Obituaries

Shirley Marie Perry, age 71, of Fairport, New York, formerly of Buffalo, NY, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025, at St. Ann's Community in Rochester, NY.

Born as the only child to Raymond and Mercedes (Jenkins) Perry, who preceded her in death, Shirley lived a life dedicated to the care and healing of others.

A proud graduate of LeRoy High School, Shirley furthered her education at Roberts Wesleyan University and the University of Buffalo. Her career as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist took her to hospitals throughout Buffalo, across the United States, and worldwide, where she touched countless lives with her skilled and compassionate care.

Shirley is survived by her devoted caregiver and cousin, Yvonne Wales, and several other cousins and friends who cherished her warm spirit and generous heart. The family extends special gratitude to Wanda and Jeff Klem for their unwavering support throughout Shirley's final journey.

The interment will be private at Machpelah Cemetery in LeRoy, NY.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Shirley's memory may make donations to Roberts Wesleyan University School of Nursing, Rochester, NY or St. Ann's Community, Rochester, NY.

Jennings Nulton and Mattle Funeral Home, Penfield, NY, are handling the arrangements.

Jeffrey Edwin Gillard, age 76, passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on May 12, 2025 at Strong Memorial Hospital.

Born in his beloved Batavia, on January 18, 1949 to the late E. John and Nadine (Shanahan) Gillard.

Jeff graduated from Batavia High School and soon after joined the US Army on August 19, 1968, later serving in Vietnam. He married Donna Sputore on August 15, 2004. Jeff was known by all as a multi-talented self-employed tradesman that rarely passed on a project or a social event. He was a proud veteran that loved being active in his community, only slowing down slightly in recent years to semi-retire and enjoy Florida winters and frequent visits with his grandchildren.

Jack of all trades is the perfect way to describe Jeff. He was everyone’s handyman. A snowbird in his later years, Jeff enjoyed Florida winters with Donna as they walked in the sunshine, watched rocket launches, fished and spent time with both new and old friends. He enjoyed traveling, photography, reading nonfiction, tinkering in the garage, tending to the yard and flowers, NASCAR, the Dallas Cowboys, his coffee groups and spending time with his many friends and family. He never missed a major event for his son or grandchildren. Known for his active lifestyle and always helping others, Jeff relished giving back to his community. He volunteered at Crossroads House and Genesee Cancer Assistance and was on the zoning board of appeals and the Holland Land Office Board.

Jeff is survived by his loving wife Donna (Sputore) Gillard; son, Geoffrey (Keri) Roche; grandchildren, Ethan and Lucas Roche; siblings, Craig (Sandra) Gillard and Susan (Late Tom) Metz; brother in law Paul (Mary) Sputore, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A visitation for Jeff will be from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm Sunday, May 18, 2025 at H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. Friends and family are invited to meet the family at H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 1:00pm for a procession to Western New York Veterans Cemetery, Pembroke, New York for interment service and military honors. A gathering at Ascension Parish Hall, 17 Sumner Street, Batavia, New York will immediately follow the internment.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations may be made in Jeffrey’s memory to: Crossroads House, 11 Liberty Street, Batavia, NY 14020 or Genesee Cancer Assistance, 127 North Street, Batavia, NY14020.

To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Richard James Feneran, 76, passed away on May 12, 2025, in Buffalo, New York. A proud veteran, devoted family man, and skilled craftsman, Richard’s life was marked by courage, dedication, and love.

     Born on August 27, 1948, in Batavia, New York, Richard was the son of Richard George Feneran and Lois Thelma Feneran (Higgins). He grew up in LeRoy and graduated from LeRoy High School. From a young age, he demonstrated a strong work ethic and a deep sense of duty—qualities that would define his life.  

   Richard served his country with honor during the Vietnam War. His bravery and sacrifice were recognized with the Purple Heart. His service left an indelible mark not only on those who served alongside him but also on his community back home. His heroism was later honored in a published book about the Vietnam War, where he was recognized as a war hero—a testament to the depth of his courage and commitment.

     After returning home from service, Richard built a life rooted in love and family. He shared more than 50 years of marriage with his beloved wife Deborah Feneran (Stoeckl), whose memory he cherished deeply following her passing. Together they raised two children: James Feneran and Rebecca Ford (Feneran), who carry forward their father’s legacy of strength and compassion.

     Richard found great joy in being a grandfather to Elijah Ford and Noah Ford. He took pride in watching them grow and sharing with them the values that guided his own life.

     A talented craftsman and woodworker, Richard spent countless hours creating with his hands—building not just furniture or keepsakes but lasting memories for those around him. Whether working in his shop or helping out at the local Legion with fellow veterans, he gave generously of his time and talents. His presence at the Legion was more than social; it was an extension of his lifelong commitment to service.

     He also enjoyed hunting—a pastime that connected him to nature and offered moments of peace and reflection.

     Richard is survived by his son James Feneran, daughter Rebecca Ford (Feneran), and grandsons Elijah Ford and Noah Ford, his sisters Patricia Navas (Feneran), Mary (William) Brady (Feneran) and his brother Thomas Feneran. He was predeceased by his loving wife Deborah Feneran (Stoeckl), father Richard George Feneran, and mother Lois Thelma Feneran (Higgins).

     Richard James Feneran will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, and friend. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who hear his story. 

     Family and friends are invited to call on Friday, May 23, 2025 from 4 ~ 7 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake Rd, LeRoy, NY 14482. 

     In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Legion Post 576, 53 W. Main Street, LeRoy, NY 14482

     Your memories and condolences may be shared with Richard’s family at www.falconefuneralhome.com.

Charles Calvin Toal, age 75, of Stafford, New York, passed away on January 15, 2025.    

 Visitation for Charles will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 1:30 ~ 2:30 P.M. at the Covington United Presbyterian Church, 1701 Craig Road, Pavilion, N.Y., where his Memorial Service will commence at 2:30 P.M.

     Memorials may be made to the church.

     Condolences may be left at www.falconefuneralhome.com 

Cynthia K. Rowland, 70 of Batavia, entered the Kingdom of her Lord and Savior on Sunday (May 11, 2025), surrounded by family, after a courageous 2 year battle with cancer. 

She was born April 5, 1955, a daughter of the late Grace Leonard Durr and Rev. Herbert (Ruth) Durr of Florida.

After graduating from Elba Central School in 1974, she went on to work at Trojan and then P.W. Minor, both in Batavia.  For the following 40 years, she ran her own business, cleaning numerous houses and businesses throughout the area.

Over the past 17 years, her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren.  She loved taking them shopping for their birthdays and having sleepovers with them at her house.

Cindy was a loyal, caring and kind friend to all throughout her life.  She looked forward to meeting with her prayer group friends on a monthly basis.  

Of special note is her lifelong best friend Dyder Smith, who she spent a lot of her free time with.  They had an unbelievable amount of fun together for 50 years.   

Cindy was an extremely faithful member of the Genesee Country Church in Oakfield, which her father, Pastor Herbert Durr, founded in 1980.  She served in several ministries there, including teaching Sunday School and VBS and helping to found the Olympian youth program.  

Cindy was also a dedicated member of the Gideons International organization, serving with the local branch for many years.  

She is survived by her husband, Ronald Rowland of Batavia. Son, Aaron (Jacqualine) Chamberlain of Oakfield. Daughter, Kristi (Anthony) Miano of Oakfield. Step-children, Scott (Karen) Rowland of Perry, Rhonda (Pastor Ken) Schultz of Tennessee, Faith (late Roger) Francis of Batavia, Robert (Maria) Rowland of Kentucky, Lenora Kohorst of Darien and Deborah Rowland of Darien. Siblings, Bruce (Cindy) Durr of Medina and Amy (Brian) Thompson of Oakfield. Sister-in-law, Tracey Durr of Maryland. Also survived by 21 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was the sister of the late William Durr.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Sunday (May 18th) from 3:30pm – 5pm at the Genesee Country Church, 3268 Drake Street Rd, Oakfield, NY, where a Celebration of Life Service will commence at 5pm.

Interment will be held privately in the Carey Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.

ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 2 BOGUE AVE., BATAVIA, NY 14020. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.

Steven J. Skelton, 61 of Christiana TN, passed away at the Tri-Star Stonecrest Hospital in Smyrna, TN on April 2nd, 2025. 

Steven was the son of the late Edward & Phyllis (Blair) Skelton, brother of the late Richard Skelton, uncle of the late Clinton Herrington, Billy Majors, Scott Sharp, and great uncle of Brian Herrington.

Surviving siblings; Karen (Jerry) Rumsey, FL, Carol (late John) Pacsuzzo, NY, Linda Herrington, TN, William (Cindy) Skelton, FL, sister in- law, Susan Skelton, VA. Many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Steven was a graduate of Elba Central School, in Elba, NY. 

No prior visitation. Steven was cared for by the Smith Family Funeral & Cremation Services in TN

James M. Carpenter, age 95, passed away at Winter Haven Hospital in Winter Haven, Florida on April 11, 2025.

He was born on September 26, 1929 in Pearl Creek, New York a son of the late Hollis and Mary Peyton Carpenter.

Jim retired from GTE Sylvania in Batavia as a purchasing agent after 26 years of employment. Following his retirement he worked at Mancuso Bowling Center for many years. He enjoyed bowling, playing golf, visiting Las Vegas and putting together jigsaw puzzles. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and Buffalo Bills. He served with the United States Army as a 1st Lieutenant during the Korean War.

He is predeceased by Jean Hoover Swanson, his companion of over 30 years in 1993 and his siblings, Harry Carpenter, Hollis “Lee” Carpenter, Hazel Nicholson, Ruth Laney and Ann White.

Jim is survived by Barbara Kapperman, his companion of 30 years, her daughters, Allison (Dennie) Lougheed and Laura (Thomas) Reding and their families; Jean’s daughters, Autumn Lewis and April (David) Salamone and their families along with several nieces and nephews.

There are no prior visiting hours. Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 1 pm at Warsaw Cemetery. Please consider memorials in his name to the East Pembroke Fire Department, P.O. Box 44, East Pembroke, New York 14056 or Crossroads House, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, New York 14021. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his name please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Gertrude A. “Gertie” Detine, age 92, passed away peacefully on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2025, at Charlotte House Comfort Care Home in North Java. She was born in Buffalo NY on May 1, 1933, to the late Edmund and Helen (Nowak) Krantz. A beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Gertie will be remembered for her generosity, humility, wit and warmth.

Gertie grew up on Buffalo’s east side, attending Kensington High School and Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church. After leaving school, she was employed by Westinghouse in Buffalo, contributing to her family’s upkeep and establishing her own independence. After the Korean War, she met veteran Airman John Patrick “Pat” Detine at an evening social. They were married on July 16, 1955, and began raising a family in South Buffalo. The young couple moved to Batavia NY, where Pat had taken a job in Batavia’s Industrial Center. Gertie proudly raised two girls and two boys, nurturing them through school and encouraging them in all their pursuits.

Gertie had many interests and hobbies. She was famed for her baking, spinning out pies, pastries, cookies and other sweet treats that were a highlight of countless family meals and holiday gatherings. Her handiwork in the form of crocheted mitts, hats and blankets kept her family warm during western New York’s winter months. She loved special occasions, particularly when a family member was being honored for a personal achievement or milestone. Gertie’s competitive side came out through her enjoyment of card games and bingo, especially at the Elks Club in Batavia, as well as Yahtzee and casino slots. She and Pat hosted many family get-togethers, often capped off by a spirited game of pinochle, which might be propelled by Carling Black Label long necks and contested well into the evening.

A devout Catholic, Gertie became a member of St. Joseph’s Church after moving to Batavia. She also attended St. Anthony’s Church before settling back into Resurrection Parish. She maintained her faith throughout her life, attending church services until her final months.

Gertie is survived by sisters Annette “Nan” (Ralph) Siedel of Tucson, AZ, and Dorothy “Dottie” Guasto of Plant City, FL, daughters Sharon (Frank) Paparone and Brenda (Vic) Marchese; sons Mark (Karen) Detine and Paul Detine, grandchildren Michael Paparone and Frankie Paparone, Abbey (Brad) Cohen and Billy (Bethany) Barnett, great-grandchildren Michael Paparone Jr., Saibh Barnett and Loughlin Barnett, dear cousin Joan Cholasinski, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Gertie was preceded in death by husband Pat and daughter-in-law Aine Staunton Barnett.

Friends and family may call on Friday, May 16 from 3-5 p.m. at Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia NY. Everyone is invited to a celebration of Gertie’s life and Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, May 17 at 9:30 a.m. at Resurrection Parish at 303 East Main in Batavia. Following the service Gertie will be laid to rest beside her husband at St. Joseph Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Gertrude’s name to Charlotte House at 4316 Route 98, North Java, NY 14113 https://www.charlottehousecomfortcare.org. For more information please call (585) 343-8260 or to leave a message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020.

Robert E. Ely, 69 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 9, 2025 at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born April 9, 1956 in Rochester, NY, a son of the late Robert W. Ely and H. Virginia Day Ely Vellekoop.

Robert was employed by Gemcor prior to his retirement. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was always working hard but was a shy and responsible person. He enjoyed computer time and listening to religious audio books and liked to discuss religion and about Jesus Christ. He was an avid sports lover especially baseball and basketball, who will be missed dearly!

He is survived by his wife, Fatima Aparecida Ely of Batavia. Daughters, Gretchen Russell and Emily Davis, both of Batavia. Step-children, Herivelto Stolf Fihlo, Andre Stolf, and Jose Ricardo Stolf, all of Brazil. Grandchildren Leo Russell and Allen Davis Jr.. Siblings, Nancy (Denis) Berwanger of Silver Springs, Susan Schmidt of LeRoy and David (Brenda) Ely of Marietta, GA. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Saturday (May 17^th) from 10am-12pm at the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home, LLC, 2 Bogue Ave., Batavia, where a service will commence at 12pm.

Interment will be in Mumford Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.

ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 2 BOGUE AVE., BATAVIA, NY 14020. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.

Jennie V. Sabb,  of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 5, 2025, at the age of 71. Born in Cleveland, Mississippi, on April 14, 1954, Jennie was a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose spirit brought joy to everyone around her.

A devoted member of the United Pentecostal Church in Batavia, Jennie drew great joy from her faith. She loved singing and listening to music and was known for her unwavering love for her church and for the Lord. Her family was, without doubt, her greatest treasure, and she will be remembered as an "encourager" who always found the silver lining. To all who knew her, Jennie was a happy person, full of life, and someone who always saw the cup as "half full."

Jennie is survived by her loving children: Angela M. Spikes of Batavia, Willie A. Sabb, Jr. of Rochester, Patrick O. Spikes, Juan (fiancée Angela) Santiago of Batavia, Phillip (fiancée Rebecca) Santiago of Greece, and Maria (fiancé Robert) Santiago of Batavia. She also leaves behind several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her siblings Olivia Brown of Elba, Levi (Dorothy) Spikes of Brockport, Oliver Spikes of Williamsville, and Melvin Spikes of Batavia, along with a host of cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Jennie was preceded in death by her parents, Drew Spikes Jr. and Jannie Lee Jackson Spikes, as well as her siblings James Spikes, Drew Spikes, III, Josephine Spikes, Jessie Sanders Spikes, and Marble Nell Spikes.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jennie's life at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia, NY. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday, May 16, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Her funeral service will follow on Friday, May 16, at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest in Maple Lawn Cemetery, Elba. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jennie's memory can be made to the United Pentecostal Church, 180 Oak Street, Batavia, New York 14020. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Michael Charles Torcello, 72, of Claymont, Delaware, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Born in Batavia, New York, on July 10, 1952, Mike was the beloved son of the late Lawrence (Madalyn) Torcello. He was also preceded in death by several cherished cousins, aunts, and uncles including his dear Aunt Rose Torcello who cared for him in his youth.

A devoted horseman, Mike spent many years training and driving, later following in his father’s footsteps at Batavia Downs as the Track Superintendent. Eventually working at Buffalo Raceway before transitioning to Delaware, where he managed the track at Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack. His passion for the sport was evident in his dedication and expertise, leaving an enduring legacy in the racing community.

Beyond his professional life, Mike found joy in life's simple pleasures. He treasured trips with his daughters and grandchildren, especially visits to Amish Country and his family home in Long Beach Island. A lover of family, good company, and a hearty Italian meal, he enjoyed reminiscing and sharing stories with loved ones.

Mike leaves behind a devoted and loving family, including his wife Lynn Torcello of Claymont, DE; his brother Lawrence (Katie) Torcello of Stafford; his daughters Deana (Luke) Berry of Penfield, Angela Torcello of Batavia, and Kristen (Jeremy) Hargrave of Oakfield. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren Natalie and Grace Berry, Anabella Weyer, Philomena and Antonio Troche, and Emma Hargrave; his stepdaughter Dawn Knowles of California; his niece Atia Torcello, and many cousins.

Mike’s warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy as a horseman, family man, and friend will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. A 9:30 AM Mass will be held to celebrate his life on Friday, May 16th at Ascension Parish 19 Sumner St. in Batavia.

Richard L. Dusing of LeRoy passed surrounded by his loving family on May 7, 2025 at the age of 83. Predeceased by his wife Beverley.  Survived by his loving partner Jeanice Keaton, Daughter Valerie (Christopher) Liles, Granddaughter Samantha (Jeff) Staub, Grandson Kevin (Agnies) Liles, 5 Great-grandchildren, and brother Ronald (Sarah) Dusing. Bonus Family Dana (Renee) Keaton, Steven Keaton, Granddaughter Jessica (Joe) Emmerling, Melanie (Theo) Tomczak, Monica, Madilyn, and Miranda Keaton.

Dick enjoyed boating, mowing his lawn, and sharing pictures with family and friends.

He attended the University of Virginia, where he met his wife, Beverley. After college Dick enlisted in the United States Navy, where he was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. Once honorably discharged, he and Beverley moved back to Le Roy, where he worked at the family business, Dusing & Hunt Door Mfg. When Dusing & Hunt moved out of town he worked at Kodak, Trojan, and retired from Batavia Metal Products.

Friends are invited to call Friday, May 30, 2025, from 4-7 PM at Cameron Brady & Steuber Funeral Home, 111 Wolcott St., Le Roy. His Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 10:30 AM at First Presbyterian Church of Le Roy, 7 Clay St, Le Roy, NY 14482. (Parking is in public lot behind McDonald's) Private Interment.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the LeRoy Presbyterian Church or the LeRoy Food Pantry 48 Main St, Le Roy, NY 14482.

To share a memory or leave a condolence, please visit LeRoyfuneralhome.com

William D. Boyd -Passed away on May 8, 2025 at the age of 92.

Predeceased by his parents, Marion Woeller Boyd and Merrill Boyd; wife, Nancy Neiman Boyd; wife, Ruth Hawley Boyd; sisters, Ellen Boyd Barrett and Doris Boyd Barrett.

He is survived by daughters, Katherine Boyd (Richard) Davis, Debra Boyd (Joseph) McGurgan, Linda Boyd Thompson, Cindy Boyd and Kent Johnson, Ann Boyd (Gerald) Sattora; son, David Boyd and Nancy Satter; sisters, Charlotte Boyd Olsen and Gladys Boyd Rodger; grandchildren, Jennifer Hammond (Brian) Hart, Ryan McGurgan, Michelle Hammond (Chris) Johnson, Brandon and Susan Boyd, Colleen McGurgan and Jeff LoVette, Jordan and Kelsey Boyd; great-grandchildren, James Johnson, Jennifer Johnson, Hudson Hart, Connor Hart, Nora Boyd, Grant Boyd; many nieces and nephews.

Bill, as he was called, drove trucks for Lawless Container for many years until he retired. He loved traveling, and visiting every state except for Hawaii. Until Ruths passing in 2012, he was a snowbird in Florida. He loved camping, building, chicken barbeques, cutting down trees, and meeting new people.

Private service and interment to be held at the convenience of the family.

Donations in Bill’s memory can be made to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116.

Patricia A. (Strimple) Rogers of Attica, age 84, passed away on May 8, 2025 at Autumn View Health Care Facility.

She was born August 9, 1940 in Hornell, a daughter of the late Cyrus and Eleanor (Weaver) Strimple.

Patricia graduated from West Seneca high school and was married to the love of her life, Glenn Rogers, until his passing in 2010. She enjoyed bingo, listening to Elvis, and watching Elvis impersonations. Family was everything to Patricia and she cherished each and every one.

Survivors include her daughter, Nancy Rogers, and son, Michael (Mary) Rogers; grandchildren, Sierra, Seth and Grace Rogers; sisters, Mari-Etta Giles and Janice Kranz. In death Patricia is reunited with her son, Charles "Chuck" Rogers; sister, Cheryl Prange and brothers, Robert and Charles Strimple.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Marley Funeral Home. There will be no calling hours or services. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Summit View Cemetery, Bennington.

In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to: American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or AV – Disabled American Veterans, PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301.

To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com