Arkport, New York

Diane M. Stephens – 67 – of County Route 52, Arkport, NY (Town of Burns) died early Sunday morning (July 27, 2025) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on June 16, 1958, she was the daughter of Raymond & Vera (Gardner) Stephens.

Diane grew up in Hornell and attended Hornell High School.  Throughout the years, she was employed at several local businesses including Marion Rohr Corporation, the former Pudgy’s Pizza and the former Super 8 Motel.  Most recently she served as a Certified Nurse’s Assistant (CNA) at Hornell Gardens (Maple City Rehab).

Never being afraid of “Placing a Wager or Two,” Diane enjoyed visiting the Casinos in Salamanca, NY but absolutely cherished the time spent with her family, especially her daughter, granddaughter & great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Raymond & Vera Stephens, Diane was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Rodney Stephens and Ronald Stephens; 2 sisters, Linda dibble and Marlene Herbert.

Surviving are her daughter, Katrina Groves of Arkport (Town of Burns); her granddaughter, Destiny (Logan) Dubois of Canaseraga; 4 great-grandchildren, Adelynn Groves, Gracesyn Groves, Natalie Dubois and Everly Dubois; her former husband & friend, John Groves; many nieces & nephews.

At Diane’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.

Diane’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to either the American Heart Association, PO Box 3049, Syracuse, NY  13220 or to the American Cancer Society, 13 Beech St., Johnson City, NY  13790.

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

Arkport, NY

John B. Willis – 68 – of West Avenue, Arkport, died early Monday morning (July 28, 2025) at The Vincent House in Wayland, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Upland, PA on January 12, 1957, he was the son of Talmage and Norma (Been) Willis.

As a young child, John lived in Seattle, WA then moved to South Dakota where he attended Lead High School. Before graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army at 17 years of age. He was stationed in Alaska and completed his schooling at Fairbanks High School. John proudly served his country for 9 years before his honorable discharge in Augst, 1983.

Upon his honorable discharge, John began his career in the transportation industry while living in New York, South Dakota, and Washington. Throughout the years, he was a shipping manager in a wood & drapery plant and a truck driver for a short time. In the 1990s, John moved to Warsaw, NY and was employed by Champion. He was hired by Covered Wagon Tours in Hornell in 2000 and served as Motorcoach Operator before retiring due to injury in 2010.

John was a member of the Webbs Crossing Bible Church in Hornell. He enjoyed hunting.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, Wayne Willis.

He is survived by his daughter, Kristin (Michael Halbert) Willis of Arkport; his son, Joshua Willis of Seattle, WA; step-daughter, Seantea (Ross) Temple of Murfreesboro, TN; 1 sister, Stephanie (David) Spindler of Cocoa Beach, FL; 2 brothers, Talmage E. (Deborah) Willis, III of Denver, CO & Keith (Millet) Willis of San Antonio, TX; 5 grandchildren, Andrew Wilson, Kiera Halbert, Raelyn Halbert, Wren Temple, & June Temple; several nieces and nephews.

To honor John’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or services. Funeral arrangements are in care of Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church Street, Hornell, NY.

John’s family requests that memorial contribution in his name be made to The American Cancer Society by visiting https://donate.cancer.org/.

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

In recognition of John’s service in the United States Army, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.

Arkport, New York

Douglas M. “Doug” Smith – 72 – of Pine Knoll Park, Arkport, NY died early Saturday morning (July 26, 2025) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on March 18, 1953, he was the son of Merlin & Noritta (Kennell) Smith.

Doug grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1971).  While in high school, he was a member of the Red Raider Soccer Team.

Following high school graduation, Doug, who always enjoyed being outdoors, worked for a local tree company pruning Christmas trees.  For over 25 years he was employed at the former Erie Railroad, Erie-Lackawanna Railroad, Conrail and Pohl Railroad, working in various capacities, retiring in 1999 as Rail Supervisor.  From 2000-2008, he was employed at Superior Well Services in Bradford, PA.

Following his “retirement,” Doug was employed as a carpenter & laborer for several local construction companies.  He also never hesitated to jump on a tractor to help his cousin, Gerry Smith on his farm or help his best friend, Ray Nesbit, bail hay (and drink beer)!!  Most recently he served as a bartender at the Arkport American Legion.

In his younger years, Doug enjoyed nature, hunting and simply being outdoors.  He loved camping with his family and attending his children & grand-children’s sporting events and school activities.  Doug was a die-hard Buffalo Bills fan (especially during the Super Bowl years) and an avid New York Yankee fan.  He was also a long-time member of the Arkport American Legion.

Doug will be remembered most as the man with the distinguished blond hair, marvelous mustache and daring “Dougie Dukes.”  He worked hard for most of his life and was glad to be able to enjoy the simple life of retirement.  Being able to spend time on the golf course with his two boys; talking farming with Rachel; and receiving updates on his two grandchildren’s accomplishments were the best parts of his day.  We cannot forget the visits from his grand-pup, Keeper, who always put a smile on his face.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Dean Smith; sister, Diane Kubiak; his sister-in-law, Mary Smith; and his former wife, Brigette Smith.

Surviving are his children, Rachel (Adam) Smith of Arkport, Andrew (Juliet Berry) Smith of Buffalo and Nick (Raven) Smith of Hornell; 2 brothers, Dwight Smith of Arkport and Jack Smith of New Church, VA; 2 sisters, Dawn (Charlie) Sutfin of Hornell and Debbie (Bill) Saam of Fayetteville, NC; 2 grandsons, Carson Smith and Callum Smith; several nieces, nephews, cousins & friends.

At Doug’s request there will be no calling hours.  A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Thursday (August 7, 2025) from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Arkport American Legion.  All are welcome!

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

Doug’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Arkport Junior Baseball League, C/O Mary Marcus, 196 Ellis Hill Road, Arkport, NY  14807.

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

Hornell, New York

Geraldine E. “Geri” Lorow – 93 – of Myrtle Ave., Hornell, formerly of Armory Place, Hornell, died Wednesday afternoon (July 9, 2025) surrounded by her loving family, following a long illness.

Born in Alfred Station, NY on May 10, 1932, she was the daughter of Floyd & Hattie (Blowers) Norton.

A resident of Hornell for most of her adult life, Geri was a “Stay-At-Home-Mom” and also did house-cleaning part time.  Before her eyes failed her, she enjoyed embroidery— creating beautiful pillow cases & doilies.  She was also an avid reader of James Patterson books.

She had been a member of the Park Methodist Church (on Union Park) and was a life-member of the Hornell VFW and also a member of the Hornell AMVETS.

She was married on June 10, 1950 to Bernard “Bernie” Lorow who died March 22, 2010.  Together Geri & Bernie could be seen taking daily long walks throughout the Hornell area, long before it became fashionable.

In addition to her husband, Geri was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Peter Robbins; her daughter-in-law, Vera Lorow; her sister, Marie Winters; 5 brothers, Archie Norton, Charlie Norton, Gilbert Norton, Harold Norton and Lavern Norton.

Surviving are 3 sons, Robert Lorow of Hornell, Rick Lorow of Hornell and Bill (Darlene) Lorow of Dansville; 1 daughter, Patricia “Patti” Robbins of Hornell; 1 brother, Eugene Norton of Hornell; 8 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; nieces & nephews.

The family of Geraldine E. “Geri” Lorow will receive friends on Sunday from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Monday at 11:00 AM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  Burial will be in Rural Cemetery, Hornell, NY.

Geri’s family request 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 St. Jude Children’s Hospital, PO Box 1000, (Department 300), Memphis, TN 38148.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

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

Hornell, New York

Barry R. Mullen – 70 – of Beechwood Terrace, Hornell, NY died unexpectedly Wednesday morning (July 9, 2025) at his home.

Born in Hornell on November 14, 1954, he was the son of Bernard & Zelia (Hoyt) Mullen.

Barry grew up in the Canisteo-Greenwood area and was a graduate of Canisteo Central School (class of 1974).  He was a veteran of the United States Air Force, serving his country from 1976 – 1982. While serving in the Air Force, Barry earned the rank of Staff Sergeant and was stationed in several locations throughout the world, including his time spent in Korea.

Following his honorable discharge from the military, Barry returned to the Canisteo area where he was employed at the Mullen family farm and the former Morrison-Knudson (M-K) Corporation.

In his younger years, he enjoyed playing football with his family, cooking and baking, throughout the years he was an avid New York Yankee (MLB) fan and a die-hard Buffalo Bills (NFL) fan.  Barry had a deep affection for animals and will be sadly missed by his “feline companion,” Booker-T.

In addition to his parents, Barry was preceded in death by his brother, Dennis Mullen and his daughter-in-law Ambur Miller.

Surviving are 3 sons, Jamie Mullen of Rochester, Bradley (Alisha) Mullen of Myrtle Beach, SC and Adam Mullen of Hornell; 2 daughters, Catherine Novick of Rochester and Rachel Mullen of Canisteo; 5 brothers, Maurice (Marsha) Mullen of Rexville, Bernard Mullen, Jr. of Hornell, Patrick (Diane) Mullen of Hartsville, Mark (Carol) Mullen of Greenwood and Randy (Connie) Mullen of Canisteo; 2 sisters, Mary Hope (Ralph) Horton of Canisteo and Holly (Ernie) Lang of Hartsville; sister-in-law, Karen (Rick) Hamilton of Hornell; 9 grandchildren, Jamison, Liam, Joshua, Isabelle, Jackson, Charles, Mackenzie, Blair & Adalyn; many nieces & nephews.

At Barry’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services with full Military Honors will be held at the Bennetts Creek Cemetery in Greenwood at the convenience of the family.

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

Barry’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell SPCA, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell N.Y.

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

Hornell, New York

Gerald D. “Jerry” O’Donoghue – 74 – died Tuesday morning (July 8, 2025) at Maple City Rehabilitation & Nursing Center (formerly Hornell Gardens) where he had resided for the past 8 years.

Born in Denver, CO on September 30, 1950, he was the son of Edward & Irene O’Donoghue.

Jerry grew up in Aurora, CO and was a graduate of Aurora High School (class of 1968).  He was a veteran of the US Navy, serving his country during the Vietnam era.

He resided for many years in Canandaigua, NY where he was employed at the Pickering Pub.  Jerry was a Denver Broncos fan and also a Buffalo Bills fan.  He will be remembered for the great sense of humor.

Surviving are 5 children, Jesse O’Donoghue of North Carolina, Cory O’Donoghue of Avoca, Kristy O’Donoghue of Hornell, Melody O’Donoghue of Newport News, VA and Daniela O’Donoghue of Elmira; several brothers, sisters, nieces & nephews.

At Jerry’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.

Jerry’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, visits www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

Almond, NY

Joanne Theresa George – 70 – of Donnelly Road, Almond, died peacefully early Wednesday morning (July 2, 2025) at her home, following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on October 9, 1954, she was the daughter of the late Henry & Irene (Ferrin) George.

A lifelong resident of Almond, NY, Joanne graduated from Alfred-Almond Central School (class of 1972).  Following a brief employment at Motorola in Arcade, NY, she was hired as a bus driver and custodian at Alfred-Almond Central School.  She was a dedicated employee for over 40 years before her retirement in 2018.

In her younger years, she spent time helping her mom with quilting.  She also enjoyed dancing and bowling and spent many years competing in a bowling league with her mom and sisters.  Joanne also loved NASCAR racing and was a huge fan of the Buffalo Bills.

Joanne was a member Ss. Brendan & Jude Parish and a communicant of St. Brendan’s Church in Almond.  She was also a member of the Hornell VFW and Hornell Moose Lodge.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Paul George & John George.

Joanne is survived by six brothers, Nicholas (Patsy) George of Hartsville, Edward (Lorraine) George of Almond, Frank (Eunice Darnell) George of North Hornell, Charles (Connie Delp) George of Houston, TX, Christopher (Deborah) George of Almond, Philip (Cathy) George of Gastonia, NC; five sisters, Lucille (Charles DeBord) Mix of Charlotte, NC, Theresa (David) Koch of Raleigh, NC, Polly (Steve) Mehlenbacher of Almond, Jessie (Kevin) Howe of Almond, and Rose Marie George of Almond; sister-in-law, Bonnie George of Almond; many nieces, nephews, & cousins.  She will also be sadly missed by her dear friends, Bill “Foob” Hayes and Robin Royer.

The family of Joanne Theresa George will receive friends on Monday (July 7, 2025) from 10:00 AM until 12:00 Noon at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church Street, Hornell, NY.  Funeral services will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 12:00 Noon with Fr. Jeff Donovan officiating.  Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Almond, NY.

Joanne’s family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to St. Jude Chapel, 17 Maple Avenue, Wellsville, NY 14895.

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

North Hornell, NY

Christine “Chris” Williams – 67 – of Cleveland Ave., North Hornell, died early Wednesday morning (July 2, 2025) at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility following a long illness.

Born in New Albany, MS on July 29, 1957, she was the daughter of Elmer & Amanda (Boles) Folsom.

Chris resided in Mississippi until she was about 10 years old when her family moved north to the South Fallsburg, NY area.  She was a graduate of Monticello Central High School (class of 1975) and later attended cosmetology school in Middletown, NY.

A talented photographer, Chris was employed for several years at the Concord Hotel in the Catskill Mountains photographing weddings, fashion shows and other events.  She also became friends with Muhammad Ali and served as his personal photographer as he did much of his training for up-coming fights at the Concord Hotel.

For several years, Chris lived in Miami, FL where she served as a photographer and also worked at a high fashion store.  She has resided in the Hornell area since 1993.

Chris was a “self-proclaimed homebody” who loved every kind of music, including R&B, Hip-Hop, Soul Music and the Blues.   In her younger years she loved dancing — especially during the Disco Years and doing the “Hustle.”

A strong, out-spoken, free spirited woman, Chris liked to read fashion magazines and the Bible.  She also enjoyed shooting pool, playing cards and dining on soul food along with “down-south cuisine” from Mississippi.  Chris was a true “Survivor” who lived 25 years with just one lung.  Doctors called her a “Miracle.”

She was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Dwight Folsom and Samuel Folsom; 2 sisters, Della Mae Folsom-Sheppard and Louise Fingers.

On April 20, 1985, Chris married Samuel “Sam” Williams who survives.  Also surviving are her daughter, Ashley Williams of Canandaigua, NY; her step-son, Kory Williams of Atlanta, GA; 2 brothers, Willie Folsom of Holly Springs, MS and John Folsom of Ithaca, NY; 4 sisters, Lucille Herbent of Liberty, NY, Edith Sheppard of Pembroke Pines, FL, Claudette Folsom of Monticello, NY and Brenda Folsom of Chicago, IL; 2 grandchildren, December Williams and Jordan Williams; many nieces & nephews.

At Christine’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.

Chris’ 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 or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

Hornell, New York

David James Murphy, affectionately known as “Murph,” passed away on June 23, 2025, in Wellsville, NY, at the age of 63, following a brief illness.

Born on June 11, 1962, in Hornell, NY, he was the son of John and Maureen (Babcock) Murphy.

Dave grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1981). Following high school graduation, Dave enlisted with the United States Marine Corp and served with the 1st Marine Division as a Field Radio Operator for 3 years.  His commitment to service continued in civilian life through a 29-year career with the New York State Department of Corrections.  He retired in 2019.  This was followed by his work as a Special Patrol Officer for the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department with his time spent at the Steuben Country Court House.

He was a fiercely loyal fan of the Miami Dolphins, much to the dismay of his Buffalo Bills-loving family, and also cheered on the New York Yankees.  He enjoyed golfing and sharing drinks with friends (especially Bud Light and Jim Beam).  Most of all, David enjoyed spending quality time with his family, and he loved his role as a Papa over the past several years.

David is survived by his wife, Shana (Johnson) Murphy of Hornell, NY; his children Erin (Oliver) Masaba of Pittsford, NY, Kristen (Andrew) Sweezy of Wellsville, NY, Tyler Johnson of Hornell, NY, and Brody (Cindy) Murphy of Hornell, NY.  He was a proud Papa to Evelyn and Bennett Masaba, Alexandria, Salvatore, Vivianna Sweezy, and Emerick Johnson.  He is also survived by his brothers Andrew (Marcia) Murphy of Beaumont, CA, Matthew (Kari) Murphy of Richmond, Virginia, and Shawn Murphy of Hornell, NY, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John & Maureen Murphy, and his brother and sister-in-law, Garth & Tracey Murphy.

Dave will be remembered for his remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and at ease. He never met a stranger and made friends from all walks of life with his big heart, quick wit, and easygoing nature.

The family of David J. “Murph” Murphy will receive friends on Saturday (July 12, 2025) from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM 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 2:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor can be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

In honor of Dave’s service to his country as a member of the US Marine Corp, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.

Billie E. Creeley – 88 – of County Road #119, Canisteo, NY (Hamlet of Adrian) died early Sunday morning (June 22, 2025) at Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville, following a time of illness.

Born in Hornell on July 16, 1936, she was the daughter of William & Esther (Howland) McCourt.

A lifelong resident of the Adrian area, Billie was a graduate of Canisteo Central School (class of 1955).  Following high school graduation, she was employed for several years at Westinghouse Corporation in Bath, NY.

On February 22, 1958, she was married to Lawrence “Larry” Creeley.  While raising their six children, Billie served as a “Stay-At-Home” mom.  After raising her family she re-entered the work force and held several part-time jobs at various businesses including Home Video, Hornell Gardens and McDonalds.  She retired about 10 years ago due to ill health.

Billie was a former member of West Jasper Wesleyan Church.  She enjoyed spending time in the kitchen cooking & baking and also loved sewing & crocheting and creating beautiful Afghans, hats & quilts.  Billie was an accomplished artist who enjoyed oil painting, water colors, acrylics and chalk drawings.  Her happiest times, however, were family events such as birthdays, weddings, holiday gatherings and attending school events.

In addition to her parents, Billie was preceded in death by her brother, William McCourt; her son-in-law, Steve Yadanza.

Surviving are her husband, Lawrence “Larry” Creeley; 5 daughters, Pam Yadanza of Lake Villa, IL, Lari (Mike) Kommer of Palmyra, NY, Gwen (David) Wilson of Wayland, Carla (Mike) Brown of Canisteo and Stephanie (Dennis) Read of Ithaca, NY; her son, Greg (Michelle) Creeley of Cameron Mills, NY; her sister, Patricia (Leonard) Graves of Middlesex, NY; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; nieces & nephews.

At Billie’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.

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

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