Obituaries

ROCHESTER – Paul George Wright, 81, of Rochester,  passed away on January 1, 2024, at his home unexpectedly. He was born on January 23, 1942, in Wayland, New York.

Paul was a beloved father, brother, uncle and friend. Paul was a man who enjoyed fishing and solitude. He found solace in the tranquility of nature. He enjoyed fishing and tennis, which he played in his younger years.

Paul served his country in the US Army from 1965 to 1970. He was proud of his military associations and the camaraderie he shared with his fellow servicemen. After his military service, Paul embarked on a career with RG&E, where he worked diligently until his retirement in 1994. His dedication and hard work were commendable.

Paul attended Kendall Central School for his high school education, where he laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

He is survived by his loving son, Thomas Wright; brother, Donald and Sharon (Reamer) Wright; sister, Agnes (Wright) and Dan Hay; brother, Michael and Jan (Steffen) Wright; and brother, Richard and Kelly Wright. Paul also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.

Paul was preceded in death by his son, Robert Wright; his father, Edward Wright; his mother, Anne ( Steinmetz ) Wright; and his brother, Joseph Wright. Their memory will never be forgotten.

The Fowler Funeral Home in Brockport, New York, is assisting the family with the arrangements for Paul’s passing.

Friends and family will gather to remember him and share stories of his remarkable life.

Paul George Wright will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, dedication, and resilience will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. May he rest in eternal peace.

KENDALL – Richard J. Gilman, age 44, died January 12, 2024 in Strong Memorial Hospital following a long illness. He was born October 27, 1979 in Brockport to Arthur and Christine (Lochner) Gilman and was a life-long resident of this area.

Richard was an over the road trucker, and in addition to loving his job driving, he enjoyed video games, produce auctions and going to the casino. Mr. Gilman was predeceased by his wife Joan and his son Richard.

He is survived by his father Arthur Gilman of Holley; his brothers Tim (Christina) Gilman of Holley, Arthur Gilman of Brockport, and Pete (Rose) Gilman of Holley; his sister Paulette (Pam) Stockwell of Kent as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will be no calling hours and his service and interment will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Richard’s arrangements have been entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home of Holley. To share a special memory of Richard, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

ALBION – Bobbie J. Kwiatkowski, age 77, died January 9, 2024 in Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center following a brief illness.  She was born May 22, 1946 in Indore, West Virginia to Guy and Hattie (Jarrett) Osborne and had lived in this area over 20 years. 

Bobbie enjoyed playing Atari games, going to the Casino, traveling, having coffee dates with her son and visiting friends.  However, her greatest love in life was spending time with her grandchildren.  She loved to go out to eat with them and take them to Darien Lake.  Mrs. Kwiatkowski was predeceased by her husband Arthur Stanley Kwiatkowski and her siblings: Elmo and Denver Osborne and Mavis Keiffer and Rosalee Osborne. 

She is survived by her son: Phil (Amy Celento) Kwiatkowski of Brockport, her grandchildren: Matthew and Cayleb Mitchell, her brother: Ben (Lynda) Osborne, her sisters: Mary (Robert) Blosenhauer of Murray, Bonnie (Willie) Birch of Medina as well as several nieces and nephews. 

There will be no calling hours.  Friends and family are invited to attend Bobbie’s Memorial Service, Wednesday January 17^th at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-ALBION beginning at 12 Noon.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date in West Virginia. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: Hildebrand Hospice Care Center, 2652 Ridgeway Ave., Rochester, NY, 14626.  To share a memory of Bobbie, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com 

Home-Going and Thanksgiving service for the life and ministry of Rev. Wilfred Earold Moss

It was on the 2^nd of May 1932, the sun shone on the Bahamas tranquil shores of True Blue Crooked Island.  Ever brighter in the lives of William and Hetscema Beneby Moss, their 3^rd son and child was born.  They named him Wilfred Earold Moss and was affectionally known as ‘Errol’ or ‘Brother.’  In his early years, he displayed a devotion to God, vision and foresight, and the gift of generosity.  He attended, and graduated with honors from, The All Age School at True Blue.  After working numerous jobs on the island, he set sail to America for a better life for himself and family, which he held in the highest regard.

Against his father’s advice, Errol arrived in Deerfield, Florida, in the 1950s, on the “contract,” cultivating the land and harvesting fruits and vegetables. It was a very turbulent time in history.  However, that did not deter him from pursuing his goals and ambitions, including becoming an American citizen. He labored diligently and faithfully sent earnings and much needed items home to help support the family.

Later, he returned to the island to marry his bride:  the beautiful and industrious Betty Moss of Caigdell, a settlement of Crooked Island.  She affectionately called him just ‘Moss.’  They wed in 1966 and moved to the quaint village of Albion, New York, where they raised their 9 ­­wonderful children.  As a father, he instilled that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and to spare the rod was to spoil the child.  As a devout husband of 55 years to the late Mother Moss, she would say that Moss was a good provider and father and cared for her deeply.   Excellence, hard work, commitment, and integrity were the hallmark of his existence.

During the 1970s, Rev. Moss was called into the gospel ministry.  With his gregarious smile and enthusiasm, he shared the good news of Christ at local nursing homes, prisons, and churches.  He attended and graduated from Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School in Rochester, New York.  The congregations of Ferguson and Blackwell A.M.E. Zion Churches were blessed to have him as pastor, teacher, and beloved friend.  Later, Rev. Moss served on the ministerial staff at Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church in Rochester, New York.  Throughout his missionary journey, many souls were saved and faith renewed.

Service to the general public was also of great importance to him.   As an entrepreneur and astute businessman, Rev. Moss identified and sought to address many societal needs.  Through the grace of God, in the 1970s, he became a licensed barber and established the first African American barber shop in Albion.  Moss’s Apartments were established for those in need of shelter. Along with his wife, they co-founded Moss’s Fresh Fruits and Vegetables and sold their home grown produce at the Rochester Public Market for over 40 years. 

In conjunction to those endeavors, he held various employment.  As unto the Lord, he worked for the Eastman Kodak Company for 20 years, and served as chaplain for the Orleans County Jail for 25 years.

His hobbies included singing, farming, reading, spending time with family and friends, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.  Even on his bed of affliction, we could hear dad ministering in his dreams.  He was also a devoted Lion’s Club member for over 30 years, whereby he led many meetings in prayer and deemed a “community leader.”

Loyalty was not limited to the immediate family but to the extended one as well.  Brother never missed an opportunity to assist his siblings and their children, in some instances, contributing to making their dreams a reality.  As the patriarch, Uncle Will made several trips to the Bahamas to ensure representation at significant events in the life of the family at large.

Despite his quiet battle with failing health, dad made his final voyage to his beloved Bahama Land.  From which, he slipped away peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, surrounded by a host of family.   

To encapsulate, Rev. Wilfred E. Moss brought life and joy everywhere he went and could light up a room by his mere presence.  He made a monumental difference to his family and community. His sense of humor and quick wit will be missed.  He touched so many hearts, changed lives, and leaves a prolific legacy.  Now, he lives in eternity with Him forevermore.

His family will be present at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Friday, January 19^th from 4:00-7:00pm. His homegoing service will be held Saturday, January 20^th at the Memorial A.M.E Zion Church 549 Clarissa St, Rochester, NY 14608, at 11:00am with visitation held prior to the service from 9:00-10:45. Interment will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery in Albion where he’ll be laid to rest next to his wife Betty. A repass will be held after the cemetery at the Albion Elks Lodge 428 West State St. Albion, NY 14411.

To share as special memory of Rev. Wilfred Moss, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

KENT – Susan Lynn Schmitt, age 65, passed away unexpectedly on January 8, 2024 at her home. She was born September 5, 1958 in Albion to the late John and June (Earnst) Gurney.

Susan worked as a Registered Nurse for almost 30 years for the Orleans County Health Department. She truly loved caring for countless people around the county as a homecare nurse and seeing them at their homes. She was a loving mother who provided her children with many cherished memories.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Gregory T. Schmitt on June 3, 2022.

Susan is survived by her children, Kara (Ryan Kelly) Schmitt, Ashley Schmitt, Kristian Schmitt, stepsons, Karl (Amanda) Schmitt, Kurt (Cathy) Schmitt, one granddaughter on the way, brother, John C. (Theresa) Gurney, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 W. Avenue, Albion, NY 14411 on Tuesday, January 16th from 4:00-6:00pm where her Memorial service will follow at 6:00pm. Interment will be held at a later date at Mt. Albion Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in her name may be made to the Orleans County Joint Veterans Council, 13996 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411.

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

MEDINA – Lynda J. Felstead, aged 83, of Medina, New York, entered glory on January 5, 2024. She was born on October 16, 1940, to her loving parents, Dorothy and Edgar Cooper.

A lifelong educator, Lynda dedicated her life to loving and caring for students. Initially beginning her career at Medina High School, Lynda took a few years away from teaching to raise her two children, Keith and Betsy. She later returned to teaching, spending a majority of her career as a teacher in the Lyndonville Central School District. In addition to public education, she was a leader in Awana and Vacation Bible School at her local church for many years. She received her education at Lyndonville Central High School and further pursued her studies at Houghton College.

Lynda was a devoted wife to Ronald Felstead. Married on August 14, 1965, they built a life filled with love, support, and cherished memories. She is survived by her husband Ronald, son Keith (Lynn), daughter Betsy (Matthew), and grandsons Greg (Alexa), Bryan (Melissa), Caleb (Emily), and Devin (Hannah).

Although Lynda will be deeply missed from this Earth, those who knew her may be at peace knowing she is in the arms of her creator. Her dedication to education, love for her family, and unwavering faith will forever be cherished.

A private service will be held at the convenience of the family and burial will be in the Hartland Central Cemetery.

In remembrance of Lynda, contributions can be made to Answers in Genesis, PO Box 510, Hebron, KY, 41048, or to Orleans Community Health Foundation, 200 Ohio St. Medina, NY 14103, or to Houghton University, 1 Willard Avenue, Houghton, NY 14744.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Bogan & Tuttle Funeral Home, 226 Pearl St. Medina, NY 14103.

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

Joan E. Dunn, 93, of Lyndonville, NY, went to be with the Lord on Monday, January 8, 2024, at the North Wing of Medina Memorial Hospital.

Born on September 27, 1930, in Medina, NY, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Grace (Neal) Pringle.

She graduated from Lyndonville High School in 1948 and married the late Milford S. Dunn on April 16, 1949; together, they made their home in Lyndonville, where they raised three daughters. Joan worked as an office manager for the Lyndonville Vinegar Plant for many years. She was a member of the Yates Baptist Church, and the Medina Twigs. Joan enjoyed working in her flower garden and spending time with her family.

Joan is survived by her three daughters, Christine (Danny) Krisher of Medina, NY, Patricia (Paul) Spaeth of Olean, NY, Janice (Randy) Heideman of Medina, NY, ten grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandson, and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband of 70 years, Joan is predeceased by a grandson, Jon Krisher, a great-granddaughter, Brooke Allen, and siblings, Floyd Wolfe, Dean Wolfe, Ruth Cotton, Howard Hofert, and Robert Pringle.

Relatives and friends may call on Friday, January 12, 2024, from 10 AM- 12 PM at the Yates Baptist Church, 11366 E. Yates Center Rd. Lyndonville, NY 14098, where a celebration of life will be held at 12:00 PM with the Pastor, Lyell Drake, officiating. Burial will be private for the family.

Memorials may be made in Joan’s name to the Yates Baptist Church.

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 Joan at www.bogantuttlefunerals.com

Sunrise June 9, 1951, Sunset January 5, 2024

ALBION – Nathaniel Williams was born on June 9, 1951 to the late Margaret Williams and Harold Peterson in Bradenton, Florida.

Nate attended Manatee County Public Schools in Bradenton, Florida and in later years earned a certificate in electronics from Niagara County Community College (NCCC) in Sanborn, New York.

Nate married the love of his life, Patricia Cooper, on August 26, 1995. Their daughter, Brittney Patrice, was born on January 31, 1997.

Nate was a member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Batavia, New York where he served as a Deacon under the leadership of Pastor Jermi Williams. Nate also served as a Deacon of the Royal Body Shop Outreach Ministries (1 Church, 2 Locations) in Albion, New York under the leadership of Apostle Albert D. Wilson Jr. Nate was a member of the Archer’s Club in Albion, New York.

Nate loved the Lord and would often say, “His way and not ours.” Nate’s love for his family and friends was everlasting. He loved being at family events, fishing, and camping with his wife and camping crew.

Over the years, Nate was employed at GE, Black and Decker, and Injected Rubber. Nate retired from SUNY Brockport in 2008.

Nate was preceded in death by his parents; grandmother, Grand Lucy; one sister, Sandra; one brother, Harold; and his son Chancy Henry Williams.

Nate is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Patricia Cooper-Williams; his loving daughter, Brittney Williams; three sons; five sisters, Alberta Williams of Bradenton, Fla., Rhonda (Mike) Speed Thomas of Rochester, Joani (Earl) Evans of Batavia, Charlene (Jerry) Saddler of Batavia, and Angela Johnson, Colorado Springs, CO.

He leaves to cherish his memories, a host of grandchildren, one great-grandchild, god-children, nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins, and friends.

Nate’s family will receive friends on Saturday, January 13th at the Albion First Presbyterian Church 19 East State St. Albion, NY 14411 from 10 to 11 a.m. where his funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Royal Body Shop Outreach Ministries, P.O. Box 535, Albion, NY, 14411.

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

NEWFANE – Anita P. Ward, age 100, of Newfane, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2024, at Niagara Hospice. Anita was born in Niagara Falls, NY on December 25, 1923, a daughter of the late August L. and Flora (Laur) Schul.

Anita was a member of the Living Water Community Church and participated in many activities.  She was a 1942 graduate of LaSalle High School and had worked for 10 years until 1979 at Hillers Fruit and Vegetable stand. Anita attended the Newfane and Barker Senior Citizens. She was married June 29, 1946, to Aubrey Ward who predeceased her in July of 1983.

Anita was predeceased by her son, Donald; grandson, Derek Ward and 7 siblings.

She is survived by her children, Daniel (Darlene) Ward of Friendship, NY, David (Rosemary) Ward of Middleport, NY, Diane House of Keystone Heights, FL, and Denise (Anthony) Rodrigues of Tracy, CA; 18 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and friends in the community.

Anita’s life will be celebrated at the Living Water Community Church 2569 Main Street, Newfane, NY 14108 on Saturday January 13, at 11 a.m. followed by a luncheon at the church.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Living Water Community Church or Niagara Hospice 4675 Sunset Dr Lockport, NY 14094.

Anita’s arrangements have been entrusted to Kenneth H. Sherrie Funeral Home 4521 Main St. Gasport, NY 14067.

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

ALBION – Michael J. Muscarella, passed away peacefully on the morning of Thursday, January 4, 2024 at the age of 91.

Born March 19, 1932 in Batavia, Mr. Muscarella grew up on his family’s farm in Bethany. He was a son of the late Michael J. and Valeria (Kaska) Muscarella. A veteran of the Korean War, Mr. Muscarella served in the US Army from 1952-1954. Returning home he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University.

A man known for his hard work, Mr. Muscarella was a lifelong farmer. In 1977 he purchased Eagle Harbor Orchards in Albion where he lived and farmed until old age. He was also a retired corrections officer at Albion Correctional Facility. Mr. Muscarella served as the NYS Farm Bureau Marketing Manager and for many years could be heard broadcasting his reports on WHAM 1180 AM radio station. Outside of farming Mr. Muscarella had a passion for flying. He held his private pilot’s license for many years and owned several small aircraft including a vintage Aeronca Champion. He was a charter member of the Bethany Airport. Mr. Muscarella was also a dog lover.

Mr. Muscarella was predeceased by his beloved wife, Frances E. (Kime) Muscarella in 2006 and a brother, Jack Muscarella who died in youth.

Left to cherish his memory are three children, Michael (Joyce) Wright of Medina, Patrick (Carla) Wright of Gainesville, VA and Valeria Muscarella of Albion; grandchildren, Jessica (Benjamin) Decker, Emily Wright, Katherine (Jeremy) Cortash, Stephanie (Cameron) Hattan and Matthew (Deniz) Wright; ten great-grandchildren; brothers, Joseph (late Stephanie) Muscarella of Port St. Lucie, FL and Robert (Kayleen) Muscarella of Point Breeze; also many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude for the loving care and help given by friends and family, making it possible to live at home until just recently and also a special thanks to the staff at Orchard Manor Rehab & Nursing Center for their compassionate care during his final days.

Per his wishes, there will be no formal services at this time. The family will host a celebration gathering at a later date in the spring. Arrangements are in the care of Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

ALBION – Mary “Micki” Walton, age 78, died January 4, 2024 in United Memorial Medical Center following a lengthy illness. She was born April 29, 1945 in Cincinnati, OH and had lived in this area since 1968.

Micki was a member of Holy Family Parish where she was a member and former officer of The Ladies of Charity and The Catholic Daughters. She was also a member of the St. Vincent DePaul Society and the American Legion Auxiliary.

In her earlier years, Micki served as a 4H Leader, a Boy Scouts of America Den Mother and enjoyed horseback riding and travelling with her late husband Herb. One of her greatest joys in life was traveling to see, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Mrs. Walton was predeceased by her husband; Herbert Walton Sr.; her brother, Edward Smith; and her sister, Dorothy Klein.

She is survived by her children: Chip (Pamela) Walton of NC, Tracey (Don) Frasier of Albion, Brenda (Chris) Schillinger of WI; her grandchildren: Adam and Kelly Walton, Hillary and Brian Meachum, Courtney (Lance Requa) and Kyle Frasier, Mykenzie (Ian DeWild) Schillinger; great-grandchildren: Charlotte and Audrey Walton, Myers and Mills Meachum, Noel Michaels; several nieces and nephews as well as her faithful companion, “Axle”.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, 21 West Avenue-Albion, on Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend Micki’s Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday at 11 a.m. in Holy Family Parish followed by her burial in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to: P.A.W.S. 3371 Gaines Basin Road, Albion, NY, 14411 or Orleans County Animal Shelter, 4125 Oak Orchard Rd., Albion, NY, 14411.

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

HOLLEY – Patricia A. DeFilipps, age 90, passed away January 4, 2024, at Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center. She was born October 31, 1933, in Olean, NY, a daughter of the late David and Nora (Hammer) Wilson.

Pat was a member of St. Mary’s Church in Holley, a former member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas and the Jewell Buckman Post #529 Ladies Auxiliary. She had worked at various jobs throughout her life including Hickory Ridge retiring due to ill health. Pat enjoyed crafting, crocheting, baking and loved spending time with her family.

Pat was predeceased by her husband Michael in 2013 and son Michael in 2022.

Pat is survived by her daughters, Debra DeFilipps of Holley and Janet (Steven) Smith of Brockport; son, Patrick (Kris Moore) DeFilipps of Clarendon; grandchildren, Tricia DeFilipps, Natalie (Randall) Kelder, Geoffrey (Janice) Smith, Corina (Jeffrey Stonewell) DeFilipps and Nicholas DeFilipps; great-grandchildren, Leila and Jeffrey Stonewell, Addison and Michael Kelder, Nathaniel Smith, JJ, Samantha, Madeline and Annabelle Sharp; daughter-in-law, Marla Sugar; sister-in-law, Mary Ellen DeFilipps; sisters, Carol Glasspoole and Doloras Ripple; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Pat’s family is so grateful to the staff at Hildebrandt Hospice for the loving care given to Pat.

Pat’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes 16650 State Route 31 Holley on Sunday January 14, from 1 to 4 p.m. Pat’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday January 15, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church. Interment will be in the spring at Holy Cross Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Rochester Regional Health Foundation/Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center 330 Monroe Avenue, suite 400, Rochester, NY 14067.

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

Susan Kate Bradley passed away unexpectedly January 3, 2024 at Strong West in Brockport, NY.  Born August 21, 1957 in San Diego, California, she moved around with her family while her father was in the Navy.

She cultivated an early interest in the outdoors into a lifelong passion for natural beauty. Susan earned her bachelor’s degree in education and substitute taught at local schools before settling down to raise her family.

Susan was an avid genealogy sleuth, able to repair and confirm genealogical lines back many generations, some tracing back to the Mayflower. She was also a wonderful cook who took pride in her own scratch-made bread and soups, even maintaining hydroponic vegetable and herb gardens in a dedicated room in their home. Susan loved being a grandmother and she was loved by all who knew her. She always put others before herself and she will be sorely and deeply missed.

Susan is survived by her mother Barbara Kenyon; husband Raymond; children Joy Roberts, Andrew (Lydia) Bradley, Melody Bradley, and Benjamin (Danni) Bradley; grandchildren Aria and Andrew Bradley Jr.; and siblings Vernon (Rocky) Bartz, Judy Hiney and Daniel Bartz, as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 21 West Avenue in Albion, Tuesday, January 9th from 2 to 4 p.m. where her funeral service will follow at 4 p.m.  Memorials may be made to the organization of your choice.

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

LYNDONVILLE – Howard A. Geiger, age 74, passed away at home in Maryville, TN, on January 1, 2024.

Howard was a Scout Master of Troop 25 in Lyndonville, NY. He was a loving father, husband, Papa, and friend, and will be missed dearly.

Howard is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Ruth Geiger; sister-in-law, Cheri Geiger; and guide dog, Tanya.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Carol; sons, Howard (Jennifer) Geiger, Charles Geiger and Steven (Christina) Geiger; daughter, Marcie (Chad) Waterson; 11 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; brother, Robert Geiger of Medina; sister, Carol (Victor) Bobzien; and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Lyndonville.

MIDDLEPORT – Gerald Jay Milliman II, age 71, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2024 at the Niagara Hospice House. He was born April 27, 1952 in the Town of Groveland, NY to the late Gerald Jay (Virginia) Milliman.

Jay was a graduate of Royalton Hartland Central Schools and worked for 13 years at Simonds Steel, 12 years at Packaging Corp of America and retired from Jamestown Container in 1999. He was known as the jokester of the family, life of the party, an outgoing and social butterfly as well. He loved classic cars, often times watching car auctions on the TV, and mowing and snow blowing videos on YouTube when he didn’t have the strength to do it himself. Jay was quite fond of “Duct Tape” and lived up to the saying “Jerry rigged”.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Mark and Deborah.

Jay is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Debra Ann (Glena) Milliman who he married in 1972 and spent over 51 married years together. Also surviving are his three daughters; Tiffany Ann (Michael) Williamson, Trisha May (Mike Diel) Milliman, Trinity Jay (Austin) Doepp, grandchildren; Michael Aaron Williamson, Christopher Williamson, Nicholas Williamson, Brooke Williamson, soon to come grandson; Dawson Jay Doepp, his siblings; Timothy Lee Milliman, David Wayne Milliman as well as several loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

A time for family and friends to gather to celebrate Jay’s life will be held at the Bates, Wallace & Heath Funeral Home 38 State St. Middleport, NY 14105 on Saturday, January 6th from 1 t 4 p.m.

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

ALBION – Mary Jane Narburgh, age 95, passed away on December 31, 2023 at Strong Memorial Hospital after a short illness. She was born August 16, 1928 in Albion to the late Harry and Lillian (Stevens) Farnham and lived in the area her entire life.

Mary Jane was an avid card player, and retired from Albion Central Schools as a bus driver. She was an active member of the Snowmobile Club and Barre Sportsmens Club.

Mary Jane was predeceased by her husband, Stanly N. Narburgh, and daughter, Diana N. Sanford.

She is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth “Betty” N. Bloom; son, S. Steven Narburgh; sister, Delores Mathews and brother, Robert Farnham. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, 15 great-great-grandchildren, special family members, Ted and Seanne Narburgh, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services for Mary Jane will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions in her name may be made to Hospice of Orleans 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411.

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

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

ALBION – Martin Craig Basinait, 74, passed away after a long and exhausting battle with Parkinson’s Disease on December 28, 2023. He was born on April 5, 1949 to the late Louis Charles and Mary (Bokman) Basinait.

Marty lived in Albion his whole life, graduating from Albion High School and then attending Cornell University. He returned to marry his high school sweetheart and start a family just down the road from his parent’s farm. He had many interests and there was nothing he couldn’t build, fix, or drive.

He opened Basinait’s Gulf in 1973 and ran it fulltime until he took a director’s position at Western Regional Off Track Betting. He was named Vice President in 1981 and ten years later became President and CEO. He spent years laying the groundwork for the hugely successful Batavia Downs we know today. He retired in 2011 after more than three decades with WROTB, and unfortunately was unable to pursue his passions of fly-fishing and fast cars because of health issues.

Marty was predeceased by his parents, his older brother, Michael, and his first love, his wife Carol.

Marty is survived by his four children, Lisa (Jon) Pritchard, Stacey (Nathan Olewnick) Basinait, Samuel (Tenzing Youdon) Basinait, and Alissa (Matthew Cochrane) Basinait; his brothers Charles (Andrea) Basinait, Joseph (Cindy) Basinait, Laurence (Donna) Basinait; and his sister-in-law, Sarah Basinait. He will also be deeply missed by his nieces, nephew, his great-niece and nephew, and his only grandchild, Carol Grace Pritchard.

There will be calling hours at Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home on Thursday January 4th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a service at 2 p.m. There will be a private burial at St. Joseph‘s Cemetery where he will be laid to rest next to his wife, Carol.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Orchard Manor Rehabilitation would be greatly appreciated. The kindness and love of his caregivers on Unit 3 was a true blessing in his last days. To share a special memory of Marty, please visit: www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.