Bernice “Bernie” (Hurchla) Lucas – 80 – of Hornell, died Tuesday morning (December 27, 2022) at her home, following a long illness.

Born in Johnson City, NY on September 21, 1942 she was the daughter of Joseph & Mary (Maio) Hurchla.

Bernie was the beloved wife of the late Robert “Bob” Lucas; loving mother of Robert (Linda) Lucas, Joseph (Andrea) Lucas, Andrew “AJ” (Teri) Lucas; sister to Liz Finch of Binghamton, NY and Elsie Thompson of Lilburn, Georgia; cherished grandmother of Jared and Mackenzie Lucas; beloved aunt to several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents Joseph and Mary (Maio) Hurchla; her husband, Robert “Rob” Lucas; her daughter Rebecca “Becky” Lucas, and her two brothers, Joseph “JR” Hurchla and Anthony “Tony” Hurchla.

A 1960 graduate of Johnson City High School, she married Bob on January 13, 1962. When Bernice and Bob started their family, she became a stay-at-home mom.  In the 1970s, Bernie became an office clerk for Tuttle & Rockwell Department Store in Hornell.  She later changed careers and became a teacher’s aide for the BOCES Program in Hornell High School.  She retired 20 years ago.

Bernie was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church.  She was an avid reader and she especially enjoyed reading mystery and romance novels.  In her younger years, Bernie served as a coach in the Cinderella Softball League.  She was a true Buffalo Bills fan (especially during the Super Bowl years).  More recently, she was a member of the Red Hat Society.

The family would like to thank Bernie’s devoted friend and neighbor Christine Petrilli, for her compassionate and steadfast friendship with their mom along with the entire Fulton Street neighbors.  The family would also like to thank the members of the Hornell City Ambulance Service and CareFirst Hospice for the professional and sympathetic care they selflessly gave to Bernie during her final days.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 4 PM until 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church.  Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY.

Bernie’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made in her name to either CareFirst Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, NY  14870 (carefirstny.org)  or to Special Olympics, 1 Grove St., Suite 216, Pittsford, NY  14534.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

Bernie loved her family, she loved her vodka, and she loved her husband.  And now she rests in peace with him.

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

Hornell, New York

Marie L. Prior, 98, formerly of 21 William Street, Hornell, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2022 at Elderwood Nursing Facility where she resided for the past 7 years.  She was surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Painesville, OH on June 10, 1924, she was a daughter of the late Paul and Rose Vedo.  On November 20, 1943 she was married to Grover J. Prior, who predeceased her on August 17, 1978 after 35 years of marriage.  She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Roseanna Thompson and her brother, Paul Vedo.

Marie resided in Hornell for most of her life and attended Hornell High School.  Following high school, she worked at the former Huguets Industries.  Along with her husband, she owned and operated Stubby’s Tavern in Hornell from 1969 until 1978.  For several years, Marie was employed as a cook in the dining hall of Alfred State College.  She later worked at St. Ann’s Parish until she was well into her 80s.   She enjoyed the day to day operations that she helped with at the parish rectory, and she retired in 2012 after many years of loyal service.

Marie was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church where she attended Daily Mass for most of her adult life.  She was an active patron of the St. Ann’s Adoration Chapel and a member of the St. Ann’s Altar and Rosary Society.

Marie was an avid lover of country music and even attended a concert with her granddaughter when she was in her 80s.  She also enjoyed cooking, cake decorating and spending time with her family and friends.

Marie is lovingly survived by 3 sons, James (Helen) Prior of Hornell, Thomas Prior of Arkport and Michael Prior of Rochester; 9 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

The family of Marie L. Prior will receive friends on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church Street, Hornell, NY.  A Funeral Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 1:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  Burial will be in St. Ann’s Cemetery.

Marie’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to Elderwood Nursing Facility, 1 Bethesda Drive, Hornell, NY 14843.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God” (Psalm 42:1).

Hornell, New York

James E. “Jim” Davis – 86 – of 110 Elizabeth St., Hornell, died Wednesday morning (December 21, 2022) at the Buffalo Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation in Buffalo, following a long illness.

Born in Cumberland County, NC on November 5, 1936, he was the son of French & Nannie (Williams) Davis.

Jim was employed for many years by Coleman Brothers Carnival where he traveled the country setting up tents and rides and also operating several rides.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Thelma (Cole) Davis who died in 2015.

Surviving are his step-daughter, Mazie Ridley; granddaughter, Katie Ridley of Wellsville; along with several other relatives.

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.

Jim’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

Charles “Buckshot” Allen Phillips, 78, passed away peacefully December 3, 2022, with his family by his side at Baptist South Medical Center, Jacksonville, FL following a brief illness.

Born in Garwoods, NY on July 11, 1944, he was the son of Charles H. and Frances (Dresser) Phillips.

Buckshot grew up in the Garwoods/Canaseraga area and attended Canaseraga Central School where he played soccer for Coach Barros whom he spoke about frequently. Later he was drafted into the United States Army. 

He was employed by the Erie Railroad, Foster Wheeler in Dansville for 19 years as well as Fluor Daniels and Genencor in Rochester for 10 years as a professional welder. He was highly known for his talented skill in welding by many. He also was employed at Fred Roberts Auto Parts where he enjoyed meeting new people. Upon retirement he enjoyed working around his home, making wood crafts with his wife, and completing many projects with his Kubota tractor. 

Buckshot was a dedicated volunteer fireman for the Canaseraga Fire & Ambulance Department for 58 years. During that time, he held positions of Assistant Chief, President, Vice President and was on the Board of Directors. He was also the Allegany County Fire Coordinator. He served as the Village Trustee from 1997-99 and served as mayor of Canaseraga from 1999-2003.

He enjoyed being with his family having cook outs, bonfires, and holiday dinners; his family always looked forward to his spaghetti and meatball dinner, gardening, fishing, family vacations and bird watching with his wife. Buckshot is also well known for striking up conversations with anyone. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Elizabeth “Liz” Watson and Beverly Kerr, brother-in-law Bill Watson, and nephew Edward Nichols.

Buckshot was married on July 20, 1969, to Carol Learn of 53 years who survives. Also surviving are his daughter Kelly (Bret) Flint of Arkport, NY; son Todd (JoAnn) Phillips of Whitesville, NY; daughter Danae (Sandeep) Phillips Munjal of Jacksonville, FL; son Corey (Rachel) Phillips of Fillmore, NY; grandchildren – Deven, Mandy, Ryan, Donald, Felicia, Conner, Ellie, Natalie, Anya, Andy, Dia, Shayla, Karina, 5 great grandchildren; brothers Paul (Patricia) Phillips of Dansville, NY, Ronald (Linda) Phillips of Darien Center, NY; sisters Marie (Russ) Nichols of Swain, NY, Lois Phillips of Dalton, NY and nieces and nephews.

The family of Charles A. Phillips will receive friends for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, December 17, 2022, from 1:00 – 4:00 with a Firemen Service at 1:15 at the Canaseraga American Legion.

At the family’s request, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Canaseraga Fire Ambulance Department’s Bob Burgess Scholarship fund or the American Cancer Society. Memorial forms will be available at time of celebration. 

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

Josephine “Josie” Noble Taylor – 73 – of 7678 John Dixon Road, Almond, died early Thursday morning (December 8, 2022) at her home, following a long illness following  due to Covid – Pneumonia complications.

Born in Hornell, NY on December 28, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Lincoln (WWII Vet) and Mary (Ermy) Noble.

Josie spent 10 years working at Jordan Hall on the Alfred University Campus and had a special bond with local artist, Bill Castle.  She relocated to the San Fernando Valley of Southern California where she spent 20 years with O’Neal USA, innovators, designers & manufacturers of Moto Cross protective clothing (including helmets boots etc.).  Because of her charisma, Josie created personal & professional relationships with both national & international Moto Cross riders throughout the USA, Japan & Australia.

“Josie the Gypsy” could not sit still.  The next chapter in her life was Las Vegas, NV where she worked in the corporate environment during the day wearing beautiful & colorful clothing.  When the sun went down, her “biker leather” came on and she would “ride the highways” of Southern Nevada with Vietnam Vets MC.  Eventually Josie moved to Santa Barbara, Ca before settling in the Klipnocky Hillsides.  She returned to the Hornell – Almond area about 7 years ago.

Josie will be remembered as a cheerleader, flower child & biker who had a passion for life and was loved and respected by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing her.

Surviving are her husband & soul-mate, Thomas “T.T.” Taylor; 2 brothers, Francis “Fran” (Jeralyn Musser) Noble of Arkport and Paul Noble of Bullhead City, AZ; her son, Michael Gambino of Santa Barbara, CA; grandson, Gunner Gambino of Santa Barbara, CA; granddaughter, Nichole “Nikki” Gambino of Great Falls, MT (daughter of Jess McKee); many cousins, nieces, nephews and countless true lifetime friends.

To honor Josephine’s wishes, there will be no calling hours.  A private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

Josephine’s family request that memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hornell Alumni Association, PO Box 135, Hornell, NY 14843.

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

Cynthia J. “Cindy” (Schumaker) Schultheis – 74 – of 224 Greeley Ave., Hornell, died Wednesday afternoon (November 30, 2022) at Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Hornell on April 4, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Matthew & Jeanne (Griffin) DeGaetano.

Cindy grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1966).  She was employed as a Lab Technician at the former St. James Mercy Hospital for about 30 years and later worked as a Direct Caregiver for Steuben County ARC in Hornell.  Cindy also served as an advocate for several ARC residents in the Hornell Area. She retired about 15 years ago.

She was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish.  Cindy had a deep affection for all animals and throughout the years owned many dogs & cats.  She also “adopted” many unwanted animals when their owners could no longer care for them.

Cindy always enjoyed rooting for the Green Bay Packers.  She loved surrounding herself with family, friends and neighbors, helping them whenever they needed her.

The word “no” was not in her vocabulary.  One of her greatest joys was being a true friend.  One of the many things she treasured was her regular “get-togethers” with her girlfriends from the Class of ‘66 as well as with former colleagues from the hospital.  Sharing news of her grandchildren was always special.  She will be forever remembered as “Beepa” to them.

In addition to her parents, Cindy was preceded in death by her first husband of 31 years, Roy Schumaker and second husband Alan Schultheis.

Surviving are her son, Matthew “Matt” (Erin) Schumaker of Ontario, NY; her sister, Lynda (Dennis) O’Brien of Hornell; 3 grandchildren, Justyn, Emma and Ethan Schumaker; her niece, Bridget O’Brien of San Rafael, CA. , her very special cousin, Susie Mauro, her aunts Fran Crane, and Ann Potter.  She is also survived by several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Memorial Service for family and friends will be held at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY on Friday, December 23, 2022 at 11:00 AM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  A luncheon for friends and family will follow at The Main Place.  Final internment, at the convenience of the family, will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Cindy’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to either the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843 or to the Steuben ARC, 1 ARC Way, Bath, NY  14810.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

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

Hornell, NY  /  Almond, NY

Ronald K. “Ron” George – 70 – of 500 Residence Way, Hornell, formerly of Almond, NY, died Monday evening (November 28, 2022) at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility, following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on October 30, 1952, he was the son of Kenneth & Helen (McGuire) George.

Ron grew up in West Almond and was a graduate of Angelica High School (class of 1970).  He later earned his Associate’s Degree in Electrical Technology from Alfred State College (SUNY Alfred — class of 1972).

Following his graduation from Alfred State College, Ron enlisted in the US Army National Guard.  His military career took him from Private to 1st Sergeant, retiring after 21 years of service to his country.  The same year that he enlisted in the National Guard, he also began working for New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) working in many capacities, including building maintenance, 1st Class Lineman, 1st Class UC&M, Line Supervisor, Construction Manager, Manager Training and Manager Special Projects, retiring after 35 years of service.

He was a communicant of St. Brendan’s Church of Almond and was also a member of the Hornell American Legion and the Hornell AMVETS.  He was a lifetime member of the Almond Volunteer Fire Department, serving as Fire Chief for several years.  He also served on the Almond Town Board.

Ron was an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting (deer & small game) and fishing.  He also enjoyed boating and, along with his wife, Lucille, loved spending weekends actually living on their boat on Seneca Lake.

He was preceded in death by his son, Bradley George who died in January, 1980 and his father, Kenneth George who died in January, 1977.

Ron was married on April 6, 1974 to the former Lucille Kellogg who survives.  Also surviving are his son, Kurtis (Emily) George of Canisteo; his grandsons, Ryan, Kaleb and Ethan; his mother, Helen (Robert) Shoemaker of Nunda; 2 brothers, Dennis (Ellen) George of Almond and Michael (Lorraine Pangrazio) George of Oakfield, NY; 1 sister, Marianne (Michael) Bracken of Almond; many cousins, nieces & nephews.

The family of Ronald K. “Ron” George will receive friends on Thursday from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A Memorial Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 3:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  Final interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Almond, NY.

Ron’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 435 East Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY  14620 or to the Almond Fire & Rescue, 1 Marvin Lane, Almond, NY  14804.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

In recognition of Ron’s service to his country as a member of the Army National Guard, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.

Jonathan E. “Jon” Murphy – 25 – of North Water St., Rochester, NY died unexpectedly on Monday (November 21, 2022) at his home.

Born in Hornell on January 4, 1997, he was the son of Joseph & Bobbi (Clair) Murphy.

Jonathan resided in Hornell until the age of 14 when his family moved to the Rochester area.  He attended Victor High School and later graduated from Tri-Valley Central School (class of 2015) in Grahamsville, NY.  Following high school graduation, Jon attended Fingerlakes Community College in Canandaigua, NY.

He lived in Florida for about 4 ½ years and attended University of Central Florida.  While in Florida, Jonathan was employed at Sun Protection of Florida (SPF) installing commercial and residential awnings.

Moving back to the Rochester area about 6 months ago, Jonathan had been employed at Graystone Construction and also as an installer for Rochester Colonial of Rochester.

Being very spiritual, Jonathan was a participant at St. Irenaeus Ministries Catholic Church of Rochester and was a member of the Rochester Diocese Young Adults Group.  He also enjoyed attending the Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua, NY.

Jon had an appreciation of music and loved playing guitar.  He enjoyed attending concerts of his favorite bands such as the Dave Matthews Band.  He loved woodworking and creating beautiful Celtic Crosses, artistic plaques and Rosary Beads. He spent endless hours at Maker’s Space creating gifts and pieces to sell.  He donated all of the proceeds to charity.  Jonathan had a deep love of the outdoors and kayaking, always taking his dogs on hikes. He enjoyed working out, including many years of Crossfit, and coffee shops. Most of all, Jon loved his family.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph E. Murphy (died 2002) and his brother, Joseph T. Murphy (died 2006).

Surviving are his fiancé, Aaliyah Butler of Rochester; his mother, Bobbi (Andy Carter) Murphy of Crystal River, FL; 3 sisters, Kelli (Gary Thummler) Donlon of Rochester, Jamie (Sara Mobley) Murphy of Fort Worth, TX and Laura (Ben) Monell of Neversink, NY; his nieces & nephews, Shaelyn Donlon, Maeve Donlon, Norah Donlon, Colin Monell, Caitlyn Monell and Christian Monell.

The family of Jonathan E. “Jon” Murphy will receive friends on Wednesday from 4:00 PM  –  6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church with Burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Jonathan’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, supporting.afsp.org. Jon was passionate about this charity and planned on participating in the Out of the Darkness walk.

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

Joshua W. “Josh” Flaitz – 46 – of Route 21, Almond, NY, died Monday (November 21, 2022) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on June 4, 1976, he was the son of William Flaitz and the former Kathleen Morse.

Josh grew up in the Hornell-Almond area and was a graduate of Alfred Almond Central School.  He later received his Associate’s Degree in Business Administration from Alfred State College (SUNY Alfred). Graduating from college was one of Josh’s proudest accomplishments.

When Josh was about 7 ½ years old, he was diagnosed with Behr Optical Atrophy Syndrome, a rare disease that weakens the optic nerves.  By the age of 15, he was totally blind.  He also had to contend with many other health issues, including Type #1 Diabetes.

Before losing his sight, he enjoyed riding dirt bikes and developed a love for motorcycles and cars.  Although blind, Josh finished high school, graduated from college and for many years worked with his father, Bill Flaitz, at Wild Bill’s Used Cars in Almond.  Josh never felt sorry for himself.  He had a love for the ooutdoors and even loved splitting wood.

He enjoyed going to car races with his dad, often traveling to Woodhull Raceway and Canandaigua Race Track along with other racetracks in Pennsylvania.  Throughout the years, Josh got to know many drivers and mechanics and would often share stories with them.  Josh always also looked forward to going on bike rides.  On any given sunny day, you would see Josh with his dad riding their tandem bike through Almond.

Josh also loved animals and going on rides in his side-by-side with his dad.  His favorite past time was having a great meal; having seconds was never enough. Above all, Josh had the biggest heart and always knew how to make you laugh.

Josh was preceded in death by his half-brother, Eric Winkleman; grand parents, George and Dorothy Flaitz and Charles Ritter; two uncles, Brian Flaitz and Thomas Morse.

Surviving are his father, William “Bill” Flaitz of Almond; his mother, Kathleen (Thom) Davies of Florida; 2 sisters, Heidi Fuller (Daniel Weathers) of Alabama and Rachel (Matthew) Dailey of Wellsville; 1 brother, Lucas Flaitz of Alabama; his maternal grandmother, Carol Ritter; nieces, Kayla, Alysa, and Isabel; nephews, Matthew, Steven and Jake; aunts, Georgeanne (Jim) Carter, Mary Lou (Dennis) Kasa, Linda Sue (Gary) Recktenwald, Cynthia McKibben (Bob), Carol (Lavern) Warriner; uncles, Thomas (Monica) Flaitz, Scott (Mona) Morse; and several cousins as well.

At Josh’s request there will be no calling hours.  A “Celebration of Life” will be held at the Arkport Legion on a date and time to be announced.

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

Josh’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the American  Diabetes Association, PO Box 13067, Alexandria, VA 22312 or to the Society for the Blind, 1238 S Street, Sacramento, CA 95811

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

David A. “Dave” Markel – (75) – of 6202 Gypsy Hill Road, Hornell, died Monday afternoon (November 14, 2022) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY, following a brief illness.

Born in Hornell on May 17, 1947, he was the son of Andrew & Margaret (Snowden) Markel.

David grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1966).  Following high school graduation, he attended Wanakena Ranger School (College of Environmental Science and Forestry) in Wanakena, NY.

For about 4 years, Dave was employed as an “Electrical Apprentice” for the former Erie Railroad.  In 1968 he was drafted into the US Army during the Vietnam Conflict and served his country for 2 years before re-enlisting and fulfilling his dream of becoming a Green Beret.  He was honorably discharged in 1971.

Following his honorable discharge from the military, Dave returned to the Hornell area and resumed his employment with the railroad.  For about 5 years, he served as a Journeyman Electrician for the former Erie Railroad, Erie-Lackawanna Railroad and Conrail.  He later worked as a Maintenance Electrician for the Groveland Correctional Facility in Sonya, NY.  He retired in 2009.

David was an outdoorsman who truly loved and appreciated and the beauty of nature.  He was an avid hunter (deer & small game) and also enjoyed fishing.  He was an avid New York Yankee fan and also loved visiting the casinos, especially in Salamanca and Finger Lakes.  Dave was a longtime member of the Hornell American Legion, the Carducci Lodge (Sons of Italy) and the National Rifle Association (NRA).

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Markel; sister-in-law, Patricia “Pat” Raynor) Markel.

David was married on May 5, 1973 to the former Angela Daniels who survives.  Also surviving are his daughter, Pam (Craig Button) Markel of Hornell; 2 sons, Greg (Jenn Close) Markel of Portmouth, NH and Tim Markel of Painted Post; 3 brothers, John (Betty) Markel of Hornell, Steve Markel of Hornell and Tom (Kathy) Markel of Arkport; 1 sister, Ruth Watier of Lockport; his half-sister, Barbara (Richard) Mazzerese of Endicott; sister-in-law, Mary Markel of California; several nieces & nephews.

The family of David A. “Dave” Markel will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 PM  –  7:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church.  Burial with Military Honors will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Dave’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Alumni Association, PO Box 135, Hornell, NY 14843.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

In recognition to David’s service to his country as a member of the US Army, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.

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