Dylan Cody Norsworthy

Dylan Cody Norsworthy, 36, passed away on Monday, July 29, 2024 at his home.

Dylan was born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada on July 7, 1988, the son of Kevin and Joanna (Versailles) Norsworthy. He graduated from Indian River Central School in 2006, where he excelled in sports including lacrosse, hockey, and soccer.

Dylan had an adventurous and free-spirited soul. He loved nothing more than playing his guitar and putting pen to paper, writing songs and poems. He always put a smile on everyone’s face. You could find him quite often at Payne Lake, one of his favorite places. He worked a variety of jobs including construction, retail sales and in the electrical field. Dylan attended church in Morristown and had a strong draw to his faith and in the Lord.

He is survived by his father Kevin and Rene Norsworthy of Morristown, his mother Joanna Norsworthy and her companion Bill Law of Brasie Corners, his brothers Brian and Amanda Norsworthy of Rochester, Craig Norsworthy and his companion Lauren Harrienger of Adams, his nephews Finn and Ewan, his niece Lyra, paternal grandmothers Carol Bulmer and Carol Idzenga, grandmother Connie Fuller, several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 2 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur with a funeral service at 3:00. Following the service, a Celebration of Life honoring Dylan will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge.

Memorial donations in honor of Dylan are encouraged to Citizen Advocates Behavioral Health Urgent Care Center, 1003 Park Street, Ogdensburg, NY 13669.

Mario DeCastro

Our beloved Mario DeCastro of Gouverneur, NY passed away on July 26th, 2024 after succumbing to a battle with sepsis.

Mario was born to Judith & Mario “Mike” DeCastro on October 11, 1966 in Watertown.

After graduating from Gouverneur Central High School, he went on to study culinary arts at Paul Smith’s Culinary School in Paul Smiths, NY.

He discovered his passion for food and cooking working alongside his family at their family-owned establishment, the Roma Restaurant. He brought his talent for unique menu design, creating delicious dishes for many restaurants in the Northern NY region, including most notably - his sole proprietorship of the Roma North in Potsdam, NY, The Thousand Islands Club on Wellsley Island, NY, and Cavallario’s Steak & Seafood Restaurant in Alexandria Bay, NY.

He is remembered for his ready smile and easy laughter, his kind and generous nature, his love of his family and his wonderful cooking.

Mario was predeceased by his father Mario “Mike” DeCastro, his mother Judith DeCastro, and his older brother Michael DeCastro. He is survived by his sister Marla DeCastro Shampine and her husband Foster, his nephew Jonathan Shampine, his nieces Catherine and Melissa Shampine, Amanda Bott, and Moricia DeCastro, and a great nephew William Moore.

There will be a funeral mass held at St. James Catholic Church, Gouverneur on Saturday, August 3rd at 12:00 noon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. James School or St. James Parish. Arrangements are with the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur.

Service Notice: Dylan Norsworthy

Dylan Norsworthy, 36, passed away unexpectedly on Monday.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 2 from 2-3 pm at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur and a celebration of life will be held afterwards from 4-6 pm at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge.

John A. Perry

John A. Perry, age 85, of Gouverneur, passed away on July 17, 2024 at home under the care of his loving family and hospice after battling ALS.

There will be no services at this time. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

John was born on January 18, 1939 in Gouverneur to Arthur Theodore “Ted” Perry and Marion G. (O’Riley) Perry Tamamaoto. He was raised in Gouverneur by his grandparents, Myrtle and Charles Perry. He attended the West Side Elementary School and Gouverneur High School before earning his GED. John served in the U.S. Army Reserve for many years.

John married Kay M. Conklin on April 18th, 1960. The couple raised their family in Gouverneur while John worked as the Grocery Manager for the A&P and Great American for many years. He had also worked in the mill for St. Joe an ZCA for several years.

John loved to hunt, fish and hike in the woods. He enjoyed archery, cross country skiing and feeding the deer and birds in his yard. He was a talented musician, playing guitar and singing in his band. John was a member and past President of the Rod and Gun Club’s Muzzleloading Group, earned his Black Belt in Karate and enjoyed scuba diving. Most people that knew John remember that he was always smiling, friendly, and happy.

He is survived by his wife, Kay Perry, daughter Joette Hentz and her husband, Stephen, son, John Perry and his wife, Jeanette, uncle, Donnie O’Riley, sister, Judy Coyle, and brothers, Joseph Alan Perry and his wife, Peggy, and Timmy Tamamaoto. He is also survived by 4 grandchildren, Thomas Joseph Hentz and his fiancé Megan, Anthony J. Perry and his wife, Anita, Stephen J. Hentz, and Alexandra D. Hartle and her husband, Jordan, 9 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by a brother, James Perry.

Donations in memory of John may be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, PO Box 510, Potsdam NY 13676.

Gaylord Brent Bigelow

Gaylord Brent Bigelow of Pocasset, Mass, passed away on July 7th at the age of 82 after losing his long heroic battle with Parkinson's Disease.

Gay was born in Gouverneur, NY, where he worked his family farm. Later in life he moved to Massachusetts where he started his own landscaping business and pursued his desire to fly airplanes. He achieved that goal and later became a flight instructor. Gaylord could always be found working in his yard, remodeling his home or tinkering with anything. He worked hard and during the winters he resided at his second home in Isla Morada, Florida.

Gaylord is predeceased by his parents Ardis and Allen Bigelow of Gouverneur, NY, his brother Adrien Bigelow of Gouverneur, NY, his sister Valerie (Bigelow) Pulver of Canton NY, and his daughter just this past November Randie (Bigelow) Khoroshev.
Gaylord is survived by his wife Dale (Winton) Bigelow of Pocasset, MA, his brother Kevin and his wife Judy Bigelow of Gouverneur, NY, and his daughter Christine (Bigelow) Latham of Maryville, TN. Gay had 5 grandchildren Casey (Latham) Montague and her husband Mathew of Knoxville, TN, Chelsea (Latham) Todd and her husband Drew of Louden, TN, Emily Cronin of Bryson City, North Carolina, Sebastian Khoroshev of Sandwich, MA, and Lucia Khoroshev of California. He had two great-granddaughters Savanna and Kaylee Todd both of Louden, TN. Gay also is survived by 4 nephews and one niece. Gaylord did not wish to have services.

If anyone would like to make a donation to The Parkinson's Foundation in the memory of Gaylord they can do so at www.apdaparkinson.org. His mischievous smile, nature and his kind heart will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Janice F. Clark

Janice Finnegan Clark, 79, passed away on June 23, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Bryan, TX. She was born in Winchester, MA, the third of four children to Thomas Finnegan and Marguerite Chaisson. Janice was a new resident to Bryan, Texas at the time of her passing.

Janice moved from Cobleskill, NY to Bryan, TX in the late summer of 2023. She was a resident at the Parc at Traditions. Janice very much loved her new home, new friends, and new activities. Her move from NY to TX was prompted by the opportunity to enjoy warmer winters and be able to be with her 3 great-grandchildren.

Janice was a devoted wife of 42 years to Bruce B. Clark who predeceased her in death in 2009. Janice and Bruce graduated from Burnt Hills – Ballston Lake Central School. Janice graduated from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Potsdam with a degree in education. Janice also earned her master’s degree in education from SUNY Potsdam. She received her school administration certification from St. Lawrence University. Janice and Bruce married in 1967. They became an Army family and made their home in Colorado, Missouri, Alaska, Seneca NY, and Ft. Drum, NY. Along the way, 2 daughters were born to the Clarks. The Clarks raised their daughters in Gouverneur, NY and called it home for 37 years.

Janice worked in education championing children’s literacy for over 30 years. She was a reading specialist, served as the head of the New York State Compensatory Programs at Gouverneur Central Schools, served as the Assistant Superintendent for Heuvelton School District, and served as Principal of St. John’s Catholic School in Bartlesville, OK.

Janice was passionate about children’s literacy. She credited reading as the foundation of lifelong education, personal joy and achievement. Janice advocated for children throughout her life. She started a summer reading program in Gouverneur, NY. The Book Mobile was a roving library that visited rural neighborhoods and areas where access to summer reading was limited. After retirement, Janice continued to promote literacy through her volunteerism. She was a board member of The Community Library of Cobleskill, NY and she volunteered as a Librarian at St. James Catholic School in Gouverneur, NY.

Janice spent many summer vacations with her family in Raquette Lake, NY with her late dear friend, Priscilla Nisiewicz. She also frequently took summer vacations to Maine with family. Janice loved to explore and experience new things. She liked to be challenged and was always working toward a new goal. Her travels took her to many destinations in the United States, as well as Nova Scotia, Ireland, France, and Scotland with family and friends. Janice loved bird watching, tennis, walking, card games with friends and attending Mass at St. James in Gouverneur, NY, Nativity Catholic Church in Burke, VA, St. Vincent de Paul in Cobleskill NY, and St. Anthony’s in Bryan, TX.

She was beloved.

Janice Finnegan Clark is survived by her two daughters; Meggan (Joe Orenstein) and Paula (William J. Murphy); five grandchildren, Thomas, Patrick and Hannah Murphy and Matthew and Frank Orenstein; and three great-grandchildren, Archer, August and Violet Murphy. She is also survived by her three siblings; Tom Finnegan, Larry Finnegan (Karen) and Peggy Williamson (Christopher) as well as several nieces and nephews. She will be missed by many dear friends including Janice Peters and Margaret Hopsicker.

A funeral Mass will be held in Gouverneur, New York on September 26, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at St. James Church. Burial will follow at Stark Cemetery in South Colton. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home in Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, if you want to honor Janice through donations to causes dear to her heart you may consider a contribution in her name to the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store, Bryan, TX (204 E. 24th Street 77803), The Community Library in Cobleskill, NY (110 Union St. 12043) and St. James School in Gouverneur, NY (20 S. Gordon St. 13642).

Scott M. Wade

Scott M. Wade, 57, Gouverneur, NY unexpectedly left us on Thursday, July 4th, 2024 at Gouverneur Hospital with Lori and family by his side.

Scott was born in Alexandria Bay on November 19, 1966, the son of Judith (Hebert) and Gordon Wade II. He graduated from Alexandria Central High School and worked with his gifted hands all his life whether it be in restaurants, bars or construction.

Scott married Lori Pistolesi on September 14, 2001 at St. Cyril Catholic Church in Alexandria Bay with Rev. Thomas Driscoll officiating. A marriage that truly united two families into one.

Scott’s memories will be continuously cherished by his wife Lori, his siblings Michelle Wade, Gordon and Julia Phelps Wade, Julie Wade; his nieces and nephews Jason, Stephanie, Rachel, Shyloh, Laurel, Ian, Rohan and Quinn Jacobs; Alexandra and Regan Wade; Marisa Ely; Crystal and Justin (Katie) Salter; Brianna (Dylan) Soper and Anthony Pistolesi; Many great-nieces, great-nephews, and God children; Lori’s mother Quinta Pistolesi; her brothers Mario (Terry) Pistolesi, John (Kimberly) Pistolesi; his uncles George, Jeffrey and Michael Hebert; cousins Cully, Cory, Beau, Brian, Kylie and Cole Hebert; Lori’s aunts, uncle, cousins, family in Italy and just so many friends that loved him like a brother.

Scott’s best days were when he did all the things he loved to do, depending on the season…fish, golf, hunt, softball, hockey, trapping, time on Foster’s Farm…sometimes all in the same day. His time in the woods made him whole. He counted his life by hunting seasons, not by years. If you knew Scott, you loved him. Even guys that he fought with became his close friends. He had such a wide variety of inner circles, yet he also cherished his time alone in the woods or on the river. He’s deep, yet light. Concerned about everything to the point of worry, yet also didn’t sweat the small stuff. His love for family, especially his nieces and nephews, filled him with pride in so many different ways. He was Uncle Scott to all the kids and it was arguably his favorite role.

In lieu of flowers/donations or if you are unable to attend, please honor him by fishing in the river, absorbing the woods, smashing a home run, spending a day on the golf course, helping a friend or stranger without being asked, showing up randomly, not taking shit from anyone, starting your day before sunrise, watching old westerns, cooking great food, telling a story, saying your prayers, drinking your friend’s beer, and being an inspiration to someone else.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, July 13th at 11:00 am at St. James Catholic Church, Gouverneur with Fr. Jay Seymour officiating. Come share a story and a beer at the Casablanca between 12:30 to 4:00 pm.

Catheryn Mae Bowman Hamilton

Catheryn Mae Bowman Hamilton, 90, passed away on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at the Elderwood Nursing Home in Lake Placid, NY.

She was born on September 2, 1933 to Ransom and Doris Conklin Bowman in DeKalb Junction, NY.

Catheryn graduated from Hermon-DeKalb School and from there went on to Canton ATI, earning a degree in Dietetics. She furthered her education later in her career, obtaining her Bachelor’s through Empire College.

In 1954, Catheryn was chosen as the St. Lawrence County Maple Queen and went on to compete for Miss NYS.

Catheryn worked at Kinney Drugs store when she first moved to Gouverneur. She would often reminisce about serving Mr B.O. Kinney sundaes at the soda fountain. Catheryn worked at the paper mill in Gouverneur and was a receptionist at Cives Steel Company. In 1976, she accepted a position with St. Lawrence County Office for the Aging as a Nutrition Aide and quickly became a Nutrition Site Director, having worked in both the Gouverneur and Dekalb sites over her career. Catheryn was a member of the VFW Auxiliary for over forty years.

Catheryn was married to David B. Hamilton which ended in divorce. They had four children together; Cynthia Santerre, (Daniel); Maria Dudo (Dale Clement); David (Stacie); and Philip. Catheryn is also the grandmother to Danny Santerre (Audra); Faith Rosenblum (Michael); Erin Nelson (Garrett); Brett Dudo (Taylor); Chelsi Reynolds (Christian Alguire); Ryan Hamilton; and Bryant Hamilton. Catheryn also has six great grandchildren, Grant, Leo, Griffin, Rylee, Brynn and Blake and his soon to be born baby brother. Catheryn is predeceased by her parents Doris and Ransom Bowman, and siblings Richard Bowman; Charles Bowman (Pearl); and Shirley Thomson.

Catheryn was truly a hard working woman, who dedicated herself to her family and helping her fellow man whenever the opportunity arose. She was likewise devoted to her animal friends having several over the years. Catheryn will always be remembered by those who knew her for the beautiful person she was, inside and out. She did the work of angels and was taken to her new home to receive her just heavenly reward.

Arrangements are under the care of Green Funeral Home in Gouverneur with calling hours on Wednesday, July 10th between the hours of 1 and 2:30 pm with a funeral service at 2:30 pm. Burial will follow at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Richville with a reception afterwards at the VFW in Gouverneur for all who knew and loved Cathy.

Brenda Tebo

Brenda J. Tebo, age 59, of Star Lake, NY passed away on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse.

There will be a graveside service for Brenda on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at Oswegatchie Cemetery with Pastor Shane Hunter officiating. Arrangements are with French Family Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Brenda was born on January 31, 1965 in Gouverneur, NY to the late William M.
“Mack” and Barbara J. (Johnston) Fuller. She graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1985. On July 6, 2016, she married Rodney L. Tebo at the Star Lake Fire Hall. Brenda loved Paparazzi Jewelry, Color Street Nails and making crafts.

Surviving is her husband, Rodney; a brother, Howard and Cindy Fuller; a sister Bonnie and Stuart Walker and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Buckley Dean Denesha

Buckley Dean Denesha, 58, passed away on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 at his home.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, June 22nd from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm with a funeral service at 1:00 pm at the Green Funeral Home, Gouverneur with Rev. Greg Bailey, pastor of Trinity Episcopal Church officiating and burial to follow in Hailesboro Cemetery.

Buckley was born in Gouverneur on September 8, 1965, the son of Harold Jr. and Madeline (Randall) Denesha.

He attended Gouverneur schools and worked construction in the North Country for various companies.

Buckley enjoyed hunting, fishing, and listening to music, especially country.

He is survived by his father Harold Jr. and Lynette Denesha of Edwards, his sisters Delinda and Steve Hartle of Fowler, Laurie Denesha and her husband Mike Hanson of Brownville, his brother Joseph Denesha of Gouverneur, several nieces and nephews, and other extended family members. Buckley is predeceased by his mother Madeline, his brothers Dale Denesha and Jeffrey Denesha, and his sister Jody Cole.

Memorial donations in memory of Buckley are suggested to the Gouverneur Vol. Rescue Squad.

Robert G. Brayton

Robert G. Brayton, age 71, of Gouverneur, NY passed away on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at Canton-Potsdam Hospital.

Mr. Brayton was employed at St. Joe Minerals for 15 years, worked construction for six years, then worked for Cellu Tissue until his retirement.

Robert was born on February 7, 1953 in Gouverneur, NY. He was the son of Lyle and Grace (Ellis) Brayton. He graduated from Hermon-Dekalb School in 1971. Robert married Carol A. Perrin-Fowler on November 10, 1979 at the First United Methodist Church in Gouverneur with Rev. Stanley Brown officiating. On November 10, 1984 they had their marriage blessed at St. James Catholic Church in Gouverneur. Carol passed away on August 21, 2020.

Robert enjoyed motorcycles, trucks and watching movies.

Surviving is a son, Robert C. Brayton; grandchildren, Christopher, Micheal and Chloe; a step son, Michael Baxter; two brothers, Lloyd and Raymond; two sisters, Lou Ann Law and Iris Brayton; a step grandson and several nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his wife, Carol and his parents Lyle and Grace Brayton.

There will be no calling hours. There will be a graveside service on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Fairview Cemetery in Edwards. Arrangements are with French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s memory to the American Cancer Society.

Shelley J. Prashaw

Shelley J. Prashaw, age 62, of Richville, passed away April 1, 2024 surrounded by loved ones at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse.

The family of Shelley Jean Prashaw invite you to honor her life at Lisbon Beach Campground at the Pavilion on June 30, 2024 starting at 2pm. We ask that you come, have a bite to eat and share stories and memories of Shelley. Her favorite place to be was Lisbon Beach so it's the perfect place to honor her. There will be food, drinks, and of course her favorite meal; dessert! If you want something specific to drink, please feel free to bring that. Shelley loved a party so starting around 4 or 5pm we invite you to stay and listen to the wonderful Lacey Stoddard-Peets sing!  Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Shelley was born on February 7th, 1962 in Gouverneur, NY to the late Elinor and Glen “George” Besaw. She graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1980 and later returned to school to graduate with a degree in Accounting from SUNY Canton. She married her husband Eugene Prashaw July 26th 1980, and together they had 4 children- Casey and Lindsey Prashaw, Craig and Whitney Prashaw, Eliza and David Dusharm and Corey Prashaw and Jenna Tabakaru. Each child brought a new family to love with 9 grandchildren and countless “4 legged grandbabies” as she so often called them. Shelley has four siblings; Glen Besaw and his wife Kathy, Steven Besaw, Elizabeth Daniels and Ellie Jo and her husband Herbert Simmons. Shelley is predeceased by three sisters; Kathy Phillips, Karen Gilson and Anne Powers.

Shelley worked most recently at the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center in Ogdensburg and as the Village Clerk of Richville. She previously held roles in Accounting, Human Resources and Hospitality. Although her favorite job was her duty as a Mother, “Nanny” and Caretaker of her community. It is well known that Shelley came into your life as a person that was immediately invested in your well-being and success. Having had open arms and the thoughtful care that really only a mother could have. Each person who stepped into her life could agree that she had a certain commitment to you. She would make sure you were fed, listened to and that you got a great big hug. Never once did you have to question if she would be there. Often times showing up when she never had to, just for the sake of being there in case something great happened.

Shelley enjoyed her time with family and building a life with those that she loved. As the years passed, she spent her days by the water at Lisbon Beach, alongside her loving husband and children. Having a drink, making a fire, watching the grandbabies create memories so incredible they could be written into a memoir, and waiting for her youngest son to make his world famous smore. She would always share the same stories every trip to Lisbon beach. Each time the stories unlocked a different part of her that lit her up with joy. She would so often tell stories of her own parents and the love they shared for each other. Displayed most prominently in our memory by the picture that hung in her home of her mother and father dancing. The way she could recall the passion they had for each other and the longing she had to see them again would always make us hurt. Although now at peace- we’re hopeful she is somewhere, sitting on a comfortable chair somewhere by the water, elated in the vision of her parents dancing again.

Zelma Jeffries Hayes

Zelma Eliza Jeffries Hayes, of Richville, N.Y., passed peacefully Thursday morning, June 6, in Kingston, N.Y. She was 92.

Zelma was born in Alamance County, N.C. to Eliza Ann Jeffries and Kyrl Jeffries, and was raised by her aunt and uncle, Lunette (Jeffries) and Joe Parker. She graduated from Pleasant Grove High School in 1951, and entered the Kate B. Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in Winston Salem, N.C. before marrying the Rev. Clarence D. Hayes in 1952. They began raising a family, first in North Carolina, then for 15 years in Newark, N.J., and in 1968 settled in Northern New York.

Zelma was many things in her life: a wife, a mother, a Christian; a nurse’s aide, a fish-market owner, a homemaker, a farmer, and the Pastor’s wife. More than anything, though, she was a caregiver, in every sense of the word.

Zelma, or "Zellie," as many of her friends and family knew her, spent her life caring for others. She was a dedicated wife and a mother of three boys and two girls, but she treated pretty much everyone like family. If she knew you, she helped you. She cared for you. She wanted you to be healthy and educated and at peace no matter who you were.

Zelma invested herself in her church, but more than that, she invested herself in her community. She was a leader in the PTA. She distributed charity items, often from her own home. She worked voter polls until her late 80s.

And, in a beautiful example of how kindness proliferates, her communities invested in her. This was especially true after her husband, Clarence, died almost 30 years before her. When Zelma wanted to visit her vast family in North Carolina, her family embraced her.

More remarkably, even as she became less independent, she refused to leave her farmhouse in West Hermon. It was her home. It was where she raised her family and built a life with her husband. It was where she belonged. It also was far from her children, without easy support. Except it wasn't.

With a diligence and loyalty so common in places like Hermon, Zelma’s friends and neighbors looked after her. They took care of her. It was wonderful to witness: She never lacked the most important components of life; belonging and companionship.

She is survived by her children; Bonnie Brown, Rudy (Sylvia) Hayes, Mary (Dean) Hayes Gordon, Marc (Shelly) Hayes, daughter-in-law Connie Hayes; 18 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband of 45 years, Rev. Clarence D. Hayes, son Clarence D. Hayes, Jr. (Buster) grandson Philip Hayes Gordon, cousin-siblings Addie Parker and Freddie Parker, and son-in-law Leroy Brown. Their sorrow will be shared by a great many; such are the dividends of a life spent investing yourself in others

The community is invited to a Celebration of Zelma’s life on Sunday, June 23 at the Lighthouse Community Church, 209 Main St., Richville, NY. A potluck lunch with family and friends will be from 12:00 – 1:00, with the Celebration and Remembrance from 1:00 – 2:00. All are welcome to attend the church service from 11:00 – 12:00.

Marc Dusharm

Marc L. Dusharm, age 56, of Gouverneur, passed away on June 6, 2024 at home under the care of his family and hospice.

Calling hours will be held at French Funeral Home in Gouverneur on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. His funeral service will be on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Reggie Curtis officiating. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

Marc was born on November 18, 1967 in Gouverneur to the late Lawrence H. and Joan H. (Thrasher) Dusharm. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1985 and married Susan M. Clement on June 24, 1989 at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church.

Marc began his career working for TMT Construction, then worked at Cives Steel Company for many years, starting out welding and then was trained to be a draftsman. He has been working as a draftsman for Schenectady Steel for the last few years.

Marc loved being outdoors spending time in the woods, using his tractor, hunting, fishing, boating, and attempting to make maple syrup. He was an excellent wood worker, having built his own homes and sugar shack. He was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and member of the Bills Mafia, and served on the Gouverneur Rescue Squad as an A.L.S., Treasurer, Crew Chief, and Crew Trainer. Above all else, Marc loved his family and spending time with them.

He is survived by his wife, Sue Dusharm, son, Michael Dusharm and his companion, Victoria Sampson, and Jordan Dusharm, grandchildren, Ember, Dean, and Valarie, and his sisters, Arita (Alden) Hale, Marsha (Bob Drake) Canning, Laurie (David) Bush, and Heather (David) Skeldon. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Marc is predeceased by his parents, Lawrence and Joan Dusharm, and brothers, Larry and Bruce Dusharm.

Donations in memory of Marc may be made to Ryan’s Wish Foundation, PO Box 326, Gouverneur NY 13642.

Mary Lucia (“Lu”) LaPorte

Mary Lucia (“Lu”) LaPorte, age 92, of Boynton Beach, Florida, passed peacefully after a short bout with cancer on June 7, 2024.

Born in 1931 to Pierina and Ellis (“Pedro”) Manzolati, Lu graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1948 and then earned an Associate’s Degree from Central City Business Institute. Lu married Bruce LaPorte in 1954 and together they raised five children while living in the Dunkirk/Fredonia area of New York.

Although she served as Executive Secretary to several high-level directors – titles and superlatives weren’t particularly important to Lu. A quiet source of strength to her husband and family, she worked tirelessly in support of Bruce’s many projects and ventures. After raising their children, she & Bruce moved to Arkwright NY where they grew potatoes on their small Gravity Hill farm. Locals may remember them as antique dealers who specialized in selling primitive lamps & tools. When a stroke paralyzed Bruce’s right side in 1992, Lu was his caregiver through the long years of disability and decline. He passed in 2007.

Lu is survived by her son, Michael (Linda) LaPorte of Roseville, MI; three daughters, Michele (Charles) Grammer of Eden, NY, Jo-Anne LaPorte of Boynton Beach, FL, and Lucia Lynn (Robert Mekus) LaPorte also of Boynton Beach, FL; 3 grandchildren: Milo Meghan (KC Sea) Grammer, Julie (Steven) Frontera, and Nathan (Kim Weston) Grammer; 2 great grandchildren, Anthony and Annabelle Frontera; 1 sister, Ida (John) Langtry; and several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents and beloved husband of 52 years, she was preceded in death by her son Jay LaPorte in 1985.

A private service and burial will be held at Cowden Cemetery in Arkwright, NY at a future date.

Gregory J. Parks

Gregory J. Parks, a North Country native and formerly of Gouverneur, died April 4, 2024 in Northridge, California. He was 72 years old.

Greg’s parents, Worth and Helen (Johnston) Parks, moved the family to Gouverneur from Antwerp in 1954. Greg attended East Side Elementary School, Gouverneur Junior High and Senior High Schools, and graduated in 1969. He excelled academically and played both jayvee and varsity football. He was a proud Eagle Scout and member of the First Methodist Church. He attended the University of Rochester where he played tennis, sang in the Glee Club, and received a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering in 1973. His first job post-college was with Westinghouse, and this took him to southern California where he met Karen Kaplan, his future wife. He later worked for Intel Corporation as an engineering sales representative. While with Intel he received a master’s degree in engineering management at UCLA, and achieved licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE). He capped his career with Marcus and Millichap, a prominent North American real estate investment firm, in commercial real estate sales.

Greg is survived by a daughter, Kimberly Malys of Simi Valley CA, a son, Brian Parks of Oakland CA, their mother and his ex-wife, Karen Parks of Tarzana CA, a brother, Tom Parks of Albuquerque NM, two grandchildren, Matthew and Christopher Malys, and several cousins.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Gouverneur First United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, PO Box 157, Gouverneur, NY 13642.

Shirley G. Hockey

Shirley G. Hockey, 88, of Honeoye Falls, New York, and formerly of Brownville, New York, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2024, at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, New York. Her husband, son, daughter and son-in-law, and granddaughter were at her side.

Born on July 28, 1935, in Gouverneur, New York, she was the daughter of Merrill and Eva (Huntley) Goodison. Shirley graduated from Gouverneur High School and later from the Central City Business Institute in Syracuse. She dedicated many years as a secretary at New York Airbrake, retiring in 1992.

On August 18, 1956, Shirley married Eugene Hockey in Gouverneur, New York. Shirley and Gene were introduced as teenagers by her brother, Sonny, and were together for nearly 74 years. They made Brownville their home for most of their married life. Gene worked for NY Telephone Co. as a cable splicer, retiring in 1989.

Shirley enjoyed reading and sewing as relaxing hobbies. Some of her fondest memories came from traveling alongside her husband in their travel trailer, exploring the beauty of the United States. She enjoyed time at the family cottage on Sylvia Lake, especially the annual reunion on the 4th of July which included 5 generations! For 25 years, they spent winters in Ocala, Florida, escaping harsh North Country winters.

Among her survivors are beloved husband Gene, daughter and son-in-law, Cindi (Fred) Dowd of Honeoye Falls, NY, and her son and daughter-in-law, David (Cherie) Hockey of Caroga Lake, NY. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Gordon (Charlotte) Goodison of Syracuse, NY, and five grandchildren (Joshua Roth, Bryan Roth, Emily Roth Ishman, Kevin Hockey, and Elliott Hockey). In addition, Shirley had five great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her brother, Merrill “Sonny” Goodison.

Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home in Dexter, NY. Shirley’s wish was to be cremated, with no services held at this time. Burial will take place in Brownville Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Donations in Shirley's memory may be made to Parkinson’s Foundation or the American Stroke Foundation. Online condolences can be left at www.dexterfuneralhome.com.

George W. LaBow

George W. LaBow, age 70, of Gouverneur, NY passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 3, 2024 at Gouverneur Hospital.

There will be calling hours for George on Monday, June 10, 2024 from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur with his funeral service immediately following at 3:00 p.m. with Rev. Ben Lalka officiating. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com.

George was born on February 3, 1954 in Gouverneur, NY to Hilton R. LaBow and Anita (Papineau) Hayes. He graduated from Gouverneur Central School in 1972. George worked for St. Joe Mineral for 15 years before becoming a Tele Data Technician for IBEW local 910 Union out of Watertown. A marriage to Betty Young ended in divorce. George married Connie McBroom on February 14, 2001.

George was an avid Yankee and Giant’s fan. He loved music, watching sports, hunting, fishing, watching his grandchildren play and he loved his dogs.

Surviving is his wife, Connie; his father Hilton; his children, Shawn and Sandra LaBow, April and Larry Marcellus, Julieanne LaBow, Matthew Reynolds, Chad Reynolds and Ashley and Gary Barr; a brother, Joe and Barbara LaBow; sister, Linda and Eric Wagner; step sister, Linda Fraser Siebel; sister-in-law, Sue LaBow; 18 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren with one on the way and several nieces and nephews.

George is predeceased by his mother, Anita; a daughter Jeri Lynn Love; a granddaughter, Courtney Sue Barr; a brother, Richard LaBow and a step sister, Aretta (Fraser) Freed.

Service Notice: Jacqueline “Jackie” Bartholomew

A celebration of life for Jacqueline “Jackie” Bartholomew will be held on Saturday, June 15th from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at the Gouverneur Elks Lodge, following her burial in Riverside Cemetery, Gouverneur at 11:00 am. Jackie passed away on April 12, 2024.

Elizabeth A. Williams

Elizabeth A. Williams, age 84, passed away May 13, 2024, at Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, Plattsburgh. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Phillips Memorial Home in Madrid. Friends and family were received on Sunday, May 19, at the Phillips Memorial Home, Madrid. Funeral services were held on Monday May 20 with Pastor Richard Ladouceur officiating and burial to follow in Evergreen Cemetery Canton, NY.

Elizabeth was born on January 22, 1940, in Gouverneur, NY the daughter of John Henry and Clara Loya (Streeter) Church. She attended and graduated from Gouverneur High School. Elizabeth furthered her education attending Houghton College and later obtained her master’s degree in teaching. Elizabeth was married to her devoted husband, Lee Charles Williams on February 16, 1974, in the Gouverneur Methodist Church.

She began her teaching career in Penn Yan and later relocated back to the North Country and taught math for Gouverneur Central School District retiring in 1995.

Elizabeth was a very active member and served on the board of the Morley Wesleyan Church, Lisbon Holiness Campmeeting Association, and was also a member of and was also a member of the West Chazy Holiness Campmeeting Association as well as Kendrew Grange, Pomona Grange, and State Grange. Liz also loved music, both listening as well as singing and playing several instruments. She loved spending time with her family, travelling, spending time in nature, and supporting area diners on a regular basis.

She is survived by her husband Lee, her children Katherine “Kitty” LaFaver, of Lisbon, NY, Paul S. Williams of Salem, WV; Mark R. and Randi Williams of Canton, NY. Four grandchildren, Korey, Melinda LaFaver; Cole and Ethan Williams. Her sisters, Hazel Finley of Antwerp, NY; Helen Harrington and Bob Buddenhagen along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was also predeceased by a sister Pauline MacTurk and a great-grandson, Sawyer J. LaFaver.

Memorial contributions may be shared with Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley; 6805 US Highway 11, Potsdam, NY 13676

Online condolences, memories and pictures are welcomed by visiting, www.PhillipsMemorial.com