Hornell, New York

Nancy Rae Gamo-Cunningham, 57 of Spring Hill Florida, passed away peacefully at home from her 2 year battle with cancer on November 23rd, 2024 with many of her family members with her.

She was born on May 22nd, 1967 to Doug and Linda Gamo in Hornell NY.  After graduating from Arkport Central School, she went on to have a successful career as an accomplished Hair Stylist and then became a talented Yoga Instructor for many years.

Nancy was married to Steve Cunningham for many years.  Together they had three beautiful children: Benjamin Travis, Lucas Carter and Rachael Evelyn.  After a number of years living in Florida, in 2022 Nancy and William Dunleavy were married.

Family and friends will always remember Nancy as being a loving, free-spirit who always had such an incredible zest for life (and an infallible sense of style with her vintage clothing)!  She had this infectious smile, she loved to laugh and dance, and she had the biggest heart, filled completely with love for everyone who came to know her.  Nancy’s strongest love was for her three children and subsequently her grandchildren, Carter and Charlotte.

Nancy was deeply spiritual and well connected with nature.  You’d often find her in her garden with her feet and hands in the dirt, or molding pottery, meditating on the beach, or relaxing at her family cottage on Rushford Lake, breathing in everything that nature had to offer her there.   Nancy had so many hobbies and interests and loved learning new things.  One of the beautiful things she created and was profoundly proud of was her Day-By-Day Café, in Hornell NY, which offered the community juices and healthy eating options.

No doubt, Nancy’s light touched so many people and it will continue to shine on within those who she loved, including her parents Doug (deceased) and Linda Gamo (John Walsh), children Ben, Lucas (Arielle Cunningham) and Rachael, and grandchildren Carter and Charlotte.  Additionally, her light remains in her husband, Bill Dunleavy; sisters, Wanda Bassano and her children (Nicole, Kristin, Marcos and Ciara) and Connie Grzebielucha, and her daughters Erica Matthews (Tim) and Elizabeth Hedley (Tully) along with several aunts, uncles, cousins and their families.

A Memorial Service will be held on December 15, 2024 at 1:30 PM at The Bishopville Methodist Church followed by a “Celebration of Life” at the Arkport Legion.  In lieu of flowers, a gift of your favorite story of Nancy to share would be welcomed at her Celebration.

Nancy’s family is being assisted by the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

Savona, New York

Rodney E. “Rod” Johnson – 62 – of County Route #17, Savona, NY died Monday afternoon (November 25, 2024) at his home surrounded by his loved ones, following a prolonged illness.

Born in Sayre, PA on March 14, 1962, he was the son of the former Margaret (Kellogg) Johnson.

Rod grew up in North East Bradford, PA and attended North East Bradford High School in Leraysville, PA.  He later served his country as a member of the United States Navy as a Culinary Specialist from 1982-1983.

Throughout the years Rod resided in several locations including Rome, PA, Middletown Connecticut, Athens, PA and has resided in Savona, NY for the past year.  He had been employed (26 years) as a Diesel Engine Mechanic at Jersey Engine Rebuilders in Warren Center, PA.

Rod enjoyed working on any big or small engines and also loved to simply “putter around” fixing things.  He also enjoyed fishing — especially in small ponds.  He had a deep love of his family especially his granddaughters who were the “Apple of His Eye.”  There was never a moment you wouldn’t find Rod in the kitchen smiling away while pouring his heart into a meal for his family. Anyone who knew Rod would say that he had a heart of gold to which no other could compare. He knew how to always make someone smile or laugh with his silly jokes, which made him who he was.

Surviving are his lifetime partner of 30 years; Celia “Cece” Harrington of Savona; his daughter, Quashawna “Shawnee” Johnson (Alex) of Savona; his son, Matthew “Mattman” Johnson of Litchfield, PA; his mother, Margaret “Peggy” Rought of Owego, NY; 1 brother, Edward Wells; 4 sisters, Christine Goss, Tina Wells, Rebecca Wells and Melissa Johnson; 2 granddaughters (who he adored), Serenity Youngs and Trinitee Youngs; 2 very special nephews Jacob Willson and Josh Willson (Emily Willson), several other nieces & nephews, along with 3 great nephews and 1 great niece.

At Rod’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Rod’s family request that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions in his name be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

Alfred Station, NY  /  Delmar, DE

Larry M. Allen, 74, of Alfred Station, NY died peacefully on November 25, 2024 at his home in Delmar, DE.

Born in Hornell on May 28, 1950, he was the son of Ralph and Betty (Nye) Allen. Larry grew up in the Alfred-Almond area and graduated from Alfred-Almond Central School in 1968.  He was a member of the Eagles swim team, soccer team, baseball team, and basketball team.

Larry was a licensed locksmith and established his own business, L.A. Locksmith, and operated in the area for many years. He was employed at UPS for 37 years, talking and making friends at every stop.  After retiring in 2008, Larry spent his time working at Vanderview Golf Course.

He loved spending time with his family in the Adirondacks every summer for many years. He also participated in a bowling league with family and friends. He enjoyed going up to the family hunting camp where he created lifelong memories, many which did not involve hunting…  Larry also spent many years playing Men’s Slow-Pitch Softball and golf with family and friends.  In his later years, he loved spending time at the Delaware International Speedway and the Monroe Bay Campground.  As an avid and lifelong sports fan, Larry loved rooting for his favorite teams: Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Bruins, and Boston Celtics.

Larry was the heart of the Alfred-Almond Community.  He was seen not only spectating, but coaching local teams as well.  Because he had such a big family and made so many friends, he had many stories to tell. One of his favorite things to do was reminisce and tell stories, while creating new memories.  Above all, Larry loved spending time with his loved ones, both in New York and Delaware.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Betty Allen, who he loved with his whole heart; his brother, Dennis “Lumpy” Allen; his brother-in-law, Lloyd “Bud” Winans; and his left thumb!!

Surviving are his longtime companion, Robin Adkins; 6 children, Andrea (Randy) VanWey of Dunkirk, Amy (Jamie Sick) Allen of Almond, Chris (Ginger Veneziani) Allen of Almond, Shelby (Kurtis) Kunkel of Sterling, VA, Elizabeth (Jordan) Wonderling of Wellsville, and Lindsey Allen of Alfred Station; 2 sisters, Sherry Winans of Andover and Susan (Mike) Snyder of Alfred; 1 sister-in-law, Cathy Allen; 5 grandchildren, Sarah, Abbey, Lauren, Mia, and Kevin; 1 great-granddaughter, Rainah; and several nieces and nephews.  He also had step children, John MacGrath and Ricki Lee (Christian) Bratten; and 3 step-grandchildren, Brantley, Mason, and Everlee.

Larry will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him and will live on through the many memories and stories that everyone cherishes.

The family of Larry M. Allen will receive friends on Saturday (December 7, 2024) from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Larry’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Alfred Station Fire Department, PO Box 282, Alfred Station, NY 14803. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

Wayland, New York

Andrew T. “Andy” Carey – 64 – of 50 Southview Dr., Wayland, died unexpectedly Friday afternoon (November 22, 2024) at his home.

Born in Naples, NY on January 12, 1960, he was the son of Lynn & Betty (Hughnor) Carey, Sr. He was also blessed with four brothers, Lynn Carey, Jr., Keith Carey, Wayne Carey and Doug Carey.

Andy grew up in the Wayland area and was a graduate of Wayland Central School (class of 1978). Following high school graduation, he served his country for four years as a member of the US Army.

Throughout the years, Andy was employed as a factory worker for several companies, including A.D. Cowls in Wayland, Crossman’s in Honeoye Falls and Star Headlight of Avon, NY.

Andy enjoyed music and played keyboard & guitar and had been a member of a local band. He also enjoyed martial arts. He was a former member of the Assembly of God Church in Dansville, NY.

He will be sadly missed by his son, Stewart Esserine of Perkinsville, NY.

At Andy’s request there will be no calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Andy’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the American Heart Association, PO Box 3049, Syracuse, NY 13220.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com

Hornell, New York

Lettie Estelle Pettitt —– Heaven’s gain was our loss when our precious baby girl was called by Jesus and became an Angel Tuesday morning (November 19, 2024).

Although Lettie was only with us for 34 days, she was very much loved, cherished and touched all of our lives. Our “Little Angel” will forever live in our hearts and will never be forgotten.

She was greeted at Heaven’s Gate by her maternal great-grandfather, Edward Clair; her cousin, Kamron Conklin; and others.

Lettie Estelle Pettitt was loved and will be sadly missed by her mother, Katelinn Pettitt of Hornell; 2 brothers, Noah Clark and Carson Towner, both of Hornell; her maternal grandmother, Julie Vaughn of Hornell; maternal grandfather, Chuck Vaughn of Illinois; maternal great-grandmother, Betsy Clair of Dunnellon, FL; 3 aunts, Kirsten Perry of Hornell, Madalyn Pettitt of Hornell and Molly Hodge of Hornell; 6 cousins, Darrious Hodge, Rylie Hopkins, Lyla Brown, Elliot Perry, Emmet Perry and Jade Wood; along with other relatives who will miss her dearly.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Lettie’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

To leave an online condolence, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

Bath, New York

Joan (Snyder) Tichenor – 90 – of Lake Country Estates, Bath, NY died Sunday evening (November 17, 2024) at her home, following a long illness.

Born in Elkland, PA on March 2, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Robert & Nellie (Foote) Hall.

Although raised in Elkland, Joan was a graduate of Addison Central School (class of 1952).  Upon graduation, she moved to Bath, NY where she resided for her entire adult life.

Joan worked for many years as an assistant manager at Sears & Roebuck in Bath.  In the mid 1970s, she returned to college and found her calling in special education, teaching for approximately 8 years.  After her time teaching, Joan continued her employment at the Haverling Central School District and retired as a custodian in the early 1990s.

She was a member of the St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Bath, and she generously gave her time as a volunteer secretary at Cornell Cooperative Extension for more than 20 years, dedicating her time and commitment to the Bath community.

Joan was known for her creativity and enjoyed knitting & crocheting among other crafts.  An avid reader, she continued her love for literature even after losing her sight, enjoying audiobooks, especially those by Rita Mae Brown.  She also had a great love for animals, especially her two cherished cats, and found joy in feeding the squirrels that visited her yard.  Joan was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Bath.

Joan was married twice in her life.  She first married John Snyder on December 31, 1954.  They shared many happy years together until his passing on June 16, 1982.  On August 20, 1988, Joan married Milton Tichenor, with whom she spent her later years until his death on November 14, 2000.  Also preceding her in death was her infant son, David Snyder in 1957; 2 brothers, Donald Hall & Raymond Hall.

Joan is survived by her son, John (Jodi Flood) Snyder of Bath, NY; her daughter, Ellen Snyder of Ruskin, FL; her “adopted” children, Dale Hennigan of Ruskin, FL & Pauline “Missy” Bauman of Bath, NY; one brother, Thomas Hall of Spencerport, NY; one sister, Roberta (Ted Breitbeck) Sparling of Tyrone, NY; her good friend, Ted Hess of Bath, NY; many nieces & nephews, and her feline companions, Charlie & Boots.

To honor Joan’s wishes, there will be no calling hours.  A private graveside service will be held in Onondaga Cemetery, Bath, NY.

Memorial contributions in Joan’s name may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, please visit, www.dagonfuneralhome.com or www.facebook.com/dagonfuneralhome.

Corning, New York

Diane Goodsell, 68, of Corning, NY, passed peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family, on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.

Born on May 23, 1956, in Jersey City, NJ, Diane was the daughter of the late John and Florence (Lemise) Cilino.

Diane dedicated 30 years to the Corning-Painted Post School District, where she worked as a Teacher’s Assistant and Interpreter for the Deaf. She had a special passion for helping children with special needs providing support to many students throughout the district.

Outside of work, Diane had a deep love for dolphins. She amassed a large collection of dolphin figurines over the years. Diane enjoyed many hobbies, including playing trivia, playing cards at the Senior Center, and crafting, especially crocheting. She was an avid bingo player and cherished the time spent with friends and loved ones.

Diane is survived by her daughter, Maria (Donald) Anderson of Painted Post, NY; two sons, Johnny (Carrie) Adames of Pennsylvania and Raymond (Jennifer) Adames of Buffalo, NY; three grandchildren, Samantha Fish, Joshua English, and Evan Anderson; and one great-grandson, Bentlee Shuart. She also leaves behind her “Special Friend,” Bill Howells of Corning, as well as four brothers and many nieces and nephews.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, John and Florence Cilino.

In accordance with Diane’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A “Celebration of Life” will be held at her daughter’s home in Painted Post on November 23, 2024, from 11:00 AM until 3:00 PM.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who offered their love and support during this difficult time.

Arrangements are under the direction of Dagon Funeral Home, Hornell, NY.

To share a memory or offer an online condolence, please visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

Hornell, New York

Robin Kaye Smith – 48 – of 110 East Ave., Hornell, died Thursday morning (November 7, 2024) shortly after arriving at St. James Hospital, following previous medical conditions.

Born in Hornell on September 11, 1976, she was the daughter of Stephen Dickinson & Peggy (Dickinson) Smith.

Robin grew up in the Jasper-Troupsburg area and later lived in Hornell.  She was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1993).

For many years, Robin was employed at the Alfred University Dining Hall and was affectionately known as the “Gelato Lady.”  She also served as a bartender at the Old Mill Inn in Alfred.  For several years Robin was employed as a surgical coordinator at Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville.

Robin had a deep appreciation for music, such as Poison, Def Leppard, Motley Crue, Post Malone and Morgan Wallen. Robin loved going to concerts of her favorite bands with her daughters. She was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and enjoyed reading — especially Mystery Thrillers and Romance Novels.  She loved spending time at the beach. She was also a former member of the Hornell VFW. Robin loved surrounding herself with family and friends, most importantly her cousin, Nicole Shinebarger, and their group of girls.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Frank & Sharon Dickinson; and her maternal grandparents, Clayton Drake and Berdena Cornell.

Surviving are 2 daughters, Brooke Smith of Canisteo and Ashley Smith (David Fowler) of Hornell; her mother, Peggy Smith of Hornell; her father, Stephen Dickinson of Westfield, PA; 2 sisters, Roxine (Stacey) Wilson of Mansfield, PA and Christy Dickinson of Addison; 2 brothers, Ryan Dickinson of Hornell and Christopher Dickinson of Addison, NY; her treasured granddaughter, Kaleesi Kaye Fowler; along with several nieces & nephews.

At Robin’s request there will be no calling hours.  A “Celebration of Life” will be held at the Canisteo American Legion on November 30th, at 1:00 PM.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Robin’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

Hornell, New York

John C. Cumbia – 60 – of 170 East Ave., Hornell, died early Wednesday morning (November 6, 2024) at his home.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Alfred, New York

Deborah S. “Debby” (Soule) Esposito – 74 – of Hernando, FL, formerly of Alfred, NY died unexpectedly early Saturday morning (November 2, 2024) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.

Born in Ithaca on September 11, 1950, she was the daughter of Lauren & Maureen (Casterline) Soule.

On November 29, 1975, Debby married Gerard “Jerry” Esposito who survives.  She was preceded in death by her father, Lauren Soule, and is survived by her mother, Maureen Soule of Alfred.  Debby also leaves behind two sisters, Linell Soule of Almond (Bill Sortore) of Angelica and Terah Soule of Wellsville, NY; two sisters-in-law, Diane Murphy (John) of Lancaster, PA and Christine Stromberg (Jim) of N. Middleton, NJ.  She will also be greatly missed by her four nephews, three nieces, and four grand-nieces as well as several other extended family members.

Debby grew up in Alfred and was a graduate of Alfred-Almond Central School (class of 1968).  She also attended her H.S. sophomore year at American Community School in Beirut. In 1972, she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry & Physics from Wells College in Aurora, NY.

For 25 years Debby loyally served the Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester starting as a chemist, and moving on to work in other science positions, before transitioning into the Human Resource Department as a Senior Technical Recruiter.  She eventually moved into various manufacturing positions and finally as GM/Vice-President of Storage Products.  Debby was recruited by Essilor of America in 1997 to be the Executive VP of Operations in St. Petersburg, FL.  She finished her corporate career at Talla-Com Industries as Director of Administration coaching senior staff on high performance management, leadership skills and strategy implementation.  Her skills and experience led her to start her own Management consulting firm.  She also worked alongside her husband Jerry, beginning in 1983, with his Photographic Events company on weekends.

Debby approached life with a “joie de vive” rarely seen.  Her energy and passion for things that were important to her and immediately drew you into her orbit.  She and Jerry loved to travel, including their favorite destinations of Santa Fe, NM & Monterey, CA.  Her Western New York roots gave her a love of family, the outdoors and seeking adventures.  When others would be finding reasons not to try something new, Debby would often respond with a slight head tilt, a wry smile and her eyes dancing with the challenge of convincing people to try something new, she’d simply say “So what! Why not try it?”.  If you knew Debby, she usually changed people’s minds, laughing contagiously and always willing to join them on their adventure.  As the family historian, she was our ‘go-to’ for all dates and information regarding family & ancestors.  Her passion for genealogy helped her discover her familial roots and led her into a second career.  She twice earned her DAR certification in genealogy which allowed her to help others trace their family histories! She also took her love of food and became an excellent home chef, before sharing her knowledge by offering private cooking classes those who wanted to learn.

At Debby’s request there will be no calling hours.  Services will be held at a later date and time to be announced.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Debby’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the American Heart Association, PO Box 3049, Syracuse, NY 13220.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.