Hornell, New York
Kathleen C. “Kathy” Jones – 75 – of Church St. Court, Hornell, died Thursday (July 29, 2021) at FF Thompson Hospital in Canandaigua, NY.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Audrey M. Ahearn
Audrey M. Ahearn – 93 – of Redlands, CA, formerly of Hornell died May 29, 2020 at her home, following a long illness.
Born in Hornell on February 20, 1927, she was the daughter of John & Bernice (Leahy) Waight.
Audrey grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell high School (class of 1945). While living in Hornell, she was a communicant of St. Ann’s Church and also served as a leader for the Camp Fire Girls. She was a skilled seamstress and fashioned a variety of outfits for her family.
She was married on January 23, 1947 to James “Jim” Ahearn. They resided in Hornell until 1969 and then moved to California. They later moved to Japan where the lived for three years.
On her return to California, Audrey furthered her education and graduated from Los Angeles City College in Los Angeles, CA. She was employed as a Central Supply Supervisor at Ingleside Hospital in Rosemead, CA for many years. After her retirement, she served as a school crossing guard and was beloved as “grandma” to the children in her neighborhood. Audrey was a prolific reader and a huge fan of Country music. She loved to travel, and Hawaii & Mainland China were two of her favorite destinations.
Audrey was preceded in death by her former husband, James “Jim” Ahearn; her son, James “Dan” Ahearn; and her brother, Johnny Waight.
Surviving are 2 daughters, Kathleen Ahearn of Bakersfield, CA and Diane Ahearn of Redlands, CA; her daughter-in-law, Violet Ahearn of Mesa, AZ; 8 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; nieces & nephews.
The family of Audrey M Ahearn will receive friends on Friday, August 6, 2021from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 11:00 AM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.
Audrey’s son, James “Dan” Ahearn who died March 24, 2020 will also be remembered and honored at the Memorial Service.
Audrey’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 435 East Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14620. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com
James D. “Dan” Ahearn
Houghton / Hornell
James D. “Dan” Ahearn – (70) –formerly of Houghton, NY, and Hornell, died Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at his home in Mesa, AZ where he had resided since 2015.
Born in Hornell on June 18, 1949, he was the son of James & Audrey (Waight) Ahearn.
Dan grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1968). He later attended Alfred State College.
He was retired from US Navy, serving his country from 1968-1972 as a Navy SEABEE and also from 1976-1991 as a Chief Hull Maintenance Technician. He also saw two “Tours of Duty” in Viet Nam.
While still serving in the US Navy, Dan resided several years in Connecticut and following his retirement he lived there for another 13 years working in the plumbing, heating and air-conditioning field. Dan returned to Hornell NY in 2004 and lived in Houghton NY since 2012 and Mesa Arizona since 2015.
He was a member and past commander of the Hornell VFW and a member of the AMVETS. He was also a former member of the Hornell Elks Lodge, Hornell Association, Hornell Moose, Hornell American Legion and the Knights of Columbus.
Dan was a former member of St. Ignatius Loyola Church. He enjoyed motorcycle riding, photography and pistol shooting.
He was married on February 29, 2012 to the former Violet Thompson who survives. Also surviving are his son, Brandon (Lydia) Ahearn of Waterford, CT; 4 daughters, Samantha Ahearn of Clearfield, PA, Rebecca (Jerry) Fethers of Ruskin, FL, Shannon Ahearn of Waterford, CT and Erin (Mike) MacDonald of Waterford, CT; his nephew whom he raised, Thomas Ahearn of Waterford, CT; 2 sisters, Kathleen Ahearn of Bakersfield, CA and Diane Ahearn of Redlands, CA; 2 step-children, Catherine Doughty of CT and Jack Caine of AZ; 16 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren and nieces & nephews.
The family will receive friends on Friday, August 6, 2021 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Service with full military honors will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 11AM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. Final interment will be in the Bath National Cemetery, Bath, NY.
Dan’s mother, Audrey, who died May 29, 2020 will also be remembered and honored at the Memorial Service.
Dan’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to: St Jude Children’s Hospital as he was a long time contributor. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.
In recognition of Dan’s service to his country, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.
John M. Graves
Oneonta, NY / Cobleskill, NY
John M. Graves – (76) – formerly of Oneonta, NY & Cobleskill, NY died Sunday (July 25, 2021) at the Bath VA Medical Center, following a long illness.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY
Frank T. “Slats” Andolina
Frank T. “Slats” Andolina – 95 – of 26 Meadowbrook Rd., Arkport, formerly of Wellsville, NY, died early Monday morning (March 8, 2021) at St. James Hospital, following a long illness.
Born in Mt. Morris, NY on March 7, 1926, he was the son of Nunzio & Grace (Piraino) Andolina.
Slats grew up in Mt. Morris and was a graduate of Mt. Morris High School (class of 1944). Immediately following high school graduation, he was drafted into the US Army and served his country in the European Theater during WWII as a demolition expert.
Following his honorable discharge in 1946, Frank returned to the Mt. Morris area. He later enrolled at Niagara University where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology.
For over 65 years, Frank resided in Wellsville. He was employed for about 15 years as the Laboratory Supervisor and Certified Medical Lab Technologist at Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville. Later joining the staff at SUNY Alfred, Frank served as a Professor of hematology and medical lab technology. He loved his students and received numerous accolades and awards from them. He retired in 1985. He has resided in Arkport for the past 7 years.
While living in Wellsville, Frank was a communicant of Immaculate Conception Church (ICS) and was a life-member of the Wellsville American Legion. While in high school, Slats was an outstanding baseball player and continued to be a lifelong baseball fan and active fan of all other sports.
Frank had a deep love for his family (especially his grandchildren) and numerous friends, joining many of them over the years for early morning coffee at McDonalds. He will be remembered for his love of country and community and for his great smile and terrific sense of humor. He will be missed by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him!
He was married on August 20, 1949 to the former Elsie Zanni who died in 2009. Frank was also preceded in death by his granddaughter, Jill Andolina who died in 2013; 3 brothers, Dr. CT (Mike) Andolina, Joseph Andolina and John Andolina; 2 sisters, Frances Andolina and Rose Cipriano.
Surviving are his son, Dr. Richard (Molly) Andolina of Arkport; 2 daughters, Pamela (Tony) Favro of Henrietta and Patricia Andolina Persia of Spencerport; his brother, Anthony Andolina of Henrietta; 7 grandchildren, Dr. Richard Andolina Jr., Dr. Nicholas (Jess) Andolina, Mitchell Andolina, Marc Favro, Gianna Favro, Joseph Persia and Daniel Persia; 3 great grandchildren, Nicholas Jr., Jillian, and Remi; numerous nieces & nephews.
Frank had two desires about his time of passage. He wanted to live to the age of 95 to match his brother Mike and he wanted his mental faculties intact. He died early the morning after his 95th birthday with no cognitive impairments. God granted him his two wishes.
Family & friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass on Friday, July 30, 2021 at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church followed by a “Celebration of Life” at 11:00 AM at The Main Place in Hornell, NY.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Frank’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to either the Hornell Area Humane Society, Jillian Andolina Memorial Dog Park, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843 or the David A. Howe Public Library, 155 North Main St., Wellsville, NY 14895.
Miriam M. Carroll
Miriam M. Carroll – 87 – formerly of Hornell, died early Saturday morning July 17th, 2021 at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility where she had resided for the past two years.
Born in Burns, NY on May 31, 1934, she was the daughter of Raymond & Margaret (Lamonte) Wilkins.
Miriam grew up in Burns, NY and was a graduate of Arkport Central School. She later received her Certificate in Nursing from Alfred State College.
She was employed for a time as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at the former St. James Mercy Hospital and later for Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville.
Miriam was a talented and gifted artist who enjoyed painting and craft-working, often selling her wooden “works of art” that she created along with her husband Bill. She was employed for many years by the former Olin Photography in Hornell “colorizing” portraits.
She had a deep affection for all animals — especially her beloved cats. Her favorite pastime was simply spending time with her family.
In addition to her parents, Miriam was preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Moss; 2 brothers, Richard Wilkins and Monte Wilkins; her sister, Barbara Bennett.
Surviving are her son, John (Eileen) Carroll of Lake Anna, VA; her brother, Harold (Christine) Wilkins of Thacherville; 1 granddaughter, Alexandra (Cory) Hall; 2 grandsons, Cameron Carroll and Gunnar (Maggie) Carroll; great granddaughter Ella Hall; many nieces & nephews.
At Miriam’s request there will be no calling hours. A private graveside service will be held at Heritage Hill Cemetery in Arkport at the convenience of the family with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Miriam’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.
Charlene M. Loper
Charlene M. Loper – 77 – of County Route 70A (Big Creek Road), Hornell died early Monday morning (July 12, 2021) at her home, surrounded by her family, following a long illness.
Born in Hornell on March 4, 1944, she was the daughter of Claude & Antoinette (Schmitz) Miller.
Charlene grew up in Hornell and later graduated from Hornell High School, class of 1962.
While in high school, Charlene began working at the former Lake Road Dairy and continued her employment for several years following graduation. For many years she enjoyed raising her family as a “Stay-At-Home Mom” and for about 15 years was employed as a saleslady at the former McHenry Jewelers in Hornell, retiring in 1995.
She was married on May 22, 1965 to her high school sweetheart, Floyd Loper, who survives. Also surviving are her son, Jeffrey (Christina) Loper of Hornell; her daughter, Michele (Ed) Flaitz of Hornell; 1 sister, Maurita Doherty of Gilbert, AZ; 5 grandchildren, Jacob Loper, Jessica Loper, AnnaMarie Flaitz, Emma Flaitz & Elaina Flaitz.
Charlene and Floyd shared a love story for 56 years that few get to witness and even fewer get to live. In their younger years they spent countless hours building their entire house themselves and raising a family. Throughout all the years there was seldom a harsh word between them, they were inseparable and very much in love.
Charlene enjoyed for many years boating on Keuka Lake with her husband, family and friends. Charlene’s greatest pleasure though came from caring for her grandchildren on a daily basis, some up until they went to kindergarten. Then she loved spending time with them doing puzzles, playing board games, or just visiting.
The family would like to thank Tender Loving in Home Care for the wonderful care Charlene received the last 2 years. We are grateful she was able to remain in her home that she so dearly loved.
At Charlene’s request there will be no calling hours. A private graveside service will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery at the convenience of the family with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Charlene’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to CareFirst Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Rd., Painted Post, NY 14870
David A. Gray
David A. “Dave” Gray – 59 – loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend, of 5791 Morton Hill Road, Hornell, died unexpectedly on Thursday, July 8, 2021.
Born in St. Louis, MO on August 22, 1961, he was the son of Dr. John and Margaret (Veth) Gray. Dave grew up in Missouri, spending his younger years in Ferguson and attending St. John and James Catholic School. At age 9, his family moved to Clarksville, and Dave graduated from Clopton High School (Class of 1979). He attended Northeast Missouri State University before transferring to the University of Missouri-Rolla, where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering. In 1984, Dave was hired by General Electric Company, serving in several management and supervisory capacities, including managing a three-shift operation for the assembly of electronic jet engine controls. In 1988, he enrolled in Harvard Business School where he earned his Masters in Business Administration.
Dave moved to the Hornell area in 1990, serving as Program Manager at Morrison Knudsen Corporation and American Passenger Rail Car Company. He became the Senior Vice-President of Operations at Transportation and Transit Associates (TTA) in 1997, where he directed operations for TTA’s Hornell, Kanona, NY and San Francisco, CA locations. He was also the Vice-President and General Manager of Transportations Systems for AAI Corporation.
In 2003, Dave established Gray Consulting, which provided strategic plans and technical guidance to various transit clients. In 2006, with extensive knowledge and expertise in the rail car industry, Dave founded and was the President & CEO of Gray Manufacturing Industries (GMI). For the last 15 years, he has operated this successful business supplying manufactured and remanufactured components and technical services to the Rail Transit Industry.
Dave was a devout, lifelong Catholic. He was a member of St. John and James Parish in Ferguson, Mary Queen of Peace Parish in Clarksville, and most recently, a dedicated parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church in Hornell where he served as Eucharistic Minister.
Wherever Dave went, he was making friends, helping people who needed help, creating laughter and smiles, and was eager to tackle any problem for anyone at any time. No one will ever know all the things he has done for others or all the lives he has touched along the way.
An active community member, Dave sat on numerous boards and volunteered for many organizations in Hornell. He always found time for others, and tirelessly worked to make Hornell a better place. He was a board member and volunteer at the Hornell YMCA for nearly 20 years and was instrumental in the construction of the new building, which was completed in 2011. Dave was also a member of the Board of Directors of Maple City Savings Bank and The Hornell Chamber of Commerce and was a past member of the Board of Directors at St. James Mercy Hospital. He was a United Way advocate, a lifelong blood donor for the American Red Cross, a Cub Scout Den Leader, and a Boy Scout Troop 16 Committee Member. He was a Hornell Little League coach and was recognized as Coach of the Year in 2019. But Dave’s proudest contribution to the community was his role in the founding of St. Ann’s Academy (SAA) in 2012. For the past 9 years, he has dedicated time and resources to SAA, from raising money to keep tuition rates low for the children of the community, to purchasing equipment, wiring the building, installing white boards and projectors, fixing plumbing, shoveling snow and taking out trash, to bringing pizza to the school children and supporting the teachers and staff in every way possible.
In addition to serving his community, Dave loved gardening and working outdoors. He cherished his yearly deer-hunting trips with friends to Wyoming. When he wasn’t working or volunteering, Dave could be found at Twin Hickory Golf Club (especially with his Ex-Gods Golf League buddies) or at his cottage on Loon Lake. He was a member of the Hornell Association, Hornell Elks Lodge, and the Knights of Columbus. But most of all, Dave loved the time he spent with family, especially sporting events and Boy Scout activities with his son, Nicholas.
On May 19, 2007, Dave was married at St. Ann’s Church in Hornell to the former Penelope (Penny) Sherburne who survives. Also surviving are his son, Nicholas of Hornell; step-children, Kaelyn (Matt) Willcox of East Syracuse, NY and Matthew Dessena of Conway, SC; his parents, Dr. John & Margaret (Veth) Gray of Clarksville, MO; two brothers, Joe (Jo Ann) Gray of Clarksville, MO and Mike (Sandy) Gray of St. Charles, MO; sister-in-law, Ellen Gray of Kirksville, MO; his mother- and father-in-law, Dave & Liz Sherburne of Hornell; brother-in-law, John (Diana) Sherburne of Marstons Mills, MA; sister-in law, Kim Sherburne of Lakewood Ranch, FL; several God-children; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Dave was preceded in death by his brother, Mark Gray in 2017; two infant siblings, Teresa Gray and Stephen Gray; grandparents, James & Anna Gray and Otto & Theresa Veth.
There are many words to describe David Gray… selfless, honest, trustworthy, passionate, hard-working, giving, brilliant, and kind to name a few. Dave was generous beyond measure and would give everything he had to his community and commitments. But most of all, he was a devoted husband to Penny, a proud and loving father to Nicholas and step-children Kaelyn & Matthew, a loyal and attentive son, brother, and friend.
Knowing Dave had an impact on the lives of so many, friends are encouraged to send a letter to Dave’s son, Nicholas, sharing a story or anecdote about how Dave touched your life.
At Dave’s family’s request, there will be no public calling hours. Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday (July 20th) at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church with Fr. Stan Kacprzak officiating. The Funeral Mass for David A. Gray will be streamed live and can be viewed on the Dagon Funeral Home Facebook page on Tuesday at 10:00 AM by visiting www.facebook.com/dagonfuneralhome. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Dave’s goal was for St. Ann’s Academy to serve the children of our community for generations to come. Friends and family have agreed to establish a long-term fund in his name. To help achieve that goal, please consider a gift to St. Ann’s Academy, 41 Genesee St., Hornell, NY 14843.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com or www.facebook.com/dagonfuneralhome.
Mark L. McGregor
Mark L. McGregor – 31 – of Douglas City, CA, formerly of Hornell died unexpectedly Sunday afternoon (June 27, 2021) in California.
Born in Hornell on September 19, 1989, he was the son of Benjamin McGregor and the former Anna Micglire.
Mark, affectionately known as “Woodstock”, “Wookfoot”, “Funky Bunch” and/or “Brodee Bear” grew up in the Hornell – Canaseraga area and attended Canaseraga Central School & Hornell High School and later earned his General Education Development (GED) Degree.
While living in the Hornell – Canaseraga area, Mark was employed at the AAC Asbestos Removal Company for several years. In 2017 he moved to Tennessee where he was employed at Speedy Line Striping, a company owned by his mother & step-father. Since 2020 Mark has resided in California & Oregon where he worked as a “cultivator” for a Medical Marijuana company.
Mark absolutely was a true outdoorsman who loved nature and all of its beauty. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and climbing trees. He also had a deep appreciation of music and especially loved going to Grateful Dead concerts. He loved attending music festivals and would often sing when camping with his friends. He had an affection for animals — especially dogs.
He was preceded in death by his father, Benjamin “Ben” McGregor; his maternal grandfather, Carl Micglire; paternal grandparents, Mark & Phyllis McGregor.
Surviving are his mother & step-dad, Anna & Jason Holley of Mt. Juliet, TN; his siblings, Ashley Micglire of Canandaigua, Sara Shroyer of Canaseraga NY, Devon (Laken) Mullen of Deltona, FL, Lucas (Erica Sawyer) Towner of Arkport, Matt Holley of Canisteo, Mike Holley of Canisteo, Michelle Holley of Canisteo and Travis Holley of London, OH; maternal grandmother, Mary Micglire of Clifton Springs, NY; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces & nephews.
At Mark’s request there will be no calling hours. A private graveside service will be held at Rural Cemetery at the convenience of the family with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.
Family & friends are invited to a “Celebration of Life” on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at 5:30 pm the Hornell VFW where Mark will be remembered and stories shared.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Mark’s family request that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.
Sally Cleveland
Sally A. Cleveland – 81 – of 8655 Rider Road, Arkport, formerly of Hornell, died Friday afternoon (June 25, 2021) at her home, following a long illness.
Born in North Hornell on December 24, 1939, she was the daughter of John & Marian (Kull) Jamison.
She resided in the Hornell – Arkport area for most of her life, lived in Horseheads for about 20 years and for the past 10 years spent the winter months in Florida.
Sally grew up in Arkport and was a graduate of Arkport Central School (class of 1957). In here younger years she helped out at her mother’s diner in Arkport and later in life was employed as a cook & housekeeper for Steuben County ARC.
She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and loved spending time working her rose garden.
Sally was married on June 28, 1957 to Ronald Cleveland who died in 2009. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Glenn Jamison.
Surviving are her children, Anna Marie Cleveland of Millerton, PA, Rosemary O’Neil of Yorktown, VA, Mary Beth (Jon) Peterson of Hornell, Ralph (Trisha) Cleveland of Arkport, Rachel (Nathan) Perrine of Fredericksburg, VA and Gretchen (Philip Bartlett) Cleveland of Arkport; 2 brothers, John (Rosalie) Jamison of Arkport and Wally (Susan) Jamison of Arkport; 2 sisters, Betty Bear of Hornellsville and Bonnie Snyder of Hornellsville; 17 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; nieces & nephews.
At Sally’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.
Sally’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to CareFirst Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, NY 14870.