Obituaries

Posted December 01 2020

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Posted February 06 2021
William E. ‘Bill’ Shuler

ALBION – William E. “Bill” Shuler, 88, died February 3, 2021 at his home surrounded by his family and friends. He was born February 27, 1932 in Albion, a son of the late Ernest and Helen (Rogers) Shuler and had lived in this area all of his life.

Bill was a member of West Barre United Methodist Church and the Albion Lions Club. He worked as a front-end alignment mechanic at Harrison Radiator and Hubbles Garage in Albion and after, he worked at Kodak as a Foreman of plate manufacturing, retiring in 1991.

Bill was a self-taught musician and could play the piano, accordion, harmonica and guitar. He was a very skilled handyman and could fix just about anything. Bill enjoyed his motorcycle, skiing, snowmobiling, boating, his trips to Point Breeze, his euchre parties and his morning coffee friends at Tim Hortons. Bill lived life to the fullest. He had a great sense of humor and loved to joke and laugh; but most importantly, Bill was a loving husband, father and grandfather who loved spending time with his family.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his daughter Darlene Slocum; and sisters, Beverly Mufford and Barbara Panek.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Mary; son, Danny W. (Dora Leader) Shuler; daughters, Debbie (Bob) Taylor and Deanne Shuler; grandchildren, Sean Robertson, Jenni Nenni, Sonya (Andrew) Martino, Danielle (Jeff) LaMartina, Jill (Aaron) Barnes, Danny (Janelle) Shuler, Joanna Taylor, Jonathan Taylor, Daniel Taylor, James Moses III and Kolton Kuek; 17 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bill’s Celebration of Life Service will be held at a day and time to be announced. Memorials may be made to West Barre United Methodist Church, 5377 Eagle Harbor Rd., Albion NY 14411. Arrangements were entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. Albion.

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

Posted February 05 2021
Kristen M. Wallis

HAMLIN – Kristen M. Wallis, 38, died suddenly February 1, 2021 after a brief illness. She was born August 1, 1982 in Medina to Jerome and Valerie (New) Adduci and had lived in this area her entire life.

She was employed by SUNY Brockport and worked in the Drake Memorial Library. Kristen was a person who enjoyed keeping up with current events, enjoyed Rock & Roll music, reading Stephen King books and doing arts and crafts. She was a person who had a good grasp on modern technology and also had a very dry and sarcastic wit.

Mrs. Wallis was predeceased by her grandparents, Angelo and Cecelia Adduci, Vivian and Eugene New; and uncle, Bradley New.

She is survived by her husband of 8 years, Tyler; daughter, Violet Wallis; stepdaughter, Ella Wallis; sister, Theresa (Joe) Hamm of Hilton; parents, Jerome and Valerie Adduci of Brockport; aunts and uncles, Beverly Piazza, Jayne New, Christine (Randy) Stacey, Roberta DeNicola, James (Joan) Adduci and several cousins.

There will be no calling hours. Kristen’s service and interment will be announced at a later date at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family to start a scholarship fund for her daughter.

Kristen’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. of Albion. To share a special memory of Kristen, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted February 04 2021
Thomas Franklin Smith II

Thomas Franklin Smith II passed away on Jan. 29, 2021.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, Bernie and Pat Smith. He is survived by his wife, Cindy; his sisters: Jackie Davison and Colleen Smith; his sons: Bruce and Jeremy Kwandrans; his niece, Leanne; and his grandkids: Nick, Bruce, Jr., Conner, Cadan, Brice, and Addy.

Tom was born Nov. 11, 1961 in Niagara Falls, NY and grew up in Albion, NY. He made many lifelong friends growing up in Albion, and he has always kept in touch with the friends of his youth. He also played little league baseball. No matter where Tom went, he always carried that small town demeanor and was loved by everyone who knew him.
Tom worked at Rochester Regional Health Lipson Cancer Institute as a Social Worker. He was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer just three months after starting his position there. He also worked at Gilda’s Club Rochester part-time for 10 years. In September 2019, Tom was awarded the “Come as You Are Award” at Gilda’s Club Rochester’s Heroes Ball.

Tom’s care team and co-workers provided the most excellent care, and Tom was very grateful to each and every one of them for “spoiling” him. Even in his battle with cancer, Tom kept his good nature and rarely complained.

Tom was a mentor to many and an inspiration to everyone he knew. He was a great example in his selflessness, service to, and care for others. His generosity and good nature spread across the many aspects of his life, not to mention his sense of humor, his love of Rock & Roll and concerts, and his love of football and the San Francisco 49ers. Tom leaves a legacy that will always be remembered.

Posted February 04 2021
Terry L. “Bubba” Nellist

Terry L. “Bubba” Nellist, 69, of Lyndonville, passed away peacefully with his wife and daughters by his side on Feb. 2, 2021 from complications related to COVID-19.

Terry was employed by Eastman Kodak Company for 34 years. He was also a volunteer for many years with the Lyndonville Fire Company. Terry was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, who loved to spend time with his family. He also enjoyed hunting, going for rides, gardening, spending time outdoors, hanging with the boys at the barn, good food and Busch beer. He was a kind, caring, fun loving spirit who will be remembered for his infinite wisdom and infectious smile. Terry truly is a legend and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Besides his loving wife of 50 years, Sharon A. (Lartz) Nellist, he is survived by his daughters: Sheri Schoolcraft, Debbie Nellist and Pam (Rich) Rounds; five grandchildren: Brandon, Becca, Devin, Karlee and Evan; his mother, Queen Nellist; four brothers: Jimmy, Danny, Gordy and Timmy “Tip” Nellist; and many friends. Preceded in death by his father, Willard Nellist.

Per Terry’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lyndonville Fire Co., 148 N. Main St., Lyndonville, NY 14098. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Posted February 03 2021
Norman P. Bruning

WEST SHELBY – Norman P. Bruning, 88, of West Shelby, entered into rest on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at the Unity Health System in Rochester. He was born June 5, 1932 in Medina, a son of the late Fred and Blanche (Koch) Bruning.

Norm was a longtime farmer on his family farm in West Shelby, starting at an early age when his father became disabled. In addition to farming, he began driving truck for Lapp Express in Medina in 1956 until they closed in 1978. Norm then moved on, hauling double trailers for the U.S. Postal Service, and lastly for Whiting Door in Akron. He was forced to retire after 44 years of driving due to a heart attack and subsequent heart surgery. Norm was a parishioner of the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wolcottsville. He also belonged to the Junior Wilson Sportsman’s Club and the Lincoln Post # 1483, V.F.W. in Medina.

He was the beloved husband of the late Constance (Trow) Bruning, who died 2009, the loving father of Laurel Bruning, Lawrence (Valery) Bruning, Gina (Anthony) Scinta, N. Paul (Kristine) Bruning and James (Brittany) Bruning; 17 grandchildren; brother of the late James Riemer; brother in-law to Colin (Sue) Trow and Lynne Riemer; and uncle to Christine Trow.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, Feb. 4th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. His graveside committal service will be held on Friday at 10 a.m. in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, West Shelby. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion, NY 14411 or to a charity of one’s choice.

Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

Posted February 03 2021
C. Eugene Leigh

American flagC. Eugene Leigh, 93, of Albion passed away Feb. 1, 2021. He was born Oct. 25, 1927 in Albion to the late Elmer and Cecelia (Sandal) Leigh.

Gene served his country in the U.S. Navy during WWII. With his wife’s father, Gene farmed and operated Proctor Brook Farm in Childs for many years. He also served as the Gaines Town Justice for 42 years. Gene and his wife Bev were one of the founding families of the Arc of Orleans County, which was established to bring services to special needs children in our area.

In addition to his parents, Gene was predeceased by his wife, Beverly Murray Leigh; son, John Murray Leigh; son-in-law, David Hatch and son-in-law, Lee Minier.

Gene is survived by his daughter, Valerie Hatch of Dallas; daughter, Meredith Minier of Albion; grandchildren: Coleen Quarles, Garrett (Rachael) Hatch, Marissa (Patrick) Olles; great-grandchildren: David, Christian, Benjamin and Alison Quarles, Carolina and Audrey Hatch, Hannah Olles; one great-great-grandchild, Cooper Leigh Quarles; sister, Patricia (Hank) Hellert; several nieces, nephews, cousins and Burger King friends.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorials in Gene’s name may be made to Arc of Genesee Orleans County Endowment Fund, 64 Walnut St., Batavia, NY 14020; or the Gaines Carlton Community Church, 14585 Ridge Rd. West, Albion, NY 14411.

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

Posted February 03 2021
David M. Clark

David M. Clark, 66, of Clarendon died Feb. 2, 2021 in his home surrounded by his family following a short illness. He was born Sept. 13, 1954 in Albion to Sherwood and Ethyln (Kennedy) Clark and was a life-long resident of this area.
 
David was a member of the Holley First Presbyterian Church, and Working Foreman for Oatka Milk Products for 26 ½ years. He was a person who enjoyed being a part-time farmer…raising sheep and cows, and was a lifetime member and active participant in the 4-H program in Orleans County and abroad. Mr. Clark also served as an Assistant Scout Leader for the Boy Scouts of America. David also enjoyed woodworking, camping, hiking, and working the land with his tractors. He was also a Civil War Enthusiast and enjoyed target shooting as well.
 
Mr. Clark was predeceased by a brother, Carl and a sister, Gail. He is survived by his wife of 46 ½ years, whom he married on July 29, 1974-Doreen; his children: Jason (Christina) Clark of Kendall, Merri (Bert) Mathes of Barre, Joseph (Trisha) Clark of Holley; his brothers: Terry (Shirley) Clark of Albion, Leonard Clark of Holley, his sisters: Sandra (Dick) Moy of Clarendon, Patricia (Michael Coletti) Clark of Chili, 15 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.
 
There will be no calling hours. David’s service and interment in Hillside Cemetery will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Orleans County Office for the Aging, 14016 Rt. 31, Albion, NY 14411; or American Liver Foundation, 39 Broadway #2700, NY, NY 10006.  Arrangements were entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. Albion.  To share a special memory of David, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Posted February 03 2021
Adam F. Sheelar, Jr.

Adam F. Sheelar, Jr., 76 of Batavia, formerly of Medina, entered into rest at Strong Memorial Hospital on Tue., Feb. 2, 2021.

Born Sept. 17, 1944 in Medina, he was a son of the late Adam F. and Verna (Leach) Sheelar, Sr. Adam worked at Kodak in Rochester as a film inspector, where he retired from after many years. He enjoyed watching Nascar, horse racing and playing cards. Above all, Adam enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 31 years, Shirley M. Sheelar; daughter, Bernadine (Roger) Harden; son, Scott (Tina) Sheelar; step-daughter, Michelle (Robert) Grazioplene; grandchildren: Jensen and Trevor Harden, Leah Sheelar, Alex and Lyndsey Grazioplene; great-grandson, Kingsley Harden; siblings: Jean (David) Wetherbee, Chuck (Michele) Sheelar, Mary (late Donald) Stirk and Judy Sheelar; also many nieces and nephews.

Per Adam’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Posted February 02 2021
Kenneth W. Fuller

Kenneth W. Fuller, 96 of Alabama passed away on Sun., Jan. 31, 2021 at the Villages of Orleans Health and Rehabilitation Center in Albion.

Mr. Fuller was born Dec. 23, 1924 in Shelby, a son of the late Raymond and Melvina Fuller. He was a past member of the Alabama Fire Department and worked for many years with Seamans’ Hardware in East Pembroke.

Kenneth is the husband of the late Marion Fuller; and brother of the late Helen (late Kermit) Weber, Avis (late Kirby) Brown, and Leora (late Ralph) Scroger.

He is survived by his son, Roger (Audrey) Fuller of Rochester; grandsons: Jeffrey (Betsy) Fuller and Brian (Meg) Fuller; great-grandchildren: Ashley, Heather, Jacob, and Chase; great-great-granddaughter, Kleo Fuller; step-brother, Gordon (Sherry) Fuller of California. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Family and friends are invited to call on Fri., Feb. 5, 2021 from 4:00- 6:00 p.m. at Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home, 11 Maple Ave., Oakfield. Kenneth’s funeral service will be held privately for the family. Burial will be in the spring in Alabama Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alabama Fire Department, PO Box 798, Basom, NY 14013.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the funeral home will be restricted to 33% capacity during the course of visitation. Face coverings and social distancing are mandatory. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at: www.burdettandsanford.com

Posted February 02 2021
David Carpenter

David Carpenter, 69, passed away on Sun., Jan. 31, 2021, after a long illness.

David was born in 1951, a son to the late Elwin and Mary (Stilwell) Carpenter, Sr. Right out of high school, he served in the U.S. Navy, until his honorable discharge in 1971. On Sept. 25, 1971 he married the love of his life, Bonnie Frasier. Together they settled in the Carpenter block on Horan Road and began their family. David was a witty guy with an unforgettable personality. If he had something to say, you sure heard it. If he picked on you, well, then you knew he liked you. David had a strong love for hunting and fishing.

Besides his loving wife of 50 years, Bonnie, he is survived by his children: Tina (Scott) Sheelar, Pam (Thomas) Jones, David (Jessica) Carpenter, Lynn Houseman and Tammy (Steve) Herman; six grandchildren: Nakisha, Trenton, Leah, Alexis, Harmoni and Madelene; one great-grandson, Jordan. He is also survived by his brother, Clifford Carpenter, Sr.; brothers and sisters-in-law: Andy Frasier, Junita (Doug) Watson, Don Frasier, Sr., Connie Murray, Tim (Angie) Frasier and Dean Shingleton. He is also survived by aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Alongside his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Elwin “Joe” Carpenter and sister, Debra” Debbie” Shingleton; brothers and sisters-in-law: Shelia Frasier, Dan Murray, Victoria “Vicky” Frasier, Clayton (Roxanne) Frasier, and Charla Carpenter.

Calling hours will be held on Fri., Feb. 5 from 4:00 -7:00 p.m. at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. His funeral service will be held on Sat., Feb. 6 at 11:00 a.m. at the Alabama Full Gospel Church, 5329 S. Gravel Rd., Medina. *Both locations will have occupancy limit of 33% of max capacity. Masks and social distancing will be mandatory.* Rev. Russ Peters will officiate and burial will be in Boxwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Share memories and condolences at: www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Posted February 02 2021
Lynn Stafford

American flagLynn Stafford, 65, of Lyndonville passed away peacefully on Dec. 10, 2020 due to a non-COVID related illness. He was born Sept. 10, 1955 in Albion to the late Donald and Lillian (Holt) Stafford.

Lynn worked at SUNY Brockport for many years before retiring. He really loved spending time with his grandchildren and family. Lynn enjoyed fishing, classic rock music, and especially going antiquing and to flea markets with his late wife, Fran.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife Fran on Feb. 8, 2020.

Lynn is survived by his children: Rebecca (Christian) Reynolds, Brandon Stafford, Jenna (Justin) Davis; grandchildren: Renee, Rachael, Tessa, Justin, Adara, and his brother, Larry (Diana) Stafford.

Lynn’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. 21 West Ave., Albion, NY 14411 on Fri., Feb. 26 from 1:00-3:00 p.m. where his Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00 p.m.

Please note the Funeral Home will be operating at 33% capacity per state guidelines. New York requires those in attendance to adhere to social distancing guidelines and face coverings are mandatory.

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

Posted February 01 2021
Jeffrey T. Nellis

Jeffrey T. Nellis passed away on Jan. 28, 2021 from complications related to COVID-19.

Jeff graduated from Holley High School in 1980 and was very active in sports, especially basketball.  Jeff was known to others for being respectful and generous and was an avid Buffalo Bills fan.   He was employed at Eastman Kodak prior to moving to St. Louis where he was employed at Trilogy as a maintenance manager.

Jeff is survived by his parents:  Frank and Patricia long of Holley;  brother, Richard Nellis (Heidi); sister, Kimberly Sipp (John); several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.  Also, a loving fiancé, Diane Fosage of St. Louis.  Jeff’s children include: Matthew, Eric, Ashley, Brianna  and Austin Nellis; and two grandchildren: Leroy and Carson, all of Florida.

There will be no calling hours at this time.  A graveside service will be held in the spring and will be determined at a later date. Jeff arrangements have been entrusted to Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc., Holley, NY.

To share a memory of Jeff please visit: wwww.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Posted January 29 2021
Jeanette B. Boring

MEDINA – Jeanette B. Boring, 83, of Medina, formerly of Lyndonville, passed away on January 25, 2021, after a long battle with kidney failure at home surrounded by loved ones.

She loved to socialize with family and friends, cook, do crosswords and play cards. Holidays were always a joyous time for her and she always made sure that everyone had gifts to open at Christmas, regardless of how many people were there. Jeanette also loved her 4-legged grand-children Winston, Lucy, Toby, Katie, and Sadie, always having a special snack to give them.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Dean; sons, Ken, Steve (Kristal), David (Kelly) and Mike (Debbie); seven grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and many great-great grandchildren; nieces and nephews; brother, Sidney (Bev) Thaine; and sister, Barb Forehand.

Jeanette is predeceased by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Thaine; brother, Gary; and beloved brother-in-law, Chuck Penrose.

There will be no calling hours. A graveside service will be held in the spring to be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice in Jeanette’s name.

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

Posted January 29 2021
Patricia C. Lilley

MEDINA – Patricia C. Lilley, 69, died January 29, 2021 at Orchard Rehab and Nursing Center in Medina following a long illness. She was born November 11, 1951 in Fulton, NY to George and Martha (Howard) Baxter and had lived in area for many years.

Patricia worked at Fisher Price in Medina for 14 years and also at Duffy Mott’s. She liked to play BINGO, took great pleasure in crocheting as well as knitting and enjoyed going for car rides and out to eat.

She is survived by her husband, Lang Lilley; aunt, Freda Baxter; cousins, Darlene Baxter and David Baxter; and special friend, Donna Wilcox.

There will be no calling hours and her graveside service will be held privately at Garland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1120 S. Goodman St., Rochester, NY, 14620.

Patricia’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. of Albion.  To share a special memory of Patricia, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Posted January 29 2021
Douglas W. Hedges

Douglas W. Hedges “Doug”, 80, passed into eternal life on January 27, 2021, after suffering a brief illness.

Born on Aug. 19, 1940, in N. Tonawanda, Doug was the son of the late William and Clara (Dee) Hedges. He graduated from North Tonawanda High School and became a New York State Trooper. He was stationed at Clarence Center where he served on the motorcycle patrol. In 1983, he retired from his last station in Wrights Corners. He remained an active member of the Batavia Chapter of the New York State Retired Troopers.

He and his cherished wife Janet (Waddell) were married for 45 years until her untimely death in 2008. Doug and Janet initially lived in Clarence Center. Together they raised three beautiful children who were the joy of Doug’s life. In 1972, he bought a 210-acre apple farm on the Angling Road, because he wanted his children to be able to ride horses. Doug often told the story of how he knew nothing of farming and learned by trailing the current owner around the property, taking notes as they went. The farm was a huge success in all ways and even today Angling H farm apple boxes can be found throughout the county.

Doug’s public service did not end after he retired. In 1985, he was elected as Town Justice of the Village of Lyndonville and served for 13 years. Later, he served as the Town Justice of the Town of Ridgeway for 5 years. Doug was known for fairness and compassion and he understood what it meant to be entrusted with such profound responsibility.

Throughout the years, Doug also volunteered his time to several not-for-profits. He served the Treasurer of the Lyndonville Foundation for more than 20 years. He drove veterans to various appointments serving as a volunteer driver for the Veterans Administration of Orleans County. He served as the Treasurer of Hope Resales Thrift Store. Doug often said that he never held a job he didn’t like.

Doug had 47 years of service to masonry as a member first of the Yates Lodge #675, followed by the Medina Lodge #336 and finally, the Towpath Lodge #1193. He served as a Master at Lyndonville and Medina and received the Dedicated Service Award in 2007.

Eleven years ago, Doug married his current wife, Ruth E. Canham. They settled in Lyndonville and shared their retirement years together. They traveled, spent winters in Florida and devoted time to their church, the United Methodist Church of Lyndonville. He spent many hours working on his golf game and joined the traveling senior league.

Doug was a giant man with a giant love for family, friends, community and God. We are all better for having known him. He is survived by his dear wife, Ruth and her family; his three children: Shawn Hedges (Cindy) of Medinah, Ill., Jaqueline Burke (Randy Reynolds) of Lyndonville NY, and Monica Hedges of Lockport, NY. He is also survived by his six loving grandchildren: Amanda Anicua (Victor), Brandon Hedges, Guy Burke, Jeff Burke, Rory Pyle and Douglas Starr; as well as his great grandchildren: Amaya, Keanu, and Noelani. He is also survived by his sister, Pam Wallace (Bill); as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Doug’s life will be held at a later time. Interment will be in Lynhaven Cemetery, Lyndonville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Douglas Hedges’ name may be made to the Lyndonville Area Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 545, Lyndonville, NY 14098; or the Lyndonville United Methodist Church, 102 N. Main St., Lyndonville, NY 14098. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Posted January 28 2021
Anita Spooner Smythe

Anita Spooner Smythe, 77, of Jonesborough, Tenn., passed away peacefully on Jan. 27, 2021. Born Anita Joyce Spooner on July 9, 1943, in Rome, NY, she was the eldest child of Allan Murray Spooner and Jean Schumaker Spooner and lived in West Edmeston, NY, during her early years. She received her baccalaureate degree from The State of New York College in Buffalo and her master’s degree from The State of New York College in Brockport.

Anita married the love of her life, Randy Smythe, on Dec. 28, 1963. They have lived in Saugerties, Lyndonville, and Medina, NY, and moved to Jonesborough in 2003.

During her lifetime she was a teacher of special education children in Medina and later taught business, travel, and tourism courses at Genesee Community College in Batavia, NY. Anita always loved nature and enjoyed apple picking in the fall in the Western New York apple orchards. She rescued cats from animal shelters and several times adopted cats that had been abandoned in the winter cold of New York. She spent several years managing a travel agency, fostering a love of travel with her husband. While working, she traveled to Hawaii, Alaska, Luxembourg, and Israel, and after her retirement she and Randy traveled together to many U.S. states, Canada, England, France, Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Italy.

Anita always loved sewing and became a prize-winning quilter with many quilting friends in Tennessee. She was in the Old Town Quilt Guild and served as president for two years from 2010 to 2011. Prior to that, she served as the vice president as well as membership chair. In 2017, she was the chairperson and coordinator for the first charity quilt project held during the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, raising money for the local food pantry. The name of the fund-raising quilt was “Stars Over Jonesborough.” Anita was an award winner at both Asheville and Pigeon Forge quilt shows. She was a member of a neighborhood quilting group, “Sometimes We Sew,” since 2005.

Anita’s cherished her family. She is survived by her husband, Randy; daughter, Deana Smythe Healy and her husband John (Minneapolis, Minn.); brother, Bill Spooner and his wife Pam (Jonesborough); brother, Tom Spooner and his wife Nancy (Kenai, Alaska); sister, Linda Spooner Gibson and her husband Jack (North Sutton, NH); and many nieces and nephews. Also surviving is their English “daughter” Sandra, her husband Bill Jackson, and their daughter Emily. Sandra lived with the Smythe family as an exchange student in 1982 and became part of the family. The Jacksons have spent time with the Smythe family on their visits to the states, and the Smythe family has stayed with them in Stafford, UK. She is preceded in death by their beloved son Evan who passed away on Dec. 12, 2020, in Hilton Head, SC.

Interment will be held at a later date in the family plot in Lyndonville, NY.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to be made to Ballad Hospice.

Posted January 27 2021
Shirley A. (Efing) Ecker

Shirley A. (Efing) Ecker, 91, Greece/Albion/Kendall of died Jan. 27, 2021 in Elderwood Village at Greece following a short illness.  She was born April 8, 1929 in Rochester to William and Cora (Walker) Efing and had lived in this area most of her life.

Shirley was a member of Concordia Lutheran Church in Kendall where she served in the Ladies Aid Group.  She was a former Girl Scout Leader for Troops in Monroe and Orleans counties.  Shirley was a very social person who enjoyed playing cards and spending time with her friends.  However, she mostly enjoyed being a stay-at-home mom as her family was of utmost importance to her.

Mrs. Ecker was predeceased by her husband, Gerald and her son, William.  She is survived by her daughters: Kathy (James) Fries of NC, Bonnie McGrane of Rochester, 7 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandson.

There will be no calling hours.  Her service and interment will be announced at a later date.  In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: Concordia Lutheran Church, 1769 Kendall Rd., Kendall, NY 14476; or P.A.W.S., 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411.  Shirley’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc. of Albion.  To share a special memory of Shirley, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Posted January 27 2021
Deborah M. Reichard

Deborah M. Reichard, 66, of Medina entered into rest on Tue., Jan. 26, 2021 at the Martin-Linsin Hospice Residence in Albion.

Born Jan. 31, 1954, she was a daughter of Frank “Chick” Russo, Sr. and Betty (Beaver) Russo. Debby was a graduate of Medina High School in the class of 1972. She married Harry L. Reichard on June 10, 1978. Debby worked as a hairdresser for many years, first for Norma Chambers at the Clip Joint and eventually opened her own shop, Debby’s Hairland in Medina. She enjoyed spending time with her family.

Survivors include her mother, Betty Russo; her husband of 42 years, Harry Reichard; two sons: Corey (Erin) Reichard and Christopher (Allison) Reichard; beloved grandson, Kayden Reichard; two brothers: Joseph “Butch” (Deborah) Russo and Paul (Kelly) Russo; several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by her father, Frank “Chick” Russo, Sr.; and two brothers: Michael Russo and Frank “Chickie” Russo, Jr.

A Celebration of Debby’s life will be held at a later date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans, P.O. Box 489, Albion, NY 14411. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share memories and condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com

Posted January 27 2021
Harold Chinn

Harold Chinn, 55, of Medina, NY, went to be with the Lord on Mon., Jan. 25, 2021 at Buffalo General Hospital. Born on March 22, 1965 in Medina, he was the son of Glennis (Hammonds) Chinn and the late Jimmie Lee Chinn, Sr.

Harold graduated from Medina High School in 1983 and attended Wilberforce University, where he earned an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice.  Following that Harold attended Fredonia State College, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Science. He worked for several Law Firms in NYC and Washington, DC as a Corporate Paralegal. Upon returning home to Medina, he worked for Harrison Radiator for a number of years and enjoyed working as a Teachers Aide for Medina High School. Harold was a mentor and a founding member of F.A.T.H.E.R.S. Group and Outreach Center. He was a faithful member of the Glad Tidings Baptist Church, enjoyed listening to music and was an exceptional piano player.

Besides his mother, Harold is survived by his children: Phatima English of Durham, NC, Alexis (Jontrell) Torres, Amanda and Amber Chinn, all of Buffalo; granddaughter, Amora Torres; siblings: Carolyn Chinn of Atlanta, Ga., Jimmie Chinn of Syracuse, Anita Chinn of Medina, Kenneth Chinn of Lockport, Douglas Chinn of Washington, Pa., Jacqueline (Timothy Dunn) Chinn of Albion; aunts: Reberta Mims and Lillian Holt, both of Columbus, Ga., and Dorothy Richardson  of Glenarden, Md.; uncle, Curtiss Chinn of Wintersville, NC; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends may call on Wed., Feb. 3, 2021 from 3-6 p.m. at the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St., Medina, NY 14103.  Masks and social distancing will be mandatory. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Please light a candle or share a memory of Harold at: www.bogantuttlefunerals.com

Posted January 26 2021
Linda (Austin) Miller

Linda (Austin) Miller, 78, of Lyndonville passed away peacefully on Jan. 22, 2021.

Predeceased by her sister, Beverly Waddell and her son, Eric Scott. Survived by brothers: Bruce (Rose Marie) Austin and Walter Skip (Rose Mary) Austin; and sister, Pamela Holihan. Survived by three children: Kim (Phil) Moshier, Douglas Vandernick, and Daniel Scott, eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Linda enjoyed working in the flower gardens of friends and family and baking goodies to share with everyone. She enjoyed setting down with a good glass of wine.

Services and interment held privately and donations may be made in Linda’s name to a charity of your choice.