Canaseraga, New York

Sally Ann Garwood – 91 – of Main St., Canaseraga, NY, was carried away by the angels early Tuesday morning (August 19, 2025).

She was born in Dansville, NY in 1934, and grew up in Canaseraga, NY.  She attended Canaseraga High School and received her GED.  On February 17, 1951, she married Donald K. Garwood.  Sally & Don have been happily married for 74½ years.

Sally was an expert at baking, sewing, knitting, crocheting, quilting & photography.  Throughout the years she created countless Afghans, sweaters, vests, hats (with cartoon characters) & fancy doilies.  She also loved making dolls & doll clothes for her grandchildren.  Sally was a craft chairperson for her Home Bureau applying her many talents to teach others.  For many years, Sally served as an “Avon Lady”, selling Avon products to local residents who became close friends, not just costumers.

Sally loved music and was a talented piano player enjoying the old country, bluegrass and dancing.  She loved traveling summers to beaches of Maine and winters in Tennessee with her loving husband, where she became an accomplished buck dancer.  Sally and Don met dancing and continued to dance together throughout their life together.

A loving wife, mother, grandmother & great-grandmother, Sally loved spending time in the kitchen, cooking, freezing & canning vegetables that she grew in her garden.  She also was known for her homemade baked bread.

Surviving her are her husband, Donald “Don” Garwood; 4 children, Dianne (James) Freiner of Canaseraga, Donald Garwood, Jr. of Nashville, TN, Vickie (Scott) Weitzel of Hornell and Marlyn (Edith) Garwood of Nashville, TN; a brother, R. Michael (Elora) Ringelberg of Hilton, NY; 1 sister-in-law, Mary Gates of Perry, NY; 6 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; several nieces & nephews.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Nancy Dioguardi.

Funeral & committal services will be held at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY at the convenience of the family with Rev. Shanna Hawks officiating.  Burial will be in Canaseraga Cemetery.

Friends wishing to remember Sally are asked to consider a donation to the Canaseraga Ambulance Fund, 10 Main St., Canaseraga, NY  14822.

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

Hornell, New York

James “Jim” C. Smith (Smitty), age 74, of Hornell, passed away on August 17, 2025 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.

Born in Hornell on July 22, 1951, he was the son of Thomas A. & Mary J. (Kelleher) Smith.

Jim grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (Class of 1969).  Following high school he joined his father and grandfather at A.W. Smith & Son, a family owned & operated newspaper and magazine distribution business.  In later years, he worked as a painter for local contractors.  He was a member of the Hornell American Legion.

Family time was important to Jim.  He always looked forward to family gatherings and holiday celebrations.  At Christmas, the nieces and nephews always enjoyed the unique gifts from Uncle Jim.

Jim enjoyed gardening and loved giving away vegetables and garlic to family and friends.  He was known for his hot peppers that he made with Larry and Kathy Doty.  They were always a center piece at his annual Super Bowl Party on Washington Street.

Smitty was good at any sport he played.  He was a softball legend in Hornell, where he played in the Hornell slow pitch league for 39 years.  The lefty was known for his towering home runs at James St. Park.  During his career he played for Caruso’s Roofing and Southside Tavern and they won 15 city championships.  He also played for Cappy’s travel team made up of the top players in the Hornell area.  The team traveled all over New York and Pennsylvania and was one of the top tournament teams in New York State.  He was known as the “Big Kahuna” on the softball field.  Smitty was also an excellent pool player. He played for many years in the Hornell Fraternal League representing the Hornell American Legion.  Also, before his bout with cancer twenty years ago, Smitty was one of the top golfers in the area!  Long off the tee and a putting stroke most golfers would give an arm and a leg for!  He was an avid sports fan, and loved pulling for the New York Yankees and the Buffalo Bills.

Smitty was blessed with many close friends who were like a second family to him.  They spent many days at a little piece of heaven on earth called “Rock Haven.”  He had a love for the outdoors and spent many years bow hunting and casting a line with his buddies there.  These were some of his fondest memories.

In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his brother Thomas J. Smith.

Surviving are his four sisters, Barbara (Stephen) Todd, Patricia Smith, Christine (Robert) Cox and Janice (Steve) Leonardo; nieces and nephews, Michael (Andrea) Todd, Matthew (Ashley) Todd, Stephanie (Eric) Dunn, Christopher (Lauren Snyder) Todd, Kevin (fiancé Maura) Cox, Brian (fiancé Madisyn) Cox, Sara Leonardo, Emma Leonardo and Jason Leonardo; great nieces and nephews, Declan Todd, Emilia Todd, Hazel Dunn and Samuel Dunn; and several cousins.

A special thank you to Clair Mallory, Frank Poorman and Pat Norton who have been an incredible help and support to Jim and his family.

A private graveside service will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

In honor of Jim, a “Celebration of Life” will be held on Saturday, September 20th from 12:00 (Noon) until 4:00 PM at The Main Place, 251 Main St., Hornell, NY.

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

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wilmont Cancer Center, C/O Strong Memorial Hospital, 601 Elmwood Ave., Rochester, NY 14642.

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

New York State Resident

Richard E. “Dick” Person – 77 – died Thursday evening (August 14, 2025) at his home.

He was born in Buffalo, NY on December 23, 1947 and is survived by his wife of 59 years along with his son.

At Dick’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.

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

Alfred, New York

Leslie Rollins, whose career wove together artistry, empathy, and innovation, passed away unexpectedly in Alfred, NY, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. 

With an MFA from Alfred University and BAs in Art and English from Andrews University, Leslie sought, through his art, to transform the overwhelming pace of modern life into deeply meditative audiovisual experiences.

Through analog synthesis, field recordings, and electronic feedback systems, he created immersive works that offered rest and reflection—a “sanctuary” where viewers could slow down and find unexpected beauty. His work graced permanent collections at The South Bend Museum of Art and Alfred University. His work was featured at residencies in Maine, New York, and Peru—culminating in exhibitions from the Midwest to the MuseumsQuartier in Vienna.

Leslie’s art was innovative and empathic, inviting us to pause, breathe, and rediscover wonder in the ordinary. In this difficult time, Leslie would be gratified to have you interact with his art. His work can be viewed at: https://www.leslierollins.com/, https://vimeo.com/337is, http://www.youtube.com/@LeslieRollins, and https://soundcloud.com/337is 

Leslie never met a stranger; his warm smile greeted everyone with kindness and ease. Leslie had a unique way of making people feel seen and valued, and he delighted in sharing his broad knowledge with all people – whether you wanted to talk about techno music, video art, modular synthesis, nature, travel, history, philosophy, or the Detroit Lions. Known for his ever-curious nature, his incredible sense of humor, and his 6’6” stature, Leslie was someone who made spaces feel more inclusive, ideas more engaging, and art more connected to life.

Born in Howell, MI on October 13, 1970, he was the son of Alvin & Carolyn (Miresse) Rollins.

Leslie was a graduate of Howell High School (class of 1989) and later graduated from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, MI. In 2020, he graduated from Alfred University with a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts.

In 2021, he returned to Alfred University where he was employed as a Technician for Expanded Media.

On May 17, 1996, Leslie married Lisa Karpenko who survives. Also surviving are his mother, Carolyn Rollins Damron of Florida; his sister, Gina (David) Boller of Florida; his nephew, Justin Boller, and his niece, Victoria (Trent) Nachand.

He was preceded in death by his father, Alvin.

At Leslie’s request there will be no calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.

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

An avid birder throughout his lifetime, Leslie’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Audubon Society at https://www.audubon.org/ 

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

Hornell, New York

Arthur F. Quant – 74 – longtime Hornell resident died Monday afternoon (July 28, 2025) at Elderwood at Hornell nursing facility where he has resided for the past 12 years.

Born in Hornell on March 14, 1951, he was the son of Franklin & Verna (Windsor) Quant.

Arthur grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1970).  After graduating from Continental Beauty School in Rochester, he owned and operated Chic Boutique Beauty Salon in Hornell for many years.

For several years Arthur was employed as a Supervisor of Quality Control at Birds-Eye Corporation in Avon, NY.  For many years he served as a Certified Nurses’ Assistant (CNA) at the former McAuley Manor in Hornell where he also served as Activities Director and played organ at Day Care.

Arthur was a very active member of the United Methodists Church of Hornell where he served as a Lay Minister, a Deacon, and a Church Usher.  He was also a member of the Church Choir where he played organ and for three years taught Children’s Sunday School.

A talented artist, Arthur enjoyed painting — especially creating “works of art” for family & friends portraying special events in their lives.  He also enjoyed crocheting, specializing in “broomstick lace” as well as beautiful Afghans which he gifted to others.

He enjoyed attending theater productions especially musicals.  Arthur was a self-proclaimed “Jinx” of the Buffalo Bills because it seemed that every time he watched the Bills on TV, they would immediately fumble the ball or throw an interception.

Arthur was married on August 20, 1977 to the former Patricia “Pat” Tuller who died October 2, 2018.  Hewas also preceded in death by his parents, Frank & Verna Quant; 2 sisters, Ann Crosby and Lavina Ewing; 3 brothers, Ivan Pryor, Leroy Pryor and James Quant.

Surviving are his brother, Lloyd Quant of Jacksonville, FL; his sister, Theda Drew of DeRidder, LA; along with many nieces & nephews.

At Arthur’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

Arthurs’ family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made 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, 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.