Peggy (Llewelyn) Alderdice

Peggy Llewelyn Alderdice of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Bay Village, Ohio passed away on May 9, 2022. Peggy was born on February 27, 1945 in Richville, New York to the late Brinley and Margaret Llewelyn. Peggy was a 1963 graduate of Easton Area High School and a 1967 graduate of University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing. Peggy was the beloved wife of the late George F. Alderdice III, loving mother to Michael Bliss Alderdice (deceased), George F. Alderdice IV (Denise), and Erica Alderdice Birkner (David); cherished grandmother to Christian, Alex, Brianna, Chandra, Grayson, and Nathaniel. Adored great-grandmother to Lilly and Anthony; dear sister of Thomas Llewelyn (Susanne); sister in-law to Deborah Randolph; and is also survived by many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh (4401 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh PA 15224) in memory of Michael Bliss Alderdice or the Bedford County Humane Society. (BCHS: 182 Bohn Road, Bedford Pa, 15522, bchs@bchsnline.org or 814-623-8968). Peggy loved animals and was a longtime supporter of shelters and rescues. She volunteered for 13 years at the Bedford County Humane Society where she fostered many dogs and was a midwife to expecting dogs. She also followed in her father’s footsteps and became a Master Gardener in which she won numerous awards for both her flower and vegetable gardens. Finally, Peggy was an accomplished bowler (200 average), racquetball player, and an avid card player.

Services will be held at Homewood Cemetery located at 1599 South Dallas Avenue, Pittsburgh PA, 15217 on June 4th at 12:30 pm and a Celebration of Life will be held at the Ironwood Café (Front Room) located at 680 Dover Center Rd, Westlake, OH 44145 on May 28th, from 12:30pm-4:00.

Arrangements by King Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. Expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kingfuneralhome.com.

Eldon B. Conklin

Eldon B. Conklin passed away peacefully at home on May 6, 2022 at 3:45 PM, surrounded by friends, family, and community.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, May 15th from 11 am to 2 pm with a funeral service at 2 pm at the Gouverneur Community Center with Henry Leader officiating. The committal will follow at Hailesboro Cemetery and a celebration of life reception will be held at the community center to follow. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Eldon was born November 21, 1929 in the town of DeKalb, the son of farmer Lee F. and Vera (Cole) Conklin. He attended Osborneville Country School on Rock Island Road.

In 1947, at the age of 18, he was employed as a truck driver for John Austin Trucking in Richville, NY, until he joined the U.S. Marines in 1951. After serving with honorable discharge, he returned to trucking for several companies hauling freight, milk, heavy equipment, race horses, and more.

On April 17, 1969 he married Eloise Tibbits, the love of his life, at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church with Rev. Stanley E. Brown officiating. They lived together in their home at 133 Depot St.

In 1972, he purchased Van Ornum Furniture on Main Street in Gouverneur, which he owned and operated with his wife until it was sold in 1998. Eldon continued to manage this business for three more years.

In 1985, he became interested in local government, serving various positions such as village trustee, mayor, and finally town councilman from 2003, which he maintained until his passing. Eldon also served as chairman of the local Republican committee for many years, receiving the Betsy Kaplan Award in 2017 for his service to the north country.

In 1989, Eldon took a 6 week leave of absence and headed to California to drive truck for the Concord Blue Devils Drum & Bugle Corp. He toured the continental United States as their head driver and chef, pulling a 48 foot trailer converted to a kitchen to prepare food for 180+ people on tour. This passion continued every summer until 2007.

Throughout his lifetime, Eldon also owned and co-owned many other businesses in Gouverneur including the Gralyn Theater, Gouverneur Bowl, and Antique Emporium. In 1992, he joined the Greater Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce, for 25 years until 2017 as director, becoming an honorary lifetime director.

Eldon was very dedicated to the Gouverneur community and involved in a lifetime of projects, almost too many to mention. One of his recent achievements was his involvement in establishing a decades-long vision, the Gouverneur Community Center.

Eldon is survived by his stepsons Stephen and Michael Boprey, grandchildren Michele Boprey, Sean Boprey, Chelsea Boprey, Marshall Boprey, and Shannon Boprey, great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, his brother Richard Conklin and wife Nancy.

He is predeceased by his wife, Eloise, of 50 years, his parents, sister Emma Conklin Wells, brothers Francis “Joe” Conklin, Robert Conklin, and Howard Conklin.

The effects of his love and commitment will continue onward with the hope of inspiring others to dedicate themselves, too.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Chamber of Commerce, 53 Herm Towne Road, Gouverneur, NY 13642 in Eldon’s honor, where a fund will be established to encourage and reward local entrepreneurship.

Chris Wiggins

Our Chris Wiggins, born 08/1941, deceased 05/06/2022.

He was born in New York, NY to Kenneth Wiggins and Janice Parkin.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 24 years Lisa (Miller) Wiggins, daughters Illya and Nell, their spouses and children, and two brothers Kenneth and Bruce.

He was predeceased by his parents, his first wife Adrienne, and his sister Kate.

Chris lived two lives. His early years were fraught with addiction that caused him and those around him, much pain. He studied Italian in Italy for two years, was a partner in Salters Book Store in Manhattan, and a farmer in Dekalb. In his fifties he graduated from Mater Dei College and SUNY Potsdam to start a new life where he was committed to helping others. He worked for St. Lawrence County for twenty years as a dedicated drug and alcohol counselor.

He loved overcast rainy days, time in the woods, art and literature, antiques...and bourbon. He waved to dogs and loved deeply.

There will be a graveside service for anyone wishing to attend at Fairview Cemetery, 190 Miner Street Rd, Canton, on May 13, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. Any contributions can be made to St. Lawrence Valley Hospice, who made his journey bearable and helped him rest in peace.

Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.lawrencefuneralhome.org

Luther K. Cole

Luther K. Cole, 80, of Lebanon, PA and long time resident of Goshen, NY, passed away on Tuesday May 3, 2022 at Spang Crest Manor. He was the loving husband of Sandra J. “Sandy” (Byrns) Cole, with whom he celebrated 58 years in marriage.

Luther was born in Gouverneur, NY on June 29, 1941 to the late Ralph A. and Gladys (Gilbert) Cole. He was a 1959 graduate from Gouverneur High School and a 1963 graduate from Cornell University, where he was in the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. He was a vocational agriculture teacher in Lisbon, NY for 6 years and Claims Specialist for State Farm Insurance for over 35 years. He was known for his hard work and integrity during his time with State Farm. Luther was an avid fan of his New York sports teams - Giants, Rangers, and Yankees. He loved all sports, especially bowling and golf. Luther also had a strong interest in meteorology, gardening and supporting the many pets – be they horses, dogs, birds, fish, rabbits or cats that made their home with his family. His most recent cat roomies Pretty Kitty, Melody and Tigger were quite fond of him.

Surviving in addition to his beloved wife are his children, Todd and Malissa Cole of Jacksonville, FL, Scott and Colleen Cole of Palmyra, PA, Shari and Lance Ronas of Antwerp, NY, Darren and Minta Cole of Herndon, VA, eight grandchildren, Kiana, Katrina, Alyssa, Tyler, Zachary, Kayleigh, Evan and Wesley, and his siblings, John and Janet Cole of Clearwater, FL, Janet and William Premo of Gouverneur, NY, and a sister-in-law, Helen Cole of Hull, GA. He was preceded in death by his brother, Leslie Cole. He was extremely proud of all of his children and grandchildren and spent many years in leadership / coaching roles for his children’s activities. He loved to attend the countless shows, games, and events to support his children and grandchildren and encouraged their pursuits no matter what path each decided to take.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday May 14 at French Funeral Home, 12 Barnes Street, Gouverneur, NY.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Friends 4 Pound Paws Rescue of 55 Owl Rd PO Box 394 Gouverneur, NY www.friends4poundpaws.org or Lebanon County Christian Ministries 250 South 7th St. Lebanon, Pa 17042, www.lccm.us.

Elsie J. Griffith

Elsie J. Griffith, age 93, of Elmdale, passed away at her home on the family farm on April 27, 2022. She had lived there for 72 years.

Calling hours were held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Monday, May 2, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Her funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Elsie was born on September 21, 1928, the daughter of Robert and Jenny (Campbell) Wilson. She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1945 and Watertown School of Commerce in 1946. She was employed as a secretary at International Talc Co. until her marriage.

Elsie married William V. Griffith on July 31, 1950 at the Gouverneur First Presbyterian Church officiated by Rev. Schofield. She and William operated a dairy farm in Elmdale for many years. After the sale of the dairy, they continued to raise dairy replacement heifers and hay. Elsie loved working with figures and always kept a perfect set of books for the business. Elsie enjoyed travelling with William throughout the United States and Europe and touring on their Indian motorcycle. She was an active blue-birder and kept meticulous records of their nests. She was an accomplished genealogist.

After Williams’s death on October 28, 2002 Elsie continued work on the farm by preparing and planning meals for the many boys who worked there putting the hay crop in during the summers. She continued to do this until her eyesight failed. She continued to enjoy summers on the porch and visits from her neighbor, Robbie Welch.

Elsie is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Claire and Ken Wolf who continue to manage the farm and a daughter and son-in-law, Kay and Welby Reynolds of Williston, VT. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jared Reynolds and his wife, Kat, and Lizzie Jane Reynolds, all of Williston, VT.

Elsie will be greatly missed for her kind nature, sound judgement and independent spirit. She believed in the teachings of the Bible and the importance of feeding the needy. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Grace Food Pantry, 52 Church Street, Gouverneur NY 13642.

The family would like to thank Dr. Reason and Joy Markwick’s staff, Dr. Alka and the staff of the Richard Winter Cancer Center for the many years of compassionate care they provided Elsie.

Harry N. Nordberg, Jr.

Harry N. Nordberg, Jr. 90, of Gouverneur, died March 29, 2022 at Samaritan Keep Home after a brief illness.

Harry was born July 30, 1931 in Mansfield, MA, a son of Harry N. and Anne Gloria Nordberg, Sr. He graduated from Monsignor James Coyle Catholic High School and later attended the University of Hartford, CT. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1949 and transferred to the United States Marines in 1951. He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant in 1954 after fighting in the Korean War. Harry married Vera Jean Alberry on April 14, 1956. He was employed as a Process Planner at Pratt and Whitney in East Hartford, CT. for 32 years. After Harry and Vera retired to Gouverneur, NY, Harry became a member of the American Legion Post 0065 and Gouverneur Rod and Gun Club. He has always been a gun enthusiast and was an excellent shooter winning many trophies with the Metropolitan District shooting club of Connecticut. He had a zest for life and loved to converse with all.

Harry leaves behind his wife, Vera of 66 years. Surviving besides his wife; is a son Harry N Nordberg, III and wife, Kathy Nordberg, a daughter Norma Jean, and husband, Scott Busey, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Burial will be May 14 at 10 am with military honors in Spragueville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc. Condolences may be sent to www.dlcalarco.com

Ivan C. Gordon, Jr.

Ivan C. Gordon, Jr., age 57, of Richville, NY passed away on Friday, April 29, 2022 at Claxton Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg.

There will be calling hours for Ivan on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 from 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. His funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Richville. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Ivan was born on March 16, 1965 in Tacoma, Washington at Fort Lewis Army Hospital to Ivan C. and Lillian Elaine (Weatherup) Gordon, Sr. He attended Hermon-Dekalb Central School and then entered into the United States Army, where he received his GED. He married Debra Dean on April 26, 1986, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1987.

Ivan worked for several construction companies and had also worked as a mechanic for St. Lawrence Zinc for a brief time. Ivan enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping and working on cars and 4-wheelers.

Surviving is his mother, Lillian Elaine Lewis and her companion Edwin Lancto of Heuvelton; his father, Ivan C Gordon, Sr. and his wife Ilene of Ogdensburg; two daughters, Ann Dean and her fiancé Josh Tyo of Jacksonville, NC and Heather and Jason Colton of Jacksonville, NC; a son, Noah Way of Massena; a sister Karen and Gordon Stevens, Jr. of Gouverneur; a step sister, Laurie and Robert Hamilton of Gouverneur; a step brother, Phillip and Lisa Lewis of Harrisville and eight grandchildren, two great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Ivan is predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Lula and Roland Weatherup; paternal grandparents, Marjorie and Alfred Gordon and his nephew, Brennan Stevens.

Service notice: David White, Sr.

A celebration of life will be held for David White Sr. on Saturday, May 14th at 11:30 am at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with burial to follow in East Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur. Calling hours are prior from 10-11:30 am and a celebration of life reception will follow the burial at 1:30 pm at Mullin's Restaurant, Gouverneur.

Mr. White passed away on December 21, 2020.

Lee A. Averill

Lee A. Averill, age 66, of Edwards, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, April 24, 2022.

There will be calling hours for Lee on Friday, April 29, 2022 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home in Edwards. His funeral service will be on Saturday, April 30th at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Edwards. Condolences and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Lee was born on September 18, 1955 in Gouverneur, NY to the late Leo “Toby” E. and Carolyn A. (Boulet) Averill. He graduated from Edwards Central School in 1973, and then entered into the United States Navy, where he served for 18 years until his honorable discharge in 1989.

After retiring from the service, Lee worked at the Dunn Paper Mill as a Fork Lift Operator, retiring in 2016. He was a member of the Exempt Edwards Fire Department, where he was a former secretary. Lee really loved that he belonged to Carr Pond Hunting Club in Fine. He enjoyed spending lots of time there with his family and considered it his “Home away from home”. He enjoyed hunting, golfing and spending time with his family. He thought the world of his nieces and nephews.

Surviving is his sister, Suzanne and Wayne Corbine; three brothers, Roger “Joe” Averill, Chris and Becky Averill and Murray Averill and his companion Becki Butler and several nieces and nephews.

Lee is predeceased by his parents and a brother, Jon “Pete” Averill.

Donations may be made in Lee’s memory to the Edwards Volunteer Fire Department, 115 New St., Edwards, NY 13635.

Jo Josephs

Jo Lynn Chambers Josephs, 63, passed away on Thursday, April 14, 2022 in Johnson City, NY.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 28th from 5-8 pm at the Gouverneur Community Center. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Jo Lynn was born in Star Lake on February 11, 1959, the daughter of Joseph and Esther (King) Chambers.

She worked in health care down in Florida and more recently lived in Dexter.

Jo enjoyed playing bingo, crocheting, shopping, and spending time with family.

She is survived by her children Kole and Lynnette Burgess of Richville, Krystal LaPlante and her companion Gordon Williams of Watertown, her mother Esther Chambers, her grandchildren Zachary, Emily, Tegan, Nayga, Kymoni, Kamara, her step grandchildren Caleb, Katelyn, Kaleigh, and step great grandchildren Grayson, Storm, Delaney, Mason, Briggs, Crue, Cohen, and Taigg. Jo is predeceased by her father, an infant brother, and a great grandchild Jordon Michael.

Richard Charles Kingsbury

Richard Charles Kingsbury, age 90, passed away on April 22, 2022 at Carthage Area Hospital.

As per Richard’s request, there will be no calling hours or funeral service. Arrangements are being handled with French Family Funeral Home in Star Lake. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Richard was born on August 15, 1931 in Gouverneur, NY to the late Charles Melvin and Fern Luella (Wood) Kingsbury. He attended Gouverneur Central School, was drafted into the United States Airforce and graduated from high school while he served. He served in the Airforce during the Korean War from 1949 until his honorable discharge in 1953. Richard married Ostra Charlene Stevens in 1973. The marriage ended in divorce.

Richard worked as a pull man for the United States Coast Guard and was a member of the Merchant Marine. He was a member of the Sailor’s Pacific Union. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, auto racing and loved the ocean. He also enjoyed gardening, and putting together models, especially military related vehicles.

Surviving is his sister, Marion “Mary” J. Hunter of Cranberry Lake, his sister-in-law, Mazie Kingsbury of Russell Springs, KY and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother, Robert M. Kingsbury and a special niece, MaryJean Hunter.

Donations may be made in Richard’s memory to Cranberry Lake Fire and Rescue.

Carl J. Denecia

Carl J. Denecia, 87, of Rockledge Florida, formerly of Gouverneur and Florence South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 26, 2022 in Cocoa, Florida.

Funeral services will be scheduled and announced later in the spring with the Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur.

Carl was born in Gouverneur on November 14, 1934, the son of Henry and Evelyn (Palmteer) Denecia. He graduated from Gouverneur High School and served in the United States Army as a sergeant in military intelligence in Herzog Base in Germany in the late 1950’s.

On October 14, 1956, Carl married what would be his lifetime partner, Marlene M. Gollaher.

As a young man, Carl worked as a short order diner cook, milkman, furniture store operator, and household mover before becoming a Gouverneur Police officer and then a Sheriff’s Deputy prior to retiring as Senior Detective Sergeant for the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department. He also became trained as an arson investigator for the Department and eventually spent years training other officers in that regard. After that he was a Hotel manager in Florence S.C.

He was a member of the Gouverneur Elks Lodge, a parish member of St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur and that same Herzog Base Veterans group for which he published a monthly newsletter for many years. Carl also served on the Gouverneur Village Board before serving the community as the village mayor.

Carl enjoyed many hobbies and pursuits over the years including motorcycling, woodworking, golf, crossword puzzles, a love of music, watching old movies and various ventures into writing.

Carl is survived by his wife of 65 years, Marlene. His daughter Carla J. and her husband John Kitts of Melbourne, Florida as well as his grandchildren Derek Kitts, his wife Michelle and their children (Carl’s great grandchildren) Griffin and Graham. They are joined by Stacy (Kitts) Wolf and her husband Ryan. Also surviving him is his son Clark J. and wife, Kim Denecia of Southern England in the United Kingdom, Clark’s daughter Jessica Denecia (Grandchild) and her son Trystan Denecia (great grandson).

He is predeceased by his parents and a sister Anita Beckstead.

Memorial donations in memory of Carl are encouraged to St. James School, 164 E. Main Street, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Cory R. Simmons

Cory R. Simmons, age 49, of Macomb, passed away on Wednesday, March 30, 2022 in a motor vehicle accident in the Town of Depeyster.

There will be calling hours for Cory on April 7, 2022 from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home. His funeral service will follow at 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Cory was born on May 27, 1972 in Gouverneur, NY to Earl and Helen (Hays) Simmons Sr. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1991. He had worked for Kinney Drugs as a delivery driver. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and trapper. He enjoyed playing cards and spending time with his grandchildren and family.

Surviving is a son, Tyler Simmons and his fiancé Jamie Moody; two grandchildren, Finely and Juno Simmons; his parents, Earl and Helen Simmons; two brothers, Earl and Angie Simmons Jr. and John Simmons; a sister, Wendi and Scott McEathron and his nieces and nephews, Maegan and Luke Rubar, Patrick, Abigail, Lucas, Rylee and Colby.

Cory has been reunited with his grandparents, a niece Victoria and his buddies, Robbie and Brad.

Donations may be made in Cory’s memory to Gouverneur Central School FFA Program, 133 E. Barney St., Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Robert Weir

Robert L. Weir, age 85, of Granville, NY, but formerly of Gouverneur, NY, passed away on Monday, March 28, 2022 at the Slate Valley Center in Granville, NY, where he had been a resident since August.

Bob was born on December 17, 1936 in Gouverneur to the late Florence M. Weir. He attended the Fullerville One Room School house and Gouverneur High School. In 1953, he entered into the United States Airforce and served stateside during the Korean Conflict until his honorable discharge in 1956.

Bob married Veronica J. (Pike) Roraback on May 24, 1974 at the St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur with Father Norman Poupore officiating. Veronica passed away on December 19, 2006. Bob was a driller for St. Joe Mineral Corp for 17 years and an active participant in the union there. He also worked as a custodian for the Gouverneur First United Methodist Church for 10 years. He also belonged to the Rod & Gun Club Muzzle Loaders Group. After his wife’s death, he moved to the Glens Falls area, where he was a member of American Legion Post 1797 in Queensbury. He also participated in several dance clubs in that area. Throughout his life, he was an avid hunter and fisherman, spending much time at his uncle’s camp on Black Lake. He will be remembered by all for his love of dancing.

Bob is survived by his longtime companion, Patricia Lange of Whiting, NJ; his step-children, Joan (Kevin) Williams of Fort Edward, NY, James (Anna) Roraback of Syracuse, NY, Susan (Kevin) Keating of Holland Patent, NY, Sharon Roraback (David DeVoe) of Morrisonville, NY, Melissa (Kevin) Perham of West Chazy, NY and Tina (Chris) Halbert of Rome, GA; 17 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren; and cousins who were like sisters to him.

Bob is predeceased by his mother, Florence; his wife, Veronica and a brother, Richard Weir.

Calling hours for Bob will be at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 9, 2022 at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. His funeral service will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Edwards. A celebration of life will then take place at the First United Methodist Church at 4 p.m. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Donations may be made in Bob’s memory to the Watertown Renal Dialysis Center, 22571 Summit Dr., Watertown, NY 13601.

Donald E. Jennings

Donald E. Jennings, 90, passed away on Sunday, March 27, 2022 at Massena Memorial Hospital.

A graveside service will be scheduled and announced later in the spring with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Donald was born in Hermon on March 9, 1932, the son of Lewis and Venita (St. John) Jennings.

He graduated from Hermon High School in 1950 and served in the United States Air Force from 1953 to 1957.

Donald married Beverly Bullis on October 5, 1952. Beverly passed away on December 13, 1984. Don worked at Mace Motors in Canton for several years and then for UPS as a driver for 25 years until retirement. He was a past member of the Gouverneur Elks Lodge and had enjoyed snowmobiling, woodworking, raising pigs and beef cattle. Don also liked spending winters in Crescent City, FL and camping, especially at Higley Flow.

Don is survived by his companion Helen Downey, his sons Ronald and Gloria Jennings of Canton, Clark and Michelle Jennings of Russell, his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Robert Jennings of Hermon, sisters Gloria Austin of Binghamton & FL, Roselyn “Rose” Smith of Pennsylvania & FL, nieces and nephews. Don is predeceased by his parents, his son Donald Jennings Jr., and his sister Louise Shanahan.

Memorial donations in memory of Donald are encouraged to Hermon Vol. Fire Department.

Gerald M. Hewitt, Sr.

Gerald M. Hewitt, Sr., age 81, passed away on March 19, 2022 at Samaritan Medical Center in Watertown.

Calling hours will be held at the Gouverneur Community Center on Thursday, March 24, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. with his funeral service immediately following at 1:00 p.m. Inurnment will follow in the Columbarium of East Riverside Cemetery in Gouverneur. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Gerald was born on March 26, 1940 in Antwerp to the late Merton and Gertrude (Hagerer) Hewitt. He graduated from the Gouverneur Central School in 1958. Gerald married Connie Putman on August 27, 1961 at the Gouverneur Methodist Church with Rev. Stanley Brown officiating.

Mr. Hewitt was the owner and operator of Empire Northeast in Gouverneur for many years. He previously was a dairy farmer at the Hays Farm, worked for the Newton Falls Paper Mill, and for MPS Roe as a fuel oil distributor. He enjoyed traveling and time spent at Sylvia Lake and in Florida. He was a member of the Gouverneur ELKS Lodge, Gouverneur Methodist Church where he served as a Trustee for many years, and was the former President of Cerebral Palsy of the North Country out of Canton.

His survivors include his wife, Connie Hewitt; four children, Gerald “Joe” Hewitt, Jr., Jeffrey D. Hewitt, Robyn M. and Daniel Estey, Karen A. and Michael Frame. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and has another on the way.

Gerald is predeceased by two brothers, Bernard and Donald Hewitt; and three sisters, Marian Mason, Gladys Reynolds and Helen Murray.

Donations in memory of Gerald may be made to the Judson Street IRA, C/o CP Association of the North Country, 4 Commerce Lane, Canton NY 13617.

Linda Marie Brown

Linda Marie Brown, 73, passed away on Thursday, March 17, 2022, at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 23rd at 3:00 pm at the United Church of Richville with Karen Taylor officiating and burial to follow in Maple Grove Cemetery, Richville. A dinner at the church to share memories will follow the committal and arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Linda was born in Gouverneur on September 4, 1948, the daughter of Charles and Edith (Crossman) Keyes.

She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1966 and attended business school in Ogdensburg.

Linda married Alfred Brown on July 29, 1967.

The couple raised their family and operated their farm on the Cole Road near Richville until 2013. Linda also worked as a teachers aide for BOCES for several years.

Linda was a member of the the United Church of Richville and served in several groups including the Prudential Committee, Youth Fellowship, Progressive Club, Friendship Class, and the choir. She enjoyed reading about the Amish and loved stories, crossword puzzles, gardening, baking, cooking, celebrating holidays, especially Christmas, and spending time with family.

Linda is survived by her husband Alfred, her children Russ and Donna Brown of Harrisville, Renee (Brown) Smith and her companion Jason Risley of Gouverneur, her grandchildren RiKayla Brown, Delinda LaRock, Derek Hubbard, and Janay Smith, her great grandchildren Alex, Trey, and Aden, her sister Lois York, nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, her brother Charles Keyes, her sisters Elizabeth McClatchey and Mary Jean Steinburg.

Memorial donations in honor of Linda are encouraged to the United Church of Richville, PO Box 277, Richville, NY 13681.