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Obituaries

Fay Friedman

By Kara Richenberg
fay-friedman-photo-1.jpg

Friedman, Fay (nee Terris) - March 14, 1926 – January 24, 2025

Formerly of Clarence, NY. Wife of the late Fred Friedman; mother of Robert (Cindy), Lawrence (Judy Lockridge), Richard (Rhonda Leal); sister of the late Miriam Fleischman and Murry Terris; grandmother of Justin, Kathryn, Rebecca (Sergio), Suzanna (David), Elliot and Henry; great grandmother of Scout, Hilde and Maisie. A Funeral Service will be held Friday, February 21 at 11 a.m. at MESNEKOFF FUNERAL HOME, 8630 Transit Rd., E. Amherst, NY 14051. Donations in Fay’s memory may be made to the Fay & Fred Friedman Family Foundation Fund c/o Community Foundation of Greater Buffalo. Share condolences at mesnekoff.com

Ray C. Gould

By Lisa Ace
Ray C. Gould


Ray C. Gould, 86 of Elba passed away on Sunday, February 9, 2025.  

He was born March 3, 1938 in Springwater, NY the son of the late William and Edith (Bathrick) Gould.
He was preceded in death by his son Thomas Gould, grandson Terence Constable III, great grandson Samuel Jacob.

Ray is survived by his wife of 65 years, Willie Mae (Freeland) Gould, his children Cheryl (Joe) Mack, Laura (Don) Worthington, Debbie (Terry) Constable, Helen (Jeff) Kedzierski, and Sue Stone, daughter in law Roxanne (Sommerfeldt) Gould, thirteen grandchildren and twenty-two great grandchildren.

Ray was a veteran of the United States Marines serving from 1956 – 1962.  After a long career as a truck driver, he retired from Tyler Truck Lines.

He was very proud of his growing family and teaching valuable life skills to his many grandchildren such as fishing, hunting and smoking the perfect pork shoulder.  He also loved traveling cross-country in his camper exploring all the U.S. had to offer.    
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. He will be laid to rest with military honors in the Western New York National Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Ray’s name can be made to the American Cancer Society by visiting their website at https://donate.cancer.org.

Spencer Wriley Schmidt

By T.J. Woodward
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In Loving Memory of Spencer Wriley Schmidt 

Spencer Wriley Schmidt, a beloved son and cherished brother, age 22, of Batavia, NY, passed away suddenly on Sunday, February 9, 2025, as a result of a tragic snowmobile accident in Webb, NY. Born on April 12, 2002, in Batavia, Spencer brought immense joy and love into the lives of everyone he encountered. He is survived by his devoted parents, Krysten and Edward, and his loving brother, Jordyn Schmidt. 

A graduate of Batavia High School in 2020, Spencer was not only a student but also an enthusiastic teammate on the Batavia baseball team. Following graduation, he embraced his role as a service technician at Skyworks Equipment Rental, where his passion for his work and the relationships he formed with his colleagues shone brightly. 

To everyone, he was known as "Burger”. He was a vibrant soul who touched the hearts of many. He thrived on sharing life’s moments with friends and family, finding joy in a multitude of activities. Spencer loved snowmobiling in Old Forge. If the snow was falling, Burger was riding. He was a proud member of Batavia Country Club, where Thursday night summer league became the highlight of his week. Burger enjoyed exploring the great outdoors as an avid hunter. He cherished the time spent working on sleds and trucks with his dad in the garage and enjoyed cruising in his “Red” square body Chevy. Spencer’s infectious laugh and radiant smile will forever be etched in the memories of all who knew him. 

Spencer is also survived by his loving grandparents, Bill and Tarynn Willson, and Helene Schmidt (the late Bud Schmidt), as well as his aunts and uncles: Denice (Lee) Simpson, Steve (Ellen) Schmidt, Mark (Tammy) Schmidt, Linda (Dave) Beckinghausen, Matthew Willson, Travis Willson, Adam (Kate) Willson, Shalayne Willson, Laycee Willson, and Kalyssa Willson, along with many cousins who loved him. 

A gathering to celebrate Spencer’s life will take place on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025, from 3 to 7 PM at Northgate Free Methodist Church, located at 8160 Bank Street, Batavia, NY 14020. A 10:00AM Service honoring his memory will be held on Thursday, February 20th, 2025 at Northgate Free Methodist Church. He will be laid to rest in Grand View Cemetery, Batavia. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Batavia Youth Baseball PO Box 1828 Batavia, NY 14021 where a scholarship will be made in Spencer’s name. In addition, Spencer’s passion to snowmobile please consider donating to Folsom Trailblazers PO Box 55 Attica, NY 14011, honoring Spencer's vibrant spirit and love for life. 

Spencer will be profoundly missed, yet his legacy of love and laughter will continue to inspire all of us. 

To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. 

Lois T. Sisson

By LaVern Falcone

Lois T Sisson, 96, of LeRoy, NY, died in the care of the Crossroads House, Tuesday, February 11, 2025. 

     Lois was born June 13, 1928, in Caledonia, NY, a daughter of the late Thomas and Mary Doran McQuillen.   

Lois Sisson

  A graduate of LeRoy High School, Lois worked at Holy Family School, in LeRoy for many years after raising her children. Bound by her faith and unconditional love of family, Lois was most happy when following the athletic events of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her strength and work ethic leading by example until her death. Lois was a member of St. Peters Church in LeRoy. 

     She was pre-deceased by her husband of 64 years, M. Edwin Sisson, as well as her siblings, Annamae (Bud) Stone, Francis (Dottie), and Robert (Margaret) McQuillen. She is survived by her children: Kathy (late Jeffrey) Ellingham, James (Elizabeth) Sisson, Barb (Tom) White, and John (Theresa) Sisson. She is also survived by grandchildren, Becky Powers, Joshua Ellingham, Chrissy (Maj James) Gibbs, Brendan Brooks, Marcelle (Chris) Banner, Rachael and Lucy White, Michael (Kati) Sisson, Jennifer (Chris) O’Reilly, and Casey Sisson, and also by great grandchildren, Lexi, Dekker, Rowan, Kallum, Maddox, Emery, Delta, Tobin, Aiden, Emma, Molly, Finn, and Grady. 

     There will be no calling hours. Family and friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial to be held on Saturday, April 5 at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter’s Church, 44 Lake St., LeRoy. 

     The family would like to extend their sincere thanks and appreciation for the compassion and care received at the Crossroads House of Batavia. 

     In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to: Notre Dame High School, 73 Union Street, Batavia, NY 14020, or Crossroads House, 11 Liberty Street, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021.  www.crossroadshouse.com/donate 

     Your memories and condolences may be shared with Lois’ family at www.falconefuneralhome.com, “as far as that goes”. 

Leota D. Hagen

By Joshua Smith
L. Hagen

Leota D. Hagen of Oakfield went to her heavenly home on February 10, 2025.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 72 years, Allen L. Hagen. Leota was born on November 18, 1927, in Alexander, New York to the late Charles and Bertha Bluman. 

Leota was a faithful member of the Oakfield United Methodist Church since 1961 and was a dedicated volunteer of the Oakfield Thrift Store for many years, enjoying the fellowship of other volunteers. Leota graduated from Alexander Central High School and worked as a secretary at the Veterans Administration in Buffalo and Batavia, New York. She enjoyed square dancing, where she met Allen. They resided in Oakfield, New York, in the home she designed and helped build in 1962. She was a devoted wife and stay-at-home mother of their 3 daughters.  Leota was an avid seamstress and enjoyed designing and sewing clothes for them. She also loved baking, gardening, canning the produce from their vegetable garden, and surrounding their home with flower beds.

Leota is predeceased by her eight siblings, Ralph Bluman, Pearl Spencer Savage, Oscar Bluman, Agnes Sarach, Olive Welker, Orial Kryman, Homer Bluman, and Hazel Hart. 

Survived are her daughters, Laurel (Eric) Adams of Oakfield and their children, Sean Adams of Oakfield, Leif Adams of Oakfield, and Kari (Victor) Luis of Norwalk, CT; Cheryl (Stephen) Nichols of Pavilion and their children Michelle (Adam) Martocello of Rochester, Mark Nichols of Batavia, James (Melanie) Nichols of Oakfield and Maia Nichols of Pavilion; Crystal Hagen (Dr. Frank Pignatelli) of Rochester and their children Matthew (Brynn) Mayback of Denver, CO, Jonathan (Mandy)  Mayback of N. Chili, Nathan (Maureen) Maycheco of Aurora, CO, and Janelle Mayback of Corinth, MS: 12 greatgrandchildren, sisters-in-law Sally Robins and Laura Hagen: and several nieces and nephews.

The Hagen family will be present from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, and 11:00 to 1:00 on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the Oakfield United Methodist Church, 2 South Main Street, Oakfield, NY 14125, where the funeral services will commence at 1:00 PM. Mrs. Hagen will be laid to rest in Cary Cemetery next to her beloved husband. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials in her memory are suggested to the church or the Oakfield Volunteer Fire Dept.  

 

Leota’s faith in Christ was evident in her daily life. Although her presence on earth will be missed, she eagerly anticipated her new home in heaven. Please join the Hagen family at the Oakfield United Methodist Church following cemetery services for a reception in honor of Leota D. Hagen. 

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

Helen Batchellor

By Joshua Smith
Batchellor

Helen Batchellor, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend, passed away Saturday, February 8th, at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia at the age of 99.

Helen was born on August 6, 1925, in Elba, N.Y., the daughter of John Baker and Margaret Coughlin Baker. She graduated from Albion High School in 1943 and married the love of her life, Donald Batchellor, on September 22, 1945.  Helen was a member of St. Mary’s Church, St. Joseph Sodality, St. Jerome Hospital Guild since 1949, and co-chaired the 100-year celebration of the Jerome Center, where she volunteered in the gift shop for many years.  She became involved with the Holland Land Office and Museum over 50 years ago and served on the Board of Directors for 30 years.  She was a member of the Stafford Historical Society, Herb Society, Collectors Club, and a life member of Stafford Fire Department and its’ Exempts. Helen founded the Stafford Garden Club and was instrumental in the building of the Stafford Gazebo. She was a member of the American Cancer Society, Genesee County Fish and Game Association, and an original volunteer of Genesee County’s RSVP program.  Helen was an avid fan of the P.O.N.Y baseball league and Muckdogs at Dwyer Stadium where she could be seen several times a week.  Proud to be the first woman president of Leroy PTA, she helped to institute positive changes.  When the Genesee Country Village and Museum opened in 1976, Helen served as a docent for many years. One of her greatest passions was the veteran community and she faithfully volunteered every week at the VA Medical Center for over 40 years.  She spearheaded the effort to erect a monument that honors all veterans from the Stafford area and saw it to completion.  The Wonderland of Trees held each Christmas season is a result of Helen’s creativity, and it continues to be a popular event each year. She was involved in so many more organizations throughout her long life, always motivated by seeing the good that could be accomplished.

Helen’s zest for life and dynamic personality were an inspiration to all who knew her.  With her tremendous energy and drive, she championed many causes.  An extrovert, she was always quick with a joke and never met a person she could not talk to at length. She loved working in her garden, watching sports, traveling, quilting, and shopping. She owns many collections of antique treasures from the auctions she loved to attend.  Her knowledge of history was truly remarkable, and she often told stories of growing up in Elba and Batavia, easily recalling events from the past.  She had a special interest in family genealogy and worked tirelessly to trace the Batchellor lineage.  She loved her family with all her heart, and they loved her right back. She leaves behind a legacy of strength through service and finding humor in any situation.

Helen is survived by her son, Gary Batchellor of Batavia; two daughters, Donna (Dave) Croft of Butler, PA. and Gale (Jorge) Mondragon of Honduras; eight grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, the late Donald Batchellor and her brother, the late John C Baker.

The family would like to thank the third-floor nursing staff at United Memorial Medical Center for their kindness and loving care during her last days; and to the NY State Veterans Home where she resided and thrived among the veterans she loved so much.  We are truly grateful for the love and support given by Diane Hawn, and lastly, we will always treasure Deb Goodenbury (Helen’s “angel”), who was her caretaker, nurse, and friend, going above and beyond to provide exceptional care and ministry over the years when Helen lived at home.

Friends may call at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home from 4 to 7 pm on February 21.  A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 Saturday, February 22 at Ascension Parish Church, 19 Sumner St. Memorials in her honor may be made to the Holland Land Office and Museum or to Genessee Country Village and Museum.

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

Donna Mae Reinhardt

By Lisa Ace
Donna Mae Reinhardt


Donna Mae Reinhardt 

Our angel on Earth passed unexpectedly, Monday, February 10, 2025 at home.

Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Sister and Friend. Donna was born August 12, 1939, the daughter of Edward and Hazel Heist. She is survived and cherished by her husband Frank (Mickey) Reinhardt. Her children; Theresa (James) Brancifort, Deborah (Tim) Baker, Kenneth (Beth) Lipinski, and Penny Humel. Numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Siblings, Eileen Della Penna, Jerry Heist and Sally (Bruce) Longbine.

In passing she is reunited with her parents, Son James Lipinski and Son-In-Law Scott Humel. 

Donna's passion in life was her Family. She spread Love and Joy to so many. Donna was an avid gardener and a lifelong Bills and Elvis fan. Donna is the Heart and very very core of her family. She will be truly, sadly and deeply missed. 

Friends and family may call on Sunday, February 16, 2025 from 2 to 5 pm at the C. B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., 4 East Main Street, Corfu, NY. Funeral services will be held at the mortuary on Monday, February 17th at 11 a.m., followed by a private burial. 

Travis Scott Barber

By Joshua Smith
Photo

Durham, North Carolina - Travis Scott Barber, beloved son, brother, and uncle, passed away on Thursday, (February 6, 2025) as a result of injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident at the age of 29. His loss leaves us with sadness that words cannot express. We are wholly unprepared to walk this world without him, but find some comfort in knowing we will walk the next beside him.

Travis was born May 18, 1995 in Dansville, the son of  Scott and Danielle (Hesby) Barber of Varysburg.

He was a gentle man with a kindness and warmth that radiated outward, touching all who knew him - family, friends, and animals alike. He was a playful spirit with a unique sense of humor that brought joy to those lucky enough to catch it. His infectious smile and genuine care for others were a testament to his deep soul and ability to see the good in everyone. Travis was a builder and tinkerer. Whether building computers or adding modifications to his motorcycle, or car, he loved the challenge of making things better. His motorcycle was more than a hobby - it was a source of immense pride, fun and expression.

A dedicated Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Penguins fan, Travis was especially fond of quarterback Josh Allen, who was, in his words, "his boy." He also enjoyed playing in his local hockey league. Through his motorcycle community, hockey league, and work, he made lasting friendships and found a sense of camaraderie.

Travis was more than just a friend - he was a son, a brother to three sisters, and cherished uncle of 2 nieces and 3 nephews, all of whom adored him deeply. His love for them was boundless, and they will carry his memory with them always.

Surviving along with his parents are his sisters, Noelle (Schuyler) Barber-Crippen of Arvada, Colorado, Kirstin (Brian) Dwyer of Fairport, and Jenna (Max) Delaplane of Twinsburg, Ohio; nieces and nephews, Silas, Torrey, Talia, Blake, and Calvin.

In death, Travis is reunited with his paternal grandparents, Dr. Donald and Janet (Gephardt) Barber; maternal grandparents, Chester and Norma (Klasse) Hesby; aunt, Sandra Barber.

Family and friends are invited to call on Monday, (February 17, 2025)  from 4 to 8:00 p.m. at Marley Funeral Home, 135 Main Street in Attica. Travis' funeral service will be held on Tuesday (February 18, 2025) at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Johnsonburg Cemetery in Johnsonburg.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a Go Fund Me established to assist with the unexpected expenses associated with Travis' death at www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-travis-barbers-memory-funeral-fund or to the family directly. Online condolences at www.marleyfuneralhome.com.

Karl "Danny" Bater

By Joshua Smith
K. Bater

Bergen – Karl Bater, age 64, passed away on Friday, February 7, 2025, at his home in Bergen.

Karl was born on June 6, 1960 in Batavia, New York, a son of the late Karl & Rose Marie (Costanza) Bater.

He enjoyed riding snowmobiles and motorcycles. Karl was an avid fan of Harley’s and rode in many benefit rides. He was also a long time hunter.

Surviving is his brother, Jeffrey Bater of Batavia; nephew, Zachary Bater of Oakfield; niece Lovina Bater of Texas, and many great nieces.

Friends and family are invited to call on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 12:00pm to 2:00pm, at H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home, 51 S. Lake Ave. Bergen, New York, with funeral service immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306

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

Paul M. Conley

By Joshua Smith
Conley

Batavia -  Paul M. Conley passed away peacefully on Monday, February 10, 2025 at the New York State Veterans Home in Batavia.

Paul was born at St. Jerome Hospital in Batavia on March 31, 1947 to the late Clement "Pat" & Grace (Shaw) Conley.

Paul graduated from Batavia High School in 1965. After high school Paul began working at Beardsley’s. In 1966 Paul was drafted and served his country in the United States Army in Vietnam and Korea, He received a promotion to SP4 along with National Defense Service Medal & Marksman’s Badge for M-14, Paul was honorably discharged in 1968.

Upon returning home Paul immediately received word from Mr. Thornton regarding his job, In true dedication he went right to work within the next couple of days. Paul truly enjoyed working at Beardsley’s, establishing the "suit club" and modeling, building many relationships and boosting business.

Paul later became the warehouse supervisor of Cablevision, overseeing daily manpower and materials for what would become Time Warner Cable.

Paul was an avid bowler. Something he enjoyed doing with his father from a young age. He bowled a 300 game on March 24, 1982, being only the 2nd one ever at the Moose Lodge. When he could no longer go he would continue to enjoy watching on TV.

Paul also enjoyed hunting, playing cards, and the occasional weekend getaway to the Turning Stone casino with his late wife Jeannette.

When Paul retired he would enjoy weekly lunches with his siblings, cousin Billy, & friends. He looked forward to his daily “Dunkin runs” and made great connections everywhere he went.

Paul was a man of honor and respect and it was important to him for people to know that.

In passing, Paul is reunited with his wife Jeannette, his parents, his grandparents, and a special nephew, Adam Conley.

Paul leaves behind a great crew honoring his legacy; his son, Bryan (Paulette) Conley, step-children, Barbara Ryan (Donny Cassidy), Lisa (Mark) Snow, James (Vicki) Burdett; grandchildren Payton (Nicholas) Schiffler, Samantha Conley, Cortney Ryan (Shawn Bowick Sr), Corey (Shannon) Ryan,  Alyssa (Chris) McComber, Morgan Mikolajczyk (Ryan Worthington)  and Alex Burdett; great-grandchildren, Evan, Zoey, Brodie and Hunter Bower, Kree, Atreus and Maxon McComber,  Kailynn Worthington, Declan and Emilia Ryan; Paul's siblings, Susan Fanara (Victor Graff), Sally (Joseph) Giordano, Carl (Karen) Conley, Thomas (MaryAnn) Conley along with many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Paul's family would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Administration and Staff at the New York State Veterans Home and the many wonderful people who cared for him over the last several months.

Friends may call on Tuesday from 4 pm to 7 pm at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. Funeral services will be held at 11 am Wednesday at the funeral home followed by burial, with military honors at Grandview Cemetery, Batavia. Donations to the Activities Fund at the New York State Veterans, 220 Richmond Avenue, Batavia, New York 14020 or the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, Virginia 22116-7023. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Michael L. DeVelder

By Joshua Smith

 

DeVelder

Rochester - Michael L. DeVelder, 70 of Rochester passed away on Saturday, (February 1, 2025) at his home in Rochester.

Mr. DeVelder was born July 7, 1954 in Rochester, a son of the late Donald and Betty (Thompson) DeVelder.

He was a master of tinkering, tools and the flowers he grew; sharing all of these with a bonus joke. If you think of him, we wish for you to remember it’s never too late to be the things you loved most about the people that you miss.

Michael is survived by his children, Scott (Lisa Boughton) DeVelder of Victor, Steve DeVelder of Bergen, and Darcy Greco of Tampa, Florida; grandchildren, Jaden Posh, Brynn DeVelder, Sal Greco, and Phina Greco; sisters, Carol (Bob), Donna, and Lynda (late Ed); daughter--in-law, Lacy Morgan DeVelder; dear friend, Deborah Evans. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

In death, Michael is reunited with his parents; son, Dennis DeVelder; and sister, Laurie Radesi.

A celebration of life is being planned for the future. Arrangements were entrusted to the care of H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home in Bergen. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

David G. Henry

By Joshua Smith
Henry

David G. Henry, a cherished resident of Bergen, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 9, 2025 at Gateway House in Attica. Born in Batavia on Monday, February 22nd, 1943, David led a life marked by service, dedication, and love.

David proudly served in the United States Navy from 1962 to 1968, where his steadfast commitment to duty laid a foundation for his future endeavors. Dave embarked on a successful 26-year career as a Chemical Maker with the Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, retiring in 1992. Never one to rest on his laurels, he went on to establish and operate Dave Henry Construction for 21 years.

A devoted family man, David is survived by his beloved daughters, Michele (JC) Doyle of Bergen, Tracy (Scott Schliff) Henry of Rochester, and Rebecca (Jake) Howe of Marathon. He also leaves behind a cherished grandson, Jayden Doyle, and a brother, Doug DeBoover, alongside numerous nieces and nephews.

In 2018, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 52 years, Claire L. Henry. He is also predeceased by his mother, Viola Henry DeBoover and his brothers, Fred and Peter DeBoover.

David's passions extended beyond his family and work. He was an active member of the Bergen United Methodist Church, contributing over 20 years of service as a trustee and as a member of the Hesperus Lodge No. 837 Free and Accepted Masons. His commitment to the community was further evidenced by his long-standing role on the Bergen Town Zoning Board.

His dedication to veterans was unwavering. A lifetime member of Sackett Merrill White American Legion Post No. 575, Dave served in various capacities, including post chaplain, post finance officer, post adjutant, and post commander for five years. His leadership and compassion were recognized as he ascended to roles such as Genesee County Commander, 8th District Assistant Chaplain, 8th District Commander, and Department Vice Commander of the 7th and 8th District. David’s involvement in the Legion took him on journeys across the nation, cultivating friendships and offering support to countless veterans. Additionally, he was a proud member of the Genesee County Joint Veterans Honor Guard.

His life was a testament to dedication—to family, to country, and to community. He leaves behind a legacy of service and love that will be cherished by many.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. He will be laid to rest with military honors in Mount Rest Cemetery, Bergen. In lieu of flowers, donations in David's memory may be sent to American Legion, Sackett Merrill White Post #575, P.O. Box 207, Bergen, New York 14416 or to the Batavia VAMC online at https://www.pay.gov/public/form/entry/102/46646309/. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements have been kindly provided by H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, located at 51 South Lake Street, Bergen.

Javarius-Gus Williams

By T.J. Woodward
j

Javarius-Gus Williams, 10, passed away Thursday February 6, 2025 at Strong Memorial Hospital. Javarius was born in Batavia at United Memorial Medical Center November 17, 2014. He is predeceased by his Mother; Nikki Stonebraker. 

Javarius was the sweetest boy with the most infectious smile. Despite the adversities he faced in his short life Javarius remained happy and well behaved. He was loved by all who knew him and will be missed beyond measure. Javarius attended the 5th grade at Batavia Middle School and was a member of the Batavia Bulldawgs. He enjoyed drawing, playing sports, the outdoors, watching YouTube, talking on the phone to his special lady Nova, playing Roblox, Rocket league and other video games as well as playing with his Oculus which he received from his father for Christmas. 

Javarius is survived by his father Charles-Gus Williams, brothers Kamron, Julius and Shey Williams, Rashad Hughes, Devaughn Banks, sisters Brooklyn Wright and Damona King, paternal grandmother Lula Richardson, maternal grandparents Donald Stonebraker and Brenda Houseknecht, uncle Robert Thigpen III, Tiffany Wright, several aunts, uncles and cousins. 

After the passing of his biological mother in 2023, Javarius was embraced with love and care by his brothers’ mother, Stephanie Howard, providing that mother’s love that she knew he needed. He was welcomed and embraced with open arms by the entire Howard family ensuring he knew he was unconditionally loved. 

All are invited to The City Church (St. Anthony’s Church) 114 Liberty St. Batavia, NY 14020 Thursday February 13th  for visitation from 4:00-6:00 PM and his Service will immediately follow. All are encouraged to wear blue if attending as this was Javarius’ favorite color.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Javarius’ name to the Batavia Fire Department 18 Evans St. or to the Batavia Bulldawgs PO Box 254 Batavia, NY 14021. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. 

Lyla J. McEwen

By Joshua Smith

East Pembroke - Lyla J. McEwen, 97 of East Pembroke passed away on Sunday, (January 26, 2025) at her home in East Pembroke.

Lyla was born Monday, April 11th, 1927 in Harlowe, Ontario Canada, a son of the late Thomas George & Alice Maude (Curtis) Whitemen. Lyla married her husband Carman E. McEwen on August 26, 1944. He passed away on February 19, 2010.

She was in ministry with her husband for 40 years, serving God in Canada, Indiana, and New York. She was a godly mother, and an example to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They retired from the ministry in 1984. After retiring, they moved back to Indiana where they were apartment managers in New Castle and Chesterfield, Indiana. She and Carman moved back to New York to reside in East Pembroke the rest of their days together, praising God and praying for family and friends.

Surviving are her children, Gary Ernest (Nancy) McEwen of Grand Rivers, Kentucky, Laverne Carmen McEwen of Cheektowaga, and Darlene Jeanette (Terry) Ross of East Pembroke; grandchildren, April, Shawn (Regina), Hope (John), Jill (Christopher), Kevin, Ryan & Megan (Peter); 15 great grandchildren; sisters, Nellie Mae Edith, and Lula Irene.

In death she is reunited with her husband, Carman E. McEwen; brothers, Frank, Tommy, Osborne, Clayton, Elliott, Adelbert, and sister, Nellie Mae Edith

Burial will be in Hillside Cemetery in Corfu, New York.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alden Community Church, 1400 Sullivan Road, Alden, New York, 14004.

Joseph Maiola

By Joshua Smith
Maiola

Joseph Maiola, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 5th, 2025, at the age of 70. He was born on Saturday, May 29th, 1954, in Pignataro, Maggiore, Italy.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army before embarking on a successful career as a butcher at Shortino's Meat Market in Rochester, New York.

Joseph is survived by his loving children, Michela, Anthony (Amy), Elisabetta (Scott) Schwartz, and Gerlanda; his cherished grandchildren, Henry, Lucy, Nora, Rosie, Corina-Marie, Adalenna, Emilio, and Natalia; his dear sister, Clara (Alfredo) Della Valle and sister-in-law, Concetta Maiola. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Antonio Maiola, his mother, Maddalena Maiola, his son,  Joey Maiola, and brother Mario Maiola.

The family would like to extend sincerest gratitude for the Buffalo & Batavia VA Medical Hospital (Mable House) staff members for the compassion and dedication they have provided for many years.

Family and friends are invited to H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia, for visitation on Wednesday, February 12th, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. Graveside services, with military honors will be held at 1 pm at Western New York National Cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Road, Corfu. Please assemble at the cemetery by 12:45 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joseph's memory to the Batavia VAMC through the following link:https://www.pay.gov/public/form/entry/102/46646309/. 

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

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