Former Resident, Charlotte Cook, Passes Away
Charlotte M. Cook, 71, 224 Chrysty Hill Road, Bloomsburg, originally from Wyalusing, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2001 at her home after a three-month battle with cancer.
She was born in New Albany, a daughter of the late Carl S. and Ellamae Grimes Underwood. She resided at her present home in Hemlock Township since 1987 and previously lived in Norristown for 36 years.
Charlotte was a 1947 graduate of Danville High School and a 1951 graduate of the former Mansfield State Teachers College. She was a Home Ec teacher for four years at the Owen J. Roberts School near Pottstown and the Phoenixville School District for 32 years, retiring in 1987.
She was a member of the New Testament Assembly of God Church in Millville. She also belonged to the Retired School Employees Association and the Women's Christian Temperance Union in Millville.
Following her retirement, she and her husband, Elmer P. Cook, with whom she celebrated a 50th wedding anniversary on June 17, traveled extensively throughout the United States, including Alaska.
Survivors include her husband, Elmer; two daughters, Mrs. Step-hen (Leanne Marie) Millett of Spring City and Mrs. David (Lu-cinda Mae) Wood of Moab, Utah; four grandchildren; two brothers, Carl J. (Jim) Underwood of Lacey-ville and Adelbert (Del) Underwood of Willis, Texas; several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, Oct. 24 at 11 a.m. in the New Testament Assembly of God Church in Millville, with her pastor, Rev. David D. Rosenberger, officiating. Interment was in Elan Memorial Park, Lime Ridge, under the direction of the Dean W. Kriner, Inc. Funeral Home, 325 Market St., Bloomsburg.
Elizabeth Geist Passes Away at The Highlands
Elizabeth J. Geist, age 84, of Mildred, PA, passed away on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2001 at The Highlands in Laporte.
Elizabeth was born on Dec. 31, 1916 in Philadelphia, daughter of the late Joseph T. and Elizabeth Henrietta Luff Jeffries. She graduated from the Germantown High School and worked for several years for Bell of Pennsylvania. She married Harry E. Geist of Bloomsburg and they resided in Philadelphia. Harry predeceased her on Oct. 8, 1968. She was a homemaker and later worked as an office manager for Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Philadelphia and then for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, retiring to Mildred in 1990.
Elizabeth was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Mildred and a member of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Philadelphia.
Surviving are four sons and daughters-in-law, Henry E. Geist, Scottsdale, AZ, Richard and Molly Geist, Philadelphia, Charles T. and Catherine Geist, Mildred, Daniel L. and Lisa Geist, Laporte; four daughters and sons-in-law, Julia E. Vogt, Glenside, Sarah A. and Gerald Krier, Manayunk, Alice L. and David Kingan, Fort Worth, TX, Katherine and Joseph Biernat, Bethlehem; 21 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; one niece and one nephew. She was predeceased by a daughter, Mabel Lungren on Jan. 7, 2001 and a half-sister, Dorothy Guthrie of Georgia.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Oct. 25 at 10:30 a.m. from the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 206 Water St., Dushore, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Mildred, with the Rev. Michael B. Harris, her pastor, presiding. Interment will be in West Laurel Hill Cemetery, Bala Cynwyd.
Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday morning, from 9 a.m. until the time of the service.
Well-Known Laceyville Man, Gerald Johnson, Dies After Illness
Mr. Gerald Francis Johnson, age 69, of Laceyville, PA, passed away at his home on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2001 following a short illness.
Born in Kingston on Aug. 9, 1932, he was the son of the late Cora Champion Neigh and Albert Floyd Johnson. Gerald and his wife, the former Gail Christian, were married June 14, 1953.
Gerald was a graduate of the Laceyville High School, Class of 1950. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving from 1950 until 1953. From 1954 until 1965 he was employed by Agway, in the petroleum division, at their plants in Batavia, NY, Meadville and East Aurora, NY. In 1965, Gerald and his family returned to Laceyville where he purchased the Joe Siegel Plumbing and Heating business. From 1978 until 1983, Gerald was employed at Stroud Supply in Wysox. He then returned to his plumbing and heating business, subcontracting to many contractors in Laceyville, Wyalusing and Meshoppen areas, retiring in 1999.
Taking great interest in the Laceyville community, he served as Laceyville council president, was on the Laceyville Library board and was a member of the Sewer and Water Authority for many years. He was a member of the Skinners Eddy United Methodist Church and was a member of the Rought Hall Post #510 American Legion in Black Walnut.
After his retirement two years ago, he enjoyed being with his family and the outdoors. He will be sadly missed by his family and his many friends.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Gail Johnson, at home; two sons and daughters-in-law, Dr. Romaine (O.D.) and Robbyn Johnson of Bethlehem and Scott and Jane Johnson of Chesapeake, VA; twin daughters and sons-in-law, Jeryl Ann and Brian Keefe of Danielsville and Christa Gail and Dennis Phillips of Rome; eight grandchildren, Dane and Lacey Johnson, Lucas and Miranda Johnson, Haylie Phillips and Caitlin, Conlan and Carson Keefe; two sisters-in-law, Kay and Paul Ackland of Waverly, NY and Gwen Burgess and Brian VanAuken of Laceyville; also several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Cora Champion Neigh; an aunt, Kathryn Champion Kiethline; his father and mother-in-law, George and Anna Christian and a brother-in-law, William A. Burgess, who passed away 24 years ago to the day of his death.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, Oct. 26 at 11 a.m. from the Sheldon Funeral Home, Main St., Laceyville, with Rev. Ann Blair of the Skinners Eddy United Methodist Church officiating. Interment will be in the Lacey St. Cemetery in Laceyville. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. and on Friday morning one hour prior to the service.
The family will furnish their own flowers, but those wishing, may make memorial donations to the Skinners Eddy United Methodist Church.
Wesley Wakely Of Laceyville Passes Away
Wesley R. Wakely, 92, of Laceyville, PA, formerly of East Smithfield and Sayre, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2001 at the Tyler Memorial Hospital, Tunk-hannock.
Born Jan. 9, 1909 in East Smithfield, he was the son of the late Jay E. and Anna Campbell Wakely.
Wesley attended East Smithfield Schools. He owned and operated his own farm in East Smithfield and later was employed by the Burns Security at Ingersoll-Rand in Athens.
On Oct. 25, 1933, he married the former Mary Ayers.
Wesley was a member of the East Smithfield United Methodist Church. He enjoyed working in his garden.
Surviving are his loving wife of 67 years, Mary Wakely, at home; five children, Norma Robbins of Laceyville, Doris and Lynn Cham-berlain of Bentley Creek, Vera and Ron Dunbar of Breesport, NY, Dale and Sharon Wakely of Sayre, Alice and Gary Carlton of Sanford, FL; 13 grandchildren; 26 great-grand-children; five great-great-grand-children; two nieces, Wilma Nichols, East Smithfield, Juanita Raymond of Millerton. He was predeceased by his sisters, Mable Wakely and Flossie Lawton and a son-in-law, Bob Robbins.
The family received friends on Friday, Oct. 19 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Maryott-Bowen Funeral Home, 217 York Ave., Towanda.
A graveside service was held on Friday, Oct. 19 at 3:30 p.m. at the Bradford County Memorial Park, Luthers Mills, with the Rev. Rick Wulf, officiating.
The family suggests that mem-orial contributions be made to the East Smithfield United Methodist Church, Church St., East Smith-field, PA 18817 or to the Tyler Memorial Hospital, 880 Route 6 West, Tunkhannock, PA 18657 in Mr. Wakely's memory.
Funeral Services Set Saturday for Harvey Werts
Harvey Edward Werts, age 82, of Wyalusing, PA, passed away on Tuesday evening, Oct. 23, 2001 at the VA Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre.
He was born on June 19, 1919 in West Pittston, a son of the late Edward D. and Hilda Brodbeck Werts.
Mr. Werts was a veteran of the United States Air Force, serving during World War II.
On September 21, 1944, Harvey and the former Arlene Miller were united in marriage in Binghamton, NY.
Prior to his retirement in 1975, he was employed by State Aggregates. For nineteen years he owned and operated a bowling alley and sports center on Main St. in Towanda.
Mr. Werts spent most of his lifetime in this area.
He was a member of the Wyalusing American Legion Post #534.
Harvey enjoyed time spent playing baseball, hunting, fishing and enjoyed the fishing trips he made to Canada. He and his wife enjoyed time spent traveling in their motor home.
Surviving are his wife of 57 years, Arlene Miller Werts, at home; his children, Edward A. and Sharon Werts of Terrytown, Janice K. Surrett of New Era, Lois M. Boukelif of Boca Raton, FL; nine grandchildren, Todd Werts, Deborah McClain, Amanda Werts, Jemma and Ray Gregoire, Chantel Surrett, Kristi Jo and Roy Force, Jena Boukelif, Sonia Boukelif, Jason Boukelif; nine great-grandchildren and several cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Arnold Werts.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Oct. 27 at 1 p.m. in the New Era United Methodist Church with Robert Hockenberry, pastor, officiating.
Interment will follow in the Terrytown Cemetery. Graveside military honors will be accorded by Wyalusing American Legion Post #534.
Friends and family may call on Friday evening, Oct. 26 at McHenry Funeral Home, 106 Church St., Wyalusing, from 7 to 9 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations or contributions may be made to the National Alzheimer's Association, 919 North Michigan Ave., Suite 100, Chicago, IL 60611.
Shirley Taylor
November 18, 2001
Miss Shirley A. Taylor of Wyalusing, PA passed away on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2001 after a lengthy illness. She was 79.
Shirley was born in Wyalusing on Oct. 18, 1922, the daughter of the late Bascom and Katherine Tompkins Taylor. She graduated from Wyalusing High School, a member of the Class of 1941.
Shirley was a lifelong member of the Wyalusing Presbyterian Church. She was also an active member of the former Wyalusing Chapter #523, Order of Eastern Star and currently the Meshoppen Chapter #70 OES, from which she recently received a 50-year honor and pin to commemorate her years of service. Shirley was also a 50-year member of the Wyalusing Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, having served as Constitution Chairman, Flag Chairman and Chaplain. In her early years, she served as a volunteer Girl Scout leader. She was known throughout the community for her generous spirit and her love of people.
Survivors include her first cousins, Roy Jones of Wyalusing, Lucy Case of Canandaigua, NY, Charlotte Scott of Elmira, NY, Jean Mancus of Alameda, CA, Marion Holzman of Vernon, CT and Robert Taylor of Towanda, as well as by numerous other cousins. She leaves behind many dear and long-time friends.
Funeral services will be held at the Wyalusing Presbyterian Church at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 23 with the Rev. Barry Ballard, her pastor, officiating. Friends may call at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Members of the Meshoppen Chapter #70 Order of the Eastern Star will conduct a funeral service at 9:45 a.m. on Friday morning at the church. Interment will be in the Lakeview Cemetery, Ithaca, NY at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wyalusing Presbyterian Church, PO Box 25, Wyalusing, PA 18853.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 1 Grovedale Lane, Wyalusing.
Maurie Taylor
November 12, 2001
Maurice D. Taylor, age 95, of Montrose, PA died Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2001 at his residence. Born April 13, 1906 in Dixon, he was the son of the late George and Ora (Thomas) Taylor. In June of 1985, he was married to Charlotte (Stilson) who survives. His first wife, Margaret (Beach) predeceased him.
He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Montrose.
While he graduated from Montrose High School in 1924, his career in music education began before that at the age of 14. He and his brother offered music lessons and rented musical instruments. He also organized the first Montrose Community Band. After high school, the business continued to expand. He was asked to teach music at Montrose High School in 1927. By 1928, the combined band from the high school and the community won first prize in the Pennsylvania State Finals for small school bands. He also organized massed band concerts which included bands from surrounding communities. One of the larger gatherings included over 600 participants. In 1938, he was asked to print material he was using in organizing bands. This led to the establishment of Montrose Music House and Taylor’s Publishing Company. The first series of books was called "Easy Steps to the Band." He put together over 158 music books.
In 1945, he sold the business to Mills Music, Inc. in New York City to devote more time to teaching. In 1955, he retired the first time from Montrose High School, but stayed active in music by writing and traveling to college campuses as a guest speaker. In 1967, he returned to Montrose High School to teach music and retired again in 1972. He was called the dean of Pennsylvania school band directors by his fellow members of the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association in which he was a lifetime member. In 1980, he was granted an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Susquehanna University and 1993, received a Citation of Excellence from the National Band Masters Association.
In addition to his wife, survivors include a daughter, Janet M. Taylor of Westchester, IL; a daughter-in-law, Edith W. Taylor, Charlotte, NC; a son-in-law, William Green of York; six grandchildren, Marcia Rhyne, Suzanne Kinne, William Green, Jr., Deborah Geer, Pamela Barbuto, Susan Duran; nine great-grandchildren; two brothers, Louis and Leon Taylor; two sons, Dr. Donald J. Taylor and Gordon D. Taylor and a daughter, Margaret Green.
Services were held on Monday, Nov. 19 at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, Montrose. The family provided all the flowers and suggests that if desired, memorial contributions be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Montrose, 71 Church St., Montrose, PA 18801.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Bartron Funeral Home, Inc., 74 Church St., Montrose.
Lewis Sterling
November 15, 2001
Mr. Lewis M. Sterling, age 85, of RR1, Box 207, Sterling Hill Rd., Wyalusing, PA (Browntown) passed away on Thursday evening, Nov. 15, 2001 at the Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre.
Born in Wyalusing on Dec. 19, 1915, he was the son of the late Martin and Ethel Rutan Sterling. Mr. Sterling married the former Dorothy Lindstrom in 1935 at the family home in Merryall.
Mr. Sterling attended the Camptown High School, after which he made his living as a dairy farmer on his farm on Sterling Hill Rd. in Browntown. He was also employed by Sylvania in Towanda for 21 years, retiring in 1982 after which he continued to operate his farm until his death.
He was a member of the Camptown Community Church, a 50 year member of the Wyalusing Grange #1965, a member of the Wysox Odd Fellows Lodge. While he was farming, he was a member of the Wyalusing Dairymen’s League and later the Wyalusing Dairylea. He was also a Wyalusing Township Supervisor for 18 years and a past Bradford County Deputy Game Warden. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting on his farm and also enjoyed watching and caring for his many animals.
Surviving are his wife of 66 years, Dorothy Lindstrom Sterling, at home; a daughter and son-in-law, Alita and Rod Millard of Wyalusing; a son and daughter-in-law, Mason and Andrea Sterling of Laceyville; a son, Dr. Scott Sterling, D.O. of Wyalusing; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Jennie Lindstrom Comstock of South Montrose and a brother-in-law and niece, Wayne Campbell and Denise Campbell, both of Lawton; eight grandchildren, Valerie Millard of Wyalusing, Mrs. Michael (Beth) Shaw of Sayre, Christa Millard of Wyalusing, Stephanie Millard of Honesdale, Mrs. Randy (Rhaegan) Hugo of Wyalusing, Shey Sterling of Laceyville and Brandon and Zachary Sterling of Parkesburg; five great-grandchildren, Adrielle and Colin Blemle of Wyalusing, John and Michael Shaw of Sayre and Jhaeden Hugo of Wyalusing. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Ruth Sterling Allis and her husband, Vernon Allis; a sister, Lucille Sterling Campbell; a grandson, Mitchell Jay Millard and a stepfather-in-law, Mr. Paul Coleman.
Funeral services were held on Monday, Nov. 19 at 11 a.m. from the Camptown Community Church with Rev. Helen Learn and Rev. Joyce Warner of the Camptown Community Church and a close family friend, Rev. James Valentine of the Newark Valley United Methodist Church officiating. Interment was in the Camptown Cemetery.
Family and friends called at the Sheldon Funeral Home, Main St., Laceyville on Sunday, Nov. 18 from 3 to 6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make memorial donations to the Camptown Community Church, c/o Mrs. Beverly Skillings, RR3, Wyalusing, PA 18853.
Robert O. Parr
November 19. 2001
Robert O. Parr of Hill Top Drive, Tunkhannock, PA, passed away on Monday, Nov. 19, 2001 at Tyler Memorial Hospital in Tunkhannock. He was born on Feb. 24, 1928 in Mount Bethel, NJ, a son of the late William P. and Cletus Hill Parr.
He attended Newton High School in Newton, NJ. Prior to his retirement he worked for Sire Power for 30 years and Select Sires in Tunkhannock for 10 years, retiring as general manager in 1990. He was a member of the Tunkhannock United Methodist Church and served as co-chairman for the Dairy Committee of the Kiwanis Wyoming County Fair. For 40 years he served as a square dance caller at many dances and for the Melody Four and Bulls Eye Bands.
Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Adelaide M. Westbrook Parr; sons, Robert E. of Tunkhannock, Richard E. of Mehoopany; daughters, Darlene Hoff of Easton, Donna Pecellak of Meshoppen, Debra Benson of Mehoopany; a brother, Lesley Parr of Monroe, NC; sisters, Elizabeth McPeek of Rock Hill, SC, Ula Vealey, Newton, NJ and Jocelyn Decker of Matthew, NC; 12 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Nov. 24 at 11 a.m. from the Sheldon-Kukuchka Funeral Home, 73 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, with the Rev. Roger Richards, pastor of the Tunkhannock United Methodist Church. Interment will be in Sunnyside Cemetery, Tunkhannock. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be sent to the Wyoming County Dairy Club, c/o Charlotte Severcool, 273 SR 1001, Tunkhannock, PA 18657.
Francis Lockburner
November 19,2001
Mr. Francis A. Lockburner, age 79, of 111 John St., Pittston, PA, passed away at his home on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2001. Born Oct. 30, 1922 in Sparta, NJ, he was the son of Belma Ross Lockburner, Sparta, NJ and the late Frank Lockburner.
He graduated from Newton High School, Newton, NJ in 1941 and attended Penn State University. He was a former Democratic Freeholder of Sussex County, NJ for nine years. Francis was self-employed in various ventures including, farming, the cattle feed business, auto parts and farm machinery business. He was proprietor of Discount Groceries in Sussex, NJ, Laceyville, West Pittston, Tunkhannock, Hallstead and Archbald, PA. He was also part owner of Table Rock Hotel, Inc. in Skinners Eddy.
A member of the Masons and Tall Cedars, he was a charter member of Hare Ridge Sportsmen’s Club and Doolittle Hill Sportsmen’s Association. He also was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in1960, a past member of the Wyoming County Welfare Board, the Democratic party and was an active member of the Laceyville Rotary Club.
He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family and friends.
Besides his mother, he is survived by his four children, Lorraine Hill of Newton, NJ, Linda Ayers of Meshoppen, Sherre Boyanowski of Laceyville; a son, Dwayne, of Ham Lake, MN; eleven grandchildren; brothers, Vivian (Tucker) Lockburner, Effort, Frank Lockburner, Newton, NJ, Thomas Lockburner, Florham Park, NJ; sisters, Florence Lauer, Blairstown, NJ, Elizabeth (Betty) Slack, Mesa, AZ, Joyce Steffy, Hamburg, NJ, Agnes Haley, Lakeland, FL, Jean Northrup, Ashland, VA, Marjoree Mistretta, Lakeland, FL, Elaine Blanchard, Cedar Knolls, NJ, Molly Harrje, Vernon, NJ and Diane Smith, Los Angeles, CA. He is also survived by his estranged wife, the former Claire Serice.
The viewing was held on Wednesday, Nov. 21 at Kizis-Lokuta Funeral Home, 134 Church St., Pittston, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. A funeral service was held at the funeral home on Wednesday evening.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Association.
Local memorial services are being planned with date and time to be announced.
Jeanne H. Culver
November 13, 2001
Jeanne H. Culver, wife of Robert O. Culver of 9636 Versailles Plank Road, Angola, NY went to be with her precious Lord and Savior on Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2001.
Jeanne was born in 1937, one of four daughters of Eugene and Ruth Walters of Lackawanna, NY. Jeanne was married at Kennedy Free Methodist Church in 1962 to Robert O. Culver of Lackawanna and formerly of Silvara. They made their first home at Ridgewood Village, Lackawanna, NY and later moved to Angola where Jeanne spent several years as a Tupperware consultant. Jeanne was a devoted wife and mother and cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren.
Jeanne will best be remembered for her devotion to the youth in her church and community. She currently retired her position of over 40 years of service as CYC (Kid’s Club) Director at the Angola Wesleyan Church. She was a loving and consistent Christian her entire life. Her passing is greatly lamented by all who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her husband and three children, Lynn Smith of Derby, NY, Colleen Culver of Eden, NY and Robert E. Culver of Derby, NY; her mother, Ruth Smith, Gowanda Nursing Home; her mother-in-law, Dorothy L. Culver of Silvara; grandchildren, Daniel Culver of Eden, NY, Caitlon and Paige Smith of Derby, NY; stepgrandchildren, Bill and Mike Smith; three sisters, several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father, Eugene Walters of Lackawanna, NY; her father-in-law, Orwyn K. Culver of Silvara; her stepfather, Fletcher Smith; a sister-in-law, Mary Culver of Vernon and a brother-in-law, Eddie Kerr.
Viewings were held at the Heimburg-Addison Funeral Home in Angola, with a largely attended funeral on Friday, Nov. 16 at the Angola Wesleyan Church.
Anyone wishing to make a contribution in memory of Jeanne, may send it to the American Diabetes Association, 315 Alberta Drive, Suite 102, Amherst, NY 14226.
Charles Buckingham
November 8, 2001
Charles A. Buckingham of Floral City, FL passed away at home on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2001, following an illness.
Born in Jenningsville on Sept. 2, 1925, he was a son of the late Ambrose and Anna Dotter Buckingham. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a retired welder and a lifetime member of Floral City VFW.
Surviving are his wife, Beverly (Crispell) Buckingham; four sons, Larry, Lyle, David and Kirby; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Robert of Port Allegany and Donald of Ridge, NY; four sisters, Mrs. Nellie Haight, Waverly, NY, Mrs. Ella Wells, Whitewater, WI, Mrs. Amy Jayne, Meshoppen and Mrs. Marion Line, Lovelton.
He was preceded in death by brothers, George, Albert and Clarence and sisters, Helen Buckingham, Edith Hulbirt, Grace Eveland, Marjorie Goble and Lucy Wells.
Services were held on Nov. 14 at the Charles E. Davis Funeral Home of Inverness, FL.
Josephine Barry
November 15, 2001
Josephine (JoJo) McKernan Barry, age 78, Mildred, PA, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 15, 2001 at Memorial Hospital in Towanda.
Josephine was born Aug. 15, 1923 in Albany Township, Bradford County, a daughter of the late James M. and Mary Ann Ryan McKernan.
Josephine retired from the former EndicottJohnson Shoe Manufacturing Plant in Mildred after many years of service.
She was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Mildred. She also enjoyed growing flowers and was an avid Dale Earnhardt NASCAR fan.
Surviving are two sons and daughtersinlaw, Patrick and Joann Barry, Towanda, William (Breezy) Barry and Ella Marks, Dushore; a stepson and spouse, John and Sally White, Mildred; twin brother and sisterinlaw, John D. and Betty McKernan, New Albany; two grandsons, Aaron and Brian; five granddaughters, Lisa, Kathy, Gary, Donna and Sarah; six greatgrandchildren, Natasia, Breannan, Neven, Taylor, Delania and Kendrick; several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a brother, James McKernan and sisters, Betty Cain, Mary AnnMcKernan, Helen (Nellie) Pompeii and Julia Grady.
Funeral services were held on Monday, Nov. 19 at 9:30 a.m. from the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 206 Water St., Dushore, and was followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Basil’s Church in Dushore with the Rev. Michael B. Harris, her pastor, presiding. Interment was in St. Francis of Assisi Cemetery, Cummiskey.
Friends called on Sunday, Nov. 18 at the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.
Florence Abrey
Nov 8, 2001
Mrs. Florence M. Abrey, age 85, of Penfield, NY, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2001 at the Rochester General Hospital Medical Center following an automobile accident.
Florence was born in Rochester, NY on May 22, 1916, a daughter of the late August and Florence Dildine Krauter. She married George Abrey of Rochester. They recently celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary.
Florence was a homemaker and active gardener. She was very interested in her community and her church. She served as an active member of the RidgeCulver Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary for more than 40 years. She and George lived in East Irondequoit, a suburb of Rochester. They retired to Penfield in 1968. Much of her time in recent years was devoted to her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren and the care of her husband.
Florence was a communicant of St. Cecilia’s in Irondequoit and Holy Spirit in Penfield.
Surviving are her husband, George, at home; two sons and daughtersinlaw, Donald and Joan Abrey, Wyalusing, Thomas and Deborah Abrey, Webster, NY; a daughter, Carol Abrey, Alder Creek, CA; a brother and sisterinlaw, Edward and Sheila Krauter, Irondequoit, NY; eight grandchildren; 14 greatgrandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Nov. 14 at Holy Spirit Church in Penfield with the Rev. P. Frederick Helfrich presiding. Interment was in the Irondequoit Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to Camp Good Days and Special Times, PittsfordMendon Road, Mendon, NY 14506. The camp on Keuka Lake provides camping opportunities and support groups for children and adults with terminal cancer, AIDS and sickle cell anemia.
Judith (Jackson) Walker
Dec. 14, 2001
Judith (Jackson) Walker of 136 N. Calle Tortuga, Benson, AZ (formerly of Green Valley, AZ), died on Friday, Dec. 14, 2001 at Benson Hospital’s Hospice Room after a long and courageous battle with diabetes, kidney and heart diseases.
Born Oct. 13, 1941 in Birchardville, Susquehanna County, PA, she was the daughter of the late George L. and Alice (Blaisure) Jackson.
On Aug. 7, 1960, she married Kenneth B. Walker, Sr., in Endicott, NY, who survives her.
Also surviving are daughters and sons-in-law, Debby E. and A. Cain Bowman, Benson, AZ, Kerry A. and Thomas M. Early, Dragoon, AZ, Jodi L. Clary, Dragoon, AZ, Chuck Clary, Mescal, AZ; sons and daughters-in-law, Kenneth B., Jr. and Asa Walker, Tucson, AZ, James G. and Daisy L. Walker, Rush, Timothy J. and Windy Walker, Pascagoula, MS; sisters and a brother-in-law, Marjorie Eberly, Candor, NY, Mary and Ron May, Pageland, SC; brother and sister-in-law, Fred E. and Kathy Jackson, Tunkhannock; father-in-law, Kenneth C. Walker, Sahuarita, AZ; grandchildren, Judy E. Bowman, Christine M. and Rebecca J. Early, Christopher, Bradley, Steven, Kenneth and Charles Clary, Alexis K. Walker, Erin L. Walker, Dee Dee Walker, David and Trae McDevitt; several brothers and sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Preceding her in death were brothers, Robert, George, Jerry, Buddy and Ronald Jackson; daughters, Terry, Sherry and Sarah Walker and a granddaughter, Kendra D. Walker-Bowman.
A memorial service will be held at the Assembly of God Green Valley, 1100 W. Calle Privada, Sahuarita, AZ on Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. with the Rev. David Stowell (Green Valley) and Rev. Michael D. Gordon (Benson First Assembly of God), officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests a memorial donation be made to the Benson Hospital Hospice Fund or to the charity of one’s choice.
Burial will be at the convenience of the family.
Rodney M. Wells, Jr.
Nov. 15, 2001
Rodney M. Wells, Jr., 83, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away at his Scottsdale, AZ home on Nov. 15, 2001, after a brief illness.
Born in Wyalusing, PA, he was the son of the late Rodney and Bernice Wells. He also was preceded in death by brothers, Harold, formerly of Glen Ellen, IL, Robert of Wyalusing and Samuel of New Albany.
Master Sergeant Wells was a 20-year Air Force veteran while serving during World War II. His military tours included assignments to Germany, Panama, Colombia, S.A., Wake Island, Williams AFB, AZ and Edwards AFB, CA.
He was a lifetime member of the Air Force Sergeants and the American Fighter Aces Associations.
His survivors include his wife of nearly 52 years, Gertrude Wells, formerly of Berchestgaden, Germany; a daughter, Anita Smith of Scottsdale, AZ; a son, Rodney Wells of East Lyme, CT; a brother, David Wells, Endwell, NY; three sisters, Cleone Johnson of Phoenix, AZ, Doris Jane Newton of New Era and Mabel Morrow of Sugar Run; three granddaughters, Heidi, Kimberly and Loretta; a great-grandson, Jared, and several nieces and nephews.
He was laid to rest at a graveside service held at Green Acres Cemetery in Scottsdale.
Dr. James F. Smith, Sr.
Dec. 17, 2001
Dr. James F. Smith, Sr., 84, 1550 Irene St., Bethlehem, PA, passed away on Monday, Dec. 17, 2001 at his home.
Born on Feb. 10, 1917 in Allentown, he was the son of the late Bernard and Catherine Tobin Smith.
An educator and psychologist for the Easton School District for 31 years, he was also a chiropractor practicing out of offices in Easton, Towanda and Wyalusing and Phillipsburg, NJ. He was a graduate of Palmer School of Chiropractic and Northampton Community College and Muhlenberg College.
He was a member of St. Anne’s Catholic Church of Bethlehem and a member of the American Chiropractic Association and enjoyed reading and cooking.
Survivors include his wife, Eleanor A. Fiedler Smith, to whom he was married for 61 years; a son, James Smith, II, Wyalusing; a daughter, Judith Smith, Allentown; a brother, Arthur, Easton; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by brothers, Dr. George (former mayor of Easton), Sylvester and Herbert; sisters, Helen and Gertrude.
There will be no calling hours.
Private funeral services will be held at the Ashton Funeral Home, 14th and Northampton Sts., Easton.
Interment will be in Gethsemane Cemetery, Palmer Twp., PA.
Memorials may be made to St. Anne’s Catholic Church Memorial Fund, 450 Washington Ave., Bethlehem, PA.
Daniel L. (Deka) Guerin
Nov. 21, 2001
Daniel L. (Deka) Guerin, 33, passed away on Nov. 21, 2001 at his home in Haverhill, MA following a year-long battle with cancer.
Dan was a 1986 graduate of Haverhill High School and served in the Marine Corps. He graduated from the State Department of Correctional Training Academy and was employed at the Massachusetts Correctional Institute in Shirley, MA, attaining the rank of sergeant.
He continued working at the correctional facility until a week before his death. He seldom missed a day and often went beyond the call in carrying out a detail. He had a passion for his work and was respected by both staff and inmates. He was honored posthumously for innovative cost-saving techniques at MCI. Presenting the award was former State Senator James P. Jajuga, now Secretary of Public Safety.
Dan was active with the National Rifle Association and Haverhill Rod and Gun Club where he did target shooting. He was considered a marksman.
"Deka" lived a life full of friends, fun and a job he was fiercely proud of. He handled his illness with great dignity and perseverance.
An overflow crowd turned out for his funeral in All Saints Church and 100 vehicles formed an entourage to Elmwood Cemetery, Bradford, MA, joined by 10 police cruisers.
He leaves his mother, Edith B. Guerin; two brothers, Jeffrey J. and Mayor-Elect of Haverhill MA, John J.; four sisters, Kim, Kathy, Kristine and Karla; and his most beloved friend, Kathleen Ross, formerly of Wyalusing PA. Kathleen is the daughter of Dick and Joan Ross.
Twylet Valeria Fulkerson Bloom
Dec. 7, 2001
Twylet Valeria Fulkerson Bloom, 85, went home to be with her good Lord on Dec. 7, 2001.
Born and reared in Ginter, PA, she was the middle daughter of Nancy Ada (Hickok) and John Vincent Fulkerson. She was also a descendant from the fifth generation of the Scots-Irish couple, John Henry and Elizabeth McBride Henry of County Down, Ireland.
After grade school, she moved with her parents into Curwensville where she lost her mama at a young age.
Twylet married Kermit O. Bloom in October, 1938 and they made their home on the Bloomington-Glen Richey Highway.
Mother of 12 children herself, she loved every one of them and loved life itself, as well. In her younger years, while rearing her own brood, she did housecleaning and provided child care for other families in the Curwensville area. She loved cooking and preserving, being with friends and watching her children grow up.
Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by two older sisters, two brothers, her husband, three daughters, a son and two grandsons.
She is survived by sisters, Violet McClinsey in the Dubois Nursing Home and Wava Wilt of Curwensville RR; two sisters-in-law; eight children and their spouses, including Jean (Bloom) and Luke Vande Mark of Stevensville; 26 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held at the Chester C. Chidboy Funeral Home in Curwensville with Rev. William Gibson officiating. Burial followed in the Mt. Zion Cemetery, Olanta RD.
The family suggests that contributions in Twylet’s memory be made to the American Lung Association, Northwest Chapter, 352 W. 8th St., Erie, PA 16502.
Charles Vernon Ace
Dec. 11, 2001
Mr. Charles Vernon Ace, age 59, of RR3, Box 85, Meshoppen, PA, (Auburn Center) passed away at his home in Auburn Township, Susquehanna County on Tuesday evening, Dec. 11, 2001.
Born in Sayre on Nov. 25, 1942, he was the son of the late Vernon Hyde and Evelyn Janice Smith Ace. Mr. Ace was the husband of the former Marilyn June Kinner.
Charles was a graduate of Elk Lake High School, Class of 1961. He then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving from 1962 until 1968. During that time, he was stationed on Long Island, with Air Force Security Forces. While being stationed on Long Island, he attended Long Island University for two years. After his service time, he owned and operated Ace’s Sunoco in Meshoppen during the 1970s. He also ran Ace’s Exxon in Meshoppen from 1999 until 2000. For 17 years, he was employed by Tyler Memorial Hospital in Tunkhannock, working as a security guard and also in the maintenance department. Most of his life, while living in Auburn Center, he enjoyed raising livestock, especially beefalo.
He attended the Elk Lake Community Church, Elk Lake, was a member of NRA and past member of the American Beefalo Association. In his spare time, he enjoyed being with his family, particularly playing with his only granddaughter. He also enjoyed wildlife, nature, shooting sports and pitching horseshoes. During his service time, he raced stock cars at Islip on Long Island.
Surviving are his wife of 36 years, Marilyn June Kinner Ace, at home; a daughter and son-in-law, Colleen and Jerry Parkhurst, Jr. of Meshoppen; brother, Paul Wells of Meshoppen and sister, Amanda Ace of Binghamton, NY; his granddaughter, Peige Rebecca Parkhurst and several aunts, uncles, cousins, numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister, Elsie Wilcox.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Dec. 15 at 11 a.m. from the Sheldon Funeral Home, Main St., Meshoppen, with Rev. Charles Bishop of the Elk Lake Community Church and Rev. Ralph Christansen of the First Universalist Church in Brooklyn, officiating.
Interment will be in the Jersey Hill Cemetery.
Family and friends may call on Friday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. and on Saturday one hour prior to the service. Military graveside services will be conducted by members of the Rought Hall Post #510 American Legion and VFW Endless Mountains Post #3583.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing, may make memorial donations to the Susquehanna County Humane Society or to the American Cancer Society.
Clymer Stark (Bear) Ross
Dec. 11, 2001
Mr. Clymer Stark (Bear) Ross, age 68, of PO Box 192, Meshoppen, PA, passed away suddenly at the Skilled Nursing Unit of Memorial Hospital in Towanda on Tuesday morning, Dec. 11, 2001.
Born in Scranton, on June 23, 1933, he was the son of the late Harold and Marilla Brown Ross. Mr. Ross was the husband of the former Kay Louise Arey, with whom he celebrated their 31st wedding anniversary on Nov. 28. He was a graduate of Laceyville High School, Class of 1951. After high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as a sergeant during the German Occupation, where he was stationed in Germany.
After being discharged from the service, he was employed by Ingersoll Rand in Buffalo, NY. He was also employed as a yard foreman for Whipple Brothers Lumber Yard in Laceyville. He later retired in the early 1980’s from Procter & Gamble in Mehoopany, where he was a warehouse technician for 15 years. After retirement, he and his wife owned and operated the Bear’s Den in Meshoppen for the past 21 years.
He was a member of the Montrose American Legion Post #154 of Elk Lake. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing and hunting.
Surviving are his wife, Kay Louise Ross of Meshoppen; stepdaughter, Sharon Sickler of Tunkhannock; a stepson, Larry Whitney of Meshoppen; step-grandson, Jeremy Whitney of Tunkhannock and a brother, Keith Ross of Montrose. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Glenn Ross, Harold Ross and Orrin Ross and three sisters, Frances Barrett, Mary Lou Jayne and Lois Ross.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, Dec. 14 at 11 a.m. from the Sheldon Funeral Home, Main St., Meshoppen, with the Rev. Dave Hinkley of the Russell Hill United Methodist Church, officiating. Interment will be in the Beaver Meadows Cemetery. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday evening, from 7 to 9 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make memorial donations to the American Heart Association.
Sherle L. "Smitty" Smith
Dec. 10, 2001
Sherle L. "Smitty" Smith, 61, of 833 Iron Ridge Rd., Spring Grove, PA, died 11:05 p.m., Monday evening, Dec. 10, 2001 at Hanover Hospital. He was the husband of Phyllis L. Grover Smith, to whom he was married 35 years on Oct. 15.
Born in Amaranth, PA on March 30, 1940, he was the son of the late Preston Doyle and Hazel Agnes (Himes) Smith.
He had been employed as a carpenter.
In addition to his wife, he is also survived by a daughter, Kandi L. Kress of New Oxford; a son, Shawn L. Smith, at home; a grandson, Cody; three sisters, Darlene Bradley of Greencastle, Betty Bricker, Millie Unger, both of Mercersburg and a brother, Kenneth Smith of Little Rock, AR.
Preceding him in death was a sister, Gay Pine.
His funeral services will be held on Thursday evening, Dec. 13 at 8 p.m. at the Panebaker Funeral Home, 311 Broadway, Hanover. Viewing will be from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday evening at the funeral home. Burial will be private. Rev. Kenneth S. Heasley, pastor of Emmanuel United Church of Christ will officiate.
C. Avery Smith
Dec. 11, 2001
C. Avery Smith, age 73, of Camptown, PA, passed away at Endless Mountains Health Systems in Montrose on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2001 after a long period of declining health.
He was born July 6, 1928 in Merryall, Wyalusing Township, the son of the late Raymond A. and Helen Stone Smith.
Avery was a graduate of Camptown High School, Class of 1946. He served two years in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and two years in the U.S. Reserves.
He was an insurance agent for State Auto and Ohio Casualty Insurance for a number of years. He also owned and operated C.A. Smith TV-Appliance. In late years, he worked for both Dean Bennett and Keith Bluhm as an electronic technician.
Surviving are his wife of 43 years, the former Dorothy Warburton; his daughter and her husband, Raymonda and Douglas Barnhart of Apalachin, NY; two sons, Avery D. Smith of Endicott, NY and Dana W. Smith, also of Endicott, NY; three grandsons, whom he loved dearly, Aaron and Bryant Barnhart of Apalachin, NY and Codi Smith of Johnson City, NY; a sister, Genevieve Cronk of Washington, DC and three cousins, Mrs. Jack (Betsy) Reynolds of Fairdale, Edward Stone of Smithville Flats, NY and Claudia Sommerlund of Cedar Falls, IO.
It was Avery’s request that there be no viewing or funeral. A graveside service will be held for the family at their convenience.
Memorials may be directed to the Camptown Methodist Church or to the charity of one’s choice.
Albert Woznicki
Dec. 5, 2001
Albert Woznicki, age 66, of 1300 Ebb Tide Ave., Merritt Island, FL 32952 passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2001 at his home following a brief illness.
Albert was born in Sayre, March 20, 1935, a son of the late Frank and Susan Bodnar Woznicki. He attended local schools in Wyalusing and served in the U. S. Coast Guard in the Korean Conflict. He worked for many years on construction as a union iron worker.
Albert and his spouse, the former Betsy Hodgson, resided in Meshoppen for many years until retiring to Florida in 1998.
Albert was a member of the Wyalusing Post #534 American Legion and a member of the Ironworkers Union of Elmira, NY.
Surviving are his spouse, Betsy, at home; two sons and daughters-in-law, Keith and Leslie Woznicki, Herrickville, Jim and Angie Furman, Tunkhannock; five daughters and sons-in-law, Tracy Woznicki and Lynn Christie, both of Manchester, CT, Kim and David Byrnes, Lake Carey, Lisa and Rick Holovacko, Tunkhannock, and Shelly Simmers, Tunkhannock; a brother, Carl Woznicki, Athens, TN; sisters and brother-in-law, Louise Wildrick and Betty Marshall, both of Wyalusing and Leona and Keith Dunklee of Laurel, MD; a sister-in-law, Louise Woznicki of Wyalusing; 15 grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Francis J. Woznicki on Dec. 23, 1990.
A Celebration of Life Service was held on Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the P. Dean Homer Funeral Home, 1 Grovedale Lane, Wyalusing, with Rev. Beverly Davenport officiating.
Friends called at the funeral home on Tuesday evening from 6:30 p.m. until the time of the service.
Members of Wyalusing Post #534 American Legion passed in review at 7 p.m.
Memorials may be directed to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, MMRF, 3 Forest St., New Canaan, CT 06840.
