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

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.

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.

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.

Tracie H. McIlroy, age 68, of Watkins Glen, passed away unexpectedly February 6, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Tracie was born on August 19, 1957 in Poughkeepsie, NY, the daughter of Roger and Kathryn Herrick. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Richard McIlroy, her sister Lee Herrick, and her brothers Michael and Greg Herrick. Tracie is survived by her daughter Keri (Jesse) Schubmehl; sons, Philip (Alicia) McIlroy and Alan (Amelia) McIlroy; grandchildren, Isaac (Dayna), Lucas, Lydia, Graham, Darren, Levon, Evelyn, and Baby McIlroy arriving in May; brother, Scott Herrick; sister-in-law, Cathy Herrick; brothers-in-law, Tom (Fay) McIlroy and Bob (Wannetta) McIlroy; and nieces, nephews, cousins, and an abundance of good friends. In honoring Tracie’s wishes, there will be no formal services. It was her desire to have a ‘big party’, therefore, a Celebration of Life will take place on Monday, February 16, 2026 from 4-7pm at Scale House Brewery, 5930 State Route 414, Hector NY. Tracie leaves behind a legacy of hard work, giving, and supporting the youth of our community. Those wishing may consider a donation in her memory to Watkins Glen Sports Booster Club (303 12th Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891), Glen Gators Swim Team (P.O. Box 614, Montour Falls, NY 14865), or Schuyler County Youth Baseball and Softball (P.O. Box 309, Watkins Glen, NY 14891). Condolences and memories may be shared with the family in her obituary at www.RoyceChedzoy.com The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.

Leone Ruth Bedient Dolliver, age 71, of Watkins Glen passed away January 17, 2026. Leone was born in western Allegany County in Cuba, NY, the fourth daughter of nine children to Stanley and Ruth Bedient. Her career followed a path of compassion and caring for others as a private home health care giver. Her belief was that while she never did anything spectacular, or made a lot of money, she touched the lives of people when they most needed it, including keeping small children safe after school, dressing, feeding, caring, comforting so many souls, and making a difference in their lives. She hopes to be remembered for that deed. She was predeceased by her parents, a brother, Brian Bedient, and a grandson, Camden German She is survived by three daughters, Corey Dolliver, Sara (Daniel) German, and Katie Dolliver. She is also survived by her siblings: Jeanine (Ron) Watson, Sharon (Jim) Carpenter, Cynthia Bedient (Ellie Ward), Stephen (Debra) Bedient, Khristine Bedient, Betty Lou Bedient and Emilie Bedient; grandchildren that meant the world to her, Alexis Dolliver, Ryan Ames, Olivia Ames, Natalie Cagle, Allyson Cornish, Hannah Ball, Tyler Ball, Emily Ball, Cody Ball, Colby German, Keegan German, Kayleigh German, and Ciara German; and one great-grandson, Jordan Kade Jennings; and best friend, Linda Frazier. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family in her guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com

Donna D. Driscoll, age 76, of Montour Falls, passed away unexpectedly at home on January 21, 2026. Donna was born in Ithaca, New York, daughter of the late John and Mabel Driscoll of Ithaca and Newfield. A lifelong seeker of wisdom and beauty, Donna studied philosophy through Wisdom’s Goldenrod and the Center for Philosophic Studies, inspired by the writings of Paul Brunton. She also attended teachings with His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama on three occasions, experiences she treasured deeply. At home, Donna expressed her love through cooking and hospitality. She delighted in preparing food from many cuisines, entertaining guests, and creating a warm and welcoming table. She loved animals and regularly supported humane societies. She found joy outdoors — swimming in the Finger Lakes, visiting New York State Parks, boating on Seneca Lake, watching sunsets, and traveling to Maine and other parts of New England, as well as Nova Scotia. She also loved music, art, and quiet reflection. For over twenty years, Donna devoted part of her life to caring for individuals with developmental disabilities through her work with New York State. Those who knew her saw this not as a job, but as another expression of her patience, gentleness, and deep compassion. Above all, Donna’s greatest devotion was to her son, Stefan, whom she loved with unwavering pride and tenderness. She is survived by her husband, Stephen M. Trego; her son and daughter-in-law, Stefan Driscoll-Trego and Alyssa Benjamin-Trego; her sister, Michelle Saraceni of Ithaca; sisters-in-law, Dorinda K. Campbell and Tammy A. Morris of Muncie, Indiana, Sue Driscoll of Ithaca, and Kathy Driscoll of Prescott Valley, Arizona; several nieces and nephews; and her lifelong best friend, Mary Ann Schmeltzer of Portland, Oregon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Donna’s memory to the Schuyler County Humane Society, PO Box 427, Montour Falls, NY 14865, or online at SchuylerHumane.org. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.

Himrod: Joyce Evonne Ward Vedder, age 83, of Himrod, NY passed away after a short illness on Wednesday January 28, 2026 at F. F. Thompson Memorial Hospital, in Canandaigua, N.Y. Honoring her wishes there will be no prior calling hours. A Celebration of Her Life will be held at the convenience of the family on a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, her wish would be for memorial contributions be made to your local Humane Society, your local volunteer fire department ladies auxiliary, or the Himrod Conservation Club, 770 Rice Hill Rd., Himrod, NY 14842. Joyce was born Feb. 24, 1942 in Penn Yan, NY, the youngest daughter of the late David E. and Lulu M. (Simmons) Ward. Joyce started her working career while still in high school, working weekends for Seneca Foods in the computer room doing data input. She graduated from Dundee Central School in 1959. On June 11, 1960 in the Dundee Baptist Church she married Ralph Benjamin Vedder. She learned all about vineyard work while being employed by Lee Gibson, and Lew Green. She perfected her cooking skills working for the Showboat on Seneca Lake. Her longest career spanned over 20 years on the packaging line of the salt industry, retiring from U.S. Salt, in Watkins Glen, NY. Mrs. Vedder was a very active community member still enjoying her membership in the Himrod Conservation Club, the Ladies Of The Moose Lodge #1519, a 50 year member, and past secretary and treasurer of the Himrod Fire Dept. Ladies Auxiliary; having also been a Past President of the Yates Co. Fireman’s Ladies Auxiliary, and Past President of the Northern Central Volunteer Fireman’s Assoc. Ladies Auxiliary. When she wasn’t busy working or volunteering, she was busy loving her dachshunds, and collecting dachshund trinkets, working in her flower gardens, and looking forward to the holidays so she could decorate for Christmas; but her favorite time was every minute spent with her family. She is loved and will be forever missed by her husband of 65 years Ben Vedder of Himrod, her 3 children Rose Marie (Carl) Hill Sr. of Manhattan, KS, Ron (Susanne) Vedder of Rock Stream, NY, and Carmela Sue (Joe) Salamendra of Dundee, NY, 7 dear grandchildren she was so proud of, Regina (Nick) Dawson, Carl Hill Jr., Katrina (Luke) Hull, Kristina Gilmore, Steven (Olivia Mason) Vedder, Thomas B. Vedder, and Cody J. Salamendra; 9 great grandchildren she adored, several nieces and nephews; a dear friend, she loved like a son Lynnford Hoover; and her fur baby “Sandy”. Besides her parents, she was pre-deceased by a sister Dolores E. Ward in 2011, and a brother Dale E. Ward in 2019, and several in laws. Arrangements entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water Street, Dundee. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.

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 at the Trumansburg American Legion in May. 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

Watkins Glen: Janet Catherine (Shaw) Cooke, 76, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Cayuga Medical Center, with her sons Robert and Michael at her side. She is now reunited with her loving son Timothy, her best friend Jane, her mother Mary L. Shaw, her father Robert L. Shaw, and her brother James E. Shaw. Also waiting and wagging are her favorite “Furever friends” -Henry, Daisy and Penny! Her children Robert (Catherine), Timothy, and Michael, along with her grandchildren Ayda, Arlo, Madeleine, and Jenavieve, were the joys of her life. She will be sincerely missed by her Claira “Cat.” Time spent with them was always precious to her. In life, her favorite moments were spent at the family cottage on Seneca Lake. This was her “Happy Place,” as reflected by her many “Life Is Good” T-shirts. She enjoyed watching the grandchildren learn to swim, planting her flower gardens, and gatherings with family and neighbors—especially Doug’s campfires, where she spent many Friday and Saturday nights chewing the fat with neighbors and friends. She is now reunited with her favorites: Doug, Tom, Billy, Charlie, and Nan. Janet was also a master gardener with an incredible green thumb. She was always up for a good yard sale, with Dundee Days being one of her favorites with her lifelong friend Rhonda. Running a simple summertime errand with her could easily turn into five yard sale stops along the way! In lieu of sending flowers, Janet would be honored if you planted something in your own garden this summer in her memory. Any monetary donations may be made to the Schuyler or Yates County Humane Societies. Honoring her wishes, there will be no prior calling hours or funeral services. A celebration of life will be held at the convenience of the family, at the family cottage, at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home 36 Water St. Dundee, NY. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.

Horseheads: Sharon May Standish, age 76, of Horseheads, NY passed away on Wednesday January 14, 2026 at Hickory Knoll North, Elcor Nursing Home. Honoring her wishes will be no calling hours or public service. Sharon was born May 8, 1949 in Elmira, N.Y., the daughter of the late Gordon A. and Virginia May (Sawdey) Standish. She graduated from Watkins Glen High school in 1967, and went on to graduate from Corning Community College, with an Associate’s Degree in Business. Having worked various jobs over the years, she was happiest as a secretary in the Athletic Department of Cornell University, in Ithaca, until her retirement in 2005. She is survived by her brother Gordon L. (Rhonda) Standish of Reading Center; a nephew Michael (Dena) Standish of Millport, NY; a niece Wendy (William) Taylor also of Reading Center; and several great niece & nephews. Arrangements by the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water Street, Dundee, NY. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.

Mary Elizabeth “Mary Beth” Fazzary, 63, of Watkins Glen, NY, passed away after a long illness, on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Mary Beth was born in Montour Falls, NY on May 8, 1962, the daughter of Sam and Doris (Hayes) Fazzary. Mary Beth graduated from Watkins Glen High School in 1981 and attended Tompkins Cortland Community College. She found great joy in babysitting her nieces and nephew and worked as a nurse’s aide and home health aide in various times of her life. She was a communicant of St. Mary’s of the Lake Church in Watkins Glen. Mary Beth enjoyed playing the piano and keyboards. She spent many hours listening to music, and playing computer games. She especially loved spending time connecting with all of her family and friends. She is survived by her parents, Sam and Doris Fazzary; brother, Anthony (Kimberly) Fazzary; sister, Margaret Fazzary (Patrick); nieces and nephews, Kathleen, Sarah and Benjamin (Godson) Swinnerton; step nephews, Christopher (Dana), Ryan and Matthew (Fallyn) Daudelin. She is also survived by uncle, James (Marie) Fazzary, and aunts, Helen (Hayes) Brodock, Reda (Henry) Fazzary, and Ruth Hayes; and by many cousins and friends. Mary Beth was predeceased by her grandparents, Charlotte (Stamp) and Alpheus Hayes, and Maria and Antonio Fazzari; and by many aunts, uncles and cousins. The Fazzary family would like to extend their thanks to the many people who were kind and caring to Mary Beth throughout her illness over the past few years. We’d like to give special thanks to Jenny, her most recent caregiver, who has been a friend since Mary Beth babysat Jenny as a child. Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at St. Mary’s of the Lake Church, 905 N. Decatur St., Watkins Glen, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00 pm. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in the spring. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to St. Mary’s of the Lake Church. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Haughey-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls, NY. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.haugheywoodzinger.com