his wife, Patricia Stillman of Virgil, NY. Ray started working at Crocker Farms Dairy, Cortland, and then on to Lady Pamela Dairy, Horseheads, NY, where he delivered bottled milk door-to-door. 

Ray relocated with his family and started a career at International Salt Co. (AKZO Salt Co./US Salt Co.), Watkins Glen, NY, where he advanced to foreman and retired after 30 years. Both during employment and after retirement, he had various jobs: Watkins Glen International Race Track, at the gate selling tickets each race season; the New York State Park, Watkins Glen, at the main entrance ticket booth; also the Falls Home Assisted Living Facility Montour Falls, as a driver for residents.

Ray was a volunteer fireman at the Odessa Fire Department and also volunteered as driver for the Schuyler County Ambulance Association. He was a past member of several local and national clubs, Montour Falls Moose #426, Trumansburg Masonic Lodge #15, Mechanics Club,  American Legion, Odessa Community Conservation Club where he was on the pistol team competing with other clubs each week at the pistol range, and the Gold Wing Road Riders Association, with fellow "trike" enthusiasts. Ray served as President of the USS Howard W Gilmore Memorial Association where he would organize the annual ship reunion each year at different ports around the country.

Ray was predeceased by his wife in 2021, his parents, mothers and fathers-in-law. He is survived by his children, Dean (Toby) Emery of Orlando, FL and Darlene Emery Munroe of Montour Falls. Also surviving him are his sisters Geneva Pollock of NC, Kathy (Chuck) Emery of VA, Debbie Hart of KY, and Agnes Spurgeon of OH, and brother Ernest Warren of TN. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Charlotte Carter of Cortland, NY, and Denise (David) Primeaux, of LA; brother-in-law William Wakefield of MI; and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Odessa Rescue, Schuyler Ambulance, and doctors, nurses and staff at Schuyler Hospital, who took care of Ray this year and during the most recent stay since November. Also our gratitude and sincere thank you to neighbors and friends that came to visit and be with him during his final hours.

At Raymond's request, no services will be held. Interment will be planned at a later date in Virgil, NY.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit vedderscottzinger.com