26 results found
Joyce McKinney
February 9th, 1936 - April 22nd, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home
Joyce McKinney, 90, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026 in her home overlooking the pond and hillside. She was born on February 9, 1936 in Dayton, Ohio, to Loren and Louise Jameson. Joyce graduated from the University of Cincinnati and began her career in nursing, later advancing her education to become a Nurse Practitioner. She devoted her career to caring for others and worked throughout the community, including with Head Start, St. Joseph’s Hospital, and the Elmira City Schools. Joyce had a deep connection to her church, First Presbyterian Church of Watkins Glen. While living in the manse and raising her four sons, she sang in the choir, served on the church session, was elected as a deacon, and volunteered for nearly every event. She was especially known for her time in the fellowship hall, where she could often be found making pies, preparing potatoes, and contributing countless dishes to gatherings. To many, Joyce was simply “Grandma Joyce.” She was a devoted and loving grandmother who cherished her family above all else. She rarely missed a sporting event, play, or graduation, often traveling long distances to be there. Her family was her greatest pride and joy. She is survived by her four sons: Tim (Beth), Jeff, Greg (Denise), and Barry (Kathy); her grandchildren: Rachel (Brad), Kaleigh (Graham), Brett, Hannah (Solomon), Jacob, Elizabeth, and Tata (step-grandchild); and her great-grandchildren: Finn, Isla, Maisie, Charleigh, Shaya, and MaKenna (step great-grandchild), and her brother, Dick Jameson, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Jack, and his wife Connie Jameson, her sister-in-law Sally Jameson, her dear Aunt Mary, and her daughter-in-law, Susan McKinney. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 16 at 11:00am at the First Presbyterian Church of Watkins Glen, 520 N. Decatur St, Watkins Glen followed by a luncheon. Joyce will be remembered as a humble and kind person who was deeply loved by all. A memorial guestbook may be found in her obituary at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family.
Publication date: April 29th, 2026
Steven "Fuzzy" Michael Fazzary
January 25th, 1961 - February 2nd, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home
Steven "Fuzzy" Michael Fazzary, age 65, a lifelong resident of Watkins Glen, passed away unexpectedly on February 2, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 2nd from 12pm-2:30pm at the Clute Park Event Center. Parking is free for guests. Steven was born on January 25, 1961, the son of the late Michael "Mickey" Angelo and Linda Fazzary. He worked as an electrician and maintenance at Watkins Glen International. He is survived by his daughter Mikel Fazzary of Cortland; sister and brother-in-law, Shelly and Bill Carufe of Naples, FL; nephews, Kyle Carufe and Brian Carufe; special aunt and uncle Joey and Barbara Fazzary; several close cousins; girlfriend Tammy Davis; and his four-legged friend and buddy, Annie. Condolences to the family may be offered in his guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. In his memory, please consider a memorial donation to Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association (https://senecalake.org/giving/) The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.
Publication date: April 29th, 2026
Esther Stocum
May 5th, 1937 - April 19th, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home
WATKINS GLEN-We are heartbroken to share that our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother Esther Louise Kenyon Stocum, passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the age of 88. Born to Hugh and Grace Louise Kenyon on May 5, 1937, Mom grew up in Canisteo, NY with her brother Ken. Her brother Shirley died at age two. She loved helping on their farm and took great pride in graduating as salutatorian of her class. She watched the Hornell Dodgers play baseball in the 1950’s. Later, she became a lifelong NY Yankees fan. After getting married, Mom moved to Corning, NY where she and our father began careers at Ingersoll Rand and started a family. In 1959 they moved to Watkins Glen, NY, where Mom would live the rest of her life as the Best Mom and Grandma Ever. It is hard to fully capture what an extraordinary mother she was. In 1973, she lost both of her parents one month apart. Around the same time, she became a single parent of her six children ages 3 to 15. She faced these challenges with remarkable strength, grace and resilience. For the rest of our childhood, she worked two and sometimes three jobs to provide for us. She worked for Schuyler County then Schuyler Hospital and was a favorite waitress at Savard’s, Scuteri’s, Chef’s, and most recently at Curly’s Restaurant. Although she juggled relentless work schedules, our busy school schedules, and unreliable transportation, she never missed a game, concert, or important moment in our lives. Everything she did was for us, she never put herself first. Growing up, on the outside it may have looked like we did not have much but on the inside we were millionaires because of the love, support, and unwavering dedication of our brave, sweet, strong, funny, beautiful mother. Mom encouraged us to work hard, be honest, respect others, and help those in need. She never said no to helping us or anyone else. She was honored to be named a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow, and we are proud to have followed her example in becoming upstanding citizens in our communities As adults, it has been a joy to watch her surround her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with the same strength, integrity, and love. Mom taught us to enjoy life! She loved cooking, gardening, watching all sports, playing Euchre, gambling with her girlfriends, and spending time with family. She watched her grandchildren in the summer and took them swimming then treated them to ice cream. They loved her potato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. Her spaghetti and meatballs and peanut butter fudge were favorites for all. Her home, stocked with pasta, cookies and jigsaw puzzles, was always open to any of us. She was in her element presiding over family gatherings, especially during the holidays; we often wondered if she slept during the Christmas season. There was never a dull moment with Mom. She was the heart of our family, always smiling, supportive, and so very generous. To say Mom will be missed is an understatement. Her legacy lives on through her grateful and loving family. She is survived by her six children and their spouses: Teri and Phil Baccile, Wendy and Craig Cheplick, Don and Brenda Stocum, Darrin and Susanne Stocum, Susie and Jim Chaffee, Jim and Becky Stocum. She cherished her grandchildren Chrissy, Jason, Katey, Rachel and Nat, Sarah, Claire and Will, Ethan and Katey, and Eli and her great-grandchildren Madyson, Kamryn, Cadyn, Mia, Natalie, and the newest addition, Margot Esther. Mom also had several special nieces, nephews, and friends. The friendships she cultivated in the WG community are too many to name. We welcome you to join us at the Seneca Lake Events Center at 586 East 4th St. in Watkins Glen, NY to celebrate our mother’s life on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at 1:00-4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Watkins Glen Sports Booster Club, 303 12th St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891 or your local food bank. A special thank you to Sherri Kelly, Schuyler County Ambulance, Schuyler Hospital, and all of the medical staff and first responders that helped us care for Mom as her health declined. Her family was grateful for the opportunity to care for her at home surrounding her with love and comfort in her final years with the dignity and respect she so richly deserved. We love her more than words can say and will carry her with us always. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting our family.
Publication date: April 29th, 2026
Doris L. Howell
June 7th, 1930 - April 11th, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home
Doris L. Howell, 95, of Watkins Glen, N.Y., died Saturday, April 11, 2026 at home. Born in Camptown, PA, she was the daughter of Glenn and Edith White Peet. She grew up on a farm in Camptown with her older brother, Elwin (d. 2015). Doris graduated from Wyalusing Valley High School in 1948 and from the Robert Packer Hospital school of Nursing, Sayre, PA in 1951. Initially, she practiced as an operating room nurse and then in 1960 moved to become the School Nurse at Bradford Central School. She served there for many years. On February 22, 1962 she married Edson N. Howell (d. 2018) and moved to the family farm near Tyrone, N.Y. Doris enjoyed working outside on the farm and in her garden for many years after retirement. Surviving are three daughters, Glenna Traiger (spouse Saul Traiger) of Los Angeles, CA, Linda Howell, of Watkins Glen, NY, and Donna Lynd of Canastota, NY. She leaves four grandchildren, David, Sarah, Morgan and Taylor; and two great-grandchildren, Molly and Calvin. According to her wishes there are no services. Those wishing to remember Doris may consider a memorial donation in her memory to the Tyrone Vol. Fire Department, PO Box 69, Tyrone, NY 14887. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen. You may express condolences to the family or “Light a Candle of Remembrance” online at www.RoyceChedzoy.com
Publication date: April 29th, 2026
Michael C. “Big Mike” Smalley
February 12th, 1955 - April 11th, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy
Michael C. “Big Mike” Smalley, age 71, of Rock Stream, NY, passed away on April 11, 2026 at home. Mike “Pops” was born on February 12, 1955, the son of Nathan Lester and Florence Smalley. He graduated from Watkins Glen High School in 1973. His greatest hobbies were dirt track racing and keeping up with the grandchildren! He loved racing the #002 stock car at the track in Dundee and spending time there with his family and good friends. He worked for Parmenter Tire, Auto, and Truck Services in Odessa for many years. He was predeceased by his wife, Ida J. Smalley, on March 6, 2020; brothers, Gene, Tom and Robert; and sisters, Valnetta Crissinger and Sharon Bingell. He is survived by his loving children, Michael C. (Rebecca) Smalley, Jr. of Shiloh, NC, and Jennifer Davis of Elmira Heights, NY; sister, Kathy Lynn (Samual) Ector of Watkins Glen; four grandchildren, Garrett, Cierra, Jonathan, and Ashley; five great-grandchildren, Hailey, Jayden, Jonathan, Autumn, and Anakin; and many nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Monday (April 20th) from 2pm-3pm, followed by a memorial service celebrating his life at 3pm. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately following at Reading Community Church in Reading Center; 2671 Church Rd. If anybody would like, we are honoring Big Mike at Outlaw Speedway Friday night 17th April with a moment of silence and Prayer. Memorial donations in his memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice. You may express condolences to the family or leave a memory of Mike online in his guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com
Publication date: April 22nd, 2026
Roger Ward Townsend
November 4th, 1939 - January 21st, 2026
Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home
Roger Ward Townsend, age 86, of Horseheads, NY, passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility in Montour Falls, NY. Roger was born on November 4, 1939 to the late Alfred S. Townsend and Alma C. (Townsend) Hogben. Roger is predeceased by his parents; his stepfather, Norman Hogben; and a daughter, Sally (Townsend) Ormsby. He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Joann (Semski) Townsend; his children, Susan (William) Borden, Sherry (Mark) Lombardo, John (Carol) Dunbar, Christie Anderson, and Melisia (Richard) Reilly; son-in-law, Dan Ormsby; brother, Chauncey (Kathy) Townsend; sisters-in-law, Diann (Mark) Murphy, Susan Kelly, and Carolann (David) Dreisbach; grandchildren, Dawn (Ben) Edwards, Jeff (Autumn) Ormsby, Matt (Heather) Ormsby, Tiffany (Nick) Joseph, Brandisue (Doug) Perry, Justin (Faith) Townsend, Katrina (Mitch) Woodward, John Michael Wood, Carrie Dunbar, Celeste (Adam) Leach, Steven Shaffer, Zackary Shaffer, Erica (Joseph) Westervelt, Courtney (Paul) Flahive, Kaylee Reilly and Julia Reilly; along with 21 great-grandchildren, and one that is on the way. Roger attended Trumansburg High School. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, where he served as a helicopter mechanic on the USS Wasp. He spent most of his career as a heavy equipment operator with the New York State Department of Transportation, based in Ithaca, NY. In his retirement, he continued to work as a full-time bus driver in Alexander County, NC. Roger was an active community member and volunteer, serving as past Fire Chief for the Interlaken Volunteer Fire Department, and maintaining active membership in both the Trumansburg American Legion and the Interlaken Sportsman Club. He was also a faithful member of the Trumansburg United Methodist Church. Roger was also an outdoor enthusiast, and in his free time enjoyed hunting, gardening, camping, traveling, and watching NASCAR. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of Seneca View Skilled Nursing, Unit 3, for their kindness and attentive care. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 1-5 pm at the Trumansburg American Legion Post 770 4431 E. Seneca Rd, Trumansburg, NY 14886. Military honors will be held at 3:00 pm. Please RSVP to Sue or Melissa. If you are unable to reach them, please contact Grace at the Trumansburg American Legion, 607-387-4212. Memorial contributions may be made to the Interlaken Fire Volunteer Department, PO Box 274, Interlaken, NY 14847. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com
Publication date: April 22nd, 2026
Charlotte L. (Thorpe) Bond
September 10th, 1940 - April 5th, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home
Charlotte L. (Thorpe) Bond, age 85, of Burdett passed away Sunday, April 5, 2026, surrounded by family at Schuyler Hospital. Charlotte was born on September 10, 1940 to Bernard and Marion Thorpe. Charlotte is survived by her daughter Margaret (Kirk) Gray; and sons Scott Bond, and Benjamin (Diane) Bond; grandchildren, James, Kenneth, Bryanna, Travis and Jonathan; and two great-grandchildren, Jimmy and Josie. Charlotte was predeceased by husbands Nicholas, Douglas and Peter Bond, daughter Tamara, and grandson Brandon. She and Douglas owned and operated Bond’s Fruit Stand in Hector for many years. A graveside service will be held at a later date and will be announced. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home is assisting the family. You may leave condolences and memories of Charlotte for her family in her guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com
Publication date: April 15th, 2026
John “Jack” J. McCormack
October 30th, 1942 - March 13th, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home
John “Jack” J. McCormack, age 83, of Burdett, NY, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026. Jack was born on October 30, 1942, in Bayshore, New York, the son of John and Gertrude McCormack. Jack proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard from 1966 to 1970, exemplifying honor, dedication, and courage. In 1969, he married the love of his life, Harriet Miller, and together they shared an extraordinary 57 years of marriage filled with devotion, partnership, and unwavering love. Jack’s legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Harriet; his son, Shaun (Kristi) McCormack of Burdett; his brother, Michael (Martha) McCormack of Dallas, TX; his cousin, Anne (Erwin) Dejoseph; and his cherished granddaughter, Eleanor Rae McCormack. A passionate mentor and educator, Jack shared his knowledge and love for mechanics as a teacher at BOCES Ithaca, inspiring countless students throughout his career. His dedication extended far beyond the classroom as a proud member of the Valois-Logan-Hector Volunteer Fire Company, where he served his community with selflessness and pride. Jack’s passions were as rich and vibrant as the life he lived. He had a deep love for farming, finding peace and purpose in working the land and embracing the rhythms of rural life. He was also an avid supporter of the local wineries of the Finger Lakes region, where he enjoyed not only the craft of winemaking but the community and beauty that surrounded it. A skilled sailor who cherished time on the open water and an admirer of classic cars, Jack also found simple joy in sharing a good glass of wine with family and friends. His warmth, wisdom, and zest for life left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jack’s life at Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., in Watkins Glen on Friday, March 27, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 5:00 PM. A burial with full military honors will take place at Glenwood Cemetery on Saturday, March 28, at 10:00 AM. Attendance at the cemetery service will be limited to family and close friends. In memory of Jack’s enduring commitment to service and community, memorial donations may be made to the Valois-Logan-Hector Volunteer Fire Company, 5736 NY-414, Hector, NY 14841, or online at www.HectorFire.com. Condolences may be shared with the family in the online guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. Jack McCormack’s life was a shining example of dedication, love, and passion—an inspiring legacy that will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him.
Publication date: March 25th, 2026
Joseph F. Oswald
May 25th, 1943 - March 1st, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home
Joseph F. Oswald, age 82, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away on March 1, 2026. Joe was born in Baltimore, Maryland on May 25, 1943, the son of the late Frank X. Oswald and Ruth (Gorman) Oswald. He worked as a Direct Support Professional for the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities in Watkins Glen. Joe honorably served in the United States Navy from 1961-1966, completing two tours in Vietnam. Joe enjoyed simple things in life like reading, writing and sharing his poetry, and especially gardening. Preceding him in death are his parents; and three of his siblings, Betty Kordell, Jim Oswald and Mary Ekstrom, and his beloved dog, Makayla. He is survived by his son, Matthew T. Oswald of Rochester; brother John M. (Camelia) Oswald of Bradford; sister Ann Oswald of Florida, Elizabeth (Ric) Pollock of Maryland; sister-in-law, Lore Oswald of North Carolina; and grandson, Elias and Benjamin Oswald. A Memorial Service will be held at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St. on Saturday (March 14th) at 12noon. There are no prior visiting hours. Condolences may be offered to the family in his guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com
Publication date: March 11th, 2026
Joyce L. Switzer
October 5th, 1944 - February 22nd, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy
Joyce L. Switzer, age 81, of Reading Center, NY, passed away February 22, 2026. Joyce was born in Montour Falls on October 5, 1944. She was a lifelong resident of Reading Center and the Reading Community Church. Joyce was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, James H. Switzer, Sr. in June 2025. She is survived by two sons, James H. Switzer Jr. (wife Gen Switzer) of Candor, and Ken Switzer of Rock Stream; four grandchildren, Christopher Switzer, Cindy (Josh) Briggs, Courtney Switzer, and Clifford (Danielle) Switzer; three great-grandchildren, Loren, Layla, and Liam Switzer; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. According to her wishes there are no services. She was laid to rest with her husband at Pleasant View Cemetery in Reading Center. Memorial donations in her memory may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are with Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
Publication date: March 11th, 2026
Gabriel John Santos
September 20th, 2004 - February 22nd, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home
Gabriel John Santos, of Hector, New York, left this world on February 22, 2026, at just 21 years of age. His passing was sudden, and our hearts are profoundly saddened. We share this not only with deep grief but also with gratitude for the joy and light he brought into our lives. His love, laughter, and spirit remain woven into us forever. Gabriel is survived by his loving family: parents Allison and John Santos and brother Jude Santos; grandmothers Susan Hazlitt of Hector, NY, and Dorothea Santos of Auburndale, MA; aunts and uncles, Andra Moffett (Marijn) Dekkers, Timothy (Wendy) Moffett, Diane Noecker (Parrish), Alyce (Lee) Coffey, Rob Merletti, Mark Merletti, Kathy (Matt) Licata; cousins; Jacob and Samantha Moffett, Theodore and William Coffey, Marina, Stephanie and Alexandra Dekkers, Matthew Licata, Lucca and Milan Merletti, Grace and Phebe Wickham, the Hazlitt family; Eric (Tina)Hazlitt, Kristi Hazlitt, Jason (Rose) and Zephyr Hazlitt, and Erin (Brian) Hanley, Ryan and Austin Hazlitt; Santos family; Gerda and Heidi Seufert of FL, Linda Marcantonio(Tony) of NJ; and the Leach and Swanson families of Excelsior, MN. He is predeceased by grandparents: Bill and Hope Moffett of NY, Dr. George P Santos of MA, and Jim Hazlitt of NY. A 2023 graduate of New Roots Charter School in Ithaca, NY; Gabe was never happier when sharing laughter with his friends exploring the wilds of Ithaca, especially 6 Mile Creek and Fall Creek. He loved being the center of attention; the daredevil clown who could warm a room in seconds and draw laughter from everyone around him. People were instantly taken by his infectious smile, his big, bright blue eyes, and that unmistakable unibrow! His intrepid spirit shone in activities of single-track/mountain biking, running, diving, climbing, cliff jumping, and most especially downhill and telemark skiing. He lived to push the limits of gravity, speed, and freedom. His graceful form on the hill was poetry in motion. Many joyful memories were made with friends and family, traversing East Coast ski mountains in search of the next epic run. Summers too were special, as countless hours were spent with family on Seneca Lake, swimming, laughing, and celebrating the joy of this life together. Gabe showed a tender, curious heart toward all of Earth's offerings. He had an affinity for the numerous farm animals he helped raise under his mom's wing, but especially the goat kids he helped birth, the pigs whose bellies he loved to rub, and his border collie, Isis, whom he took to the New York State fair for an agility competition. In his later years, he took up gardening and an interest in viticulture. He began exploring his family’s passion for winemaking under the mentorship of Alexandra Bond at Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards and Vagabond Wines, where he found purpose and joy in the craft. Our time with Gabe was cut short, but the fearless, authentic spirit he showed us will always remain to guide us. We live forward in the stories we tell, the mountains we ski, the flowers we share, the music we vibe to, the homegrown food we eat, and the wine we drink, when together. A celebration of life is planned for May 2, 2026, at the Curry Creek Farm, 6088 Beckhorn Road in Hector, NY. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Publication date: March 11th, 2026
Hayley J. Scholtisek
September 27th, 1977 - February 12th, 2026
Royce-Chedzoy
Hayley J. Scholtisek, age 48, of Watkins Glen, passed away February 12, 2026 at Schuyler Hospital in Montour Falls. Hayley was born on September 27, 1977, the daughter of Henry and Dorothy Scholtisek. She was predeceased by her parents. She is survived by her brothers and sister, Melissa (Robert) Teed of Reading Center, Michael (Teresa) Scholtisek of Trumansburg, and Eric (Amy) Scholtisek of Watkins Glen; aunts, Deb Ribble (Jim), and Beverly Naylor; niece, Allison Teed; and nephews, Regan Scholtisek, Owen Scholtisek, and Jaydon Scholtisek. Hayley made many lasting friendships along her journey. She loved her family and spending every holiday together. Hayley survived many challenges with a smile and a positive attitude, always telling everyone “I’m good”. She had the sweetest soul with a heart and smile as big as the sky. Hayley was Reba McEntire’s #1 fan, enjoying her music, tv shows and concerts. Hayley enjoyed shopping, dinners out and spending time with friends and family. The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen on Friday (Feb. 20th) from 11am-1pm; followed by a funeral service at 1pm at the funeral home. A private burial will be held at Lakeview Cemetery in Watkins Glen. Memorial donations in her memory may be made to The Arc of Chemung-Schuyler or a charity of one’s choice. You may express condolences to the family or “Light a Candle of Remembrance” online at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.
Publication date: February 18th, 2026