Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley Obituaries

About Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley

Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley is a trusted and compassionate funeral home serving the community of Holley, New York, and surrounding areas. Located at 16650 State Route 31, Holley, NY, 14470, this family-owned funeral home has been providing exceptional funeral services for generations. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley is dedicated to helping families celebrate the lives of their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A Legacy of Compassion and Care

For over [number] years, Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley has been a beacon of hope and comfort for families during their most difficult times. The funeral home's legacy is built on a foundation of compassion, empathy, and dedication to providing personalized funeral services that honor the unique needs and wishes of each family. From traditional funerals to cremation services, Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley offers a range of options to suit every family's preferences.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Jeanice Passarell - October 08, 1935 - April 24, 2019

Departed: 04/24/2019 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Holley: Jeanice Ann Passarell, 83, passed away April 24, 2019. She was born October 8, 1935 in Albion, a daughter of the late Andrew and Georgianna (Bartlett) Jenks. Jeanice was a former employee of Holley Central School and helped her late husband, Lewis Sr., on the family farm. She was a member of the Holley V.F.W. Post #202 Ladies Auxiliary.

She was predeceased by her husband Lewis Sr., 10 brothers and 4 sisters. She is survived by her son, Grant (Cathleen) Passarell; daughter, Lou Ann (William) Olles; grandchildren, Jeremy (Stacey) Passarell, Jason (Tanya) Passarell, Mark (Deana) Olles and Joseph (Kristine) Olles; 7 great-grandchildren; sister, Shirley (Paul) Wilkins; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

No prior calling or services. Private interment in Hillside Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Holley V.F.W. #202 Ladies Auxiliary, 8 Veterans Drive, Holley, NY 14470.

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Dana Nesbitt - February 25, 1934 - November 13, 2018

Departed: 11/13/2018 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Barre: Dana Alexander Nesbitt passed away at the age of 84 on November 13, 2018. She was born in Buffalo, NY on February 25, 1934 to the late Howell Alexander and the late Azalea “Duffy” (Auerbach) Alexander of East Aurora, NY.

Dana graduated from East Aurora High School in 1952, and earned her BS degree in Home Economics at Buffalo State College in 1956. After college, she worked for the Buffalo Gas Company demonstrating cooking appliances. In 1957, she married Arnold Haseley and they moved across the country as he pursued his doctoral degree. When Arnold died suddenly in 1965, Dana moved back to East Aurora with their three small children. It was there that Pete Nesbitt came courting. Dana married Pete in 1966 and adopted Debra, Randy and Kristen. They settled at Pine Hill Farms in Barre, NY. The family was complete with the addition of LJ. Dana ran their beautiful home with the precision and care of a true home economist. A lifelong lover of the arts, Dana fostered an appreciation for art and music in her children and sang alto with the Genesee Chorale for 25 years. She was a frequent patron of concerts and events at the Eastman School of Music and the Chautauqua Institution. Of her many volunteer pursuits, her work as a board member and tutor for Literacy Volunteers of America was closest to her heart. Dana was reserved but delighted her close friends and family with her razor-sharp wit and hilarious commentaries.

Her family and friends cared for her during her last few months at home and at Hospice of Orleans County. Dana is survived by her husband of 52 years, Calvin “Pete” Nesbitt; her daughter Debra Nesbitt of Toronto, Canada; her son Randall Nesbitt (Tina Lacey) of Ithaca, NY; her daughter Kristen Nesbitt (Ivan Ourusoff) of Wilmot, NH; her daughter Lisa “LJ” (Hampton Bridwell) of Redding, CT, and her grandchildren Aidan and Charlotte Bridwell. At Dana’s request, no funeral services will take place. Gifts in her memory can be sent to the Chautauqua Foundation, foundation@chq.org.

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Elise Draper - September 22, 1940 - July 21, 2018

Departed: 07/21/2018 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Elise Draper, 77, of Phoenix, Ariz., died quite peacefully Saturday evening, July 21, 2018. She had a stroke on Thursday and died Saturday, so her demise was brief. She was a longtime resident of Albion until her move to Arizona in February. She was born on Sept. 22, 1940 in the Panama Canal Zone to the late Albert and Ruby (Merrill) Nelson.

Elise was married to Donald Draper for 51 years until his death in 2015. They lived at the same address on Transit Road for all those years. Elise was a hard worker! Through her years, she was employed at Bemis Bag Company, Eddy Printing and Remley Printing. Her last employment was as a pharmacy technician for RiteAid in Albion.

Elise and Don were well suited for each other, loving the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and traveling in their Hi-Lo. They bowled and played a lot of euchre and pinochle with dear friends. Elise took up ceramics and also loved to read fiction books. Most of all, Elise was an avid genealogist, tracing family lines way back to the founding fathers and beyond. She also assisted others in accurately tracing their family roots. Due to her devotion to genealogy, she and her sister were accepted as members of the Albion chapter of the D.A.R.

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Michael MacIntosh - September 09, 1954 - April 23, 2018

Departed: 04/23/2018 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Michael D. MacIntosh age 63 died April 23, 2018 at Unity Hospital following a long illness. He was born September 9, 1954 in Queens, NY, a son of the late Ethel McGuire and Donald MacIntosh and had lived in this area most of his life.

Michael had served in the U.S. Marine Corp. He was an avid hunter and gun collector.

In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his sister Mary MacIntosh. He is survived by his son Rob (Ann) Deskins of Albion; grandchildren Travis, Jacob, Jordan and Rob Jr.; great-grandson Joel; his brothers Pete (Nellie) MacIntosh of NJ, Patrick (Nellie) MacIntosh of Binghamton as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

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Helen Mayes - August 24, 1918 - March 17, 2018

Departed: 03/17/2018 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: (KENDALL)

Helen H. Mayes, age 99, died 3/17/2018 in the Villages of Orleans following a long illness. She was born 8/24/1918 in Rochester to Leo and Marie (Stubbe) Haag and had lived in this area her entire life. Helen was a faithful member of St. Mark’s RC Church, the 1st President of the Kendall Fire Dept. Ladies Auxiliary starting in 1949, attended the Nutrifare program in Kendall for over 14 years and worked as a medical secretary at the former Arnold Gregory Memorial Hospital. She also enjoyed embroidery and ceramics.

Mrs. Mayes was predeceased by her husband Gordon, a son Paul Mayes, 3 brothers: “Bus”, Warren, and Donald Haag, and 2 sisters: Muriel Armstrong and Florence Kedian. She is survived by her son: William Mayes of Kendall, daughter-in-law: Dixie Mayes of Kendall, brother: Norman(Rowena)Haag of FL, 8 grandchildren: Erica, Brian(Michelle)Mayes, Sean Mayes all of Kendall, Linda(Tim)Lewis of Albion, John Mayes of Holley, Kimberly(Keith)Makowski of Kendall, Timothy(Marcia)Mayes of Kendall Matthew(Tara)Mayes of Kendall, 15 great grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.

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Edward Jaczynski - October 21, 1940 - March 09, 2018

Departed: 03/09/2018 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Holley: Edward J. Jaczynski, age 77, passed away peacefully at his home on March 9, 2018. He was born October 21, 1940 in Batavia and would remain in the area his entire life.

Ed is a retiree of Eastman Kodak where he worked for over 30 years. He enjoyed gardening and spending time outside. Ed served our country in the U.S. Navy from 1960-1964 during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was a lifetime member of Hobo Junction Post #202 VFW in Holley.

Ed is survived by his wife of 47 years, Rosemary, children; Scott Jaczynski of Rome, NY, Christine (Dan) Callahan of Holley, Tonya (Robert Schnaufer) McGee of Medina, Deborah (Jill) Jaczynski of Rochester, sister; Irene, 8 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends at the Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home, 39 Geddes St. Holley, NY 14470, on Tuesday March 13th from 5:00-8:00pm only. A graveside service with full military honors will be held in the spring at Holy Cross Cemetery.

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John Haight - December 27, 1962 - February 11, 2018

Departed: 02/11/2018 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Kendall: John L. Haight, age 55, passed away unexpectedly at his home on February 11, 2018. He was born December 27, 1962 in Albion to the late Leon and Beatrice (Doyle) Haight.

He was a long time member of the Carlton Fire Department. John was a farmer that had his own cattle farm. John is survived by his brother Charles, Edward, Darlene (Duane) Wolfer, several nieces, nephews and cousins

The family will receive friends at the Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home, 12 Ingersoll St. Albion, NY on Friday from 12:00-2:00pm where his funeral service will be held at 2:00pm. Interment will be held at Beechwood Cemetery in the spring.

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Sara Burroughs - April 22, 1933 - February 09, 2018

Departed: 02/09/2018 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Albion: Sara L. Burroughs, 84, passed away February 9, 2018 at The Villages of Orleans, with her family by her side. She was born April 22, 1933 in Brockport a daughter of the late Marc and Elizabeth (Karns) Cole Jr. Sara has lived in this area all of her life and was a member of the Pullman Memorial Universalist Church. Mrs. Burroughs was an Interior Decorator in this area for many years. She enjoyed completing crossword puzzles in the N.Y. Times, reading, and gardening and loved spending time with her family.

She was predeceased by her husband L. LeRoy Burroughs in 1988. Mrs. Burroughs is survived by her children, Carlos (Susan) Burroughs of Albion and Veronica Morgan of Rochester; grandchildren, Elizabeth and Kelly Morgan, Lauren (Thomas) Kovaleski and Andrew Burroughs.

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Maryann Becker - February 03, 1925 - February 08, 2018

Departed: 02/08/2018 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Kent: Maryann “Monie” Becker, age 93, passed away on February 8, 2018 at the Villages of Orleans. She was born February 3, 1925 in Buffalo to the late James and Alice (Moore) Tyler Sr.

Maryann worked for some time at Waterstreet’s, where she would transplant tomatoes. In her spare time, she enjoyed reading, playing games, cards, rummy cube, Bingo and any game that kept her mind going. Her greatest joy was taking care of her family and making her family her first priority.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Leslie “Les” in 2007, her siblings, Betty Boyer, Margaret Boyer, and James “Toby” Jr.

Maryann is survived by her children, Cookie (Gil) Snyder of Kent, Jeanette (Carl) Babcock of Albion, Loretta “Lorie” (Gerald) Ford of Kent, Leslie (Dawn) Becker Jr. of Churchville, grandchildren, Leslie (Sam) Young, Melissa (Rob) Young, Gilly Snyder, Becky (Michael) Klimchuk, Gerald Ford II, Brian (Brii) Ford, Dylan Louis Becker, Camille Diane Becker, great-grandchildren, James Wooldridge, Brandon Dibley, Shane Klimchuk, April Ford, Maddie Young, Sammy Young, several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

The family will receive friends at the Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home, 12 Ingersoll St. Albion, on Monday February 12th from 4:00-7:00pm where her funeral service will be held Tuesday at 11:00am. Interment will follow in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

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Lyell Colburn - June 09, 1924 - January 21, 2018

Departed: 01/21/2018 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Kendall/Hamlin: Lyell John Colburn, 93, passed away Sunday morning, January 21, 2018 at The Oaks at Whitaker Glen. He was born in Orleans County, NY to the late Eugene Rudolph Colburn and Louise Fretag Colburn.

Mr. Colburn was a veteran of the United States Army and was a member of the Hamlin Post 6703 Veterans of Foreign Wars. Lyell was a supervisor for many years with Duffy-Motts.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his son, Richard E. Colburn, brothers, Herbert Colburn and Bernard Colburn.

Mr. Colburn is survived by his children, Donna (Fred) Tucker of Rolesville, NC, Lyell T. Colburn of Rolesville, NC and Lisa (Ed) Kennedy of Kent, NY; grandchildren, Tamera Tucker, David Todd Schmeer, Tracie Schmeer, Justin Colburn, Sunni Colburn, Michael Kennedy, Andrew Kennedy and Tia Kennedy; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

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David Conlon Jr. - August 15, 1929 - January 16, 2018

Departed: 01/16/2018 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Albion: David R. Conlon Jr. age 88, passed away Tuesday, January 16, at The Villages of Orleans. He was born August 15, 1929 in Rochester, NY, a son of the late David and Josephine (Georger) Conlon Sr. David was a member of Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph’s Church and the Knight of Columbus St. Joan of Arc Assembly 4th Degree. David retired after 34 years of service at Eastman Kodak Co. in Rochester and after retirement worked at the former Marine Midland and HSBC bank. He was an active member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, a former Boy Scout Leader, and the founder of Sea Scouts in Orleans County. David loved gardening and playing the Organ at the Batavia and Albion Senior Centers. Even though David enjoyed keeping busy, he loved spending time with his pets and family.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Grace; 4 sons, Randy (Joey) Conlon, Dan (Fred Nesbitt) Conlon, Andrew (Mary Ann) Conlon and Matt Conlon; grandchildren, Brent, Mark, Christopher, Michael and Amelia and great-grandson, Matthew; brother, Raymond Conlon and several nieces and nephews.

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Gloria Davis - March 30, 1935 - November 11, 2017

Departed: 11/11/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Gloria C. (Billingslea) Davis of Albion, went to be with the Lord on November 11, 2017 at the age of 82, with her family by her side.

Predeceased by her beloved husband, Eddie Davis; son, Ronald Lane Billingslea and stepson Eddie Carl Davis.

Left to mourn her loss are her stepson Ezzard Charles Davis, daughters, Lisa R. Davis-Wall, Robin M. Davis and Traci (Chris) Davis-Taylor; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Annie McLaughlin; brother, Curtis (Elizabeth) Billingslea; sister-in-law, Lizzie Lee Smith; brother-in-law, Tony C. Epps, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Relatives and friends may call on Thursday, November 16th, from 5-8PM at Merrill-Grinnell Funeral Home, 12 Ingersoll St., Albion, NY 14411. A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, November 17th, at 11:00AM at the Albion First Presbyterian Church, 29 E. State St., Albion, NY 14411. Interment in Mt. Albion Cemetery.

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Ethel McGuire - September 27, 1928 - November 08, 2017

Departed: 11/08/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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Marjorie Biaselli - April 01, 1935 - October 27, 2017

Departed: 10/27/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Marjorie Ann Biaselli (Raymond), age 82, of Albion, entered into rest on Friday, October 27, 2017 at Orchard Manor in Medina surrounded by her loving family. Born April 1, 1935 in Albion, Marjorie is the daughter of the late John and Marion (Erwin) Raymond.

Marjorie graduated from Albion High School. She worked at Arnold Gregory Hospital in Albion in food service.

Surviving Marjorie is her daughter, Gwendolyn Spino (Robert Walters) a son, Randy Watson and a sister, Cynthia (George) Forest. Marjorie was predeceased by her husband, Alan Biaselli and a daughter, Bonnie Ainsworth; and siblings: Chuck Raymond and Barbara Robinson. Also survived by 3 grandchildren, several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

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George Robertson - July 25, 1927 - October 03, 2017

Departed: 10/03/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: George Robertson of Holley, NY passed away this Tuesday October 3, 2017. George was born in Holley on July 25th 1927 and was a lifelong resident of the town. Upon graduating high school George joined the Army and served in Germany during World War II where he achieved the rank of Sergeant. Upon completion of his service, George returned home to Holley and began his career with the United States Postal Service of Holley. George became the Postmaster in Holley and stayed at the office until his retirement in 1984.

George was a member of the First Baptist Church of Albion, the Holley Volunteer Fire Department, the VFW of Holley and the Holley American Legion.

George is survived by his beloved wife Shirley and four children; Charles and his wife Marsha, Wayne and his wife Giovanna, Beth Moy and her husband Glenn and Amy VanDetta and her husband David. George is also survived by his brother Bernard Robertson and grandson Dustin Moy.

George is predeceased by his parents Minnie and Jessie Robertson as well as his siblings; Emerson, Leon(Mark), Mildred and Joan.

The family will receive guests this Saturday October 7th 2017 from 12pm-3pm at the Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home at 39 Geddes Street in Holley, NY. A service and a rendering of military honors will follow at 3pm at the funeral home.

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Scott Lawrence - March 17, 1962 - September 23, 2017

Departed: 09/23/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Scott Eric Lawrence 3/17/1962 – 9/23/2017

Entered into rest on September 23, 2017 with family by his side. Son of the late Laverne and Pauline Lawrence. Loving husband of Kim Lawrence. Caring father of Jeff (Melissa) Gardner, David (Jeanne) Jones, Krissy Lawrence, Scott (Rachael) Lawrence, and Allyson Lawrence. Grandpa of six.

Brother of Dean, Michael (Georgia), Dan, Chuck, and the late Bud Lawrence.

Scott loved spending time with his family, enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, Nascar, and the Green Bay Packers.

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Melvin Weese - October 07, 1972 - September 23, 2017

Departed: 09/23/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Entered into rest on September 23, 2017. Beloved son of Elizabeth and the late Denver Weese. Brother of Debbie (Jerry) Stanton , John and Henry Weese. Also survived by several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Melvin enjoyed hunting, fishing, drawing and playing cards. He was a kindhearted person and will be missed by many.

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Charlotte Weese - November 15, 1947 - September 19, 2017

Departed: 09/19/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Entered into rest on September 19, 2017. Beloved wife of Dayton L. Weese. Loving mother of Kevin Weese (Jill Macfarland), Larry Weese (Nicole), and the late Keith Brown (Samantha). Grandmother of Joshua, Zach, Brandon, and Ellie. Sister of Larry Brown (Heidko), Terry Lee Brown (Sue), Gary Brown (Pat), Shelia Sizemore (Bruce), and Karsonda Howell. Also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Charlotte enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed spending time at Point Breeze. Painting her nails and reading were two of her favorite hobbies.

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Marilyn Dyson - October 09, 1952 - September 11, 2017

Departed: 09/11/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Entered into rest on September 11, 2017. Daughter of the late Albert and Lillian Rowley. Beloved wife of Richard G. Dyson. Survived by her siblings Gary (Patricia), Terry (Lorrie), Todd (Gina) Rowley, Barbara Zumsteg, Pamela (Leon) Baxter, Donna (John) Waugh, Judy (Mark) Kennedy, and the late Richard ( Rae) Rowley.

Also survived by several nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Marilyn enjoyed the summers spending time at Point Breeze where she loved to fish. She also enjoyed horses and cooking a homemade meal for her family to share.

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Evelyn Gildner - November 08, 1940 - September 06, 2017

Departed: 09/06/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Arrangements under the direction of Merrill Grinnell Funeral Homes, Holley, NY.

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Robert Fisher - Unknown - August 13, 2017

Departed: 08/13/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: "Uncle Bob"

Entered into rest on August 13, 2017. Beloved husband of Dorothy Fisher. Loving father of Robert (Della) Fisher, Donna (Michael) Martin, and Dale Fisher. Grandfather of Matthew (Amber) and Sarah, great-grandpa of Brantley. Brothers Harold, Herbert (Phyllis), Ronald (Rebecca) Fisher, and sister Roberta (John) Rhodes. Loved by grand-dog Missy. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Special friend of Larry and Cathy Akers. Predeceased by his parents Robert and Meriam Fisher and brother Bill Fisher.

The family will be present on Wednesday from 4:00 to 8:00 PM to receive friends at the Merrill-Grinnell Funeral Home (HOLLEY), 39 Geddes St., where a Funeral Service will be held on Thursday at 10:30 AM, friends invited. Memorial donations may be left in Uncle Bob's name to Hamlin United Methodist Church 1742 Lake Rd N. Hamlin, NY 14464.

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Patricia Hoodmaker - March 17, 1932 - August 06, 2017

Departed: 08/06/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: 3/17/1932 – 8/6/2017

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Elizabeth Sanders - March 15, 1930 - June 29, 2017

Departed: 06/29/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Elizabeth Dickson Sanders – "Betsy" (nee Parker) – June 29, 2017, age 87. Betsy died peacefully at home with loving support from Hospice, caring aides and family. She is survived by her three children, Elizabeth (Ross) Rapoport, Molly (Warren) Clauss, and Stephen (Wendy) Sanders. She was the devoted daughter of the late Elizabeth Dickson and Gordon Nye Parker, of Brookline, VT. Betsy, along with her siblings, the late David (Carol) Parker and Rachel Paul, was born and raised in East Aurora, spending summers in Vermont. Betsy graduated from Buffalo Seminary in 1948. In 1945 she joined Westminster Presbyterian Church and was credited with bringing her family members from East Aurora with her. It was at WPC, some time later, that she met her future husband, the late Theodore "Ted" R. Sanders, a longtime WPC member.

Betsy attended Briarcliff College and married Ted in 1950. For a short time before starting their family, Betsy worked at the Cling Surface Company, started by her paternal grandfather before the Depression. Ted and Betsy raised three children beginning in 1955 with Elizabeth "Liz" Dickson (Ross) Rapoport; Molly Bradford (Warren) Clauss in 1959; and Stephen Kittinger (Wendy) 1963. They have each married and Betsy enjoyed the company of her seven grandchildren, Elizabeth and Carolyn Rapoport; Hans "Fritz", Theodore and Grace Clauss; and Jacqueline and Parker Sanders.

Betsy was a dedicated homemaker and wife, and enjoyed raising her family in Buffalo, with summers in Canada on Point Abino, and family vacations in Florida and Vermont. She and late husband Ted enjoyed many long winter stays in Sanibel, Florida shelling the day away. She loved the shorebirds of Florida, and often recounted stories of these birds to her family. In Canada, the hummingbird feeder was a perpetual fixture outside the front porch, and Betsy spent time in her chair, making lists, writing notes, and watching for the elusive birds.

In addition to being an avid cookbook collector and gourmet cook, Betsy spent many years dedicated to the volunteer causes she adored. Prominent in her volunteer background include twelve years on the Board of Graduates Association of Buffalo Seminary, the Aid Board of Children's Hospital for ten years and volunteered in many roles at Elmwood Franklin School, where her children attended. She was actively involved with both the Garrett Club and the Buffalo Canoe Club, where she served on multiple committees. Notably, Betsy and Ted's involvement with the Buffalo Canoe Club sparked Betsy's initiative to form the Ladies' Auxiliary of District 3 for the International Order of the Blue Gavel after Ted was commodore of the BCC in 1988. She served as its President for seven years, in addition to serving as a Regional Director for the IOGBA for 12 years and Corresponding Secretary for one year.

Betsy lived a long and full life, left her mark on many people, and will be missed by those she loved. She was a true lady until the end. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday July 8, 2017 at Westminster

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Barbara Pritchard Merrill - November 06, 1934 - June 27, 2017

Departed: 06/27/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Barbara Kathryn Pritchard Merrill, born on election day November 6, 1934 in Cleveland, Ohio, and current resident of Tucson Arizona, died June 27, 2017. Her parents were Kathryn Walling Pritchard and David James Pritchard. She grew up in Lyndhurst, Ohio, graduating from Charles F. Brush High School, where in her senior year was bestowed the honor of Homecoming Queen.

Barbara graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University and was an active member of the Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority. It was there she met her now deceased husband, John Brooks Merrill. She lived in Albion, New York for many years with her husband who was with the family funeral business, Merrill-Grinnell Inc. While in Albion she taught in elementary school in the Albion School System, and then served as the librarian after achieving her Master of Library Science Degree, from the University of Buffalo. She was an exceptionally devoted, loving and supportive wife, mother and sister, who saved her brother Phil's life on at least one occasion in his youth.

After her husband retired from the funeral business, they moved to Tucson, Arizona. She was an avid bridge player and a very active member of two retirement communities, Sun City Vistoso and Brookdale Santa Catalina, including serving as the librarian in Brookdale for many years before she passed. She was past president of the Sun City Vistoso Genealogical Society and very active in historical and genealogy research.

She is survived by two sons, James and Mark Merrill, brother Philip Pritchard, grandchildren Hayley and Luke Merrill, niece Elise Dekoschak and several cousins.

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Ileane Robb - January 24, 1934 - June 20, 2017

Departed: 06/20/2017 (Holley)

Obituary Preview: Went into rest peacefully on June 20, 2017. Daughter of the late William and Verna Bailey. Cherished wife of the late Harold Robb. Loving mother of Terry Wolfe (the late David), Ileane Ward (Timothy Malachowski), and Joyce Arvai. Grandmother of seven and great-grandmother of twelve. Also survived by nieces and nephews. The family will be present on Thursday 22, 2017 from 10:00am- 12:00pm to receive friends at Merrill-Grinnell Funeral Home (HOLLEY) 39 Geddes Street, where a Funeral Service will be held at 12:00pm. If desired donations may be made to UR Medicine Home Care, 2180 Empire Boulevard. Please share condolences www.merrillgrinnell.com

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Personalized Funeral Services

Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley understands that every life is unique, and every family deserves a personalized farewell. Their experienced funeral directors work closely with families to create customized funeral services that reflect the personality, interests, and achievements of their loved one. From music selection to floral arrangements, every detail is carefully considered to ensure a meaningful and memorable celebration of life.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere for families and friends to gather. The spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while the visitation rooms offer an intimate setting for smaller groups. Additional amenities include a reception area for post-service gatherings, ample parking, and wheelchair accessibility.

Pre-Planning Services

Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley believes that pre-planning is an essential part of ensuring that your final wishes are respected. Their experienced staff can guide you through the pre-planning process, helping you make informed decisions about your funeral arrangements. By planning ahead, you can alleviate the burden on your loved ones and ensure that your funeral service reflects your personal preferences.

Cremation Services

Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley offers a range of cremation services to suit every family's needs. From direct cremation to memorial services with cremation, their experienced staff can help you navigate the cremation process with compassion and understanding. They also offer urn selection and burial options for those who choose cremation.

Community Involvement

Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley is deeply committed to the local community. They participate in various community events and organizations, including charity fundraisers, educational seminars, and support groups. By giving back to the community, they demonstrate their dedication to serving families beyond the funeral home's walls.

Contact Information

If you're looking for a trusted funeral home in Holley, New York, consider Merrill Grinnell Funeral Home - Holley. You can reach them by phone at [phone number], email at [email address], or visit their website at [website URL]. Their caring staff is available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

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's usually published in a newspaper, online, or in a funeral home's website.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing. They also provide an opportunity to share stories, memories, and achievements of the deceased, helping to celebrate their life and legacy.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, a family member, close friend, or funeral home staff writes an obituary. In some cases, a professional writer or journalist may be hired to craft the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A standard obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service (if applicable), and surviving family members. You may also include hobbies, achievements, and other personal details that showcase the person's personality and character.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words. Longer obituaries may be published online or in specialty publications.

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

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only the basic facts such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and accomplishments.

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 tribute and make it more engaging for readers.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and any specific requirements they may have. Some newspapers may accept online submissions, while others may require email or phone submissions.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your story is told in your own words. However, it's essential to keep in mind that your loved ones may still need to add or modify information after your passing.

What is the cost of publishing an obituary?

The cost varies depending on the publication and the length of the obituary. Some newspapers offer free or low-cost options for basic death notices, while longer obituaries or those with photos may incur additional fees.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to publish an obituary, including funeral home websites, social media groups, and dedicated memorial websites. These options often offer more flexibility in terms of content and design.

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

The timeframe for publication varies depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Typically, online obituaries are published within hours or days of submission, while print publications may take several days or weeks.

Can I make changes to an already-published obituary?

In most cases, corrections or updates can be made to an online obituary. For print publications, changes may not be possible once the issue has gone to press. It's essential to proofread carefully before submitting the final version.

What if I want to keep the obituary private?

If you prefer not to share the obituary publicly, you can request that it only be shared with specific individuals or groups. Alternatively, you can create a private online memorial or share the information through personal networks.

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

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in honor of their loved one. This can be a meaningful way to continue their legacy and support a cause close to their heart.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can try searching online archives of newspapers or genealogy websites. Many libraries also maintain archives of local newspapers that can be accessed in person or through interlibrary loan programs.

Can I use an obituary as a eulogy?