Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home Obituaries

A Legacy of Compassion and Care: Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home

Located in the heart of Geneva, New York, Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home has been a pillar of comfort and support for families in their time of need. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this esteemed funeral home has earned a reputation for providing personalized and compassionate service to the community.

A Tradition of Excellence

Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home has been serving the Geneva area for generations, with a legacy that spans over [number] years. Throughout its history, the funeral home has remained dedicated to providing exceptional care and service to families, earning the trust and respect of the community. The funeral home's experienced staff is comprised of licensed professionals who are committed to ensuring that every family receives the highest level of care and attention.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Henry "Hunky" Decker, Jr. - April 02, 1946 - April 25, 2024

Departed: 04/25/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA - Henry “Hunky” Decker, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and Vietnam War veteran, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on April 25, 2024, at the age of 78 after a brief battle with cancer.

Henry was born in Geneva on April 2, 1946 and graduated from Geneva High School in 1966. He dedicated his younger years in service to his country, bravely serving in the United States Marine Corps in the Vietnam War. After the war, Henry married his high school sweetheart, Gloria Priano, and spent his entire career with Verizon. He was active in the NYS Army National Guard, achieving the rank of Command Sergeant Major, retiring in 1994. After he retired, he worked as a Corrections Officer for the Ontario County Sheriff’s Department. He was a member of The American Legion, Knights of Columbus, Nester Hose, and VFW. He enjoyed his evening straws at the Knights, weekly card games and annual golf trips.

Henry was a devoted family man and cherished every moment spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured forever. He is survived by his wife of 55 years Gloria, his children Sarah (Douglas) Flannery and Brian (Veronica) Decker, his grandchildren, Spencer, Riley and Decker Breese, and their mothers, Lindsey and Paula Breese, step grandson Bela Szabo, his siblings Robert Decker, Barbara Duffy, Joann Blankenberg, Lynne Decker, and Gary Decker, sisters-in-law Elizabeth (Larry) Johnson and Donna Venuti, his best friend Tom (Jane) Holloran, and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents, Henry and Elizabeth Decker, in-laws Samuel and Domenica Priano, and sisters, Claire Campbell and Sharon Decker.

Calling hours will be held at DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home on 181 N. Main Street, Geneva, NY on Monday, April 29th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Members of the Nester Hose Co. #1 of the Geneva Fire Dept. will meet at 6:00 p.m.; members of the Council #272 Knights of Columbus will meet at 6:30 p.m.; and members of the Winnek Post #396 American Legion will meet at 6:45 p.m. for prayer services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Stephen’s Church, 48 Pulteney St., Geneva, NY on Tuesday, April 30th at 10:30 a.m.

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Todd R. Pronti - May 10, 1976 - April 25, 2024

Departed: 04/25/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: CANANDAIGUA/GENEVA – Todd R. Pronti, 47, of Canandaigua, passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY.

Todd was born and raised in Geneva. He graduated from Geneva High School and received two degrees from Monroe Community College. Todd was employed for the last several years as an appraiser for Sperano Appraisals. He enjoyed spending many evenings playing video games with his son and best friend Matthew. Todd’s first love, however, was music and DJ'd at various locations throughout the Finger Lakes. His family will forever cherish the video of him dancing on his knees with his then three-year-old daughter Emma, the light of his life.

He is survived by his son, Matthew and daughter, Emma Grace; his mother Gail Cannon (Clark); sister, Robin Eames (Mike); four nieces and his constant companion Patch, his Great Dane.

He was predeceased by his father, Richard Pronti and his sister, Wendy.

The family would also like to thank Brett, Mike, and Tony for their support during this trying time.

Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

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Concetta A. Kerr - April 14, 1934 - April 24, 2024

Departed: 04/24/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA - Concetta A. “Connie” Kerr, 90, of Geneva, passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at Geneva General Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

Funeral Services and inurnment at St. Mary’s Cemetery Mausoleum will be held at the convenience of the family.

Contributions, in her memory, may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the American Heart Fund.

Connie was born in Geneva and was a lifelong resident. She was the daughter of the late John and Frances Farsace Pollino. She loved working with crafts and was a great cook especially cooking for her family.

She is survived by her sons, Michael Kerr of Baton Rouge, LA, John (Monica) Kerr of Geneva, James (Linda) Kerr of Skaneateles, and William Kerr of Geneva; her daughter, Deborah (John) Corcoran of Geneva; her sister, Patricia Dragos of MD; her sisters-in-law, Peggi and Josie Pollino; thirteen grandchildren, Ryan and Sean Corcoran, Daniel Kerr, Francis Kerr, Anthony Kerr, Nathaniel Mulvihill, Christopher Kerr, James Westfall, Mathew Westfall, Devan Farrell, Taylor Scuderi, Bryce Kerr and Maryn Kerr; sixteen great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephew.

She was predeceased by her husband, Albert Kerr; sister, Mary Evan; and her brothers, John and Robert Pollino.

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Michael P. Buck Sr. - January 26, 1953 - April 12, 2024

Departed: 04/12/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – Michael Patrick Buck Sr., 71, of Geneva, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 12, 2024 at Geneva General Hospital.

Friends may call at the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St., Geneva, on Friday, April 19, 2024 from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. Funeral services will follow at 6:00 p.m. in the funeral home with Rev. Thomas P. Mull officiating.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the Beverly Animal Shelter, 50 E. River Rd., Waterloo, NY 13165 or to the Committee on Firematic’s of the Geneva Fire Department.

Michael was born in Geneva and was a lifelong resident. He was the son of the late Francis and Mary McCormack Buck. He was employed at DiDuro’s Shoe Store for over 40 years and retired from Super Casuals. Michael formerly worked at BonaDent of Waterloo. He loved walking around town, he loved his animals, car racing, and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his son, Michael (Marie Agnello) Buck of Geneva; his brother, Richard (Marian) Buck of Geneva; his sisters, Frances Carroll of Geneva, Barbara Mastellar of Geneva, Linda (James) Reed of Geneva, and Joan (Michael) Estep of Baldwinsville; several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife, Suzanne; his sister, Mary Bonacci; his brother, James Buck; his brothers-in-law, John F. Carroll Jr. and Dale Mastellar; and his nephew, Christopher Carroll.

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Mary E. Lawthers - September 11, 1941 - April 03, 2024

Departed: 04/03/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – Mary E. Lawthers, 82, of Geneva, passed away unexpectedly, on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at Geneva General Hospital.

There will be no prior calling hours.

A Funeral Services will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church, Snell Rd., with the Rev. Cameron Miller, of Trinity Place Officiating.

Burial will be in St. John’s In the Wilderness, Paul Smith Cemetery at Lake Clear, NY at the convenience of the family.

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Patricia A. Lathey - January 21, 1958 - March 31, 2024

Departed: 03/31/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – Patricia A. “Grumpy” Lathey, 66, of Geneva, passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024, at Geneva General Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

Friends may call at the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St., Geneva, on Friday, April 5, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Funeral Services will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. The Rev. Colin Pritchard, Pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Geneva will officiate. Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery.

Contributions in her memory may be made to Happy Tails Animal Shelter, 2976 County Rd. 46, Canandaigua, NY 14424 or to the Presbyterian Church, 24 Park Place, Geneva, NY 14456.

Grumpy was born in Geneva and was a lifelong resident. She was the daughter of Nancy Schaffner Lathey and the late William Lathey. She graduated from Geneva High School class of 1976 and was a graduate of Delhi State University. She started her career in the hotel business working at the Chanticleer Motel, numerous Holiday Inns in the area, and retired from the Ramada Inn. She loved to take vacations and most importantly spending time with her nieces and nephews all year long, especially around the holiday times and Christmas.

She is survived by her mother, Nancy Lathey of Geneva; her brothers, Edward (Denise) Lathey of Waterloo, John (Marianne) Lathey of Waterloo, Steven (Mary Kay) Lathey of Geneva, and Paul (Theresa) Lathey of Geneva; several nieces and nephews, Brittany, Ashley, Paul N. (Trisha Galligan) Lathey II, Christopher (Katelin Boyce) Lathey, Alicia (Zac) Ensworth, Hannah (Matthew) Carey, Marc (Joshua) Farrash-Lathey, Brad (Taylor) Watkins, Danny (Paula) Landerfelt-Lathey, Shawn (Brenda) Lathey, Stephanie (Patrick Shafer) Lathey, Melissa (Patrick Doran) Lathey; several great nieces and great nephews, Coltin Bailey, Karli Lathey- King, Bailey Stone, Reagan and Willow Lathey, Wyatt Lathey, Noah Derleth, Abbey, Noah, Connor, Nathan Ensworth, Holden Carey, Sarah Carey, Mason Lathey, and Savannah Belle Doran.

She was predeceased by her father, William E. Lathey; her nephews, Jeremy Lathey and Joseph Lathey; her grandparents, Helen and Raymond Schaffner and Delphino Archeletta; and her uncle, Raymond Schaffner Jr.

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Richard W. Robinson - April 14, 1930 - March 22, 2024

Departed: 03/22/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA - Dr. Richard W. Robinson passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family in hospice care at Geneva General Hospital on Friday, March 22. He was almost 94 years old. Richard (Dick) was born on April 14, 1930, to Myron and Mary Robinson in Los Angeles.

Calling hours will be Friday, April 5th from 5pm-7pm at DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main Street, Geneva. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 6th at 1:00pm at the First United Methodist Church, 340 S. Main Street, Geneva.

Memorial contributions can be made to Geneva Public Library, 244 Main St, Geneva, NY 14456, Cornell University or to your favorite charity. Dick graduated from the University of California Davis with a BS degree in Plant Science in 1952 and a MS degree in Vegetable Crops in 1953. He received his Ph.D. in 1962 from Cornell University in Plant Breeding & Genetics. He served in the Army from 1953 to 1955 in Utah and was honorably discharged. It was there that he developed a love of camping.

In 1961 Dick was employed by Cornell University as a Research Specialist at the NY State Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva (now Cornell AgriTech) as a plant breeder of tomatoes. He became Assistant Professor in 1962 and full professor in 1977. Over the years Dick developed an interest in breeding squash, cucumbers, lettuce and eggplants. He released varieties such as New Yorker and Nova for tomatoes, Whitaker for squash, Saladcrisp and Onondaga for lettuce. He shared his breeding lines with private seed companies, and they are still being used worldwide for research. Scientists and students came from several countries such as Poland, France, India and China to do research with him. He was a contributor to both the Cucurbit and Tomato Genetics Cooperatives for many years and authored several books and published many scientific articles. He spent his sabbatical leaves in Davis and La Jolla, CA, Gainesville, FL and Wageningen, Holland. Over the years several graduate students came to work with him, the last one in 1999 from China. Dick retired after 40 years in 2000 and was appointed by Cornell University Professor Emeritus. He kept working for another 8 years because he enjoyed his work so much.

Dick was instrumental in establishing the Geneva Early Childcare Center and served as their secretary. He married his wife Inge in Germany, and they celebrated 61 years of happy marriage on March 15. Dick and Inge enjoyed traveling to many different countries. He also liked reading, gardening, camping, and doing activities with his children and grandchildren. He helped take care of the kids’ horse every morning before going to work. He built outdoor play equipment and a homemade small train and enjoyed pulling 2 generations of kids on it around the backyard. Dick was always gardening after work and had a small greenhouse where he grew annuals for transplanting. He planted a beautiful field of daffodils in the horse pasture that we still enjoy today.

He is survived by his devoted wife Inge, daughters Susan (Edward) Powell and Sandra (Daniel) Hey and grandchildren Michael, Jennifer, Jasmine and Kyle. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Donald. We are thankful for the wonderful care by Dr. Alexander Baez, MD and the nursing staff of Geneva General Hospital.

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Robert E. Keebler - May 02, 1927 - March 18, 2024

Departed: 03/18/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: Rounding third and heading home…

WATERLOO - Robert “Bob” Ernest Keebler of Waterloo, NY, passed away peacefully in his home on March 18, 2024 at the age of 96, keeping his humor and wit until the very end.

Bob was born on May 2, 1927 in Geneva, NY to the late Ernest and Margaret (Platman) Keebler. He attended Border City School and graduated from Geneva High School in 1945. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1945 after graduation. He passed the college entrance exam in Michigan and was planning to study agriculture and play baseball before he was drafted to the Army.

Bob served in the United States Army for two years in Germany and France as a Rifleman 745, a Technical Sergeant in the Signal Corps, and a Crew Chief Lineman for Telephone and Telegraph 238 during and after World War II. He returned after the war to work for the New York Telephone Company for 41 years as a Communication Serviceman and as a Union Representative. Bob was a long standing member of the Waterloo VFW Post 6433 and the Waterloo American Legion Warner – Van Riper Post 435.

Bob built his house on River Road with the help of his father and lived there until his passing.

Bob was known for his love of baseball. He played on the first Kiwanis Baseball team in Geneva. If he had not been drafted into the Army, he said he could have been drafted to the Major Leagues. He was one of the founding members of the Waterloo Little League back in 1967. When there was a lack of practice space in the community, Bob built a baseball field on the acreage in his back yard in 1967 and later added a second field in 1989 with the help of his sons and sons-in-law. Many generations of Waterloo baseball players learned to play the sport he loved so much under his supervision and on his fields. He played a very large part throughout the history of Waterloo Little League – he was a Coach, Manager and Member of the Board, earning an Honorary Membership in 1995. In 2003, he earned the Pee Wee Bonacci Little League Award. Bob was also instrumental in getting necessary equipment and lighting for the Vince Lombardi Football League in Waterloo. He saw that there was a need for lighting on the field, he had the resources and wanted to help his community, so he got the job done.

When he wasn’t maintaining and mowing his fields, you could be sure to find Bob at his children and grandchildren’s sporting events, dance recitals, chorus and band concerts, and theater productions. As an avid fan of Buffalo Bills Football, New York Mets Baseball, and Syracuse University Sports, Bob was always watching or rewatching many games, no matter how old they were. Bob was often found “shooting the breeze” with his pals at the little store. He was involved in all aspects of the community, like building a Pinewood Derby track in his basement and as a member of the Board of Education from 1973 to 1983, serving as Vice President from 1979 to 1980 and 1981 to 1983. He was also a Waterloo Lions Club Scout Master for Pack 81.

He is survived by his children, Patricia (Bernard) Doran, Timothy (Lauri) Keebler, and Susan (Kevin) Fredendall. His also survived by his grandchildren, Kimberly Doran, Kelly (Justin) Burkett, Shaun Keebler (Rachel), Patrick Keebler (Stacey), Stephanie (Matthew) VanNostrand, Robert Steen, Sarah Fredendall, and Stephen Fredendall (Madison); as well as his great-grandchildren, Ryan and Paige VanNostrand, Alex Keebler, Addison Keebler, Charlie and Lucy Burkett, and Gracie, Dakota, Rose, and Phillip Steen; and his sister, Janet Keebler.

He is predeceased by his wife, Mary (Maher) Keebler; children, Robert Edward Keebler and Mary Elizabeth Coates; and brothers, Edward, Richard and Alan Keebler.

Friends may call at the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St., Geneva on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will be at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 11, 2024 in the funeral home with the Rev. James Fennessy officiating. Burial with full Military Honors will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Waterloo.

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Elisha D. Caito - July 20, 1981 - March 14, 2024

Departed: 03/14/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: WATERLOO - Elisha D. Caito, 42, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

Elisha is survived by her parents, Russel and Darlene Calabrese of Waterloo, NY; her children, Giovanni Caito of Waterloo, NY, Gisele Caito of Geneva, NY, and Jacob Caito of Waterloo, NY; and her grandmother, Pauline McCormick of Waterloo, NY. Elisha was predeceased by her grandfather, Edward McCormick.

Elisha was a hard worker who loved the Lord, her children, and animals.

A celebration of Elisha’s life will be held at a later date.

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William D. Whitwell Jr. - December 04, 1953 - February 20, 2024

Departed: 02/20/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA - William D. Whitwell, Jr passed unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 after a short battle with cancer.

Bill was born December 4, 1953 in Geneva, NY to William D. and Florence Hovey Whitwell. Bill lived in Geneva for most of his 70 years, living in his childhood home for 63 of those years. Bill operated Graphic Connections for 38 years as a creative and innovative graphic designer. Geneva and the Finger Lakes ran through his blood. He promoted the area, the events, the businesses and organizations with his heart and soul. He was involved in the creation of Seneca Lake Whale Watch, Castle Street Band, Finger Lakes Gypsy Tour, Chameleon Portable Systems and, most recently, EverythingFLX.com

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Nancy Flynn Whitwell; their two sons, his pride and joy, William Davenport Whitwell III of Newport Beach, CA and Robert Cornelius Whitwell of Geneva; his sister, Bonnie McCarthy of Richmond, NH; sisters and brothers-in-law, Ann (Steve) Wright, Meg (Lenny) Cecere, Michael (Susan) Flynn and Tom (Claire) Flynn; several cousins, nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by his Villa brothers, Jim Beardsley, John Bero, Fred Bertram, Ray Cook, Paul Davis, Reed Grapensteter, Bob Hamm, Mark Jones, Rick Kalbfleisch, Rick MacIntyre, Mike Peters, Kevin Smith and Bill Wilsey; and very special brother, Ted Nguyen.

He was predeceased by his parents and in-laws, Kay and Neil Flynn; sister-in-law, Patti Flynn Seelbach; and brother-in-law, Rick McCarthy.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, March 1, 2024 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at DeVaney - Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St. Geneva, NY. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Roman Catholic Church, 48 Pulteney St., Geneva, NY.

Donations can be made in Bill’s memory to Thrive to Survive, PO Box 1146, Geneva, NY 14456.

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Debra S. Woodworth - October 25, 1957 - February 18, 2024

Departed: 02/18/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – Debra S. Woodworth, 66, of Geneva, passed away on Sunday, February 18, 2024 at her home.

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

Debra was born in Hornell, NY and traveled throughout the United States as she loved to travel. She was the daughter of Ruth Leach and the late Ray Perkins. She formerly worked at the Waffle House in Hornell and for H & R Block in Hornell. She enjoyed music, crafts, and spending time with her grandchildren.

She is survived by her mother, Ruth Leach of Geneva; her sons, Joseph (Holly) Woodworth of Avoca and Kirk Woodworth of Bath; her daughters, Tia (Brian) Lynk of Prattsburgh and Amy (Ramiro Conde) Nowicki of Bath; her sisters, Mary Johnson of Bloomfield, Janet Johnson of Geneva, and Kelly (Gary) Hamel of FL; twelve grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Merle Woodworth in 2023 and her brothers, Ray Perkins, Thomas Perkins, and Jackie Perkins.

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Donna M. Bailey - March 31, 1963 - February 17, 2024

Departed: 02/17/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – Donna M. Bailey, 60, of Geneva, passed away on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at Strong Memorial Hospital.

A Celebration of her Life will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 1, 2024 at the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St., Geneva. The Rev. Thomas P. Mull will officiate. Burial will be in Sand Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Donna was born in Geneva and was the daughter of the Pauline Shoemaker Irwin and the late Clifford Irwin. She was a graduate of Geneva High School and worked as a CNA at Geneva General Hospital. She loved collecting Dragon Fly’s, coloring by numbers, and supporting her grandchildren with their activities.

She is survived by her mother, Pauline Irwin of Geneva; her sons, Brandon (Jessica) Bailey of Clifton Springs, Skyler Bailey of Geneva, and Edward (Christina) Bailey Jr. of Geneva; her brother, Jack (Priscilla) Shoemaker of Syracuse, and step brother, Clifford Irwin Jr. of Seneca Falls; the mother of her grandchildren, Catherine Krebbs; her grandchildren, Alexis, Gabriel and Hendriz Bailey and Aribella; and her cat, Lilly.

She was predeceased by her sister, Linda Shoemaker-Morales and her step-brother, Terry Irwin.

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Elizabeth W. Arnold - March 31, 1934 - February 15, 2024

Departed: 02/15/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – Elizabeth Wigton Arnold (Bibi), a resident of Geneva, NY since 2016, passed away on Thursday, February 15, 2024 at Geneva General Hospital.

There will be no prior calling hours and funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Bibi was born in 1934 in Philadelphia, PA to Robert James Wigton and Elizabeth Nellins and resided in Catonsville, MD with her parents until her marriage there to Frank Arnold in 1959.

She earned a BS from Drexel Institute of Technology in Philadelphia, PA in 1956 and a MS from Columbia University in NY for studies in Nutrition in 1960.

For 32 years, Bibi resided with her husband and children in Locust Valley, NY where she was Secretary and then President of the Board of Trustees of the Locust Valley Library from 1969 until 1984. From 1984 to 1989, Bibi volunteered with Project Literacy/Outreach in Nassau County, NY.

In 1989, she returned to Columbia University to train with Dr. Judith R. Birsh, Teachers College, and was certified by the Academic Language Therapy Association as a therapist in 1995 and taught dyslexic students privately through 2001.

In 1995, Bibi and Frank moved to Bristol, RI where they enjoyed sailing the Northeast coastal waters, traveling the USA with Elderhostel, and enjoying the cultural offerings of Providence and Boston.

She is survived by her husband, Frank; her children, Elizabeth Marinis of Long Island and Anne Wilkes of Seneca Falls; seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren; her sister, Frances Lloyd of New Jersey; several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her son, Stewart Arnold and her brother, Robert Wigton, Jr.

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Paul E. Kirsch - July 23, 1930 - February 10, 2024

Departed: 02/10/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: Cortland / Geneva - Dr. Paul E. Kirsch, 93, retired Geneva school superintendent, passed peacefully on Saturday, February 10 at the Hospice residence in Ithaca.

Paul was born in New York City on July 23, 1930, and spent his early years enjoying the glories of that great city. He attended Albany State College, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree cum laude. He continued his education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, earning a Master of Arts in Teaching degree and a Doctor of Education degree in its Administrative Career Program.

A dedicated educator for 40 years, Paul taught social studies, English, and mathematics before becoming a high school principal and assistant superintendent in Bennington, Vt. He then served twenty years as a superintendent of schools, ten in Salamanca, NY. and ten in Geneva (1975-85). After retiring from Geneva, Paul served as interim school administrator or consultant in seven districts, including Dryden and Ithaca, and as associate professor at Oswego State College.

In addition to his administrative responsibilities, Paul was active as an educational leader. While in Bennington, he received a $250,000 grant from the Ford Foundation and for two years he was executive director of the grant’s Cooperative Project for Curriculum Development, a nine-district public and parochial school consortium in Southwestern Vermont.

He was a member of the adjunct faculty at state colleges in North Adams, Mass. and Castleton, Vt. and an invited speaker at conventions of the American Association of School Administrators and the National and New York State School Board Associations. He was honored to be appointed as a group leader of a joint US Office of Education-Kettering Foundation education conference. He was the author of articles on education published in professional journals and of an annual series of talks for Geneva Rotary on the American Revolution and Civil War.

In Salamanca, Paul included the Council of the Seneca Nation of Indians in decision-making involving the Nation’s school children and among other changes that would help Indian children adjust to the schools, he assisted the elementary faculty to reorganize elementary reading and math into multi-level non-graded and continuous progress programs.

Paul’s career in education was a life of dedicated service to children attending public schools, their parents, teachers, and communities. He became Geneva's superintendent of schools in 1975, a time when school improvement was being demanded everywhere, and he chose as his focus the development of Geneva into a leading modern school district of its size and kind.

In 1977, working with the school board, a plan was developed, and after a strong campaign voters approved a bond that would reorganize the district to include a three-year middle school, and a new four-year high school. The new national-award-winning high school opened in 1981.

Over the decade there was significant evidence of major improvements. There were improved programs, services, and practices, enriched curriculums, and new student services.

Paul and his wife, “Midge,” nèe Lorraine Doiron, moved several times in three states before he was called to Geneva. And Geneva proved special to them. Appreciating its inherent beauty, positive spirit, and neighborly warmth, Geneva became their home, and when he retired, they decided to remain in Geneva, a happy decision never regretted.

For some time before he died, Paul had debilitating health problems, including Parkinson’s Disease, that more and more restricted his activities. In 2019 he moved from his beloved Geneva to assisted-living communities, now at Walden Place in Cortland. Through all these years his positive outlook on life never waned and his spirit never dimmed. He saw every day as an adventure to be lived, and he looked forward to each tomorrow.

A Rotarian since 1962, Paul’s life and career typified the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self.” He joined Geneva Rotary in 1976, was a past-president, was twice named a Paul Harris Fellow, and served terms as director, secretary, editor of the club’s bulletins and directories, and was chair of several committees. Paul’s other-time activities were numerous and varied (many shared with Midge). He served at various times on the boards of several community organizations. In 1977, faculty golfers introduced Paul to golf unaware that it would become his favorite outdoor activity from then on. Paul's father, a die-hard Yankee fan, took him to his first game at the Stadium in 1936, Joe DiMaggio's rookie year. At an event in 1938 they met Babe Ruth, and in 1939 they attended the special ceremony at the Stadium, where he heard Lou Gehrig say, “I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth!”

He was an avid reader, particularly of history, biography, and genre crime fiction. He was interested in history, art, music, and the performing arts. He and Midge regularly visited historic sites as well as art museums and galleries in the United States and Canada. They collected regional art and regularly attended concerts and stage performances. For 40 years they were patrons of and annually attended productions at the Stratford Festival in Stratford, Ont.

Paul was preceded in death by Midge. There was great sadness for him when she, his wife, partner, best friend, companion, and love of his life for almost 60 years died in 2009.

Surviving Paul are two sons, David (Marianne) of Norwich, N.Y. and Stephen (Linda) of Dryden, N.Y.; four grandchildren, Nicole Conant (Jeremy) of Rochester, N.Y., Emily Duball (Brian) of Mahopac, N.Y., Zachary of North Tonawanda, N.Y., and Michael of Raleigh, N.C.; great-grandsons Jacob and Andrew Conant and Benjamin Duball; dear friend and companion Dorothy Newcomb of Kashong, N.Y.; cousins; and an extended family of godchildren, close friends, and cherished colleagues.

The family will be present on Monday, February 26 to receive friends at 10:30, with a memorial service starting at 11:30 at the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main Street, Geneva, NY 14456. Burial to follow (family only) at Glenwood Cemetery in Geneva.

You are invited to join us in establishing the “Dr. Paul E. Kirsch Memorial Scholarship Fund.” Donations can be made payable to the Geneva City School District with the memo of Dr. Paul E. Kirsch Memorial Scholarship Fund to 400 West North Street, Geneva, NY 14456 attn: Business Office. Contributions in his memory could also be directed to the Geneva Rotary Club, PO Box 1144, Geneva, NY or Ithaca Hospice, 172 E. King Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850.

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Stephen T. Schroeder - October 31, 1956 - January 28, 2024

Departed: 01/28/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – Stephen T. Schroeder, 67, of Geneva, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 28, 2024, in Geneva General Hospital.

There will be no prior calling hours.

Funeral Services will be at the convenience of the family.

Stephen was born in Geneva and was a lifelong resident. He was the son of the late George T. and Gwendolyn Carragher Schroeder. He served his country in the US Marine Corps and the Army Reserve. Stephen worked at several places around this area after his military service, including W.P. Mahoney Enterprises, Ag Tech of Romulus, and retired from the NYS Experiment Station in Geneva. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and pool player. Stephen was a member of Winnek Post #396 American Legion and Our Lady of Peace Parish.

He is survived by his wife, Colleen Bailey Schroeder; his son, Stephen R. (Jackie) Schroeder of Geneva; his daughter, Erin Schroeder of Geneva; his brother, Mark (Gina) Schroeder of Seneca Falls; his sister, Beth Schroeder of Seneca Falls; two grandchildren, Abbie and Stephen Schroeder Jr.; several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his sons, Matthew and Kyle Schroeder; his brother, Michael Schroeder; and his sisters, Deborah Dawley and Georgia Passino.

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James E. Capron - March 22, 1944 - January 24, 2024

Departed: 01/24/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA - James E. Capron, 79, of Glass Factory Bay Rd., Geneva, NY, died on January 24, 2024. James was born March 22, 1944, in Springwater, New York, son of Russell and Mildred Allen Capron. He was a graduate of Victor Central High School, Victor, NY, and received his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts Degrees from Cornell University. Jim operated the family farm throughout his high school and college years. While at Cornell University, Jim sang in the Cornell Glee Club and performed in programs on campus and throughout the world including a Southeast Asian and European tour. He was particularly moved by the experience of singing in the grand cathedrals of Europe.

Jim began his career in 1967 as a conservation instructor at Wayne Finger Lakes BOCES in Flint NY. For fourteen years, Jim instructed students as they developed skills in conservation, equipment operation and maintenance. In 1981, Jim started working for Cornell University as a Cooperative Extension Area Field Crops Specialist. Jim was well respected by the growers with whom he worked. He organized and presented a variety of programs to educate growers regarding field crop production, zone tillage, equipment use and management, waste handling, and grain storage. Jim was most at home discussing farming practices with growers in their fields, helping modify or fix equipment. Growers frequently sought his knowledge on zone tillage and its practical application. When not in the field, Jim enjoyed spending time with family and friends, hang gliding, sailing, playing music and exploring his faith. After retiring from Cornell Cooperative Extension, Jim worked for ten years at Seedway in Hall, NY on corn variety trials, seed planters and seed corn development. Jim was a long time member of the Presbyterian Church in Geneva and continuously sang in the church choir or the Finger Lakes Chorale. Jim was also passionate about music, playing stand-up bass in a bluegrass band.

Jim’s ingenuity, compassion, humor, friendship, love of music, sailing, and admiration for his children and grandchildren was evident throughout his life. His advice on house projects, car repairs, or any other tasks will be greatly missed.

James is survived by his wife, Diana Parker; sister, Mary Jane Capron of Michigan; sisters-in-law, Barbara Joan (& Stan) Trojanowski of Ohio and Patricia (& Wilbur) Robarge of Indiana; brother-in-law, John (& Carol) Miller of Virginia; daughters, Lisa (& Marcus) Geist of Alaska, Amy (& Justin) Barrow of Colorado, as well as Bob (& Stacy) Parker of Pennsylvania, and Tom Parker of Texas; and three grandchildren, Nina Geist, Jacob Barrow, and Nate Parker. Jim was predeceased by his parents and many aunts and uncles.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at The Presbyterian Church in Geneva, 24 Park Place, Geneva, NY. Burial will be in Farmington Friends Church Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s honor to the charity of one’s choice.

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Dennis H. Ketcham - March 30, 1944 - January 14, 2024

Departed: 01/14/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – Dennis H. Ketcham, 79, of Geneva, passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at the Living Center North in Geneva.

Friends may call at the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St, Geneva, on Monday, January 22, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. A Memorial Service will follow at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home. The Rev. Thomas P. Mull will officiate. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

Dennis was born in Oswego, NY and has resided in Geneva for a number of years. He was the son of the late Howard and Sylvia Draper Ketcham. He served his country during the Vietnam War with the US Army and was retired from Gould Pumps where he was a machinist.

He is survived by his sons, William and Shawn of Clyde; his daughters, Jaime (Daniel) VanSteer of Savannah and Shannon Ketcham of Geneva; his brothers, John Ketcham of Hammondsport and David (Sharon) Ketcham of Oswego; his sister, Gloria Stagles of Sodus; eight grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his granddaughter, Crystal.

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Lillian L. Annony - February 20, 1930 - January 11, 2024

Departed: 01/11/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: Geneva - Lillian Louise Annony, 93, of Geneva, NY, entered into God’s kingdom on January 11, 2024. She was born February 20, 1930 to Calista and Charles Strouse.

Lillian, the most loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, was predeceased by her husband, Peter Annony and daughter, Laurie Graham, great grandson  DeAndre Crouch. She is survived by her son, Peter (Janet); daughters, Gale Lucase (Steve) and Debbie Hayes (Kevin); grandchildren, Luberta Crouch (Dean), Christina and Anthony Annony, Will Pfeiffer, and Steven Lucase; great grandchildren, Aliyah, Aysiah, Aribella and Everleigh; and extended family of Joanie and John Peters, their children and grandchildren.

After graduating from Gorham High School, Lillian fell in love with and married Pete, and they remained married for 57 years until he passed away in 2006. Lillian considered being a stay-at-home Mom her career, took great pride in keeping house, and giving her four children her love and time. Friends and neighbors always felt welcomed, and still note the delicious meals they were invited to share. Lillian’s cookie jars were always full, and her unique “made from scratch” cakes were enjoyed at many birthdays, fund-raisers and school events. Her children describe her as always loving, a wonderful listener, selfless, and joyful in serving.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff members of Geneva General Hospital for their kindness and care over the last two years, and friends and neighbors for their love and support.

A Memorial Service will be held in the spring.

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Justina Maria Hughes - July 25, 1995 - January 01, 2024

Departed: 01/01/2024 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – On January 1, 2024, Justina Maria Hughes (Nina), age 28, was tragically taken from her family and friends in a horrific event, outside the Kodak Center in Rochester, New York.

Justina was born in Rockledge, Florida on July 25, 1995, where she lived until moving to Newark, New York. She attended Fairport High School and graduated from Webster-Schroder. She was residing in Geneva, New York and worked for Sodexo dining services at Hobart and William Smith Colleges.

She was the beloved daughter of Carrie Roach of Geneva and the late Daren Hughes. Also survived by her sister, Leanna (Hughes) O’Connell, her husband, Jay O’Connell and her 3 children, Haylie Fitzpatrick, Elena and Oaklynn; Jessica Hughes and Issiah McIntyre and their daughter, Autumn; she also leaves behind her Aunt Jennifer Hughes, Aunt Lisa DuBenion and her 3 children, Nasa, Ridge, and Gigi; Uncle John White and his wife, Janine and their 3 children, Kyle, Taylor and Sean; her Aunt Brenda (White) Baron, her husband Kevin and their two children, Kaitlyn and Matthew; as well as many great aunts, uncles, and distant cousins.

She was predeceased by her great grandparents, Richard Stinchfield and his wife Constance (Blaisdell), William White and his wife Mary (Flaherty); grandparents, Dorothy ”Ruth” Shores, her husband Paul, William Hughes, Peter White and Linda (Stinchfield). Justina was such a kind and beautiful free spirit. She had such a love and connection with the great outdoors, whether she was taking a walk, camping, hiking, or playing with her cat Tigger, she was always searching for a new adventure. She truly was a spiritual soul connecting with glorious wonders of nature, life and love. She exuberated her spirituality and artistry in her everday life whether it was with nature, animals, her photography, artwork, friends or family. She had such a passion for music and the power it possessed to heal and unite people from bands like the Grateful Dead and so many more. She is the true essence of a “modern day hippie”. She gave her entire self to all those she cared about and made herself vulnerable. If we could all be just a little bit more like her, this world would be a better place. Her soul will live on through all of us and never be forgotten as a daughter, sister, niece, aunt, friend or HERO!

….“ MAY THE FORWINDS BLOW YOU SAFELY HOME”….

Friends may call on Saturday, January 13, 2024 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St., Geneva, NY.

A Remembrance Candle Light Vigil Service will be held on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at the Kodak Center in Rochester at 5:00 p.m. for all of those who wish to attend.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later point in time.

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John J. McIntyre Sr. - November 11, 1934 - December 30, 2023

Departed: 12/30/2023 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: Obituary – John McIntyre Sr.

GENEVA - John McIntyre Sr., 89, passed away at Seneca Nursing Rehabilitation Center on Saturday, December 30, 2023 with his family at his side.

John was born in Corning, NY on November 11, 1934 to the late Guy & Dorothy (Hamilton) McIntyre.

John loved the New York Yankees, Geneva Cubs/Redwings, playing euchre, going to Mac’s Drive In, and spending time with his family. In his younger years, John was an avid bowler at Sunset Bowl.

John is survived by his sons, Guy (Mary) McIntyre of Waterloo, John (Mary) McIntyre Jr. of Waterloo, Fred (Dianne) McIntyre of Seneca Falls, and William (Nicole) McIntyre of Waterloo; daughters, Candy (William) Arnold of Waterloo, Mercedes Rivadeneira of Ecuador, Eileen Butler of Bath, and Louann Wood of Corning; his sister-in-law, Sandy(Gene) Kinney of Pennsylvania; many many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews from near and far whom he loved with all his heart.

John will be deeply missed by all who knew him, either through him delivering newspapers for the Finger Lakes Times, his Janitorial Company his son and he ran for many years, or from just seeing him around Geneva or at Byrne Dairy scratching off his lottery tickets. He always made time for others who needed it by either giving rides to appointments or to the store.

John was predeceased by his loving wife, Evelyn; brothers, Robert and Stewart; sisters, Florence, Dot, and Shirley; his daughter, Ramona; and granddaughter, Nancy Chase- Wagner.

The family would like to thank the staff at Seneca Nursing and Hospice for making his last days more comfortable for him.

Family and friends may call on Friday, January 5, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the DeVaney - Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St., Geneva, NY. Funeral Services will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral home with Pastor Barry Smith from Door to Hope Church officiating. A Celebration of His Life will take place at Waterloo Sportsman’s Club, 2654 Edwards Rd., Waterloo, NY 13165

Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions can be made in his name to Door to Hope Church, 3844 County Rd. 46, Canandaigua, NY 14424.

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Mary K. Lain - April 09, 1936 - December 24, 2023

Departed: 12/24/2023 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – Mary K. Lain, 87, of Geneva, passed away on Sunday, December 24, 2023 at the Homestead in Penn Yan, NY.

A Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St., Geneva. The Rev. Thomas P. Mull will officiate. Burial will be in Speedsville Cemetery, NY.

Mary was born in Caroline Center, NY and resided in the Southern Tier for several years before moving to Geneva. She was the daughter of the late William Freed and Josie Blodgett Dingler. Mary was a medical secretary for several years and retired as secretary of Trinity Episcopal Church in Geneva.

She is survived by her daughters, Amy (Peter) Moracco of Geneva and Beth Anne Grummons of Phelps; her grandchildren, Melissa Grummons, Angela (Anthony) Moracco, Christopher (Nicole) Grummons, and Christina (Emanuel) Woods; eleven great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husbands, Robert Grummons and Rev. Smith Lain; her son, Douglas Grummons; and nine brothers and sisters.

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Robert O'Connor - January 03, 1933 - December 15, 2023

Departed: 12/15/2023 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: Robert “Bob” O'Connor, 90, of Geneva, NY, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2023, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Bob was born on January 3, 1933, to the late Patrick and Anna (Byrne) O'Connor. He graduated from Waterloo High School in 1951 and enlisted in the US Navy, where he served on the USS Oriskany during the Korean War.

He spent his career working in the materials packaging industry until his retirement. He most enjoyed spending time with his friends on the golf course where he played his last round at age 88. He was a man who always had a smile and a joke for everyone. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Bob was predeceased by his loving wife Ann. He is survived by his daughter, Tricia (Steve) DePillo of Seneca Falls, NY; sons, Tim (Michelle) of Brighton, NY and Bob (Lisa) of Pittsford, NY; stepdaughters, Mary (Michael) Hryzak of Jacksonville, FL, Kitty (Robert) Middlebrook of Lady Lake, FL; and stepsons, Patrick (Kim) McGuane of Chester Springs, PA, Mike (Rita) McGuane of Westchester, PA; his grandchildren, Sarah, Kathleen, Julia, Jeremiah, Noah, Colin, Chelsea, Margaret, Michael, Jordan and Quinn. Bob was also predeceased by his sisters Lois Wooden, Alice Henry and Betty Nolan.

There will be no prior calling hours.

A graveside Military Service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday (December 22) at Sampson Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

We would like to thank all of the wonderful care givers that made his end of life journey so peaceful.

Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to Ontario -Yates Hospice or to a charity of your choosing.

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Theresa Marie Finnerty - December 30, 1949 - December 07, 2023

Departed: 12/07/2023 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA – Theresa Marie Pedulla Finnerty, 73, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at the Geneva Living Center North with her family by her side.

Friends may call at the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St., Geneva, NY, on Sunday, December 10, 2023 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

A family prayer service will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, December 11, 2023, at the funeral home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis De Sales Church, 130 Exchange St., Geneva, NY. Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery.

Memorial contributions, in Theresa’s memory, may be made to Our Lady of Peace Parish.

Theresa was born in Geneva on December, 30, 1949, and was a lifelong resident. She was the daughter of the late James & Florence Morabito Pedulla. Theresa was a graduate of Geneva High School Class of 1967.

Theresa was formerly employed at Keys Drug Store, VA Hospital in Canandaigua, and proud former owner of Pedulla’s Liquor Store. She was a lifelong member of Our Lady of Peace Parish, and a faithful member of the Rosary and Alter Society.

Theresa is survived by her sons, Sean (Tara) Finnerty of Syracuse, Brian (Tony Chiappone) Finnerty of Geneva; her daughters, Maureen (Brian) Cunningham and Meghan (Justin) Rodgers, both of Geneva; her sisters, Roseanne Pedulla & Melanie McDonald, both of Geneva; her brother James (Lori) Pedulla of Central California; her sister-in-law’s, Mary Gay Guinan and Kathleen (George) Lamson, both of Geneva; six grandchildren, Sean, Ryan, Emily, Grace, Brian and Jack; several nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and cousins.

Theresa was predeceased by her loving husband, Edward “Gary”. Additionally, Theresa was predeceased by her brother & sister-in-law, Francis & Angela Pedulla; in laws, John McDonald, Richard Guinan, George & Lois Quinn. Her greatest joy was spending time with her children and grandchildren. She will be remembered by many for their places on her prayer list. She was the life of the party, the spark that ignited joy at every gathering. Theresa’s presence was like a burst of fireworks on a dark night. And her sharp wit kept everyone on their toes. With her infectious smile and laughter, she turned ordinary moments into extraordinary ones…

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Richard I. Mulvey - March 02, 1929 - December 06, 2023

Departed: 12/06/2023 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: GENEVA / ITHACA - Richard I. Mulvey, of Naples, FL, Geneva and Ithaca, NY died on December 6, 2023 at his home in Naples, FL.

Friends may call at the DeVaney-Bennett Funeral Home, 181 N. Main St., Geneva on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 in St. Stephen’s Church, 48 Pulteney St., Geneva. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Memorial contributions, in his memory, may be made to St. Mary’s Cemetery or to St. Francis - St. Stephen's Education Fund.

Mr. Mulvey was born in Geneva, NY, the son of Leo J. Sr. and Edith M. Mulvey on March 2, 1929. He was a graduate of St. Stephens’s School and DeSales High School in Geneva. He was drafted into the Army in November 1950. Following graduation from Officers Candidate School he was stationed in Salzburg, Austria until October 1953.

Upon completion of his military service he attended Niagara University and graduated from the University of Buffalo in 1958 and Albany Law School in 1960. He then started his 45 year legal career with the law office of Bond and McDonald in Geneva and Armand L. Adams in Ithaca. In August of 1966, he opened his private law practice in Ithaca. During his professional career he served as Ithaca City Prosecutor, Ithaca City Judge and Ithaca Urban Renewal Attorney, and Tompkins County Tax Attorney.

He was a member of the Tompkins County and New York State Bar Associations. In addition, he was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Ithaca Elks Club, and the Ithaca and Seneca Yacht Clubs, the Ithaca Country Club and Ithaca Rotary Club. In 1985 and in 1986 he served as Chairman of the Tompkins County Republican Committee. In Naples, he was a member of St. John the Evangelist Church, the Naples Forum Club and the Naples Model Yacht Club.

He is survived by several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Ann Marshall Mulvey; his sister Lucille; his brothers, Leo J. Mulvey, Jr., William H. Mulvey Sr., John B. Mulvey and Francis J. Mulvey.

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Kathryn S. Kidd - April 10, 1923 - November 25, 2023

Departed: 11/25/2023 (Geneva)

Obituary Preview: WATERLOO- Kathryn S. Kidd, passed away at Seneca Nursing and Rehabilitation Center on Saturday, November 25, 2023 after a life of 100 years and 8 months.

Born on April 10, 1923, Kathryn was born to George and Emma Strayer and grew up as one of their ten children in the Skoi-Yase neighborhood of Waterloo.

She graduated from Waterloo High School with a degree in business and had a productive career in accounting and administration in retail, insurance, banking, law and government in the Waterloo area. Her “favorite job paid the least” as a member of the lunch staff at the local grade and high school cafeterias during the time her children attended those schools. She was very fond of the friendly fun she had with the cafeteria staff and the occasional pranks they pulled on the administrators.

Her dedication to and celebration of family. Sunday dinner family sized whether at their Edwards Road home or cottage on Cayuga Lake always pie and brownies with ice cream for dessert. Holiday dinners were even more bountiful and featured a wide selection of pies.

As a principle family day care giver, Kay helped raise her two, plus their two, and even a great granddaughter.

She is survived by her sister Shirley McCutcheon of Seneca Falls; her daughter, Connie Sloth; her son, Jack Kidd and his wife Linda; grandchildren, Dana Schneider, Julia Nary and husband Eric, Jeffrey Kidd and wife Morgan; great grandchildren, Seth Nary, Kathryn Schneider and Dawn, Jackson, Winnie and Linkyn Kidd.

She was predeceased by her husband, Harold Kidd; parents, Emma and George Strayer; brothers, George, Raymond, Richard, John; and sisters, Doris Smith, Winifred Thorpe, Lois Baker and Joyce Strayer.

An accomplished baker, Kay would make at least three varieties of pies for family dinner every Sunday. Her delicious chocolate chip cookies served as currency in rewarding and assuring good service everywhere from postal employees to medical staff. Every holiday family, friends and employers all considered her generous platters of finely decorated sugar cookies as the official beginning of Christmas.

A private, family graveside gathering is planned.

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A Comforting Environment

The funeral home's facility, located at 181 N. Main St., Geneva, NY, 14456, is designed to provide a comforting and peaceful atmosphere for families. The warm and inviting décor creates a sense of serenity, allowing families to focus on celebrating the life of their loved one. The spacious chapel and visitation rooms can accommodate large gatherings, while also providing intimate settings for smaller services.

Personalized Funeral Services

At Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home, every family is treated with dignity and respect. The funeral home's staff takes the time to understand each family's unique needs and preferences, tailoring funeral services to reflect the personality and spirit of their loved one. From traditional funerals to cremation services, memorial gatherings, and celebrations of life, Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home offers a range of options to suit every family's wishes.

Pre-Planning and Advanced Planning

Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home understands the importance of planning ahead. The funeral home offers pre-planning and advanced planning services, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their final arrangements. By planning ahead, individuals can ensure that their wishes are respected, while also alleviating the burden on their loved ones during a difficult time.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, but Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home is committed to supporting families throughout their grief journey. The funeral home offers a range of resources, including grief counseling, support groups, and online resources, to help families cope with their loss.

Community Involvement

Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Geneva community, with a strong commitment to giving back. The funeral home participates in local events, sponsors community organizations, and supports initiatives that benefit the community. By being an active member of the community, Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home demonstrates its dedication to serving families beyond their time of need.

A Commitment to Quality

Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of quality and excellence. The funeral home is licensed by the state of New York and adheres to strict guidelines and regulations. The staff regularly attends training sessions and workshops to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in the funeral industry.

In conclusion, Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home is more than just a funeral home – it's a trusted partner in times of need. With its rich history, comforting environment, personalized services, and commitment to quality, this esteemed funeral home has earned its place as a leader in the Geneva community. If you're looking for a funeral home that will provide your family with compassion, care, and exceptional service, look no further than Devaney-Bennett Funeral Home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and any notable achievements.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the family of the deceased or a close friend will write the obituary. However, funeral homes and newspapers may also offer assistance in writing and publishing obituaries.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary should include the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, and information about their surviving family members. It may also include details about their occupation, hobbies, achievements, and any notable accomplishments.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's preferences. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a short paragraph.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the notice and make it more meaningful.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to find out their specific submission guidelines. They may require you to fill out a form or email the information to them.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to publish an obituary, including funeral home websites, online memorials, and social media sites.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and the length of the notice. Some newspapers and online platforms may charge a fee, while others may offer it as a free service.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publishing an obituary can vary depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few hours to several days for an obituary to appear in print or online.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it's been published. However, this is not always possible, so it's essential to review the notice carefully before submitting it.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only their name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed notice that provides additional information about the person's life.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure that their life is represented accurately and honestly. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and accomplishments.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can try searching online archives of newspapers or visiting your local library or genealogical society to access historical records. You can also contact the funeral home or cemetery where the person was laid to rest for assistance.

Can I reuse an obituary from another publication?

It's generally acceptable to reuse an obituary from another publication as long as you have permission from the original author or publisher. Be sure to give credit where credit is due and make any necessary adjustments for formatting or style.

What if I need to correct an error in an obituary?

If you notice an error in an obituary, contact the publication or funeral home immediately to report the mistake. They will work with you to correct the error and republish the notice if necessary.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries don't have to be somber or serious. Including humor or personal stories can help celebrate the person's life and make the notice more engaging and memorable.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues surrounding the person's death or life, it's essential to approach these topics with tact and respect. Consider consulting with family members or close friends before including potentially controversial information.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial information in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial services in the obituary as a way to honor their loved one's memory.

How do I ensure that my loved one's legacy lives on through their obituary?

By including personal stories, achievements, and memories in the obituary, you can help keep your loved one's legacy alive for generations to come.

What if I'm struggling to write an obituary due to grief or emotional distress?

Don't hesitate to reach out to friends, family members, or professionals for support during this difficult time. Many funeral homes and bereavement counselors offer guidance on writing an obituary as part of their services.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Absolutely! Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be effective ways to share an obituary with a wider audience and connect with friends and family who may not have seen it otherwise.

How do I preserve an original copy of the obituary?

You can save a digital copy of the obituary as a PDF or screenshot, or request a physical copy from the newspaper or funeral home. Consider laminating or framing it as a keepsake for years to come.

What if I need additional support or resources after writing an obituary?

DON'T hesitate to reach out to local bereavement support groups, counseling services, or online resources for guidance and comfort during this difficult time.