Hilton, NY / Hornell, NY

Diane M. Caruso – 64 – of Hilton, NY, formerly of Arkport, NY, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with metastatic melanoma.

Born in Hornell, NY, she was the cherished daughter of Robert and Patricia (Burke) Dwyer. Diane grew up in the Arkport area and graduated from Arkport Central School with the Class of 1980. She followed her calling to care for others by pursuing her RN at Alfred State College. She later earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Roberts Wesleyan University and went on to complete her Master’s Degree.

Diane dedicated more than 40 years to the nursing profession. Although she brought her exceptional skills to several specialized areas, including maternity/obstetrics and aesthetics, oncology was her lifelong passion. For more than 30 years, she poured her heart, knowledge, and profound empathy into caring for people with cancer and supporting their families. She was known for her professionalism, clinical skill, and deeply compassionate nature, which made people feel safe and cared for during some of life’s most difficult moments.

An exceptionally strong and independent woman, Diane’s greatest pride was raising her three beloved children: Chelsie Caruso, Angelo Caruso and Michael Caruso (Tamra Tills). She was also the adoring grandmother of Jaicee, Rosalie, and Cassidy who brought immeasurable light and happiness to her life.

Those who knew Diane will remember her quick wit, strength, faith, and fierce devotion to the people she loved. She found joy in music and expressed her immense love for her family through her passion for cooking and baking, always creating warmth and lasting memories around the table. A lifelong animal lover, Diane shared an especially deep bond with her cherished Chow Chows, Honey and Song, who held a permanent place in her heart.

Diane is survived by her parents, Robert and Patricia Dwyer; her children and grandchildren; and her sisters, Tracy (Mike) Dwyer-Baker, Colleen (Francis) Argentieri, and Meghan Dwyer (Chris Cartella). She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, as well as a large, loving network of extended family, colleagues, and dear friends.

She was reunited in heaven with her older brother, Robert Patrick “Bobby” Dwyer and her maternal and paternal grandparents.

The family of Diane M. Caruso will receive friends on Wednesday (October 7, 2026) from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday (October 8, 2026) at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church, 35 Erie Ave., Hornell, NY, with burial to follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Diane’s honor to the Melanoma Research Foundation or a local oncology care unit to continue her legacy of supporting cancer patients.

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

Hornell, NY / Webster, NY

Teresa Marie Wachter – 85 – of Webster, NY, formerly of Hornell, changed her address to “Heaven” on Wednesday evening (September 30, 2026). She passed peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Hornell on February 16, 1941, she was the daughter of Salvatore & Anna Consiglio. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, James, for whom she was married for 63 years; her brother, Francis (Donna) Consiglio and a great-granddaughter, Leah Edlind.

Teresa grew up in Hornell and later moved to Buffalo where she graduated from Kenmore West High School. She returned to Hornell and entered the nursing program at St. James Mercy Hospital and became a nurse working in the maternity ward and later at the Hornell Nursing Home, both of which she loved. Teresa supported her husband with his local businesses through the years while raising a family. After raising her family, she returned to college at Alfred State where she graduated Dean’s List and received a degree in psychology.

An avid golfer, Teresa played in and won many tournaments in surrounding counties including the club championship at Twin Hickory Golf Club. Her style and décor skills were second to none both in fashion and home. She enjoyed shopping, cooking and trying new recipes.

Surviving are her two sons, Salvatore (Anna) Wachter, Jimmy (Geoff Ameele) Wachter; her daughter, Cherie Ann (David) Laudisi; her grandchildren, Justin (Sarah) Wachter and Matthew Wachter, Heather (Justin) Edlind, Daniel and Nicholas Laudisi; 5 great-grandchildren; three very loving sisters, Geraldine, Jeanne and Jane; many cousins, nieces & nephews who loved her dearly.

At Teresa’s request there will be no calling hours. Family & friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass on Friday, October 23, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church.

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

Teresa’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to either the U of R Home Health Care, 2180 Empire Blvd., Webster, NY 14580 or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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

Fremont, New York

Brian S. Sundwall – 52 – of 8121 State Route 21, Fremont, NY, died Monday afternoon (September 28, 2026) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a long illness.

Born in North Hornell on May 24, 1974, he was the son of Raymond & Sheila (Berry) Sundwall.

Brian grew up in Fremont and was a graduate of Arkport Central School (class of 1992). He had been employed for a time at Lamac Auto (Lamac Unlimited) as an auto technician and later worked for an asbestos removal service. In recent years, Brian served as cable lineman for several companies, including Cable Communication Service (CCS) of Rochester and Davey Resource Group based out of Cleveland, OH. Along with his wife, he also owned & operated North American Trading Company, an adult novelty shop in Fremont, NY.

In addition to his parents, Brian was preceded in death by his brother, John Sundwall; and his sister, Jane Sosa.

He was married on May 15, 1999 to the former Andrea Joslyn who survives. Also surviving are 2 sons, Anthony Sundwall and Logan Sundwall, both of Fremont; 3 sisters, Karen of Florida, Sherry of Georgia and Cindy of Florida; 1 brother, Jimmy of Florida; along with several nieces & nephews.

At Brian’s request there will be no calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. A “Celebration of Life” will be held at a later date.

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

Brian’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,

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

Bath, New York

Ellen J. Wilson – 78 – of Roosevelt Ave., Bath, NY died Saturday afternoon (September 19, 2026) at Arnot Ogden Hospital in Elmira, following a long illness.

Born in Bath, NY on January 29, 1948, she was the daughter of Harry & Erma (Failing) Shugars.

Ellen grew up in Bath and was a graduate of Bath Haverling High School (class of 1966). She had been employed for about 10 years at the Steuben County Department of Social Services (DSS) and later served as a social worker for Steuben County ARC for about 10 years, retiring in 2005.

A self-proclaimed “Shop-A-Holic,” Ellen loved looking for bargains at yard-sales & flea markets followed by dinner with her children and/or grandchildren at a nice restaurant. She could always find a good deal while shopping in stores with a “fist full of coupons.”

Having a deep love of her family, Ellen took full advantage of Facebook to keep in touch with her loved ones. She also enjoyed visiting the casinos, especially Tioga Downs spending time making a friendly wager and eating crab legs at the “all you can eat” buffet.

Ellen was preceded in death by her husband, Hezekiah Wilson who died July 20, 1999.

Surviving are her children, BJ Madigan, Kym Gadson of Hornell and Hezekiah “Hez” (Hannah Chicoine) Wilson, Jr. of Bath. The oldest of seven children, Ellen is also survived by her sister & constant companion, Elaine Galligan of Bath; her brother, Henry (Pat) Shugars of Bath with whom she shared many adventures; 6 grandchildren, J’Mari Gadson, J’Kara Gadson, Kiara, Keian, Bryant & Cody; along with nieces & nephews. Ellen will also be sadly missed by her dear friend, Alicia Hargraves.

At Ellen’s request there will be no calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family with final interment in Nondaga Cemetery, Bath, NY.

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

Ellen’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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

Canaseraga, New York

Scott D. Stephens – 56 – of River St., Canaseraga, NY, died unexpectedly Wednesday evening (September 16, 2026) at his home, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in North Hornell on October 30, 1969, he was the son of Kenneth “Ken” & Margery “Marge” (Watkins) Stephens.

Scott grew up in the Hornell / Arkport area and was a graduate of Arkport Central School (class of 1987). He had been employed for a time cleaning carpets — both residential and commercial. Scott later worked as an assembly-line worker at the former Morrison-Knudson (MK) Corporation in Hornell and along with various construction jobs. In recent years he served as a manager at Swain Ski Resort in Swain, NY.

A former member of both St. Ann’s Church and St. Ignatius Loyola Church, Scott was a true outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting (deer & small game) and fishing (ponds, lakes & streams). He loved rooting for the Buffalo Bills — especially during the Super Bowl years.

Scott’s greatest joy in life was simply spending time with his family — especially his granddaughters who brought him so much joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ken & Marge Stephens; his daughter, Erin Stephens; and his nephew, Joshua Wing.

On June 1, 1991, Scott married the former Tammy Brown who survives. Also surviving are 3 children, Justin (Allison) Kiblin of Dansville, Bridget Stephens of Canaseraga and Anna Stephens of Canaseraga; his brother, Kenneth Stephens, Jr. of Arkport; 2 sisters, Kathryn “Katy” (Patrick) Wing of Canisteo and Erin (Rick) Smith of Dansville; 4 granddaughters, Kinsley, Vivian, Ashlyn and Blakely; his mother-in-law, Janet; his aunt, Judy Adams; his uncle, Jerry (Karen) Stephens; many nieces, nephews & cousins.

The family of Scott D. Stephens will receive friends on Friday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 6:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. Final interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Fremont, NY.

Scott’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. 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

Joanne M. “Jo” Mullikin – 65 – of Pine St., Hornell, died Sunday morning (September 6, 2026) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on Mach 1, 1961, she was the daughter of Charles & Margaret (King) Brewer.

Joanne was preceded in death by her husband, Kevin Mullikin who died in 1990.

Surviving area 3 daughters, Tiffany Patterson of Elmira, Kayleigh Mullikin of Hornell and Zoie Brewer of Hornell; 1 son, Zach (Stacey) Mullikin of North Carolina; her parents, Charles “Charlie” & Margaret “Peggy” Brewer of Hornell; her brother, David (Cherylanne) Berwer of Canandaigua, NY; her sister, Barbara Rohan of New Hampshire; along with other family members.

At Joanne’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.

Joanne’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.

Bath, NY / Howard,NY

Jay Scott Stoddard – 66 – of Bath, NY (Town of Howard), died peacefully Wednesday afternoon (September 9, 2026) at his home with his family, following an extended illness.

Born in Corning on November 21, 1959, he was the son of David & Barbara (Hunter) Stoddard.

Jay grew up in Corning and attended East High School, receiving his high school diploma while serving in the military in Hawaii.

He was a Veteran of the United States Marine Corp and the US Seabees from 1977-1981 and was stationed in several locations, including Hawaii and the Philippines.

Jay was a long time employee of Wilson Rental Center in Corning and later worked as a Journeyman carpenter for the Carpenter’s local Union #277 of Elmira. Most recently, Jay served as a traveling Journeyman Millwright for the Millwrights local Union #1163 of Syracuse working throughout the US.

A resident of the Bath-Howard area for the past 23 years, Jay was affiliated with Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witness in Bath. He had previously served as a Volunteer Fireman in East Corning, NY.

Jay was most content while riding on his Farmall H or John Deere tractors, working his 27 acre farm. He enjoyed the homesteading life in Towlesville NY with his wife Amie and they raised their children there. Jay grew numerous kinds of vegetables for his family including huge crops of garlic and potatoes. Jay also enjoyed tending to his farm animals and tinkering with all kinds of machinery.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David & Barbara Stoddard and sister Suzanne Lampley.

On October 9, 1999, Jay married Amie (Crosson) who survives. Also surviving are his children, Marissa (Carlos) Lozada of Florence, NJ, Scott (Maky) Stoddard of Odessa, FL, Karri (Christian) Runnels of Hornell, Isaiah (Keri Taylor) Crosson of Corning, Jayson Stoddard of Hammondsport, Natalie (Colt) Leonard of Woodhull, Isabella Stoddard of Bath and Elizabeth Stoddard of Bath; 1 sister, Belinda (Ed Pietrzykowski) Wilcox of Dundee; 2 brothers, Tom Stoddard of Conway, SC and David (Sarah) Stoddard of Sanford, NC; grandchildren, Sam Stoddard-Brown, Noah Stoddard-Brown, Maribella Lozada, Zavier Lozada, Scarlett Stoddard, Dakota Castro, Emelia Runnels, Jameson Runnels, Avonlea Runnels, Declan Runnels and Wesley Leonard; as well as several nieces & nephews.

At Jay’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.

Jay’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 6968 East Washington St. Ext., Bath, NY 14810 or by visiting www.jw.org

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

Belfast, New York

Caroline B. Arnold – 76 – of South Main St., Belfast, NY, died Monday morning (September 7, 2026) at St. James Hospital, following a long illness.

Born in England on March 17, 1950, she was the daughter of Philip & Angela (Griffith) Olsen.

Caroline grew up in England and moved to the United States in 1972 at the age of twenty-two. For about 10 years she lived in Georgia and in 1982 moved to New York State settling in Allegany County. Throughout the years she resided in several locations, including Friendship, Scio, Richburg, Caneadea (26 years) and has lived in Belfast for the past 11 years.

An avid reader, Caroline especially enjoyed reading Stephen King novels. She loved learning new things along with basic trivia. She also enjoyed spending her time knitting, gardening & painting (watercolors).

Caroline loved spending time in the kitchen baking cakes, pies, cookies & desserts. She also loved making her own recipes and was famous for her Chocolate Cherry Cake. She also was an animal lover who, throughout the years, loved & cared for many dogs & cats.

She was married on August 31, 1991 to Maurice Arnold with whom she was “together” for 16 years prior to getting married. They have been a loving couple for the past 51 years.

Surviving are her husband, Maurice; her children, Caroline, Simon & Danny and her daughter, Marie Arnold of Belfast; her grandson, Colton D. Morgan of Belfast.

At Caroline’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.

Caroline’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.

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

Canaseraga, New York

Clarence T. “Todd” Herington – 60 – of McMahon Road, Canaseraga, NY (Town of Birdsall) died Monday afternoon (August 31, 2026) at Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville following a long illness.

Born in Canandaigua, NY on December 30, 1965, he was the son of Clarence & Luella (Wambold) Herington.

Throughout the years, Todd resided in many locations including Panama City, FL, Bristol, TN, Nunda, NY and Birdsall, NY.

In his younger years, Todd was a member of the Morman Church and for many years had no specific church affiliations. Shortly before dying, he was baptized and anointed by Fr. John Cullen, as a member of the Catholic faith.

Todd was a true outdoorsman who loved fishing (lake, stream and ocean) and for a time worked on a Deep-Sea Fishing Boat. He was an avid hunter who loved hunting deer & small game with both a rifle and bow & arrow. It has been said that Todd could track a deer for five miles and could shoot a quarter out of mid-air with a longbow. He was a familiar face at the Archery Tournament held annually in Forksville, PA and loved carving hand-made longbows.

He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence “Zeke” Herington.

Surviving are his mother, Luella Fern Herington; 2 brothers, Tim Herington of Bolivar and Shawn Herington of Dansville; along with several nieces & nephews.

At Todd’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.

Todd’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105

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

Hornell, NY

Francis A. “Poncho” Gallicchio – 87 – of Greeley Avenue, Hornell, died Friday morning (August 28, 2026) at St. James Hospital following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on October 20, 1938, he was the son of the late Dominic and Domenica “Dee” (DeGaetano) Gallicchio.

Poncho grew up in Hornell and graduated from St. Ann School before graduating from Hornell High School (class of 1957). He later attended New Penn Cosmetology where he earned his NYS Cosmetology License.

In 1963, Poncho purchased and, with the help of his parents, operated “PONCHO’S” store in Canisteo, NY. He also owned and operated a beauty shop in Canisteo until it was destroyed by fire in 1992. Francis’ work ethic began as a young teenager. During his lifetime, he had many different employers, including the Erie Railroad, Ontario Industries, Hornell Evening Tribune, and the Hornell Post Office to name a few. While he was employed by Steuben SCEOP, he was put in charge of setting up the “Elderberry Express,” which later became Hornell’s HAT Bus System. Most recently, Francis was hired as the Office Manager at Covered Wagon Train, Inc. in Hornell, which was owned and operated by his sister, Mary Ann.

Francis was a proud veteran of the United States Army and served in the National Guard for over 5 years, 6 months, and 24 days. He was Honorably Discharged on February 29, 1964.

Poncho was an avid roller skater and loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle. He was past president and life member of “HOG” – Harley Owners Group. For fifteen years, he helped organize the widely known benefit ride “Rock and Roar.” He eventually took over the event, and, along with the help of many of his friends and fellow members, he was able to donate thousands of dollars to local charities, needy individuals, and organizations.

He was a life member of the American Legion Riders and the AMVET Riders, both of Hornell NY.

Having a passion for music, Francis enjoyed working with his son, Dominic, who was a member of the local band, Vendetta. Francis purchased a complete light show for the group and traveled with them as they performed at many local establishments and events. A special highlight of his travels with the group was when he was occasionally asked to play songs with the group. He enjoyed the friendship of the group and the patrons that came out to see and listen to their music. The band performed “good old classic rock ‘n roll,” and Poncho could be seen on the dance floor from time to time.

In addition to his parents, Dominic & Domenica, Francis was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Ann (Gallicchio) Parmley.

Francis is survived by his loving son, Dominic (Jennifer) Gallicchio of Hornell; grandchildren, Anthony (Laura) Gallicchio of Clarence, NY, Nickolas Gallicchio of Canisteo, NY; and Jessica Gallicchio of Gates, NY; great-granddaughter, Nina Francesca Gallicchio; three daughters and their families.

The family of Francis A. “Poncho” Gallicchio will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Service with Military Honors will be held at the funeral home on Friday at 10:00 AM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. Final interment will be in St. Ann’s Cemetery, Hornell.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Francis’ name may be made to the AMVETS, 28 Broadway Mall, Hornell, NY 14843 or to the Hornell American Legion, 72 Seneca St., Hornell, NY 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

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

In recognition of Francis’ service to our country as a member of the United States Army, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.