Hornell, New York
Geraldine “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.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Hornell, New York
Barry R. Mullen – 70 – of Beechwood Terrace, Hornell, NY died unexpectedly Wednesday morning (July 9, 2025) at his home.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Hornell, New York
Gerald D. 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.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
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.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
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.
Atlanta, New York
Sandra L. “Sandy” Ramsey – 72 – of 12 Wayland St., Atlanta, NY died unexpectedly on Tuesday (June 17, 2025) at her home, following a long illness.
Born in Valencia, NM on March 5, 1953, she was the daughter of Dudley & Ester (Chavez) Ramsey.
Sandy grew up in Palms Springs, CA and was involved in the “Food Industry” most of her adult life. She was known as a disciplined hard worker, who was always had a smile on her face and was friendly to both staff & customers. While living in California, Sandy worked in several bars & restaurants and served as manager of The Sundowner.
Moving to Rochester, NY in her early 40’s, Sandy was employed as a cook, bartender & waitress for several restaurants including manager of the Wishing Well Party House. In 2001, she moved to the Hornell area and served as manager of Rupert’s Restaurant (Coachlite Motel).
She enjoyed working on jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles and watching Jeopardy on TV. Her greatest joy in life, however, was simply spending time with her family — especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Sandy will be remembered as having a great sense of humor and it was always easy to talk to her. She was very much loved and will be dearly missed by everyone that had the good fortune of knowing her!
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Steve Ramsey; her great-grandson, Adonis Michael-Zachariah George.
Surviving are 3 daughters, Christine Valentic of Ukiah, CA, Roxanne Fuller of Hornell and Angela Cuevas of Modesto, CA; 2 brothers, Allen Ramsey of Palm Springs, CA and Philip Ramsey of Arizona; 8 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; several nieces & nephews.
At Sandy’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.
Sandy’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 or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Hornell, New York
Joanne L. Hawkins – 90 – formerly of 32 East Van Scoter St., Hornell, died peacefully late Friday evening (May 30, 2025), surrounded by her loving family at Elderwood Hornell Nursing Facility in North Hornell, where she had resided for the past 3 ½ years in the memory care unit.
Born in North Hornell on January 26, 1935, she was the daughter of Alco & Louise (Gibson) Lawrow.
Joanne grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1952). While in high school, she served as a class officer, participated in many sports, her favorite being a part of the HHS Cheerleading Team which would serve her well later in life.
Following high school graduation Joanne was employed briefly as a secretary at Maple City Savings & Loan. For over 30 years she served as a switchboard telephone operator at the former New York Telephone Company in Hornell, retiring as a supervisor.
After retirement and having a love of children, Joanne owned & operated “Grandma’s Day Care” for over 30 years, starting with her grandkids to then serve the community as a licensed & certified day care provider for local children. She also served as a “Foster Mom” for many Hillside and Steuben County Pro-Action children along with special needs children.
Joanne was a longtime member of St.
Ignatius Loyal Church (Our Lady of the Valley Parish) and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church. She later attended St. Brendan’s Church of Almond and St. Mary’s Church of Dansville. Joanne was a devoted follower of Christ and a spiritual guide to her children. Joanne’s father helped build the wooden pews at St. Ignatius Loyal Church. All her children were baptized in the church, attended mass regularly, religious instruction class, participated in the church choir, were altar boys and helped with church grounds. Joanne’s unwavering faith in God was shown by her daily wearing of many crosses.
Having a deep love of nature, Joanne enjoyed taking long drives around the countryside admiring God’s beauty. She especially loved the beauty of the sunshine and sweet smell of flowers. In her younger years, she enjoyed bowling and had been a member of several bowling leagues. She was a previous member of the Hornell Moose Lodge, Hornell VFW and the Hornell Association. She was also a dancer of the Mothers Class of John Ox Dance School.
Joanne will fondly be remembered as being dedicated to her children and grandchildren. She could be described as a “Super Fan” and was not afraid to show her enthusiasm and cheerleading ability while watching their games. She could always be seen driving with her Red Raider gear and matching hair bows that earned her name “Grandma Bow-tie.” She was always holding up traffic honking her horn and/or sharing her goodie bag she had in her car with all of her angels. She was always the loudest fan and never missed a sporting event to cheer on her kids, grandkids, families and all of her loved ones. Although she was a lifelong super fan of Hornell, she loved to travel to Florida and Texas to stay with her kids and grandkids when she was able to.
She will be reunited in heaven with her 2 brothers, twin brother Jack (Val) Lawrow and Bill (Arlene) Lawrow; 3 sisters, Jacqueline Lawrow, Mary VanAllen and Betty (Joe) McKee; her sons-in-law, Brian Flaitz and Larry Brasher.
Surviving are her beautiful “Angels” – 3 daughters, Cathy (Greg) Rollins of Hornell, Karen (Dan) Schu of Arkport and Mary Christine Brasher of Inverness, FL; 3 sons, David (Mercedes) Stiles of Dallas, TX, Michael (Teasha) Stiles of Hornell and Richie (Brenda) Hawkins of Mesquite, TX. Also surviving is her former spouse Richard K Hawkins of Dunkirk, NY; Grandchildren, Sherri (Greg) Helmer, Samantha (Chris) Hopkins, Greg Jr (Sara) Rollins, Kevin (Kim) Rollins, Candace (Dennis) Westfall, Eric Roosa, Sara Sapalo, Mike (Bri) Stiles, Trevor (Brooke) Stiles, Josh (Ashley) Stiles, Patty Pritchard, Stephanie Dashnaw, Tyler (Haygan) Hawkins, & Lexi (Jason) Aguilar; Great-grandchildren, Kaden, Justin, Kyle, Jake, Nolan, Noah, Ian, Emma, Sophia, Cohen, Connor, Cade, Juliet, Olivia, Ryleigh, Madison, Aniyah, Jazlynn, Mac, Parker Kate.
The family of Joanne L. Hawkins will receive friends on Monday, (June 23, 2025) from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, (June 24, 2025) at 11:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church, 31 Erie Ave., Hornell, NY with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Fremont, NY.
Joanne’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hornell Alumni Association, PO Box 135, Hornell, NY 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.
The family would like to give a very special thank you to all the wonderful caregivers and staff at the Memory Care Unit at Elderwood of Hornell.
As she would always say its not a good bye, it’s until we meet again. God Bless.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Hornell, NY
Eleanor J. “Ellie” (Trowbridge) Hillman – 95 – of Pardee Street, Hornell, died peacefully Monday morning (June 16, 2025) at home, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Hornell on February 21, 1930, she was the daughter of the late William & Winifred (Cullinan) Trowbridge.
Eleanor grew up in Hornell and graduated from Hornell High School (class of 1949). She enjoyed working summers and holidays at the former MacBride’s Clothing Store. While living in Scranton, PA, she was employed in the accounting department at the Erie Railroad before moving back to Hornell in the 1960s. She retired as a bank teller at First State Bank in Canisteo, NY. Most importantly, however, she was a devoted stay-at-home mother and homemaker for many years while her children were young.
A loving wife, mother, and grandmother, Ellie found joy in the simple things in life. She enjoyed good conversation and was happiest at home, spending time with her family.
She was married on April 25, 1964 to Robert “Bob” Hillman, who predeceased her on September 19, 2018. Eleanor was also preceded in death by her son, James “Jim” Hillman on March 14, 2024; 3 sisters, Norma (Edward) Hartford, Dolores (Raymond) Chapman, & Mary Margaret (William) Havens; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Leo (Isabelle) Hillman & John (Mary) Hillman.
Surviving are her son, David (Kathleen) Hillman of Hornell; daughter, Kim (John) Weyand of Hornell; grandchildren, Sara (Derek) Ras, Robert “RJ” Hillman, Ren Hillman, Shawn (Heidi) Hillman, Jacob Weyand, & Spencer Weyand; great-granddaughter, Eleanor Juliann “Ellie J” Ras; sister-in-law, Rosemary Walton of Ashville, NC; many nieces & nephews.
To honor Eleanor’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A private graveside service will be held at St. Ann’s Cemetery with Father Stan Kacprzak officiating.
Eleanor’s family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, 505 Eighth Avenue, Suite 1402, New York, NY 10018 or by visiting https://hdsa.org/hdsacoeuofr/.
Ellie’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you for the wonderful care she received from her team at Tender Loving Home Care, especially Lena, Heather, Aimee, Heidi, Kim, Brynn, and Bobbie Jo.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church Street, Hornell, NY.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, please visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com or www.facebook.com/dagonfuneralhome.