Susan Kinney Baker Foster

A creative force for the betterment of lives and powerhouse for social justice has died. Susan Kinney Baker Foster, a long time resident of the Upper Valley, died 17 January 2019, after months of illness. Susan was born in Gouverneur, NY in 1935, the only child of Harold and Mary (Kaley) Kinney. Her grandfather, Burt Orrin Kinney, founded the chain of Kinney Drugs and Susan and her father were both involved with the company for many years. She was instrumental in turning over the three generation company to its employees as well as establishing the Kinney Drugs Charitable Foundation.

To list her endeavors and enterprise would take a book. In her early days in Vermont Susan was a co-founder of The Learning School in Norwich, and an indefatigable participant in The Box Project, whose mission is to help people living in rural poverty. She was active in Democratic politics, both locally and at the state level. She served as one of only two women with now Senator Patrick Leahy on the State's first Criminal Justice Committee. Once arguing fiercely her point, Leahy whispered to her, "Stop talking, Susan! You've already convinced them." For years, she was on the Board of the Vermont ACLU and on the occasion of its 50th anniversary, the ACLU presented its David W. Curtis Civil Liberties Award to Susan "for her vision and courage in standing as one of its founding members". Susan was an enthusiastic and generous supporter of the dramatic arts (producing the New York City premier of Arthur Miller's A View from the Bridge adapted to tell the story of a Syrian Muslim immigrant family, serving on the Board of Shaker Theatre as well as donating grab bars for people with disabilities in the bathrooms of Northern Stage's theatre, a collector of art and an avid visitor to art museums, large and small. In 2009 in honor of her late husband Chas, Susan donated a 212 acre sugarbush to the Upper Valley Land Trust, thus protecting it from development for the foreseeable future. She was a founder of Emerge, a guardian ad litem, and foster mother to many local children. Susan was an unofficial mother for many of Dartmouth's international students, who sent condolences from around the world, and one of whom named his child after her.

She read voraciously and had an extensive library. Many believed she was self-educated, but Susan was actually a graduate of Dana Hall School, Class of '52, followed by a raucous freshman year at Cornell and was invited by the college to take a year off. Forty four years later, Susan went back to college, graduating magna cum laude from Trinity College of Vermont with a B.A. in Psychology. In her cooking days she was famous for her Yankee pot roast and yeast rolls. She ran a quixotic and losing race for the select board in White River Junction, handing out practical bookmarks designed by a student at The Cartoon School depicting an open book with the slogan "You never have to guess what Susan is thinking!" Susan's colorful dresses were as bold as she was. She struggled with health problems in her later years but didn't let that keep her from believing in the grace and wisdom of doing all she could to make the world a little bit better.

She is predeceased by her first husband, Charles "Chas" Baker, a former math teacher at Gouverneur High School, and their son, David Charles Baker. Mourning her loss is her husband, Don Foster and his son Joaquin Foster-Gross, daughter Sarah Namazi, son-in-law Saum Namazi, daughters-in-law, Carolyn Uhle and Kelli Lynn Baker, cousin Linda Sibson, sister-in-law Jean Zorn and brother-in-law Stephen Zorn and their families. There is a far flung and extensive group of friends and acquaintances, including her caring circle from the First Universalist Society of Hartland, her dear friend and birthday twin Grace Harde, her "sister" Patty Talbot.

As is the family tradition, there will be a dinner held in early autumn at a local inn family members can gather from around the world. Contributions in Susan's memory may be made to Kinney Drugs Foundation, 29 East Main Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642,

Kenneth C. Filiatrault

Kenneth C. Filiatrault, age 91, of Gouverneur, passed away on Monday, February 11, 2019 at his home under the care of his family and hospice.

Kenneth was born on September 13, 1927 in DeKalb to the late Cyril and Gladys (Dashnaw) Filiatrault. He went to the Antwerp School and the Transmission School in Potsdam. He served in the United States Navy from 1945 until 1946.

Kenneth married Beatrice M. Jefferson on June 28, 1947 at her parents’ home in North Gouverneur. The couple was married for over 66 years when Beatrice passed away on February 12, 2014. Mr. Filiatrault was part-owner of the DEK Feed and Farm Supply for 33 years. He had also worked for City Service in Gouverneur for 10 years, worked for the Deferiet Papermill, was a mechanic in the Oldsmobile garage in Antwerp, and farmed for Jean Goodnough and the Ridgedale Farm in Antwerp. Kenneth was a Ford Model A enthusiast and enjoyed fishing and hunting.

His survivors include two sons and their wives, Percy and Karen Filiatrault of Gouverneur, Jeffrey and Deborah of Morrisonville; a daughter and her husband, Jessie and Steven Alguire of Mexico, NY; a son-in-law, Ronald Sherman of Gouverneur; and brother, Ivan of Antwerp. Kenneth is also survived by 26 grandchildren and their spouses, 34 great-grandchildren, 1 great great-grandchild, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and his wife, Beatrice, Kenneth is predeceased by a daughter, Linda Sherman; brothers, Cyril and Wallace Filiatrault; and sisters, Genevieve Mitchell, Vida Aldrich Doherty, Ruth Johnson and Vivian Culbertson Cook.

There will be a memorial gathering at the family home at 2B Scotch Settlement Road in Gouverneur on March 2, 2019 from 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Harriet F. Rayburn

Funeral services for Harriet F. Rayburn, age 94 formerly of CR 4 Ogdensburg, and Wilson Street in Heuvelton were held at 1:00pm on Tuesday (February 12, 2019) at the Fox & Murray Funeral Home with Rev. Rob Schirmer officiating. Entombment will follow the service at Foxwood Memorial Park.

Calling hours will be held on Monday (February 11, 2019) from 2:00pm-6:00pm at the Funeral Home. Mrs. Rayburn passed away on Friday (Feb 8, 2019) at Riverledge Healthcare Facility surrounded by her loving family.

Surviving is her son William Rayburn of Rensselaer Falls; a daughter Joyce Rayburn of Heuvelton; five grandchildren Alton Rayburn & his fiancée Ashley Peggs of Morley, Ashley (Randall) Lawton of Morley, Alysse (Rick) Wright of Rensselaer Falls, Kevin (Nichole) Rayburn of Newburgh NY and Katherine Lord of Rochester; twelve great-grandchildren and one unborn great-granddaughter Emma Harriet due in the spring; along with many nieces, nephews & cousins.

Harriet was predeceased by her husband William Rayburn in 2000; sisters Mary Couglar, Grace Peck and Gladys Cole; two brothers John & George Gilbert and a daughter-in-law Marianne Rayburn.

She was born on June 1, 1924 in N. Gouverneur, a daughter of the late John & Elizabeth (Gibson) Gilbert. She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1943, and later married William H. Rayburn on June 1, 1951.

Harriet owned and operated a dairy farm on County Route 4 with her husband until 1988 when they retired. She enjoyed cooking, crocheting, spending time with her family and working on the farm.

Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, American Heart Association, or the Heuvelton Volunteer Fire Department/First Responders. Condolences and fond memories can also be shared online at www.foxandmurrayfuneralhome.com.

Welby N. Reynolds

Welby N. Reynolds, 95, passed away on Saturday, February 9, 2019 at home under the care of his family and Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.

Calling hours were held on Tuesday, February 12th from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with burial in Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur in the spring.

Welby was born in Gouverneur on May 12, 1923, the son of William and Bernice Williams Reynolds.

He graduated from high school in 1940 and attended Clarkson University.

Welby married Ruth Peck on June 16, 1951 in Gouverneur.

He worked for New York Central Railroad from 1940 until 1943 when he entered the United States Army, serving in Company C 712th Railway Battalion until 1946 when he was honorably discharged. Welby returned to the Railroad until 1951 when he purchased his family farm just outside of Gouverneur on Old Route 58 North. He and his wife Ruth raised their family on the farm which he sold to his son Matthew in 1987.

The couple enjoyed riding motorcycles and taking their children downhill skiing. He also enjoyed studying maps and had a brilliant math mind and unbelievable recall. Welby loved to cut wood and often explained how it provided heat multiple times as you cut, split, stacked and finally burned it. He believed this made wood a superior energy source.

Welby is survived by his wife of 67 years Ruth, his six children Scott Reynolds of Gulfport, FL, Joel Welby and Kay Reynolds of Williston, VT, Susan Sorrell of Columbia, SC, Randy and Beth Reynolds of Sheldon, VT, Gregg and Nancy (Tovey) Reynolds of Williston, VT, Matthew Reynolds of Gouverneur, several grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Bill Reynolds of Bigelow, Elaine Gruneisen of Gouverneur, Jean Reynolds of Fowler, several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and a sister Margaret Clark.

Memorial donations in Welby’s memory are encouraged to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 U.S. Hwy. 11, Potsdam, NY 13676.

Service change: William “Junior” Williams, 49

The funeral service for William “Junior” Williams,  49, has been relocated from the Gouverneur Fire Dept. to the Gouverneur Community Center.  The celebration of life for Junior will be held Sunday, Feb. 17, 2-4 pm at the Gouverneur Community Center.

Albert Melisko

Albert ‘Al’ Joseph Melisko, 90, of Chester, Maryland, formerly of Gouverneur, New York, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 2, 2019, at home, under the care of his family and Hospice.

Al was born on January 11, 1929, in Deferiet, NY where he attended school and lived in Gouverneur and Wanakena most of his life.

Al was a Korean War Veteran with the U.S. Army and served 13 months proudly in the 179th Infantry Regiment, Company K where he earned the rank of Sergeant and was honorably discharged in 1952. Al was awarded the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan), Korean Service Medal w/1 Bronze Service Star, Combat Infantry Badge, and UN Service Medal.

Al worked in the mines for 36 years at Balmat, retiring from Zinc Corporation of America in 1992.

Al enjoyed building home projects, bowling, and keeping his mind sharp. He spent time at the VFW and American Legion. Al was rarely seen without his Korean War Veteran ball cap. He was an avid collector of bi-centennial ‘drummer boy’ quarters and no advertising ink pen was safe if left unattended. Al was a connoisseur of cheap beer and a master of completing 1,000-piece puzzles.

Al was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 6338 and the America Legion Post 0065 in Gouverneur. He was greatly honored to participate in military honors at the annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies.

Al is predeceased by his wife Betty of 33 years, father Stephen Melisko, mother Helen Gurgus Melisko, sisters Helen and Agnes, and brothers Stephen, Jr., Robert, and Donald. He is survived by his brother Edward, five children, seven grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at the East Riverside Cemetery in the Spring. Arrangements are with Green’s Funeral Home.

Richard W. Moore

Richard W. Moore, age 79, of Gouverneur, passed away on Monday, February 4, 2019 at the Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Monday, February 11, 2019 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. with a Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star services at 7:00 p.m. His funeral service will be on Tuesday, February 12th at 11:00 a.m. at the Gouverneur Methodist Church Brown’s Chapel with Rev. Beth Quick officiating. Burial will follow in the Hailesboro Cemetery.

Richard was born on April 25, 1939 in Gouverneur to the late William F. and Dora A. (Bowhall) Moore. He graduated from the Gouverneur Central School in 1958 and worked as the Senior Stores Clerk II for the New York State Department of Transportation in Watertown from 1974 until his retirement on April 26, 2001.

Richard was a member of the Gouverneur First United Methodist Church where he was a Lay Leader and certified Lay Speaker. He was an active member of the Masons, serving many different positions including Grand Patriarch, and a member of the Oddfellows and Kendrew Grange.

Richard is survived by many cousins and his cats, enjoyed family history, and seemed to be related or connected to everyone. His is predeceased by his parents and his step-mother, Evelyn Moore, who he was very close to.

Donations in memory of Richard may be made to the Gouverneur Methodist Church, PO Box 157, Gouverneur NY 13642 the American Cancer Society, PO Box 7, East Syracuse NY 13057 or Camp Good Days and Special Times, 1332 Pittsford-Mendon Road, Mendon, New York 14506. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

William Williams Jr.

William Williams Jr. aka Junior aka Thumper passed away on Sunday, February 3, 2019 at his home.

A celebration of life will be hosted in Junior's honor at the Gouverneur Vol. Fire Department on Sunday, February 17th from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. Funeral arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Junior was born on June 10, 1969 in Sharon, CT, the son of William and Ruth Ellen Conlin Williams.

He graduated from Gouverneur High School and worked at CIVES Steel Corporation for nearly 30 years.

Thumper had served in the Gouverneur Vol. Fire Department and Gouverneur Vol. Rescue Squad for several years. He enjoyed working on old cars, watching local stock car racing, and attending car shows, never missing the Syracuse Nationals. Thumper also enjoyed time spent in the woods hunting, hitting the dance floor, and spending time with his family, especially his mother and son.

Junior is survived by his son Cody Williams of Hailesboro, his mother Ruth Williams of Gouverneur, his many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is predeceased by his father William.

Memorial donations in Thumper's memory may be made to the Gouverneur Vol. Fire Department, 33 Clinton Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642 or to afsp.org (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention).

Jane Fuller

Jane Denesha Fuller passed away at her home on January 24, 2019 from pancreatic cancer surrounded by her loving family and under the care of Kindred Hospice.

There was a Celebration of Life at their home on January 30 at 1:30.

Jane was born on June 6, 1942 to Earl Denesha and Geraldine LaRose Denesha. She married Charles H. Fuller on September 3, 1960.

She had been an addressographer at the Tribune Press, a caregiver to many children and sold Avon for several years. She was a Lifetime member to the VFW Post 6338 Auxiliary in Gouverneur, N.Y.

Jane is survived by her husband of 58 years Charles, her 3 children Michael and Donald both of Florida and Brenda Stone of Syracuse, her grandchildren; Mrs. Brad (Jamie) Fleming, Tad Fuller, Mallorie Stone, Andrew Stone, Kevin Fuller, Schuyler Thompson, Jordan Dusharm, and Jacob Fuller. Also surviving are 4 great grandchildren, Lillyanna Thompson, Ella Pritchard, Julian Masi, and Aiden Kenner. She was predeceased by her parents.

Donations in Jane’s memory may be made to Kindred Hospice Foundation, 3350 Riverwood Parkway; Suite 1400, Atlanta, Ga. 30339 and online at www.kindredhospicefoundation.org or to VFW Post 6338 Auxiliary, 100 W. Main Street, Gouverneur, N.Y. 13642.

Martin "Corky" Donald Hogue

Martin "Corky" Donald Hogue, age 79, of Inverness, FL passed away at Bayonet Point Medical Center in Hudson, FL on December 28, 2018. Corky was born to Charles and Wilma (Crandall) Hogue on November 9, 1939 in Gouverneur, N.Y. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy, the Navy Reserves and later the Army Reserves for 25 years. Following his military service, he worked for the Gouverneur Talc Company and later the Corning Glass Company as an electrician.

Corky was married to Diane (Edwards) for 57 years until her passing on April 12, 2018. He and Diane were Florida "Snowbirds" for a few years until finally becoming permanent Citrus County, FL residents in 2000.

He attended worship services at the United Methodist Church of Inverness. Corky was a volunteer for God's Kitchen in both New York and Florida, a volunteer at Citrus Memorial Hospital in Inverness, FL and the Mended Hearts organization. He was also a Volunteer Firefighter in Gouverneur, N.Y. for over 30 years. In his spare time he enjoyed making knives out of deer antlers and enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and being outdoors.

Those left to mourn Corky's passing include his daughters Natalie Kelley and her husband Jonathan of Fowler, Denise Kingsley of Gouverneur, and his son Jon of Jacksonville, Fla.; brothers: Charles Hogue and his wife Patti of Gouverneur, N.Y., Kevin Hogue and his wife Sarah of Cicero, N.Y.; sister, Brenda Sipher and her husband Paul of Watertown, N.Y.; grandchildren: Dustin and Kristopher Kelley; and great grandchild, Morgin Kelley. Corky was preceded in death by brother, Brian Hogue; sister, DeAnne Jungkind; and son in law, David Kingsley.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service was held Monday, January 7, 2019 at 3:00 PM at the Chas E. Davis Funeral Home with the Reverend Donald Pratt of the First United Methodist Church of Inverness officiating. Military honors were rendered by Inverness VFW #4337 Honor Guard. There will be a service in Gouverneur at a later date.

Memorial donations can be made to Gouverneur Volunteer Exempt Firemen, C/O Charles Halpin, 110 Rowley Street, Gouverneur, N.Y. 13642 or to God's Kitchen, Inverness First United Methodist Church, 1140 Turner Camp Road, Inverness, FL 34453.

Nilah W. Sias

Funeral services for Nilah W. Sias, age 82 of Ogdensburg will be held on Tuesday (Jan 29, 2019) at 11:00am at the United Methodist Church in Ogdensburg with Rev. Donna Fitchette officiating. Entombment will follow services at Foxwood Memorial Park.

Calling hours will be held on Monday (Jan 28th) from 12:00pm-2:00pm & 4:00pm-6:00pm at the Fox & Murray Funeral Home. Mrs. Sias passed away at her home on Friday (Jan 25, 2019) surrounded by her loving family.

Surviving are two sons Joseph (Carol) Sias and Michael Sias and his companion Stephanie Frisina of Ogdensburg; daughters Cheryl (Doug) Abar of Ogdensburg, Sandra Languein of Oswego, Bonnie Dewey of Ogdensburg and Jo Anne Hart & her companion Daniel Hazen of Lake Placid; 17 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren; three brothers Richard (Liz) Washburn of Gouverneur, Charles (Donna) Washburn of Macomb & Arthur Washburn of Macomb; seven sisters Joyce Stammer of Gouverneur, Betty Rook of Lowville, Sarah (Ford) Reynolds of Richville, Anna Washburn of Gouverneur, Mary (Harold) Bressett of Hammond, Ada (Donald) Bayne of DePeyster and Leona “Skipper” Jones of Indian Town FL.

She was predeceased by her husband Robert Sias; two brothers James & Sylvester Washburn; three sisters June LaVac, Eleanor Solar, Jo Anne Washburn and a grandson Thomas Sharpe.

Nilah was born on July 11, 1936 in the town of Macomb, a daughter of the late Alvin & Bertha (Dane) Washburn. She graduated from Gouverneur High School and continued her education at the St. Lawrence Psychiatric School of Nursing where she earned her nursing degree. She later married Robert Sias on July 14, 1958.

During her career she worked at the Canton Hospital for 5 years, and transferred to the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center in Ogdensburg in 1964 where she worked until her retirement in 1991. She enjoyed flower gardening, watching birds and wildlife, playing bingo, reading, and playing cards.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Macomb Wesleyan Church Fund 12 County Rd 7, Hammond, NY 13646. Condolences and fond memories can also be shared at www.foxandmurrayfuneralhome.com.

William H. Pink

William H. Pink II, 77, passed away on Tuesday, January 22, 2019 at Loretto Nursing Home in Syracuse.

There are no funeral services and private burial will take place in Old Lyme, Connecticut. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

William was born in New London, CT on February 19, 1941, the son of William H. and Pearl Layden Pink.

Upon graduating from high school, he served in the United States Army.

William worked several years in construction, most of the time self employed in Connecticut.

He lived many years on Pleasant Lake where he enjoyed fishing and just being on the water. He was also a proud member of the N.R.A.

William is survived by his 6 children including William III, Heather, Hattie, and Jennifer, 8 grandchildren, 2 sisters Delight Peretti and Heidi Stock, an uncle and aunt Patricia and Ellingsworth Whiting, nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and several siblings.

Memorial donations in William's memory may be made to the American Heart Association.

Richard Arnold Lea

Richard Arnold Lea, Parker, Colorado and formerly of Edwards, was born in Bathurst, New Brunswick, Canada on December 2, 1954. He was the only son born to Edgar R. Lea and Shirley Arnold Lea. His four sisters, Laura, Pamela, Diane and Daphne and their families, survive him. His family immigrated to the U.S.A. northeast in his childhood. He graduated from Princeton, NJ. In his late teens and early twenties, Richard did underground mining work at the St. Joseph Minerals Company in Balmat, NY.

Most of his adult life, Richard worked as a large mining equipment mechanic. He traveled to countries in South America and to China, India and Thailand for his work. Before the days of GPS, Richard could find his way quickly around any city – even such cities as Bangkok and Shanghai with a good city map.

He had very interesting stories to tell about his experiences in these countries. His description of Chinese rural culture was particularly perceptive and astute. He had friends in all walks of life and could always find subjects of conversation that engaged almost everyone. He had a soft-spoken and gentle nature. He was always willing to help friends out with small engine repair, cars, snowplowing and the like. He was never happier than when he had a specific project to keep himself occupied.

He a longstanding interest in the NRA and was quite the gun collector through the years. He was an avid crossword puzzle enthusiasts and enjoyed an uninterrupted cup of coffee with the daily paper early every morning.

The members of his Saturday morning breakfast club were important to him. He was a man who chose to live simply. He had very few “wants” in his life and was very humble and the diverse experiences and observations he was privileged to have and make. His sisters and their families will surely remember him fondly for the many kindnesses that were shown to them over the years. His friends will remember him fondly as well.

Linda A. Merritt

Linda A. Merritt, age 78, passed away on Sunday, December 23, 2018 at Claxton Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

Linda was born on October 5,1940 in Gouverneur, NY, a daughter of Howard and Gladys Whittaker. She was a 1958 graduate of Gouverneur High School, attended Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam for 1 year and served in the United States Navy from 1959 until her honorable discharge in 1962. After her discharge from the Navy she worked for Gouverneur Iron Works.

On April 20, 1963, Linda married Richard E. Merritt in the Spragueville United Methodist Church with Rev. Louis Hewitt officiating. Mr. Merritt passed away in August of 2000.

Mrs. Merritt is survived by her 4 children: Colleen Crogan and husband, Donald of Painted Post, NY; Martin Merritt and wife, Aimee of Stafford Springs, CT; Ellen Kinney and husband, David of Chateauguay, NY; Gary Merritt of Laurel, MT; 6 grandchildren: Nathan Kinney and wife, Christina, Hannah Armstrong and husband, Sam, Isaac Kinney, Logan Merritt, Michaela Merritt, and Molly Merritt.

She is also survived by 7 brothers and sisters: James Whittaker, Christine Ozburn, Connie Kramer, Kathryn Church, Nora Geer, Philip Whittaker, and Paul Whittaker.

Calling hours will be held at the Christian Life Fellowship in Gouverneur on January 19, 2019 from 11:00am-1:00pm with her funeral immediately following at 1:00 p.m. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations in memory of Linda may be made to the Christian Life Fellowship, 52 Church Street, Gouverneur NY 13642 or to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 US Hwy 11, Potsdam NY 13676.

Doris Emond

Doris Dorilla (Pigeon) Emond, age 77, passed away on January 5, 2019 at her home surrounded by her loving family while under the care of hospice.

Calling hours was held at French Funeral Home, 16 Barnes Street, Gouverneur NY, on Tuesday, January 8, 2019 from 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. and from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Her funeral service was at the end of the afternoon visitation at 2:30 p.m. Burial will be in the spring in the New St. James Cemetery, Gouverneur.

Doris was born on March 19, 1941 in Colchester, VT, the youngest of 12 children born to the late Emile and Dorilla (Stanislas) Pigeon. Doris graduated from the Holy Angels High School in Saint Albans, VT in 1957.

She married Albert L. Emond on October 10, 1970 in Essex Junction, VT. Doris retired from Gordon’s Window Décor in Essex, VT and had previously worked for General Electric and for the LaVallee and Ide Factory.

In her free time Doris enjoyed restoring furniture, home decorating and gardening. She was very involved in her grandchildren’s activities and loved being their “Mé Mé”.

Doris is survived by her husband, Albert; son, Shawn Emond of St. Albans, VT; daughter, Tonya (George) Wells of Gouverneur; step-son, Jody Emond of Gouverneur; step-daughters, Cindy (Dave) Rich of Colchester, VT and Tammy (James) O’Donnell of Statesville, NC; brothers, Raymond (Claudette) Pigeon of Swanton, VT and George Pigeon of Florida; sister-in-law, Grace Rieder of Pennsylvania; brothers-in-law, Ken (Sandy) Emond and Dave (Linda) Emond, both of Florida.

She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, Jasmine, Katrina, Kolby, Kaden, Chance, Autumn, Melissa, Dustin, Joshua, James, Jesse and Amber; and many nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Emond is predeceased by her parents; sisters, Mary Belval, Cora Brosseau, Annette Boutin, Ida Laroche, Alice Laferriere, and Marie Pigeon; and brothers, Roland, Paul and Morris Pigeon.

Donations in memory of Doris may be made to Richard E. Winter Cancer Center, 5 Lyon Place, Ogdensburg NY 13669. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Carol A. McConnell

Carol A. McConnell, 78, formerly of the Antwerp-Gouverneur area, died Friday, December 28, 2018 at St. Joseph’s Home, Ogdensburg, NY.

Born on August 13, 1940 in Watertown, NY, she was the daughter of Burl G. and Catherine Dindl Hendrickson and attended Antwerp High School.

A marriage to George R. LaLone ended in divorce. She then married James L. White, Sr., on June 8, 1985 and he passed away September 11, 1985. A third marriage to Roger McConnell ended in divorce.

Carol was employed with Gould Electric, Watertown, NY and she provided child care for local families.

She enjoyed crocheting, playing cards, fishing, cooking and most importantly spending time with her family and friends

Survivors include a son, Michael “Bobby” LaLone, Watertown, NY; a daughter and son-in-law, Catherine and Mark House, Ogdensburg, NY; six grandchildren, Cassandra and husband Richard McCrossan, Angela and husband James Tebeaus, Brian Hendrickson, Zachary House, Katherine House and Morgan House; six great-grandchildren.

Her parents and a brother, Burl R. Hendrickson died previously.

Memorial Services will be 2 pm Saturday, January 12, 2019 at Frederick Bros. Funeral Home, Theresa, NY.

Calling hours will be 12-2 pm prior to the service at the funeral home.

Condolences may be made online at www.frederickbrosfuneralhome.com.

Hilliard Graves Seaker

Hilliard Graves Seaker, 98, passed away on Monday, December 24, 2018 at Gouverneur Hospital with his family at his side.

A funeral service was held on Saturday, December 29th at 11:30 am at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with Rev. Richard Mayforth, pastor of the Gouverneur First Presbyterian Church officiating and burial with military honors to follow in Hermon Cemetery. Calling hours were held on Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.

Hilliard was born in Gouverneur on October 18, 1920, the son of Raymond Graves and Alta Hill Seaker.

He graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1938 with a Regents diploma. In 1939, he graduated from the Manlius Military School and in 1942, from Colgate University with honors in psychology. He was prominent in track and wrestling, having been team captain in both high school and college.

Hilliard married Emily Janet Green of Hermon on August 29, 1943 at the home of her parents with Edson R. Miles, a member of the theological studies Department of St. Lawrence University, officiating.

He enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps in August 1942 and was a member of the 398th Bombardment Group (H), B17s, seeing action in the European Theater of Operations.

After being discharged as a staff sergeant in October 1945, he became affiliated with Seaker-Graves Motor Company as a mechanic, salesman, manager, and dealer. In 1971, having purchased the business, it became known as Seaker Chevrolet, Inc. Hilliard retired and sold the business in December 1990.

He was involved with many organizations. Hilliard was a third generation member of the Gouverneur Luncheon Club, a member of the Masonic Lodge, Gouverneur Elks Lodge, past director of the Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, a director of the Bank of Gouverneur, chairman of the advisory board of the St. Lawrence National Bank, and the Community Bank NA. He also belonged to the Gouverneur American Legion, the Gouverneur VFW, and Sigma Nu fraternity.

An avid hunter and fisherman, he was a member of the Black Lake Fish & Game Assoc., a past director of the Gouverneur Rod & Gun Club, a lifetime member, past officer and director of Spruce Mountain Hunting Club, honorary member of the Cranberry Lake Hunting & Fishing Assoc. The couple enjoyed spending time at their camps on Black Lake and Cook's Pond, and snowmobiling.

Hilliard is survived by his daughter Billie Jean Snyder of Ogdensburg, a son-in-law Kenneth Snyder of Fowler, his son Frank G. Seaker of Gouverneur, 4 grandchildren Erik Hilliard and Julie Snyder, William Christopher and Tonya Snyder, Jane Elizabeth and Brian Fico, Hilary Joette Snyder and her fiance Jeffrey J. Hertel, 6 great grandchildren Matthew Christopher, Jennifer Lynn, Erika Paige, Nicholas Lee, Anthony Joseph, and Nina Isabella, several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, his wife Emily who passed away on April 12, 2003, a daughter Jane Elizabeth Seaker who passed away in 1952, and a sister Norinne Dickson.

Memorial donations in Hilliard's memory are suggested to the Gouverneur First Presbyterian Church, Gouverneur Cemetery Association, or Hermon Cemetery.

Eleanor F. Griffith

Eleanor F. Griffith, 101, passed away on Thursday, December 27, 2018 at her home, surrounded by her family.

A graveside service will be held in Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur in the spring with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Eleanor was born on March 1, 1917 in Gouverneur, the daughter of John and Iva Dashnaw Stammer.

She married John R. Griffith on July 9, 1937 in Watertown.

Upon graduation from high school, Eleanor received nurses training in Watertown and New York City and is an alumni of the House of the Good Samaritan. She worked many years as a registered nurse at Kinney Nursing Home and provided home health care in the Gouverneur area. Eleanor also kept busy assisting John on the family farm in Elmdale and raising her family.

Eleanor was a member of the Gouverneur First Presbyterian Church, E.J. Noble Hospital Ladies Auxiliary, and was an avid Yankees fan. She enjoyed playing solitaire on her iPad, crossword puzzles, reading, keeping a daily diary since she was in high school, and traveling abroad with family members and to Florida during the winter with her cousin until just a few years ago. Eleanor also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, feeding the birds, and spending time with her family.

Eleanor is survived by her two sons George Griffith and his companion Barb Laidlaw of Elmdale, John Griffith and his wife Ginger of Florida, a daughter-in-law Lillith Griffith of Fowler, 14 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and 4 great, great grandchildren. She is also survived by her 2 sisters-in-law Shirley Stammer of Toledo, Ohio, Elsie Griffith of Elmdale, several nieces and nephews, and her special neighbor and care provider Connie LaBow who took great care of her. Eleanor is predeceased by her husband John who passed away in November 1984, her parents, 2 sons James Griffith and Tom Griffith, her daughter-in-law Nancy Griffith, and her brother John Stammer.

Memorial donations in Eleanor’s memory are encouraged to Gouverneur First Presbyterian Church.

Crystal Jean Mcwain

Crystal Jean Mcwain, went to be with the Lord our Savior on, December 24, 2018. She was surrounded by her loving family, in the comfort of her home. Her seven year battle with cancer has ended. She was 63.

Crystal was born, on September 21,1955, in Gouverneur, to Ilene Louise Moore Hosmer and William Harvey Hosmer both from this area. When the marriage ended in divorce, Crystal went to live with her father and his wife Leona in the Fort Edwards area.

She is survived by her loving husband, Dorian, whom she had married on February 6,1982, and altogether they had seven wonderful children and nine grandchildren: Sheila and her husband Mark, Jennifer and her husband Jeremy and their three children, Addison, Marley and Sadie. Angela Christine, Jenny and her husband Richard, and their two children, Nicholas and Sunny. Dorian II and his partner, Martin, David and his wife Catherine, and their two children, Riley and Claire, and Sarah and her husband Matt, and their daughter Autumn Rose, and soon to be born baby Epperly.

Crystal, also left behind four sisters and three brothers and their spouses, Connie (Hosmer-Haynes) and her husband Robert, Margaret (Moore-Mashaw) Darlene (Hosmer-Storie), her husband Bob, Lisa Lynn (Backus) and brother Billy Hosmer and his wife Kelly, Timothy Ellis and his wife Holly, and brother Michael Ellis.

She also left behind several nieces and nephews.

Crystal always, said that her children were indeed her greatest accomplishments. Crystal’s favorite things to do beside making her family happy, were warm and lazy, windy days.

Crystal enjoyed watching movies, and eating her favorite comfort foods. With her, favorite holiday being Christmas, she would often “go over the top decorating.” Crystal had also shared she had gotten great joy and comfort, from the pets she had loved throughout her lifetime.

Crystal was a wonderful woman who will be dearly missed and cherished always.

Anna Marie Reilly

Anna Marie Reilly, 95, passed away on Sunday, December 2, 2018, in Potsdam.

Calling hours were held on Saturday, December 8 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur; burial will be held in the spring in New St. James Cemetery, Gouverneur.

Anna was born in Farmington, Missouri, on April 6, 1923, the daughter of Frank and Augusta Seitz. She married John G. “Mike” Reilly, Jr. on January 8, 1950 in Bonne Terre, Mo., where the couple began their life together and their family. In 1953, they moved to Edwards, then to Balmat, where Mike worked for many years at St. Joe Mineral Co. In 1966 the family moved to just outside Gouverneur, which has been their home since.

Anna was a devoted homemaker and mother of seven. She was a faithful member of St. James Catholic Church, enjoyed bowling, going for walks with her friends in the neighborhood, and watching her children and grandchildren grow up.

Anna is survived by her husband Mike, her children Gay Reilly of West Virginia, John Reilly of Georgia, Mary Reilly of Saratoga Springs, Peter Reilly of Newfield, Joe Reilly and his wife Annie of Canton, Cindy Gadbaw and her husband Randy of Canton, Tom Reilly and his wife Danta of Virginia; grandchildren Kate Gadbaw, Ian Gadbaw, Patrick Reilly, Michael Reilly, Frank Reilly and Dan Reilly, and great-granddaughter Anna.

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested donations be made to St. James Church, 164 E. Main Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642 or Gouverneur Volunteer Rescue Squad, PO Box 164, Gouverneur, NY 13642.