For recent death notices, scroll to the bottom of this page.

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Obituaries

Fraboni, Benjamin F.

Benjamin F. Fraboni, age 75, of Cayuta, NY, has died. Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside committal service for Mr. Fraboni on Thursday, April 24, 2008 at 11:00 AM in the Montour Cemetery, Montour Falls, NY, where full Military Honors will be accorded.

Pulos, Rosemary

Rosemary was a woman of incredible class, grace and strength. Born in 1922, she lived during a period when women stayed at home to raise their families. Her many talents, then, were known only to her close circle of friends and to her family. Rosemary, along with her husband, of 64 years, Tony (who predeceased her in 2006), built Chef’s Diner into an area landmark in Montour Falls.

She was a devoted wife and mother and is survived by her two children, Diane and John (Maryalice); her grandchildren, Morgane, Rob LaRue and Samantha Bailey (David); her cousins, Joanne McLaine and RJ Campbell (Nancy), and her sister-in-law, Catherine Blanchard (Gordon).

Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at 1 P.M. at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in Watkins Glen, NY. There will be no calling hours.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Rosemary’s name to the Tony Pulos Memorial Fund, in care of Schuyler Health Foundation, Box 828, Montour Falls, NY. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

Decker, Wilbur H. Jr.

Age 78, of 5th Street, Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on Thursday, April 17, 2008 at Schuyler Hospital.

Wilbur is survived by his wife, Hope Merrick Decker; daughters Patti Ann (David) Nagy, Karen (Willie) Terry and Robin Lynn (David) Edwards, all of Huntsville, AL; 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; a sister, Mary Jane Decker; a brother, Robert (Waneta) Decker; an aunt, Genevieve Dean; sisters-in-law Marie Decker and Peggy Jean Decker; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Decker was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Jean & Reed Erle; and by brothers Wayne F. Decker and Donald E. Decker.

He was a member and past commander of the Cole-Hansonberger-Deland Post #676, American Legion, Odessa, NY. He was also a member and past treasurer of the Loyal Order of Moose #426, Montour Falls, and a member of the Friends of the Watkins Glen Library.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church St., Odessa, NY, on Saturday, April 19, 2008, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. His funeral service will be held there following visitation at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Watkins Glen, NY, where full Military Honors will be accorded.

Flowers are acceptable, or those wishing may remember Mr. Decker through memorials to the Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 or to the Friends of the Watkins Glen Library, 610 S. Decatur Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Wich, Robert E.

Of State Route 228, Alpine, NY, died April 10, 2008 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center, Elmira, NY.

He was born in Elmira, NY, on June 2, 1923, the son of the late Frederick & Lillian Geisa Wich. He is survived by his children, Robert & Mary Jo Wich of Painted Post, NY, Diane & James Benjamin of Alpine, NY, and Steven & Katherine Wich of Alpine, NY; grandchildren, Wendy (Sherwood) Underdown, Michael (Angie) Benjamin, Joann Wich, and Steven, Brian and Laura Wich; great-grandchildren, Alexandria & Jesse Underdown, Jordyn Manzer and Orrey Benjamin; brother, Roger (Nancy) Wich of Elmira, NY; sister-In-law, Alma Wich of Rochester, NY; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Wich was predeceased by his wife “Prudy” in 1995 after 52 years of marriage; brothers Fred (Hap), Jack & Charles, and his sister, Betty.

Mr. Wich retired in 1985 from Courser, Inc., Big Flats, NY, as a Master Tool & Die Maker. He was a member of the Mecklenburg United Methodist Church and was a faithful member of the Cole-Hansonberger-Deland American Legion Post # 676, Odessa, NY. Mr. Wich served his country during WW II in the European Theater. Bob took great pride in is family, home and farm.

The family will receive relatives and friends at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church Street, Odessa, NY on Sunday, April 13, 2008 between the hours of 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM. His funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Monday at 10:00 AM. The Rev. Jeannie Bleiler will officiate; interment will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery, Elmira, NY, where full military honors will be accorded Mr. Wich. Expressions of sympathy may be directed to the American Legion Post #676 Odessa, NY.

The family of Mr. Wich would like to thank the Staff on Floor 3C at Arnot Ogden Medical Center for the wonderful and compassionate care of their father.

Barr, Charlotte M.

Of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2008 at the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, NY.

Mrs. Barr was predeceased by her husband, John H. Barr, on Nov. 17, 1989 and by her grandson, John Barr, Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Lucille Barr, of Montour Falls, NY; sons Fred (Ruth) Barr of Montour Falls, NY, and J. Nathan (Michiel) Barr of Bennettsburg, NY; and six grandchildren.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family, with burial in Montour Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

Williams, Sandra Marie (Moran)

Williams, Sandra Marie (Moran), of Odessa, New York passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2008 after a long battle with cancer.

She is survived by her husband of 39 years, (Deacon) Thomas Williams; daughter, Teresa Marie Ehresman (Charles) of Seneca Falls, NY; son, Gary Williams of Alexandria, Virginia; loving grandchildren; Danielle Katherine Ehresman and Matthew Peter Ehresman; sister, Carol Landon (Gary) of Rochester, Minnesota; mother-in-law Mary S. Williams of Rochester, NY; brother-in-law Gary R. Williams (Sue) of Milwaukee, WI, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Beatrice Moran; brother, Thomas Moran; aunt, Marie S. Wood, and loving niece Michelle Moran, all of Owego, New York.

Sandy was born on July 10, 1946 in Johnson City, New York. She was a graduate of Owego Free Academy and Delhi Tech. She married Tom on May 24, 1969 in St. Patrick’s, Owego, New York. They lived in Rochester, New York from 1971 to 1973 before settling in Odessa, New York.

Sandy was a quiet, loving person. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. Sandy was a devoted and hardworking homemaker, was gifted in accounting, and loved gardening, the Florida sunshine and the ocean. She and Tom were winter residents in Palm Bay Estates Senior Mobile Home Community in Palm Bay, Florida, where they have many close friends. Sandy was proud to be the mother of a Duke University graduate, her son Gary. She was a passionate follower of the men and women’s basketball teams. She cherished a plaque with a piece of the Cameron Indoor Stadium basketball floor and an autographed copy of a book by Coach K.

One of the happiest days of her life was the wedding of her daughter Teresa to Chuck Ehresman on June 30, 2001. The living room of her home is filled with pictures of her grandchildren. Sandy was a 21-year breast cancer survivor before a reoccurrence. She endured the treatments and surgeries to courageously battle the disease. She “fought the good fight” and the “victory of life is won.” The family wishes to extend gratitude to Dr. Douglas McKane, Dr. Thomas Abderhalden, Dr. Rose Byland, Dr. Serge Dauphin, the Internal Medicine doctors and all the dedicated staff members at Arnot-Ogden Medical Center for the loving care extended to her.

The family will receive relatives and friends at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church Street, Odessa, New York on Wednesday, April 9, 2008 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Sandy’s Holy Eucharist will be held on Thursday, April 10 at 3:00 PM in St. James Episcopal Church, Lake and Main Street, Hammondsport, New York. The celebrant will be The Rt. Rev. Jack M. McKelvey, Episcopal Bishop of Rochester; The Rev. Sandra K. Curtis will be the Homilist; The Rev. Philip Kuhn and The Rev. Michael Hartney will assist. Sandy’s final resting place will be in Lakeview Cemetery, Watkins Glen, New York.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St. James’s Episcopal Church, Lake & Main St., Hammondsport, New York 14840.

Wickham, Loyal H.

Age 92, of Alpine, New York, passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2008 at Seneca View Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, NY.

Loyal is survived by his wife, Janice Simpkins Wickham of Montour Falls, NY; son, David & Teri Wickham of Tularosa, NM; daughter, Sandra & David Sidle, Alpine, NY; and son, John & Jackie Wickham also of Alpine, NY; stepchildren, Rodney & Sybil VanHouten, and Janice & Kevin Donahue, along with 8 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren; and sister, Cora Angeline Hall of Montour Falls, NY, and many nieces, nephews and cousins and a host of friends.

Loyal was a lifetime farmer, and best known as a horse dealer and owner of many horses for over fifty years. His children, grandchildren and great grandchildren have also taken a liking to horses. Loyal and his wife spent many a weekend camping and listening to bluegrass music, a definite favorite of his.

Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday, March 27, 2008 from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM at the Vedder & Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church St., Odessa, NY, with Loyal’s funeral to follow at 3:00 PM., The Rev. Jeanne Bleiler to officiate. Interment will be in Laurel Hill Cemetery on Friday, March 28th at 11:00 AM.

Brown, Frances Ward

Frances Ward Brown, age 87, of Montour Falls, NY, formerly of Hornell, NY, passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at her home.

Her children, Michael Brown of Burdett, NY, Peggy States of Montour Falls, NY and Susan Jelliff of New Marker, TN, survive her. She also leaves a brother, Robert Ward; two sisters, Martha Boone and Mary Cucinelli; eleven grandchildren, and ten great grandchildren. Her husband, H. Evan Brown, along with her parents and two sisters, predeceased her.

There will be no calling hours, and a private memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family in accordance with her wishes. Arrangements are under the direction of Vedder and Scott Funeral Home.

Pritchard, Thomas E.

Thomas E. Pritchard of Odessa, New York passed away on March 18, 2008 at Seneca View Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, NY after a long illness.

He is survived by his wife Joan, his children, grandchildren, sister, brother, nieces and nephews.

At his request there will be no calling hours. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Thursday, April 10, 2008 at 6:00 PM. The Rev. George Norton will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Tom may do so through memorial contributions to the Seneca View Nursing Facility, 220 Steuben St., Montour Falls, NY or to the First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 578, Montour Falls, NY.

Strickland, Evelyn May

Age 82, of Watkins Glen, NY passed away March 8, 2008 at her home.

Mrs. Strickland was predeceased by her husband, Edwin, and her son, Barry, and is survived by sons Dana of Connecticut, Scott of North Dakota and Todd of Connecticut; a daughter, Deborah Pastett of Watkins Glen, NY; grandchildren Mark, Wanda, Bethany, Brooke, Jason, Taylor, Alyssa and Jackie, and six great-grandchildren.

Evelyn was born to the late William and Lillian Cramer Tesner on January 29, 1926 in New Haven, CT, where she lived until 1989, when she moved to Watkins Glen, New York to be closer to her son Barry and his family, only a mile down the road.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, April 10, 2008 at 5:00 PM at Brynhurst Drive, Las Vegas, Nevada, to celebrate her life. Interment will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Vedder & Scott Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

Havens, Howard H. “Tub”

Age 89, of Mecklenburg, NY, passed away on Friday, March 14, 2008 at his home.

He is survived by his wife, Norma; children, Donna Havens (Bob Deminick), Sandra (Richard) Bradford & James Havens; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and brothers Wesley Havens and Charles Havens.

Mr. Havens was a retired farmer and carpenter. He was also a former member of the Mecklenburg Volunteer Fire Department.

The family will receive relatives and friends at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY, on Wednesday, March 19, 2008 from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Odessa, NY.

Fraboni, Anthony J. Sr.

Age 67, of Elmira, NY, passed away on Friday, March 7, 2008 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center, Elmira.

Mr. Fraboni is survived by his wife, Sharon Fraboni; children, Michele Williams with her children John Lockner & Brandon Williams of Norcross, GA, Elizabeth Rios with her son Andrius Rios of Doraville, GA, and Anthony Chambers of Nuremberg, Germany; five grandchildren and two great grandchildren; brothers James W. (Connie) Fraboni of Riverview, FL, Kenneth (Ruth) Fraboni of Milton, PA, and Richard M. (Virginia) Fraboni of Montour Falls, NY; sisters Jean (Francis) Parker of Montour Falls, NY, Helene Fraboni of Tonawanda, NY, and Cicelia O’Connor of VA; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by stepchildren Tamara & Mark Edsal of Corning, NY, and Michael Jaynes of VA, and step grandchildren Corey & Jessica.

Mr. Fraboni served in the U.S. Army for 28 years and saw four tours of duty in Vietnam. He was a member of the Clarence Oliver Post #154, American Legion, Elmira Heights, NY. He was also employed with Lakeside Nursing Home, Ithaca, NY, for five years.

The family will receive friends at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY, on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 between the hours of 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. His funeral service will be held following visitation at 8:00 PM. Interment in Montour Cemetery will be at the convenience of the family.

Those wishing to remember Mr. Fraboni may do so through memorials to the American Cancer Society, 1316 College Ave., Elmira, NY 14901.

Ganung, John R.

Age 89, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Friday, March 7, 2008 at the Seneca View Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, NY.

His wife Jennie, son Richard, and son-in-law Dennis Henley predeceased Mr. Ganung. John is survived by his children, John (Debbie) Ganung of Waterville, NY, Gloria (Harry) Davis of Watkins Glen, NY, Betty (Mike) DeNardo of Montour Falls, NY, and Donna Henley of Waverly, NY; grandchildren Jamie, Justin, Samantha, Sarah, Patti, Haley, and Niki & Chrissy; brother Carl (Arlene) of Salt Lake City, UT; brother Frank Ganung, sister-in-law Jane Ganung and brother-in-law Bob (Fran) Sample, all of Montour Falls, NY; and several nieces and nephews.

John retired from International Salt Co., Watkins Glen, NY, and served his country with the U.S. Army. John was a long-time volunteer for the Schuyler County Office for the Aging.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY, on Monday, March 10, 2008 between the hours of 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. His funeral and committal service will be held following visitation at 6:00 PM. Interment will be in Montour Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Those wishing to remember Mr. Ganung may do so through memorials to the Schuyler County Office for the Aging or to the Montour Falls Volunteer Fire Department.

Johnson, Victor G.

Age 78, of Millport, NY, passed away on Saturday, March 1, 2008 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center.

He was born on June 17, 1929 in Elmira, NY. Victor was the son of the late Maude Johnson Stevens and Arthur Johnson, Sr. He is predeceased by his brothers Arthur Johnson, Jr. and Richard Johnson.

Victor is survived by his wife of 49 years, Margaret (Doolittle) Johnson of Millport; son David Johnson of Millport; daughters Barbara (Barry) James of Elmira and Patricia Johnson of Bellingham, WA; two special grandsons, Brandon and Douglas; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law James & Louise Doolittle of San Diego, CA.

He was retired from Shepard Niles Corp., Montour Falls. Victor was a life member of the Mechanics Club in Montour Falls, and a member of the Montour Falls Moose Lodge #426. He enjoyed bowling, gardening, golfing and playing cards.

In keeping with Victor’s wishes, private services will take place at the convenience of the family. Interment will take place in Millport Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home.

Donations in Victor’s memory may be made to the Montour Falls Fire Department, P.O. Box 369, Montour Falls, NY 14865.

Saunders, Frederick A. (Ted)

Age 87, of Montour Falls, passed away on Monday, March 3, 2008 at Schuyler Hospital.

Born on October 24, 1920 in Montour Falls, NY, the son of the late Arthur & Ruth Babcock Saunders, he graduated from Cook Academy in Montour Falls in 1938. Ted was employed at Shepard Niles until 1942, when he enlisted in the Air Force. He married Evelyn Angus while in flight training in 1944 and graduated from Aviation Cadet Corps in June of 1944 and spent a total of 3 1/2 years in the service during World War Two including one year overseas in China, Burma and the India Theatre.

At war’s end he returned to Shepard Niles and later moved to International Salt Co. in Watkins Glen, NY. He retired from the Salt Co. in 1982 with 31 1/2 years of service. Ted was a life member and regular member of the Mechanics Club of Montour Falls and at various times had served as President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer.

His wife Evelyn, with whom he celebrated 64 years of marriage, survives Ted. He is also survived by daughters Patricia (Dan) Murray of Wellsville, NY, Peggy Saunders of Watkins Glen, NY, Pamela Saunders of Elmira, NY, and Nancy (Dwayne) Aycock of Rochester, NY; sons Richard (Carol) Saunders and David (Martha) Saunders, all of Montour Falls, NY; fourteen grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren.

The family will receive relatives and friends at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY, on Thursday, March 6, 2008 between the hours of 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. His funeral and committal services will be held following visitation at 6:00 PM. The Rev. George Norton and Rev. Elaine White will officiate. Interment in Montour Cemetery will be at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Mr. Saunders may do so through memorials to either the Montour Falls Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 369, Montour Falls, NY 14865, Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY 14891 or to a church of one’s choice.

Jackson, Virginia R.

Age 84, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Thursday, February 28, 2008 at the Arnot Ogden Medical Center, Elmira, NY.

Virginia is survived by her son, Robert C. Wheaton (Violeta) of Bremerton, WA; a daughter, Amy S. Field (Kenneth) of Watkins Glen, NY; grandchildren Christopher & Bobby Wheaton, Brandon (Carrie) Welty, Emilee Welty (Robby), Kimberly (Bob) Santoni, Kelly (David) Schector, Kenny (Alissa) Field, and Kristin & Kelly Field; great grandchildren Shannon & Rebecca Santoni, Aaron & Alex Schector, and Kaylee Mae Welty & Drue Jackson Welty; a sister, Paula Clark; a special sister-in-law, Joan Petric; special friends Don & Jessamine Brutsman and Diane Tobias, and a host of nieces and nephews. Mrs. Jackson was predeceased by her mother and father, Earl & Ruth Bills; her husband, Arthur H. Jackson; a daughter, Patricia Ann Tillis; a sister, Lucy Elmore; a brother, Eugene Bills; and a nephew, Ronald (Butch) Rhodes.

Mrs. Jackson was a former employee of the Montour Pharmacy.

In accordance with Virginia’s wishes, there will be no prior calling hours or funeral services.

Those wishing to remember Virginia may do so through memorials in her memory to the Montour Falls Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 369, Montour Falls, NY 14865, or to the Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

Donnelly, Thomas W.

Thomas W. Donnelly, 45, of 62 Watson Road, Turbotville, PA, died Thursday, February 21, 2008 at the Gatehouse Hospice in Williamsport, PA, following a six-year courageous battle against colon cancer.

Tom is survived by his wife, Nicole Marks Donnelly; a daughter, Jaimie, and a son, Thomas Jr., all at home. Other survivors include: parents Michael & Bonnie Donnelly of Odessa, NY; sisters Melinda Jiusto (Scott) of Worchester, MA, Julie Blaha of Odessa, NY, and Colleen Donnelly Hack (Paul) of Portland, OR; a grandmother, Margaret Donnelly of Montour Falls, NY; a father in law & mother in law, Van & Kathy Marks of Milton, PA, and a host of extended family members and friends.

Tom was pre-deceased by his brother-in-law, Doug Blaha, in December 2006.

Tom was employed by the Allenwood Federal Penitentiary as Superintendent of Facility Maintenance. He proudly served his country in Iraq during the Gulf War, and then settled in his home in the country, where he was always applying his building and renovation talents. Tom enjoyed the outdoors and spent his spare time with his family and friends fishing, camping, and canoeing on the lakes and rivers.

In keeping with Tom’s wishes, private arrangements and cremation were handled by the Shaw Funeral Home in Milton, PA.

In his hometown where he grew up, Ton was a member of the Montour Falls, NY Moose Lodge #426, where he stopped in to visit with friends after fishing in Catherine Creek. At a time to be announced later in the spring, friends and family will be invited to the Montour Falls Moose Lodge to honor and celebrate Tom’s life.

Fraboni, Emily L.

Age 77, of Scott, LA, formerly of Montour Falls, NY, passed away at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center, Lafayette, LA after an extended illness.

Mrs. Fraboni was born in the Town of Starkey, NY, the daughter of the late William Enos Trank and Anna May (Rice) Trank. She is survived by her husband, Leo J. Fraboni; sons John (Linda) Fraboni of Myrtle Beach, SC, and Raymond (Peggy) Fraboni of Elmira, NY; a daughter, JoLea Wegner of Myrtle Beach, SC; grandchildren Christian & Ashley Mooney, Lisa Russell, Chad & Gary Fraboni, and Heidi & Hope Wegner; great grandchildren Aubrie, Miranda, Carissa & Julia Russell; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, her brothers, Tom, Charles, Earl, Bob, William and John Trank, and a grandson, Noel Fraboni, predeceased Emily.

The family will receive relatives and friends at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Monday, February 25, 2008 between the hours of 6:00 PM & 8:00 PM. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s of The Lake Church, Watkins Glen, NY on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow in Hillside Cemetery, Dundee, NY.

Those wishing to remember Mrs. Fraboni may do so through memorials to Schuyler County Catholic Charities, 607 N. Franklin St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891 in her name.

Hayes, Jeffrey B. (Cheech)

Age 51, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on February 6, 2008 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his wife, Betty and his loving family.

Jeff was the son of Clarence “Skip” Hayes (1930-2002) and Margarita Hayes of Odessa, NY. He was a loving husband to Betty Hayes, Montour Falls, NY, and father to son Doug Habbershaw (Michelle Frost), Ohio, daughter Jeuillie Hayes of Montour Falls, NY, and very proud grandfather to Tyler and Kyleigh Hayes-Christensen. He is also survived by brothers Jesse Hayes of Ithaca, NY, sister Linda (Kirk) Smith of Odessa, NY; brother John Hayes of Lansing, NY; sister Christina (James) Inman of Lansing, NY; best friend and Cousin Steve Hayes of Montour Falls, NY, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was godfather to Nichole and Zachary Coleman.

Jeff graduated from Odessa-Montour Central School in 1975. He served in the United States Air Force.

He was employed at the New York State Academy of Fire Sciences in Montour Falls. He also was a 22-year employee of Therm Incorporated, Ithaca, NY.

Jeff enjoyed hunting, drawing, horseshoes, NASCAR, football, horse racing and the company of good friends and family

He was a very hard worker and cared greatly for his family and friends. He always did whatever he had to do, in order to take care of and support them.

Jeff will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Tuesday, Feb 12, 2008 at 3:00 PM. The Rev. Sheila Price will officiate. A reception will be held following Jeff’s memorial service at the New York State Fire Academy.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make donations to the American Cancer Society, 1316 College Ave., Elmira, NY 14901.

Letteer, Bertha L.

Age 81, of Odessa, New York passed away on Thursday, January 31, 2008 at the Seneca View Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, NY.

Mrs. Letteer is survived by her 4 children, Donna (Bob) Tilden of Montour Falls, NY, Hubert (Denise) Letteer of Odessa, NY, Fred (Teresa) Letteer of Odessa, NY and Renee (Bruce) Campbell of Hollywood, FL; grandchildren Danielle, Brian, Carletta, Daniel, Cameron, Brendon, Dustin and Logan; a sister, Rose Ostrander, and several nieces and nephews. Mrs. Letteer was predeceased by her loving husband, Hubert Letteer, in 2004.

Mrs. Letteer graduated from Odessa Central School, Odessa, NY. She retired from Cotton-Hanlon, Inc. Lumber Co., Cayuta, NY after 30 years of service. She and her husband owned and operated the Letteer Market in Odessa, NY for many years. She was a communicant of St. Benedict’s RC Church, Odessa, NY, and was a choir member of St. Mary’s of The Lake Church, Watkins Glen, NY.

Relatives and friends will be received at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church St., Odessa, NY, on Friday, February 8, 2007 from 12 Noon to 1:00 PM. Her funeral service will be held there following visitation at 1:00 PM. Deacon David LaFortune will officiate. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery, Watkins Glen, NY.

Denson, Robert W.

Age 82, formerly of Montour Falls, New York, passed away on Thursday, January 31, 2008 at the Groton Nursing Facility, Groton, NY.

Robert was born on September 3, 1925 in Montour Falls, NY, the son of the late Merlin W. Denson & Carolene Lunger Denson, and is also predeceased by his stepbrother, John M. Denson. His cousins, Mildred C. Denson of Watkins Glen, NY and Carolene Milligan of Fairport, NY, survive him. Close friends Ruth Drake, Beverly Sullivan and the entire staff of the Groton Nursing Facility also survive him.

Robert served his country with the U.S. Air Force as an Airplane Armorer. He served at several Air Force instaillations and also overseas. Robert was a member of Myrtle-Jefferson Masonic Lodge #131 F&AM, Montour Falls, NY, and the Royal Arch Masons Lodge # 182, Watkins Glen, NY.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY, on Monday, February 4, 2008 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. His funeral service will be held following visitation at 2:00 PM. The Rev. Elaine White will officiate. Interment at Laurel Hill Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family.

Those wishing to remember Robert may do so through Memorials to a charity of one’s choice.

Recent obituaries can be found at the bottom of the page

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Our Staff

Every person on our caring staff is committed to maintaining personal attention to every detail of each unique family situation in order to provide a personalized tribute to your loved one. We are committed to provide excellence in service. Our history is rich in tradition and service to the local communities. We cherish home-town values, and our heritage shows a proven record of trust and commitment.

Jackie Wickham joined the staff as Office Manager in early 1996 and is an invaluable help with support information and assistance for all families that pass through our doors. She and her husband John were both raised in Schuyler County and have raised a family of three children here as well. She has an extensive firsthand knowledge of the communities and families we serve.

Kevin Sullivan, LFD joined the staff as a part-time Associate in May of 2004. He brings nine years of experience to the business. Kevin and his wife Lorrie grew up in the Horseheads area, and they understand our dedication to community. They have recently opened Sullivan’s Funeral Home on the corner of Franklin and State Rt. 13 in Horseheads, NY. We’re very happy to have Kevin join our dedicated staff, and are confident in his ability to serve your needs.

Fred Scott, LFD, after returning from Vietnam and getting his Associates Degree at Corning Community College and his Mortuary Science Degree at Simmon’s Mortuary School, joined his father in business in 1977.

Fred and his wife Bonnie (shown together at right) have lived for 25 years in this community, where they raised their daughter and have been active in community endeavors such as church, school, civic organizations, charity fundraisers, community government and local development committees. Fred also donates his time to manage the Montour Cemetery for the Village as a Cemetery Commissioner, and serves on the St. Mary’s Holy Cross Cemetery Board. Fred is personally committed to continuing the tradition of compassionate service delivered promptly and with the highest degree of professionalism as was established by his father.

Our History

Earl M. Vedder established the Vedder Funeral Home in 1926, and Wendell V. Scott established the Scott Funeral Home in 1948, both in Montour Falls, NY. Mr. Vedder also owned a local furniture store on Main Street. A local businessman and friend to both men, John E. Hodge, encouraged them to join their businesses to make a stronger commitment to the community. So in 1949 Vedder and Scott, Inc., was established as a Funeral Home on North Genesee Street and as a Furniture Store on the Main Street of Montour Falls, in the heart of the Finger Lakes Region. The Heal Funeral Home, on Church Street in Odessa, was purchased by the Company in 1981 and provided a second location to our unique communities.

Earl and Blanche Vedder resided in the North Genesee Street Funeral Home apartment. Blanche was a school teacher at the Montour Elementary School, and was the Village Clerk for a time. They owned a small farm on Rt. 414 where Earl enjoyed horseback riding and raising horses. They retired to Mesa, AZ in the early 1960s.

Wendell and Dorothy Scott lived on Owego Street in Montour Falls in the former Hibbard Funeral Home, where they raised five children, until moving into the North Genesee Street apartment when the Vedders retired. Dorothy worked as an accountant for the Montour National Bank and in the furniture store in following years. Wendell was the Town Clerk in Montour Falls for approximately 20 years, and was well known as a resident at Chef’s Diner for breakfast!

The Montour Falls location was built in 1844. Before becoming the Funeral Home, some of the upstairs rooms were rented for local nurses who worked at the Shepherd’s Hospital out behind the Funeral Home on Schuyler Street. The building still has the original Dutch Oven and Fireplace and is included as part of the section known as the “Glorious T” of historic buildings in Montour Falls.

Recent Death Notices

Shultz, William H.

Age 77, of Erie, PA, died January 17, 2008. Born in Montour Falls, NY on January 12, 1931, he was the son of the late Byron and Marjorie Shultz.

Bill was a graduate and valedictorian of Odessa Central School, attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, and graduated from Broome County Technical Institute. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a Staff Sgt. (Corpsman) serving in the Philippines during the Korean War. He was the recipient of a Certificate of Appreciation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for Korean War Heroes in 2007.

Bill moved to Erie in 1956 and was a control, locomotive and transit engineer for 32 years with General Electric Company, retiring in 1988. He enjoyed model railroading, photography, traveling and reading.

Bill is survived by his wife, Mary Kuzmishin Shultz, whom he married on January 25, 1958; one son, John Shultz (Laurel) of Pittsburgh, Pa; one sister, Ruth Powers (James) of Watkins Glen, NY; three grandchildren, Kayla, Morgan and Derek; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased in death by a son, Jeffrey Shultz, and a brother, Richard Shultz. A service with burial was conducted on January 21, 2008.

Eldred Sgrecci

Eldred Sgrecci passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, January 15, 2008, at Seneca View Nursing Facility in Montour Falls, where she had resided with her beloved husband, Ernie, for the last five and a half years. Her wonderful life ended only a stone’s throw from where she began it, having been born in Montour Falls on February 3, 1922.

After graduating from Cook Academy as Valedictorian of her class, she became Ernie’s bride on September 5, 1942, and they celebrated 65 years of matrimonial bliss last September. She had a strong and compassionate heart as evidenced by the love she had for her family, friends and community and her desire to stay by Ernie’s side as long as it was physically possible despite her declining health and discomfort.

Eldred and Ernie were in a partnership with his brother, Dominick, and his wife, Anna, in the operation of the family dairy farm for over 35 years, which provided an environment of hard work and sound values in which to raise their two sons, Carl (Marilyn), of Ithaca, NY and Jim (Terry), of Watkins Glen, NY. The farm and their home also provided countless hours of enjoyment for them with their two grandchildren, Laura of Seattle, Washington and Brian of Ithaca, NY.

In early years Eldred loved to play “store” with Laura and look for “Goldbug” in one of Brian’s favorite storybooks. In later years with Jim’s marriage to Terry, Eldred and Ernie were blessed with three new grandsons whom they admired and respected greatly -- Anthony, John and Joseph Maio of Elmira, NY.

Eldred was a fantastic cook, which provided a challenge for all of the family in balancing the enjoyment of her culinary delights with the prudent limitations of their belts. It was always the perfect end to the day to come in from milking the cows on cold winter’s night and smell the aroma of Eldred’s nightly creation that awaited them. She regularly shared these same talents at community and church dinners and bake sales.

Eldred was a member of Moreland Presbyterian Church. She also was a past member of the Moreland Olive Branch Grange.

She was also well known for her long rows of deep yellow iris flowers as well as her gorgeous begonias, petunias, and geraniums. Her green thumb with her vegetable garden led to many hours of canning tomatoes, pickles, and peaches and making of jams and jellies.

Eldred was predeceased by her parents, Clayton and Belva Crout; a brother, Clair Goltry; sisters, Lillian Johnson and Mary Yaw; brothers-in-law, Phil Yaw and Dominick Sgrecci; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Almo and Armida LaMoreaux and Winston and Rose Beckwith. In addition to her husband, Ernie, and sons, Carl (Marilyn) and Jim (Terry) and her grandchildren, she is survived by her brothers, Clayton (Gerry) Grout Jr. and Arnold (Carole) Crout; a sister, Florence (Dave) Wilber; a brother-in-law, Harry Johnson; a sister-in-law, Anna Sgrecci, and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be private and held at a later date. Those wishing to remember Eldred may do so either through The Moreland Presbyterian Church in care of Ms. Judy Shamley, 191 Johnson Hollow Road, Millport, NY 14864, or Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, attention “Special Activities,” 220 Steuben Street, Montour Falls, NY 14865.

For those wishing to convey their condolences, Ernie would welcome your company at Seneca View Nursing Facility, Room 318.

A note from the family:

To Our Extended Family at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility:
From the bottom of our hearts……. “Thank You.” Words cannot express our gratitude, respect and admiration for making Eldred’s last years on earth a more enjoyable, pleasant, dignified, and respectful time. To list all those who have been a part of this would be impossible and an endless task. Your deeds of love and concern have always gone above and beyond any job description. We have been truly blessed to have such an extended loving family looking over Eldred and Ernie.

Curran, Esther F.

Age 78, of State Route 228, Odessa, NY, passed away on Monday, January 14, 2008 at Arnot Ogden Medical Center, Elmira, NY.

Mrs. Curran is survived by her son, Joseph D. Curran Jr. of Odessa, NY; a nephew, Wilfred (Sue) Bush of Montour Falls, NY; a niece, Bernice Feller of Trumansburg, NY, along with several other nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Curran retired from the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Department and was a member of Tyrone-Fern Chapter #142 O.E.S. Montour Falls, NY and Schuyler County Senior Citizens.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Thursday, January 17, 2008 from 12 Noon to 1 PM. Her funeral and committal services will be held following visitation at 1:00 PM. Interment Laurel Hill Cemetery, Odessa, NY.

SOCIETY NOTICE: Officers and members of Tyrone-Fern Chapter OES will conduct a memorial service for their late sister on Thursday, January 17, 2008 at 11:45 AM. at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home.

Slovik, Jeanette R.

Age 88, formerly of Odessa, NY, passed away on Monday, January 7, 2008 at the Seneca View Nursing Facility.

Mrs. Slovik was born in Centerville, Pa., on November 20, 1919, the daughter of the late Wesley & Ethel Tuthill. She was married for 56 years to the late William Slovik.

Mrs. Slovik is survived by her daughters, Elaine (Tony) Ryan of Rochester, NY, and Constance S. Beebe of Horseheads, NY; a son, Stanley (Teri) Slovik of Horseheads, NY; a grandson, Jeffrey M. Slovik of Horseheads, NY; and granddaughters Carrie J. Ryan and Kelly Ryan, both of California. In addition to her husband Mrs. Slovik is predeceased by her son Charles W. Slovik.

She and her husband operated a gas station in Odessa, NY for 30 years. Jeanette also enjoyed her farm and loved music and her organic garden. She will be greatly missed by her children.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service for Mrs. Slovik at the Odessa United Methodist Church, Church St., Odessa, NY, on Thursday, January 10, 2008 at 10:00 AM, The Rev. Sheila Price officiating. Interment will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

Those wishing to remember Mrs. Slovik may do so through memorials to the Odessa Fire Department, P.O. Box 132, Odessa, NY 14869. Arrangements under the direction of Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY.

Yaw, Mary H. (Crout)

Age 82, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Thursday, December 27, 2007 at the Seneca View Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, NY.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Wednesday, January 2, 2008 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Her funeral and committal service will be held there following visitations at 1:00 PM. The Rev. George Norton officiating. Interment Hector Presbyterian Cemetery, Hector, NY at a later date.

Mrs. Yaw is survived by her children, Phyllis Smith of Pearlington, MS, Douglas Yaw of Ovid, NY, Evelyn Gascon of Montour Falls, NY, Philip Yaw Jr. of Corning, NY and Richard Yaw of Horseheads, NY; 16 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren; sisters Eldred Sgrecci of Montour Falls, NY and Florence Wilbur of Watkins Glen, NY; brothers A. Clayton Crout of Pennsylvania and Arnold Crout of Pine Valley, NY; and numerous nieces and nephews. Mrs. Yaw was predeceased by her husband, Philip Sr.; a daughter, Margaret; a sister, Lillian Johnson; and a brother, Claire Goltry.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may direct memorials to the Montour Falls Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 369, Montour Falls, NY 14865, or to the Montour Falls First Baptist Church, 208 W. South Street, Montour Falls, NY 14865.

Carpenter, Helen E.

Age 95, of Bridge Street, Valois, New York passed away on Tuesday, December 18, 2007 in the comfort of her home.

Mrs. Carpenter is survived by her son Alvie (Ann) Carpenter of Peterborough, NH; daughters Elfa Mae McDonald of Reading, PA, Gloria (Angelo) Pangello of Montour Falls, NY, and Mary (John) Doyle of Cazenovia, NY; several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; a sister, Ell Nora Davenport of Cayuta, NY; and several nieces and nephews. Her husband, Arthur, and son, Maurice, predeceased Mrs. Carpenter.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Friday, December 21, 2007 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Her funeral and committal service will be held there following visitation at 7:00 PM, the Rev. Sheila Price officiating. Interment Seneca Union Cemetery, Valois, NY at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 3049, Syracuse, New York 13220 in her name.

Crispell, James D.

Age 88, formerly of Cayuta, NY, passed away on Monday, December 17, 2007 at Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, Pa.

His wife Margaret Crispell predeceased Mr. Crispell on September 2, 2003. He is survived by his sons, Richard of St. Louis, MO., Donald of Mt. View, AK., and Paul of Gillett, PA.; several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Crispell retired from Morse Chain, Ithaca, NY, as an electrician and also enjoyed farming. He was a member of the Church of Christ of Ithaca, NY.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church St., Odessa, NY on Friday, December 21, 2007 from 12 Noon to 1:00 PM. His funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow at Cayuta Cemetery, where full military honors will be accorded Mr. Crispell.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Christian Family Services, 7955 Big Bend Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63119 or to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 1480, Syracuse, NY 13201-1480.

Potter, Francis “Ralph”

Age 69, of County Route 16, Watkins Glen, NY, passed away on December 6, 2007 at his home.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Ruth Covey Potter; a daughter; Laura Potter of Elmira, NY; sisters Virginia Talada of Daggett, PA and Rev. Betty Bement of Painted Post, NY; brothers Joseph Potter of Horseheads, NY, James Potter of Millerton, PA and Philip Potter of Beggs, OK; and several nieces and nephews.

Ralph worked for Totem Taxi, Elmira, NY.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Thursday, December 13, 2007 from 11:00 AM to 12 Noon. His funeral service will follow on 12 Noon. His sister Rev. Betty Bement will officiate.

Rounds, Paul W.

Age 70, of Montour Falls, NY, went to be with his Lord on Thursday Morning, December 6, 2007, doing as he had wished, working on his last day.

Paul was always thankful for his many blessings and will be greatly missed by his loving family, Alpine Bible Baptist Church and friends from the Schuyler community, which he loved and lived in his entire life.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Suzanne (Ziegler) Rounds; 6 cherished children, Jeffrey (Jill) of Horseheads, NY, Robert (Karen) of Montour Falls, NY, Jill (John) Marsh of Montour Falls, NY, Beth (Mike) Hornick of Montour Falls, NY, Michael (Beth) of Montour Falls, NY, and Adam of Montour Falls, NY. He was very proud of his 16 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends also survive him. Paul was pre-deceased by his parents, Justine (Fowler) and Wesley Rounds, sister and brother-in-law Esther-Irene (George) Snyder, infant grandson Joey Marsh, and twin granddaughters Jamie & Justine Marsh.

Paul’s school years were spent at OMCS, where he and Sue met. Over the years, Paul changed jobs and hobbies to support and entertain his family, all the while maintaining a large generous heart, which equaled his stature. Early on, Paul worked at Remington Rand in the paint booth, later taking over operation of the dairy farm from his father, which grew and prospered until 1976.

While farming, Paul also drove school bus, volunteered on the Odessa Fire Department, sold Polaris snowmobiles and raced stock cars with good family friend Claude Marsh. After farming, Paul was a logger of area hardwoods and later with assistance from farming friend Bill Blaha set up a successful truck business to haul logs and lumber materials. Paul enjoyed nature, travel, camping, preaching the Bible to any who would listen, and throwing parties for his family and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Wednesday, December 12, 2007 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. His funeral service will be held there following visitation, at 7:00 PM. The Rev. Bruce Varner will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Odessa Fire Department Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 132, Odessa, NY 14869 or to the Schuyler County Volunteer Ambulance Association, P.O. Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY 14891.

Jelliff, Laverna May

A loving, affectionate mother, Mrs. Jelliff passed away on Thursday, December 6, 2007 at Schuyler Hospital unexpectedly at the age of 81.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church St., Odessa, NY on Tuesday, December 11, 2007 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Her funeral service will be held there on Wednesday, December 12, 2007 at 1:00 PM. Interment Laurel Hill Cemetery, Odessa, NY.

Mrs. Jelliff is survived by her children, Ron (Susie) Jelliff of New Market, TN., Carol (Bill “Hoss”) Leonard of Watkins Glen, NY, Wayne (Mary Beth) Jelliff of Odessa, NY and Diana (Robert) Wixson of Odessa, NY; grandchildren Rich (Marlena) Scott of Johnstown, NY, Wendy (Brian) Cozzens of Walnut Grove, MO., Keith (Stephanie) Jelliff and Jeff Jelliff of Knoxville, TN., Kristy (Randall) Wilcox & Jenny Jelliff of Seattle, WA., Brandon Jelliff of Odessa, NY, Melanie Little of Montour Falls, NY, John (Jacinta) Jelliff of Montour Falls, and Robert (Alyssa) Wixson Jr. of Cayuta, NY; 10 great grandchildren; a sister, Virginia Herrick; sister-in-law & brother-in-law Kay & Bill Leach and sisters-in-law Barb Geoffrion and Marilyn Jelliff; and her extended family and many friends. Her husband, William Jelliff, WW II veteran, predeceased Mrs. Jelliff in 1999.

Mrs. Jelliff was a member of the Cayutaville Methodist Church. She retired from NCR in Ithaca, NY and enjoyed spending time with her children, cooking, reading, shopping, and family gatherings.

Donations may be made in Laverna’s memory to the Odessa Fire and Rescue, PO Box 132, Odessa, NY or the Schuyler County Ambulance Assoc., PO Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY.

O’Neil, Brian P.

Brian P.O’Neil, age 45, of Odessa, NY, passed away unexpectedly on December 2, 2007 at home.

Brian is survived by his wife, Jane, and son, Colin, both of Odessa, NY; sister Peggy Brown and husband Joel of Saratoga Springs, NY; sisters-in-law Jennifer Dunlap and husband Gary of VA and Julie Dunlap and husband Jim, also of VA; brother-in-law David Dunlap of AZ; nephews and nieces Jason Brown of New York City, NY, Caitlin Brown & Andrew Brown of Saratoga Springs, NY, and Abigail & William Boshart and Alexander & Patrick Corrigan, all of Virginia; aunt Joy Hanlon of Odessa, NY; and cousins Mike (Laurie) Hanlon & family of Horseheads, NY, and Sue Wigglesworth of TX. Brian is predeceased by his parents, Dennis & Lois Hanlon O’Neil; grandparents Howard & Helen Hanlon, and uncle William Hanlon.

Brian was in the lumber industry his entire life, and as a family member he served on the Board of Directors of Cotton-Hanlon, Inc. and was also a big part of the Cotton-Hanlon working family. Brian will be remembered for his good heart and quick sense of humor.

At the family's request, there will be no calling hours. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Those wishing to remember Brian may do so through memorials to a charity of one’s choice or by planting a tree in Brian’s loving memory. Arrangements entrusted to the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, Odessa, NY.

Fraboni, Benjamin F.

Age 75, of Cayuta, NY, and a snowbird of Zephyrhills, FL, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on December 2, 2007.

He was the son of the late Leo H. Fraboni and Elizabeth Fraboni Reed. Ben is predeceased by his sisters, Roma Cunningham and Mary Fraboni, son James L. Maphis and brother-in-law Leslie Boyce. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Shirley M. Fraboni; daughters Evelyn (Richard) Fletcher of Greenville, OH, Janice (Frank) Konier of Williamsburg, VA, Cindy Lou (Mark) Scott of Nicholson, PA, Michelle Crom of Jacksonville, NC, Carlotta (Ronald Jr.) Wilson of Alpine, NY, and Renee (Mark) Hust of Whitney Point, NY; 15 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren; brothers Leo J. (Emily) Fraboni of Scott, LA, Anthony J. (Sharon) Fraboni of Elmira, NY, James W. (Connie) Fraboni of Riverview, FL, Kenneth (Ruth) Fraboni of Milton, PA, and Richard M. (Virginia) Fraboni of Montour Falls, NY; sisters Jean (Francis) Parker of Montour Falls, NY, and Helene Fraboni of Tonawanda, NY; brothers-in-law Elwood (Judy) Boyce of Manassas, VA, Fred (Julie) Boyce of Cayuta, NY, and Charles Boyce of Millport, NY; and several nieces and nephews.

Ben was employed by AKZO Salt for 45 years. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves for 44 years. He loved all sports, NASCAR races, outdoor activities including camping, and most of all Air Shows.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Thursday, December 6, 2007 from 12 Noon to 2:00 PM. His funeral service will be held there following visitation. Interment Montour Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Flowers are acceptable or those wishing may contribute to the American Cancer Society, 1316 College Ave., Elmira, NY 14901 or to the Alzheimer’s Association Rochester Chapter, 435 E. Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14620 in his name.

Graves, Leon S.

Age 80, of Newfield, NY passed away on Saturday, December 1, 2007 at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Elmira, NY.

He is survived by his wife, Marion R. Graves; children, Sandy & Phil Ruocco of Newfield, NY, Sue & Bill Hyer of Odessa, NY, Cindy & Gene Corbett of Ithaca, NY, Penny & Will Cascio of Bohemia, LI, NY, Peggy & Bill Mossman of Newberry, FL, and Ace & Brenda Graves of Newfield, NY; fourteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren; a brother, Judson Graves of Horseheads, NY; and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Graves retired from Morse Chain, Ithaca, NY after 25 years of service. He was a Webelo Scout Leader and was a fund-raiser for the Cub Scouts.

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Wednesday, December 5, 2007 from 6:00 PM to 9 PM. A memorial service will be held following visitation at 9 PM. The Rev. Edward Ayers will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may directed to the American Kidney Foundation, 6110 Executive Blvd., Rockville, MD 20852 or a charity of one’s choice.

Locke, Barbara (McNeal)

Age 70, of Odessa, NY and recently of Seneca View Nursing Facility, Montour Falls, passed away on Sunday, November 25, 2007.

She was born on April 23, 1937 in Waverly, NY, the daughter of the late Frances Miller & Gordon McNeal. Barbara graduated from Waverly High School in 1956. She married her husband of 43 years, Duane, on November 21, 1956. Barbara was a housewife and school monitor and retired from Odessa-Montour Central School in 1998.

Mrs. Locke is survived by her brothers, Lawrence of Waverly, NY, and William of Virginia Beach, VA; her children, Deb Zimmer of Odessa, NY, Orland Locke of NC, Duane Locke of Elmira, NY, and Chris and Alan Locke, both of Odessa, NY; her grandchildren, Jeremiah Zimmer of Elmira, NY, Dustin Locke of NC, and DJ and Christine Locke, both of Watkins Glen, NY.

Relatives and friends called at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 534 Church St., Odessa, NY, on Tuesday, December 4, 2007 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A brief prayer service was held at 8:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Diabetes Association, 6390 Fly Road, 2nd Floor, East Syracuse, NY 13057 or to the New York State Special Olympics.

Youngs, Nancy S.

Age 57, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on Monday, November 26, 2007 at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Nancy was born on February 22, 1950 in Knoxville, Pa., the daughter of Harold L. & Dorothy V. Mattison. She married the love of her life, Bernard E. Youngs, on November 26, 1969 in Monterey, NY. The Watkins Glen Housing Authority, Jefferson Village where she served as the Administrator, employed her. Nancy was a dedicated employee even while battling cancer. She tried to work as much as possible, many times going above and beyond to help others. Nancy was very active in knitting mittens and caps for Seneca Santa.

Nancy is predeceased by her father, Harold Leon Mattison; grandparents Lucy and Ray Mattison and Rowley Hadley, and father-in-law Waldo Youngs. She is survived by her loving husband of 38 years, Bernard Youngs of Montour Falls, NY; daughter Melissa (Kevin) Wood of Elmira, NY; grandchildren Brenden & Kara Wood; her mother, Dorothy Mattison; siblings: Patricia (Mark) Derr, Darold (Patricia) Mattison, Stanley Mattison, Marilyn (James) Poust, Bonnie (James) Haight, Gail (Jeff) Twist, Janet (Ira) Stiles, Beth (Gary) Stratton and Harold Mattison Jr. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Lucille Youngs, and brothers-in-law; Waldo (Dawn) Youngs and Lewis (Sherri) Youngs, along with several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Relatives and friends called at the Vedder and Scott, Inc. Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Friday, November 30, 2007 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Her funeral service was held following visitation at 4:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Nancy may do so through Memorials in her name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38018.

Lee, Corinne A.

A native of Cuba, New York, she was the daughter of Duston E. Adams and Florence Butts Adams. She graduated as an honor student from Cuba High School and from Alfred University. She is the widow of Glenn M. Lee, whose ancestors were among the early settlers of the Montour Falls area. An educator, she served as classroom instructor, principal, superintendent, and college professor.

In college, Mrs. Lee was house manager and president of her sorority, Sigma Chi Nu, and a member of the women’s Student Government Council and of Pi Gamma Mu, a national social science society.

Immediately following her years at Alfred she began her career of teaching English, grades seven through twelve, for 36 years. The first five years were at Lodi High School and the remaining ones at Ovid Central School, now known as South Seneca. Her extracurricular activities were class advisor, secretary of the Ovid Faculty Association, sponsor of the National Junior Honor Society, and director of Junior High Commencement. Upon her retirement she was honoree of the school yearbook and was given life membership in the Parent-Teacher Association.

In retirement she was a volunteer at the Montour Falls Memorial Library for 17 years, and not long after becoming one, she was made a member of the Board of Trustees. Always fascinated by the peculiarities of the English language, she continued her writing, a hobby she had enjoyed since she was a teenager. She published four books, which are “A Little Leeway” (light verse), “A Little More Leeway” (anecdotes, quips, light verse), “Still More Leeway” (essays, short stories, poems in serious vein) and “Even More Leeway" (light verse). She has been recognized by numerous biographical reference books. A few of these are “Who’s Who in America,” “Who’s Who of American Women,” “Who’s Who in American Education” and “International Who’s Who of Intellectuals.”

For many years during her Golden Years she traveled extensively, and marveled at the many wonders of this world in all the continents except Africa.

After residing 36 years in Lodi, she spent 12 years in a Watkins Glen apartment at the home of her sister-in-law, then 25 years in an apartment near beautiful Shequaga Falls in Montour Falls. Most recently she resided at Bethany Village in Horseheads, NY.

Mrs. Lee passed away on Thursday, November 1, 2007 at Bethany Manor, Horseheads, NY. Several nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends survive Mrs. Lee.

Relatives and friends called at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY on Tuesday, November 6, 2007 between the hours of 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Her funeral and committal services were immediately following visitations at 4:00 PM. The Rev. George Norton officiated. Interment Highland Cemetery, Odessa, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Montour Falls Memorial Library, 406 Main St., Montour Falls, NY 14865 or to the First Baptist Church of Montour Falls, 208 West South St., Montour Falls, NY 14865.

Carey, Gordon A.

Age 81, of First Street, Horseheads, NY, passed away on Sunday, October 28, 2007 in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Carey was born on July 20, 1926 in Montour Falls, NY the son of the late Arlin & Gertrude Wager Carey.

Mr. Carey is survived by his son & daughter in law, William A. and Jan Carey Sr., and his daughter & son in law, Judy Lynn & Gerald Tompkins, all of Horseheads, NY; grandchildren Bill Carey, Kim Hogan, Karen Mosher, Sarah Sempler and Ryhan Sempler, along with six great-grandchildren; and a cousin, Clara Hoover of Montour Falls, NY. His wife Geraldine E. Carey and grandson, Kevin Tompkins, predeceased him.

Mr. Carey retired from the Chemung County Sheriff’s Department as a Corrections Officer.

Relatives and friends called at the Vedder and Scott Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY, on Thursday, November 1, 2007 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. His funeral and committal service were held following visitation at 1:00 PM. Interment in Maple Grove Cemetery, Horseheads, NY at the convenience of the family.

Those wishing to remember Mr. Carey may do so through memorials to the Southern Tier Hospice & Palliative Care, 11751 East Corning Road, Corning, NY 14810.