Obituaries

ALBION – Mark E. “Lufty” Luft, age 54, passed away unexpectedly at his home on March 15, 2025. He was born August 22, 1970, in Medina, NY, a son of David and Ruth Luft.

Mark was a 1988 graduate of Albion High School and made his life here locally. He worked for the Albion Police Department for 20 years before retiring in 2013 as a Sergeant. He was a Jack of all trades and knew a lot about everything. Growing up, Mark was always the wise guy, good at playing jokes on family and friends, everyone having a good laugh. He most recently was working for Ludwick Paving and Concrete was known for being a hard worker and keeping the guys entertained. He also worked at Albion Ace Hardware, keeping busy when he could. Mark was very active in the Albion community as a life member of the Albion Fire Dept. and as a member of the Albion Fireflies back in the day. He gave a tremendous amount of love and dedication to his community during his life, leaving a great legacy for everyone to cherish.

In his spare time, he truly enjoyed taking care of Mackenzie’s goats, and hunting or fishing with his son Nicholas. Many amazing memories were made with not only his family but also friends, hunting, fishing.

Mark is survived by his loving wife of 18 years Amy, children Mackenzie E. Luft, Nicholas D. Luft, mother and father David and Ruth Luft, siblings Sarina (Jon) Hart, Matt (Laura) Luft, mother and father-in-law, Susan Cummings and Charlie (Julie) Cummings, nieces and nephews Jessica and Spence Hart, Georgia, Hudson and Caroline Luft, brother-in-law Chris (Joan) Cummings, several aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends.

Mark’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Saturday, March 22nd from 12:00-4:00pm where his Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4:00pm. A time to further celebrate Lufty’s life will follow his service at the St. Mary’s Athletic Club 538 Moore St. Albion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mark’s name may be made to Albion Fire Dept. 108 N. Platt St. Albion, NY 14411.

To share a special memory of Mark, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

ALBION – Frederick C. “Fred” Pilon, 77, of Albion, NY, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, at Medina Memorial Hospital.

Born on March 21, 1947, in Albion, Fred was the beloved son of the late Charles and Bertha (Vendetta) Pilon.

A hardworking and dedicated man, he proudly carried on his family’s legacy as the second-generation owner and operator of Pilon Construction. His career began as a heavy equipment operator, a passion that never faded, even in his later years. Through his tireless dedication, he laid the foundation for the company’s continued success, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and those he worked with. His greatest accomplishment was building a thriving business, as it was what fueled his drive and determination.

Fred lived life to the fullest, always embracing hard work and the simple joys of family and tradition. He especially cherished holiday celebrations, treasuring the time spent with loved ones. In his younger years, he had a love for racing and classic cars, spending countless hours behind the wheel of his prized 1971 hot rod, affectionately named “Rambunctious.” His enthusiasm for life, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication to his family defined him, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and passion.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Shirley Collichio.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol, and their loving children: Julie (Bob) Gibbs, Kevin (Elizabeth) Pilon, Karen (Chris) Kinter, Stephanie Pilon, Jason (Melissa) Pilon and Spencer Pilon. He is also survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his sister, Sue Pilon, nephews, and numerous cousins.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, March 21st, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Ave, Albion, NY 14411. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Church, W. Park St., Albion, on Saturday, March 22nd, at 10 a.m., with interment to follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Fred’s honor to the Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern, 29 East State Street, Albion, NY 14411, or the St. Joseph’s Church Cemetery Fund, 106 S. Main St., Albion, NY 14411.

To share a special memory or offer condolences, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Fred’s legacy of hard work, love, and dedication will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

ALBION – Dorothy (Allen) Ergott age 104, passed away March 16, 2025 in Orchard Rehab and Nursing Center. She was born August 25, 1920 in Somerset NY a daughter of the late Ervin and Rhoda (Brown) Allen.

Dorothy had lived in this area all of her life and was a member of the Eagle Harbor Methodist Church. She enjoyed golf and playing cards.

She was predeceased by her husband, Ward Ergott; daughter, Sally Kaminski; sisters, Esther Derisley and Eleanor Klatt, Shirley Beecher and her brother, Ervin Jr.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Susan (David) Newton; grandchildren, Jeffrey (Patty) Newton, Timothy (Elaine) Newton, Wayne (Sally) Kaminski and Michele (Gilberto) Cavalherio; great-grandchildren, Sierra, Nikolas, Paige and Amelia; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes. 21 West Avenue, Albion, NY 14411 on THURSDAY March 20, from 3:30-6:30 followed by her funeral service at 6:30pm. Interment will be private at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, P.O. Box 98018, Washington, DC. 20090-8018.  The family would like to thank the  staff at the Nursing Home for the loving care they provided for Dorothy.

To share a special memory of Dorothy, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

MEDINA – Marion F. Toussaint, age 81, of Medina, NY, passed into eternal rest on March 9, 2025.

Marion was born on July 28, 1943, in Medina, daughter of the late Martin and Julia (Federowich) Grabowski. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated from Medina High School in 1960.

She married the love of her life, Richard L. Toussaint, on August 11, 1962.

She worked as an administrative secretary for FMC Corp, Fairfield American Corp., Cormed Inc. and finished her career with the Orleans County Child Support Unit, where she earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice. She was a life-long member of St. Mary’s RC Church – Holy Trinity Parish where for many years she taught Sunday school and was a Eucharistic minister.

Marion and Richard were also involved in 4-H as the leaders of the Fruit Avenue Bombers 4-H club. They were licensed amateur radio operators and helped with communications on events throughout the area. They were often seen at the Orleans County fair manning the Wild Turkey Federation table. Over the years Marion also enjoyed bowling, snowmobiling and hunting together with Richard.

Marion was predeceased by her beloved husband Richard; brothers, Francis Grabowski and Harold Grabowski; and her sister Barbara J. Wagner- Emery.

She is survived by her children, Denise Toussaint-Jackson of Tempe, AZ and Shari (David) Butrite of Wilmington, NC; and two grandchildren that she loved with all her heart, Jessica Toussaint of Tucson and Zachary Butrite of Wilmington. As well as many nieces and nephews along with their spouses and children.

The family would also like to thank the community of Fruit Avenue for their outpouring of support prior to Marion moving to Scottsdale, AZ to be closer to her daughter and granddaughter.

Rev. Jan Trela will celebrate her Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, March 29 at 10 a.m. at Holy Trinity Parish, St Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina, NY 14103. Interment will be in Hartland Central Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held following the interment, with details to follow.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, WNY Chapter, 6400 Sheridan Drive, Ste 320, Amherst, NY 14221 or to Holy Trinity Parish at the address above. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina.

Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Jaron T. “J-Rock” Thompson, 35, of Albion, NY, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Rochester General Hospital.

He was born on May6, 1989 in Medina, NY, he was the son of Michael and Shannon (Dannard) Thompson.

Jaron attended Sanborn Schools and at one time he was employed at Brunners International. He moved to Medina to live with his grandmother and two brothers, Mookie and Ryan.

Jaron was a proud father to his five children that he loved dearly, Nalaya, Jaeliana, Ja’niah, Jamarianah and Aleigha.

Besides his parents, Jaron is survived by his fiancée, Jessica Craver; four siblings, Mookie, Ryan, Timothy and Raven. Also survived are a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family and friends are invited to call from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025, at the Shiloh Judgement Free Church, 3286 Crandall Rd., Albion, NY 14411, where his Going Home Service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Burial will be private for the family.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103. Please light a candle or share a memory of J-Rock at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com.

MEDINA – Sheila M. Royal, of Medina, NY entered into rest peacefully on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at the age of 88.

Born June 23, 1936 in Medina, she was a daughter of the late Stanley and Lottie (Waterson) Rorick.

Sheila graduated from Medina High School, Class of 1954. Shortly after, she married Zara “Zeke” Royal in August of 1954. Sheila worked as a secretary at the Medina Memorial Hospital for over 30 years, retiring in 2000. She was an active member of the East Shelby Community Bible Church. Sheila enjoyed flying on many family trips across the country with her children and husband Zeke as their pilot. She was also an avid reader. Sheila was well loved by her family and friends and will be dearly missed.

In addition to her parents, Sheila was predeceased by her husband, Zara Royal in 2001 and her grandson, Corey Royal in 2017.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Sue (Hon. Russell) Buscaglia of Grand Island, NY; son, Craig (Wendy) Royal of Troutman, NC; grandchildren, Kyle (Kristen) Intihar, Steven Intihar, Courtney Intihar (Tyler Chapman), Liberty (Ken) Green and Dr. Michael (Mary) Royal; great-grandchildren, Kayden, Kolton, Leia, Cora, Mary Connelly “MC” and Elizabeth; also several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to the caring staff at Medina Memorial Hospital- North Wing SNF for the exceptional care they provided Sheila in her final years.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 21 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 22 at 11 a.m. at the East Shelby Community Bible Church, 5278 E. Shelby Rd., Medina.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates any donations in her memory to the Medina Memorial Hospital- North Wing Activities Program, 200 Ohio St., Medina, NY 14103.

Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Albion – Elizabeth “Betty” Hales, age 83 unexpectedly passed away March 8, 2025. She was born July 12, 1941 in Rochester, NY to the late Clara and Lloyd Huber.

Betty grew up on a farm and loved being outside with her dad and the animals. She was an excellent student and lifelong learner. She graduated sixth in her high school class, and after having five children, she went on to get her bachelor’s degree and finally her master’s degree in library science at age 57. Betty’s love for books was put to use in her decades of working in both the Albion public library and the Albion high school library. At home her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren enjoyed hours of sitting on her lap over the years while she read them stories.

On September 23, 1967, Betty married Robert Hales. After their five children were grown, and both were retired, Betty and Bob enjoyed spending a few days each week serving together in the Palmyra Temple. They spent time together gardening, studying, serving others, spending time with family, and traveling.

Betty will especially be remembered for her love of serving others, her bright smile, her deep love for each family member (including both posterity and those who came before her), her love for horses and dogs, her love of books, her deep faith in Jesus Christ, and her Christlike service and willingness to serve others. Her shining example, bright spirit, and loving personality will be deeply missed.

Betty is survived by her sister, Beverly (Ken) Snowdon, her husband Bob Hales, their five children, John (Carin) Hales of Fort Lauderdale, FL, David (Lucy) Hales of Alice Springs, Australia, Lori (Wayne) Aldrich of Malta, NY, Wendy (Dan) Blood of Ballston Lake, NY, and Sandy (Chris) Naugle of Westminster, MD. Betty adored her grandchildren and was predeceased by Rachel Aldrich and Coventry Hales. She is survived by Robert (Amelia) Hales, Ashley (Dallin) Edwards, Brianna (Jason) Bowler, Andrew Hales, Jacinta Hales, Alyssa Hales, Jotham Hales, Kaylea (Nathan) Hopkins, Sarah Aldrich, Joshua Aldrich, Jocelyn Blood, Megan Blood, Jason Blood, Evan Blood, Katherine Blood, Claire Naugle, Maddie Naugle, Amelia Naugle, and Olivia Naugle. She also has five great-grandchildren: Rorik, Grace, Emma, Henry, and Logan.

Betty’s family will receive friends for viewing at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 4088 Lake Rd N, Brockport, NY 14420 on Friday, March 14th from 5:00 to 8:00 PM and on Saturday, March 15th from 9:00 to 10:30 AM. Her funeral service will be held Saturday at 11:00 AM at the same location. Interment will follow in Parma Corners Cemetery.

Betty’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion, NY.

To share a special memory of Betty, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

HOLLEY – Janet Bennage, 81, of Holley, NY, passed away surrounded by family on March 8, 2025. Janet was born May 13, 1943 in Rochester, NY, to Frank and Dorothy Dittrich. She had lived in the Holley area for 46 years and was an employee of Bausch & Lomb in Rochester. She loved baking, painting ceramics, crocheting, TV gameshows, and bird watching.

Janet is predeceased by her husband Walter R. Bennage and survived by her four children; Darlene (Bruce) Westphal, Wendi (Rick) Pollock, Walter (Vangie) Bennage, and Michael (Amy) Bennage; sixteen grandchildren, and nineteen great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, March 15, from 1pm to 4pm at the Disciples United Methodist Church, 4410 Holley Byron Rd, Holley, NY 14470. A Moment of Remembrance will be held at 1:15pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Disciples United Methodist Church; or Orchard Rehab & Nursing Center, please note: “Resident Council Fund,” 600 Bates Rd, Medina, NY 14103.

ALBION – formerly of Rochester: Charles E. Miller, age 77, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on March 10, 2025. He was born January 25, 1948, in Brookville, PA to the late Victor and Martha (Miles) Miller.

Charles worked as a social worker for DePaul Developmental Services in Rochester, NY for many years. Charles enjoyed reading, going out to breakfast and lunch and taking his beloved dog Oskar for walks. He was loved and respected by countless people who knew him and will be fondly remembered.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Norma (Robert) Wright, Victor (Ruby) Miller, Bess (Jesse) Wainwright, Thomas (Florene and Irma Jean) Miller.

Charles is survived by his daughter Stephanie (Philip) Pickering; granddaughters Rebecca and Danielle Pickering; sister Cheryl (Paul) Harper; mother of Stephanie, Marchia Miller; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A celebration of Charles’ life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Charles’ name may be made to the International Association of Suicide Prevention or the Rochester Victory Alliance.

Charles’ arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion, NY.

To share a special memory of Charles, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

MEDINA – Theodore “Ted” Barrett, Jr., age 81, of Medina, NY died on Sunday, March 9, 2025 at the Orchard Rehab & Nursing Center.

Ted was born on April 10, 1943 in Medina. He was a son of the late Theodore and Clarine (Ackerson) Barrett, Sr. Ted married the former Janice L. Tabor on December 9, 1967 and the couple raised a family of four children. He worked for the Village of Medina- Dept. of Public Works until 1982 when he and his wife moved to Plant City, FL. They returned to Medina in 1992 and have resided here ever since. Ted worked for ACME in Medina for many years and retired in 2005. He was a longtime parishioner of the United Methodist Church in Medina. Ted enjoyed watching Nascar and old John Wayne western movies.

Predeceased by his parents, sisters, Betty Zgirbar and Irene Eddy; and grandson, John Wayne Barrett in 2005.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Janice Barrett of Medina; four children, Theodore Barrett III of Medina, Gertrude (Kars) Schonveld of Lockhart, SC, Janice (William) Steer of Knightstown, IN and Vincent (Teresa) Barrett of Medina; 36 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren.

An hour of calling will be held on Thursday, March 20 from 4-5PM, followed by a brief service at 5PM at the Grove United Methodist Church, 11004 W. Center St., Medina. A dinner will follow. Interment will be in Bates Road Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

AUSTIN – Ellyn MacConnell, age 81, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025, surrounded by her immediate family, after a courageous two-year battle against leukemia.

Born on October 26, 1943, in Medina, NY, to Irene and Al Keller, Ellyn was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend. Ellyn graduated from Medina High School in 1961 and went on to study opera and elementary education at SUNY Potsdam, where she graduated in 1965. Her love for teaching children defined her career as a kindergarten teacher at Royalton Hartland Central School, where she dedicated 32 years to nurturing young minds. Ellyn’s enthusiasm for Broadway musicals shone brightly as she directed high school musicals at Royalton Hartland for many years. She also adapted musicals for her kindergarten classes to perform, igniting a passion for the arts in her students.

Ellyn had a talent for baking, particularly during the Christmas season when she made numerous kinds of cookies to share with family and friends. When Greg served as VP of Student Affairs at Niagara County Community College, she generously baked cookies for over 10 departments.

In 2004, Ellyn and her husband Greg moved to Austin, TX, to be closer to their grandchildren, Noah and Olivia. She relished her time taking them to swimming lessons, playing at the park and taking them on wagon rides. Ellyn was their biggest cheerleader, supporting them in sports, fencing lessons, and ballet performances in the Nutcracker at the Houston Ballet.

Ellyn’s creativity extended to renovating a 1952 family cottage on Lake Ontario in Barker, NY.  She loved to tend to her gardens and prized hydrangeas. In Austin, she led a committee in the HOA to decorate the community entrances at Christmas with lights, garlands and ribbons, always encouraging volunteers with freshly baked cookies.

Ellyn’s daughters, Melissa and Katie, were her pride and joy. She believed in their potential and encouraged them to achieve success through hard work and determination. Ellyn was married to her loving husband, Greg, for 42 years, together building a foundation for a successful and happy life.

Ellyn is survived by her husband, Greg MacConnell; daughters, Melissa Henshaw of Alexandria, VA, and Katie Lisiecki of Lockport, NY; grandchildren, Noah Henshaw of Arlington, VA and Olivia Henshaw of Alexandria, VA; sisters in-law, Claudia Frisch and Marcia Davidson; brother in-law, Lloyd Davidson; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her mother, Irene White; father, Al Keller; stepfather, Roland White; brother, Wayne Keller; sister in-law, Sandra Keller; and brother in-law, Lynn Frisch.

Ellyn MacConnell’s legacy will be cherished by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support will be dearly missed.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 15 from 10AM-12PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her funeral service will immediately follow at 12PM and interment will be in Boxwood Cemetery. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Alvin Anheier, age 97, died peacefully on March 9, 2025.  He was born May 16, 1927, to the late LaRoy and Ethel Anheier.

He was predeceased by his brother, Norman, and his wife of 56 years, Roberta Stickney Anheier.

He is survived by daughters Christine Hunt (Scott Galliford), Denise (Kevin) Bedard and Erin Anheier (Russ Bosch); two grandchildren, Brenden and Lindsay Bedard (Michael Dunn); four great grandchildren; nephew Norman Anheier (Beth) of Washington State, special friend, Mary Wood and Kathy Armer Beaumont, favorite neighborhood kid.

He volunteered for the Navy at 16, serving in the Pacific during World War II and returned home to become a skilled carpenter and then a welder-fabricator working at Dynacolor and subsequently 3M.  He loved to build and fix things, spending much of his retirement building furniture and driving his Model A Fords and Oliver tractors.

He was always ready to lend a helping hand- volunteering hours to build the Brockport Conservation Club and Concordia Lutheran Church of Brockport and helping neighbors and friends with their many projects. He enjoyed people, judging them only by their character. An avid collector of many things, he loved family, animals and travel, visiting all 50 states, Europe and South America.

Alvin’s family will receive friends at Fowler Funeral Home Inc. 340 West Ave., Brockport on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 12 noon to 2 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to animal rescue services Mr. Gray’s Strays or Duffy’s Friends, both of Brockport or an organization of your choice.

LYNDONVILLE – Donald P. “Don” Bow, 93, of Lyndonville, NY, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, March 9, 2025, with his loving family at his side.

Born on June 20, 1931, in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of the late Harry and Mary (Diorio) Bow.

In 1949, Don graduated from Akron High School and married his high school sweetheart, Mary Lou Graff. Don attended Buffalo State College and earned his Masters Degree in Education and Business. He started teaching Industrial Arts in Bloomfield, NY, Williamsville South, later became Principal at Newfane High School, was Superintendent in Lyndonville School District, where he purchased the family farm, and retired from Pembroke District in 1987. Don enjoyed being outdoors, especially working on his farm in the strawberry patch and hunting, having bagged a 10-point Buck, the biggest in his lifetime, last season in 2024 at the age of 93.  He loved spending time with his family, especially with his grandchildren, and riding around his property on his side by side. Don also enjoyed buying tractors and other farm equipment for his wife’s birthday. Whenever they were out of town, he had to stop at the China Buffet.

Donald is survived by his children, Robert (Kim) Bow and LuAnne Whiting, all of Lyndonville, seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Trish, Lynzee and Deb for going the extra mile to help care for Don.

Besides his parents and wife, Don is predeceased by a son, Dean, a son-in-law, Rodney Whiting, and a brother, Harry Jr.

There are no calling hours. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Don’s name t the Lyndonville Volunteer Fire Department, P.O.Box #150, Lyndonville, NY 14098. Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 112 N. Main St. Lyndonville, NY 14098. Please light a candle or share a memory of Don at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com

MEDINA – Steven M. Natale, 69, of Medina, NY entered into rest on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at the Batavia VA Medical Center.

Born November 13, 1955 in Medina, he was a son of Margaret E. (Kaimer) Natale and the late Michael J. Natale, Sr. He graduated from Medina High School, Class of 1973 and went on to earn an associate’s degree from Bryant & Stratton in accounting. Steve served in the U.S. Army from 1975-1978. Returning from service, he lived on the west coast and furthered his education in finance administration at Olympic College in WA. Steve worked for many years as a sheet metal journeyman at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. He returned to Medina in 1996 to be closer to his family.

Left to mourn his loss are his mother, Margaret Natale; sister, Karen Natale; nephews, Matthew and Zachary Natale; and great-nephew, Haiden Natale all of Medina. Predeceased by his father in 2007 and his brother, Michael J. Natale, Jr. in 1988.

Services will be privately held by the family. Entombment with full military honors will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, donations in Steve’s memory are appreciated to the Warrior House of WNY at www.warriorhouseofwny.com or to a veteran’s organization of one’s choice. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Joyce E. Witt age 75, passed away March 5, 2025 at Elderwood at Brockport.  She was born April 10, 1949, in Albion, a daughter of the late Edward and Florence (Porter) VanOrden and had lived in this area all of her life.

Joyce was a member of the Albion First United Methodist Church.  She liked to paint, crochet and enjoyed taking care of her yard and gardens.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her son Thomas Allen Witt; brothers Douglas, Carl and Kevin VanOrden; sisters Marcia Buzzard, Carol Buzzard, Frances McIlmurray.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Albert; brothers Charles VanOrden, Phillip VanOrden, William VanOrden; sisters Helen Denton, as well as several nieces and nephews.

There are no prior calling hours.  Her Graveside Service will be held at Sandy Creek Cemetery at a date and time to be announced.  Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1120 S Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14620. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Albion.

To share a memory of Joyce, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

ALBION – Evelyn Cotton age 100, passed away March 6, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born March 6, 1925, in Troy AL, a daughter of the late Will and Amy (Zachery) Collins.

Evelyn grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, and traveled to New York State annually doing seasonal farm work. She relocated to New York permanently in 1955 with her husband, the late Howard Cotton Sr. In the early 1960’s she became a member of the Albion community where she was well known. Evelyn was a kind and caring women who children and adults alike gravitated to. She enjoyed sewing and was recognized by many as an excellent cook. Evelyn was a member of the Shiloh Baptist Church.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Howard Cotton Sr.; siblings Voncial Crawford, Rodell Collins, Arizona Parrish, Roscoe Collins, Bobby Collins.

She is survived by her son Howard Cotton Jr. (Noelani Kaanana), Brockport, New York; her daughter Rose Zenia “Peaches” Cotton, Brooklyn, New York; grandchildren Kiana Linay Cotton, Nakoa Nathaniel Cotton. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.

For calling hours, the family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 W. Ave. Albion, NY on Sunday March 16th from 2:00pm-4:00pm. Her Funeral Service will be held Monday at 12:00pm. Burial will be immediately following at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Please share a memory of Evelyn, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

ALBION – Dorothy M. Dickinson, age 88, died March 8, 2025 unexpectedly in her home.  She was born July 8, 1936 in Albion to Lester and Harriet (Kidney) Reamer and was a lifelong resident of this area.

Dorothy worked as a bus driver for the Albion Central Schools as well as OTS, and was a former owner of Dickinson’s Place Tavern.  She cherished her life as a grandma and enjoyed her time outside in the garden.  She had many artistic talents and loved a good garage sale.  She was a strong willed woman who lived life by her rules.  She kept up on current events and stayed interested in the world around her.  Mrs. Dickinson was predeceased by her husband Richard O. Dickinson, and a son: Randall (Judy) Dawson.

She is survived by a daughter: Debra (James) Beach of FL, a sister: Betty Buongiorne of Rochester, 4 grandchildren: Jamie Beach, Brandi (Jason) Lindell, Ashlee (Anthony) Cipoletti, Richard (Megan) Dawson, 7 great grandchildren: Codi, Thomas, Payton, Dawson, Ellie, Dean, Jeffrey, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no calling hours.  Interment will be held in Mt. Albion Cemetery on Wednesday March 12, 2025 at 1:30pm.  A Celebration of Dorothy’s life will be held on Saturday March 15, 2025 beginning at 11am in the East Shelby Community Bible Church, 5278 East Shelby Road, Medina, NY, 14103.  Dorothy’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Albion.  To share a special memory of Dorothy, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com