Category Archives: Obituaries

GANSEVOORT – Donald J. “DJ” Philion, Jr., 51, of Gansevoort, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes at his residence, on Thursday, October 28, 2021.

Born in Glens Falls on September 1, 1970, to Shirley (Hartwell) Philion and the late Donald Philion, Sr., he was the youngest of seven children.

He attended elementary and high school in Hudson Falls and was involved in wrestling, under the watchful eye of Coach Chick. In his youth he enjoyed playing Little League and was involved in Cub Scouts.

Following his graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy proudly serving as a 3^rd Class Petty Officer, Hull Tech Maintenance Technician, assigned to the USS WASP, which was deployed to Somalia during the United Nations intervention: Operation Restore Hope in January of 1993.

He was self employed as drywall installer and worked in New York, Virginia, Massachusetts and Florida for many years.

He was predeceased by his father, Donald J. Philion Sr. (2017), his older brother, Michael E. Philion (2015), paternal grandparents, Everett and Geneva Philion and maternal grandparents, Walter and Marion Hartwell.

In addition to his mother, Shirley Philion of South Glens Falls; he is survived by his sisters, Ann (David) Doerffel of Warminster, PA, Susan Philion of Hudson Falls, Theresa Philion of Queensbury and Jeanne (Brian) Nichols of Queensbury; and his brother, Charles Philion (Bill Gardy) of Albany; he was uncle to Katie (Justin) Lee of South Glens Falls, John Doerffel of Warminster, PA, Elizabeth Nichols and fiancé Grafton Derryberry of Queensbury, Senior Airman Patrick Nichols (USAF) currently stationed at Beale AFB in California, Nathan Philion of Queensbury; and grand-uncle to Maxwell and Isabelle Lee of South Glens Falls.

Friends and family may call on Monday, November 8, 2021, from 10 to 11am, prior to the funeral mass

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 80 Saratoga Ave, South Glens Falls, with Rev. Guy A. Childs, officiating.

The Rite of Committal will follow at St. Paul’s Cemetery in the Town of Kingsbury.

Family and friends are welcome to gather at his sister’s home, 3 Notre Dame Street, Hudson Falls following the Rite of Committal.

In lieu of flowers the family has suggested that memorial donations be made to the Adirondack Vets House, Inc., 26 Pine Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801.

GEORGES MILLS, NH – Gary Ford Theis, 64, of Georges Mills, NH passed away on Friday October 22, 2021.

Gary was born to Beverly and William Theis on November 15, 1956, in Buffalo, NY.

He spent his childhood in East Glenville, NY alongside his sister, Linda, and brother, Brian. After graduating from Burnt Hills High School, he attended SUNY Morrisville and later relocated to Kezar Lake in North Sutton, NH after accepting a position as Chief of Communications with the Associated Press. North Sutton is also where he met his former wife, Pamela, and together they introduced their three children: Joseph, Nicholas, and Alicia.

Gary was most proud of his children and grandchildren, as well as his early career as Chief of Communications with the Associated Press covering the New England region. Gary loved spending time outdoors with his family going camping, fishing, boating, snowmobiling, skiing, and golfing. Many of his childhood traditions, such as camping in the NY Adirondacks, will continue to be an annual family tradition for many generations.

Gary is predeceased by his father, William.

He is survived by his mother, Beverly (Georges Mills, NH); his two siblings and their spouses, Linda & Robert Lemieux (Argyle, NY), and Brian and Jennifer Theis (Irvine, CA); his three children and their spouses, Joseph & Shawna Theis (Salisbury, NH), Nicholas & Jessica Theis (Newbury, NH), Alicia & Peter Castello (Dover, NH); his four nieces and nephews, Jennifer, Jamie, Michael, and Mitchell; and his four grandchildren, Jameson, Owen, Aubrey, Alexander and Isen.

Funeral arrangements and/or services to be determined at a later time.

HUDSON FALLS- Robert James Blackburn, (“Bob”) 81, of Meadow Road, passed away quietly at his home attended by his loving wife Helen on Sunday, October 10, 2021.

Born on May 26, 1940, in Glens Falls, he was the son of the late James and Viola West Blackburn, and is preceded in death by his sister Patricia (Blackburn) Bates and stepbrother James Blackburn.

Bob was a 1958 graduate of South Glens Falls Central High School, further continuing his education at Albany College of Pharmacy, graduating in 1963. On November 27, 1965, Bob married Helen Chicoine in beautiful Falmouth Massachusetts (on Cape Cod), and they have been married for 56 years.

Throughout his career, Bob was in demand and worked for many pharmacies including Kinney Rexall Drugs in Carthage, Watertown, and Potsdam NY.  Upon moving back to this area, he became Supervising Pharmacist at Hometown Pharmacy in Glens Falls and also worked at Wilton Developmental Center. For 51 years Bob also worked both full and part time for McCann’s Pharmacy in Hudson Falls.

For over 25 years Robert was an adjunct faculty member at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Care Services, where he was three times voted “Preceptor of the Year” by students. He proudly served as President of Warren, Washington and Saratoga County Pharmaceutical Society shortly before his retirement from Glens Falls Hospital Pharmacy. His passion was his profession, and he was beloved and respected by colleagues and patients alike.

Through his professionalism, dedication fellowship and compassion, Bob was able to help countless people, a driving passion of his. Bob was a great believer in physical fitness, often cycling back and forth from Lake George to the Racquet Club where he lifted weights. A favorite pastime was navigating his boat the “Preceptor” on the lake which he knew and loved so well. Bob was an avid reader, savoring the works of Hemingway and Steinbeck, had a dry wit, enjoyed the music of Patsy Cline and classic Broadway musicals and never met a dessert he didn’t like. He was always curious about everything and interested in learning new things about technology and gadgets. He will be sorely missed by many.

Survivors include his wife, Helen Blackburn of Hudson Falls; his children Heather Blackburn of Portland, Oregon and Robert Edward Blackburn of Los Angeles, California.

A small Celebration of Life service may be scheduled at some point in Spring/Summer of 2022.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made in memory of Bob Blackburn to one his many favorite charity organizations including To the Himalayas with Love (https://www.himalayaswithlove.org/), the Leukemia Lymphoma Society (https://lls.org/) and High Peaks Hospice (545 Glen Street, Glens Falls NY 12801), which provided great comfort.

HUDSON FALLS – Chauncey Allen Huestis, Jr., 89, of Hudson Falls, passed away peacefully, on Wednesday, October 27, 2021, with his family by his side.

Born on October 25, 1932 in Moriah, he was the son of the late Chauncey and Beatrice (Sartwell) Huestis, Sr.

Chauncey attended Hartford School and following his education, joined the US Army.  Chauncey proudly served his country from 1952 to 1954.

On November 26, 1955, he married the love of his life, Lorraine Havens, at St. Mary’s/St.Paul’s Church in Hudson Falls, where they were both communicants.  She passed away on March 31, 2000, after 45 years of marriage. 

Chauncey’s work career was varied throughout the area.  He spent many years at Geiba Geigy, then he worked at his friends Pest Control Business and at the Montgomery-Ward Warehouse.  Having lived many years on the Burgoyne Ave across from Lewis Grocery store, Chauncey just walked to his job at the store.  As a proud veteran, his last employment was serving as house man and janitor at the Hudson Falls American Legion, Post 574, where he was a lifetime member. For many years, the legion was his second home.

Chauncy loved being outdoors, whether it was boating, camping or fishing in the Adirondacks.  He had a great love of music.  Chauncey could be seen smoking his pipe and tapping his foot at the Smokey Green’s Bluegrass Festival and enjoying music and friendship as a member of the New Country Fan Club. Chauncy made many friends when he went square dancing and everyone enjoyed listening to him yodel.  He was a fixer of anything.  Chauncey could make any electronic device come to life, including TVs and radios.  But, his greatest talent was his ability to make instant friends.  The center of his life was his family.  He loved them dearly and cherished the time spent with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Besides his parents and wife, he was predeceased by his son, David Huestis, his siblings, Wynetta Hall, George Sartwell, Beatrice Huestis, LeRoy Huestis, Frederick Huestis, Clarence Huestis and Thomas Huestis.

Survivors include his children Gail (Scott) Whittmore of Hudson Falls and Beth (Tim) Hathaway of Hudson Falls; his grandchildren, Tiffany Hathaway and Crystal (fiancé, Steven Meyers) Hathaway; his great grandchildren, Jaden Hathaway-Tessier and Connor Hathaway-Meyers; his brother, Almon (Caroline) Huestis of Florida;  and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends may call on Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday at St. Mary’s/St. Paul’s Church, on the Park in Hudson Falls.

The Rite of Committal will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in the town of Fort Edward.

The family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Hudson Falls American Legion, Post 574, Color Guard, 72 Pearl Street, Hudson Falls, 12839 or High Peaks Hospice, 454 Glen Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801.

HUDSON FALLS – Patricia May (Tifft) Hall, 75, of Hudson Falls passed away Sunday, October 24, 2021 at Glens Falls Hospital in Glens Falls.

Born in Bennington, VT on March 17, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Orla Tifft and Ella (Hay) Williams.

Patricia received her High School Diploma in 2014, she was so proud of this accomplishment at the age of 68, showing it’s never too late to obtain your goals.  Patricia was a very strong and determine women with a side of feistiness and didn’t enjoy being told what to do.  She worked at Native Textile, ARoxy Dry Cleaners for over 25 years and was an Associate at RT 9 Walmart, Queensbury where she retired 2017.

Patricia enjoyed watching NASCAR, attend bluegrass jamborees, enjoyed cooking, favorite to the family was her spaghetti and meatballs and her famous old fashion donuts. She also, loved a good ole fashion barbeque with family and friends.  Additionally, she loved traveling with her oldest daughter, with her highlights being San Diego and Monterey, CA, Groton, CT, and Washington, DC. 

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 20 years, Roy Hall who passed away in 2017.

Patricia is survived by her children,  Sandra Ella (Edson) Williamson of South Glens Falls, Marie Annette Edson-Fleming of Glens Falls, Thomas (Denise) McDonald of Fort Edward, and Cinnamon Patricia (Todd) Balcom of Granville; sisters,  Ruth (Frank) Robyck of Mechanicsville and Yvonne Dennison of Clemons; grandchildren, Stephen (Aimee) Williamson, Tyller Williamson and Ivan Quiroz Bautista, Jorell Williamson, Ryan Williamson, Andrew Edson, Alex McDonald, Brooke McDonald, Neil McDonald, Christopher, Anthony and Philip Balcom, great-grandchildren, Jazmyn Edson, Summer Williamson, Scott and John McDonald, Daisy and Skylar McDonald; and several nieces, nephews and cousins

Calling hours will be from 4 to 6 p.m., November 2, 2021, at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street, Hudson Falls.

A service will be at 6 p.m. following the calling hours.

Burial Service will be held at 2 p.m., November 3, 2021, at West Rupert Cemetery, RT153, West Rupert, VT 05776.

Memorial contributions in memory of Patricia may be made to the Fort Edward Rescue Squad Inc, PO Box 226, Fort Edward, NY 12828.

Special Thank You to Glens Falls Hospital ER and Tower 6 Staff, Dr France, Dr Chaudry and Dr Bain, Mt Zion Ministry Team for their dedication and continued support during this difficult time.

HUDSON FALLS – Bruce Archie Hall, 75, of Coleman Ave, passed away on Saturday, October 23, 2021, at his home.

Born July 3, 1946, in Glens Falls, he was the son of the late Alfred and Mabel (Putnam) Hall.

On October 3, 1969, Bruce married Ann James at the Baptist Church in Glens Falls.

He was retired from Local 201 out of Albany where he worked for many years as a union painter.

Most often you could find Bruce getting his hands dirty, working on cars, fixing them for his family.  He enjoyed wheeling and dealing with the locals, over things he spotted in their yards.  Bruce was known for filling his own back yard with treasured items he and his family would refer to as “junk”. Most importantly, he loved socializing and spending time with his friends and family. More recently, he took  up ice fishing and enjoyed spending time on the hard water with his son.

Besides his parents, Bruce was predeceased by his two brothers and his six sisters.

Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Ann E. Hall of Hudson Falls; his children, Kenneth Hall and his wife, Stephanie of Mechanicville, Bruce Hall and his wife, Jessica of Hudson Falls, Becky Hall and her wife, Crystal of Ballston Spa.; his sister, Sally Porter of South Glens Falls; his grandchildren, Dylan Hall, Austin Hall, Ryan Hall, Lexi Beckwith and Genavieve Garby; his great granddaughter, Luna Hall, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call Wednesday, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main St., in Hudson Falls.

Memorial donations in memory of Bruce may be made to the SPCA of Upstate New York, 588 Queensbury Ave., Queensbury, NY 12804.

HUDSON FALLS – Paul George Dashnaw, 72 of Third Street, passed away on Friday, October 22, 2021 at the Samuel Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany.

Born November 30, 1948 in Glens Falls, he was a lifelong Hudson Falls resident and son of the late Leo and Claudine (Mickle) Dashnaw.

Paul was a graduate of Hudson Falls High School. A U.S. Army Veteran, he served during Vietnam, continuing his service with the New York Army National Guard until retiring with the rank of Staff Sergeant in 1997. Paul worked for the city of Glens Falls in the water treatment department until his retirement in 2017. He remained active in his retirement so he took a job at Lowe’s where he enjoyed helping customers with their projects.

An avid Star Trek fan, Paul was always interested in space travel. He was also interested in broadcasting and belonged to a radio group. Paul loved to travel and volunteered at the Washington County Fair and the Washington County Board of Elections. He always went out of his way to help others.

He is survived by his children, Trina Dashnaw of Dunnellon, FL, Stephanie Varney (John) of Corinth, Eric L. Dashnaw (Jessica) of Hudson Falls and Laura Dashnaw also of Hudson Falls; his sisters and brothers, Libbie Freeburn of Middleburgh, FL, Gloria French of Windcrest, TX, Patrick Dashnaw of Las Vegas, NV, Peter Dashnaw of Round Rock, TX, Mary Dashnaw of South Glens Falls, Carol Grinnell of Austin, TX, Pamela Coyle of Virginia Beach, VA and Jean Dashnaw of Schenectady. He will also be missed by his 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Friends may call from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., on Thursday, October 28, 2021 at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls. Please wear a mask or face covering upon entering the funeral home for visitation, regardless of vaccination status.

A committal service with military honors will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Friday at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in the town of Stillwater.

Donations in Paul’s memory may be directed to the family to help with expenses.

HUDSON FALLS – Ella (Hobbs) Huntington, 93, a longtime resident of Hudson Falls, passed away October 22, 2021, at Fort Hudson Nursing Center in Fort Edward.

Born September 18, 1928 in Ellenburg Center, she was the daughter of the late Earl and Lena (LaSage) Hobbs. 

Ella attended Ellenburg Central School.

On May 24, 1981, Ella married Adoniram (AJ) Huntington, Jr at the American Legion in Hudson Falls.   They were married for 36 years before his passing on July 17, 2017.

She was employed by Native Textiles in Glens Falls for 22 years and was co-owner and operator of AJ & Ellies Kountry Kitchen in Hudson Falls.

Ella was a longtime member of the Hudson Falls Methodist Church, a past member of the American Legion, Post 574, a past member of the Glens Falls Elks Lodge, #81 and founding member of Easy Country Fan Club.  She enjoyed bowling, playing bingo and listening to country music. In the last few years she showed her humorous side, joking with her family saying she had C.R.S. (Can’t Remember S…).

Besides her parents, Ella was predeceased by her sons, Bernard LaPlant and Larry LaPlant; her stepson, A.J. Huntington, III; her sisters, Alta Barcomb and Thelma Burdo; her brothers, Darwin Hobbs and Herman Hobbs and her stepbrother, Glenn Hobbs.

Survivors include her children, James LaPlant and his wife, Colleen of Coconut Creek Fl, Donald LaPlant and his wife, Linda of Queensbury, Robert LaPlant and wife, Darcy of Hudson Falls, Charles Gourd and wife, Karen of W. Palm Beach Fl, Lorraine Nash of MacClenan, Fl; her stepchildren,  Steven Huntington and his wife, Donna of Gansevoort, Kevin Huntington and his wife, Tina of Hudson Falls,  Theresa Colwell and her husband, Jeff of San Antonio, TX, Linda Huntington Kress and her husband, Doug of Fairview Heights, IL; Her brothers, Earl Hobbs of Glens Falls and Gary Hobbs and his wife, Donna of Hudson Falls; a sister, Irma Boyea of Chateaugay; several grandchildren; great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and cousins

Friends may call from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, October 28, 2021, at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

Burial will follow the calling hours at Pine View Cemetery in the town of Queensbury.

The family suggests that memorial donations be made to the Fort Edward Rescue Squad, Inc., P.O. Box 226, Fort Edward, NY 12828.

HUDSON FALLS – Rebecca “Becky” Turnbull passed away at her home, on October 18, 2021, from COVID-19 complications. She was 51 years old. Her loving husband, Bart, was by her side.

Rebecca was born in Rutland, Vermont on October 3, 1970, the daughter of Robert C. and Carolyn Hansen Isdell of Whitehall, NY. Rebecca graduated from Whitehall Central High School in 1989. She enjoyed many years of dance classes from an early age until 2021. Her greatest achievement was being a CNA, working very well with elderly people.

Rebecca is survived by her husband, Bart Turnbull, who she married on March 3, 2006. She leaves behind two children, Mariha and Haden Turnbull; two sisters, Tammy Tedesco and Stacy Montalvo; and a brother, Bobby Isdell, along with many nieces and nephews.

Rebecca is also survived by her mother, Carolyn Isdell; mother-in-law, Linda Turnbull; and many other members of their loving family and extended family, including Rebecca’s aunts, uncles, cousins and her godson, Kyle.

Rebecca was looking forward to the birth of her granddaughter, Anastasia Grace in January 2022.

Rebecca was predeceased by her father, Robert C. Isdell; her father-in-law, Bruce Turnbull; two cousins, RP and Andrew; her cherished grandmother, Elsie Hansen and her grandfather, Raymond Hansen.

Rebeca was born with PKU which is a rare genetic condition where the body is unable to break down an amino acid called phenylalanine. If you would like to donate to the National PKU Alliance, please mail your donation to: 2809 E. Hamilton Ave., #311, Eau Clare, WI 54701.

Friends may call Monday, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., on October 25, 2021 at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street, in Hudson Falls, NY.  Please wear a mask or face covering upon entering the funeral home for visitation, regardless of vaccination status.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, at Hillside Cemetery, in Castleton, VT.

FORT EDWARD – William A. “Papa” Lewry, 66, has gone to join his family in eternity on Thursday, October 14, 2021.

Born on June 14, 1955, in Glens Falls, he was the son of the late Roland P. Lewry and Margaret (Lance) Lewry-Mahoney.

Bill graduated from Glens Falls High School in 1973.  For many years he worked for Russel and Waite Office Supply Store before moving on to Toys R Us in Queensbury until his retirement.

He was an avid bowler.  Bowling was his favorite past time.  He was active in several leagues and served as secretary for many over the years.  Bill cherished the time he and his son Josh spent bowling in many tournaments together. 

Bill will be remembered as a great father and brother, who was always there to lend a hand or give support when needed.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Shirley (LaRoe) Lewry and his infant sister, Linda Lewry.

He is survived by his son, Joshua Lewry and his partner, Meleah; his daughter, Samantha Lewry; his grandchildren, Alicia Gaworecki, Gabrielle Hill and Brian Hill; he is also survived by his three siblings, Judith A. Carvin (Fred), Thomas Lewry (Deborah), Patricia J. Shaw (Frank); and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Graveside services will be private at Pine View Cemetery.

Memorial donations in Bill’s memory may be sent to Broadway Lanes, Edward, NY 12828 for Youth Bowling.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

HUDSON FALLS – Crystal A. Wheeler, 36, of Willow Street, passed away on October 12, 2021, at her home, after a long illness.

Born on October 9, 1985, she was the daughter of Carleen (Whalen) Dixon and Kevin and Kim Wheeler.

Through the years, Crystal has worked several jobs in the area.  Although, her life was filled with her family.  Crystal loved her two children, Dagan and Liliana and was happiest when she was with them.  Whether it was playing games, reading or just talking with them, she was at peace.  Crystal also loved her dog, Harley and even though she said she didn’t like cats, no one believed her.   She loved to color and was talented at crocheting. 

Crystal was predeceased by all her grandparents, Leo and Barbara Whalen, Gerald and Anna Mae Wheeler and Frederick and Joyce Kaiser.

Survivors include her parents, Carleen Dixon and Kevin and Kimberly Wheeler; her children, Liliana and Dagan Schulze; her brothers, Brant Dixon, Maximus Jones, Edgar Gates and Matthew Gates; her niece, Cheyenne Gates; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Family and friends may call on Thursday, October 21, 2021 from 4 to 6 pm at Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls. 

Following the calling hours, at 6:30 p.m., a celebration of Crystal’s life will be at the Hudson Falls American Legion, Post 574, 72 Pearl Street in Hudson Falls.

The family wishes to thank the Doctors and Nurses at the Glens Falls Hospital and High Peaks Hospice for the wonderful care and compassion given to Crystal and her family.

Donations in memory of Crystal may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 200 Besey Street, 28th Floor, New York, New York 10281 or Upstate SPCA, 588 Queensbury Ave., Queensbury, NY  12804.

Culpeper, VA – James “Jimmy” P. Oliver, Jr., 55, formerly of South Glens Falls, NY passed away peacefully at his home in Culpeper, VA with his wife by his side, on October 10, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on July 13, 1966, in Glens Falls, NY, he was the son of James P. Oliver, Sr. and the late Jacqueline “Jackie” (Murray) Oliver.

James is survived by his wife, Kathleen (Mulchy) Oliver, whom he married on September 7, 1996.  They recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary. 

He is also survived by his brother Scott (Lori) Oliver of Queensbury, sister Lee-Ann (Dale) Stone, their two children, James and Aleea of South Glens Falls.  His stepson Jerry Dalaba of Queensbury, stepdaughter Casey (John) Klem and their son Benjamin of Billings, MT.  He was the best “Grandpa” and will be greatly missed.  His stepmother, Donna (Burnham) Oliver and stepsisters, Kari (Paul) Zurlo of Ausable Forks and Lori (Steve) Below of Saugerties.  His sister-in-law Joan (Paul) Daly of Fonda and Laurie (Adam) Salzer of Nassau, brother-in-law Pat (Maryann) Mulchy of Amsterdam, brother-in-law Anthony Pileggi of Kellogg, ID.  Several Aunts, Uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and countless family members who will never forget him.

Besides his Mother Jackie, he was predeceased by his Maternal Grandparents, Robert and Elaine Murray of Hudson Falls, NY.  Paternal Grandparents, James and Florence Oliver of Hudson Falls, NY.  His brother-in-law, Timothy Mulchy of Tribes Hill, NY and sister-in-law Nancy Pileggi of Kellogg, ID. Several Aunts, Uncles and niece.

Jim graduated from South Glens Falls High School in 1985.  Following high school, he served 5 years active duty in the U.S. Navy as a helicopter mechanic. He was stationed in Norfolk, VA and Alameda, CA. He signed an extended year so he could travel and see the world on the USS Tripoli with an honorable discharge in 1990.

In 1993, Jim moved to Virginia and worked in the cellular communications industry for multiple cellular companies. With his cellular background, he joined Communication Electronics in Fairfax, VA in 1999.  He started out as an installer and was promoted to Service Manager in 2008.  He was truly dedicated to his job and worked right up to his death.  Over the course of his cancer, he never allowed his treatments or surgeries to prevent him from doing the job he loved. 

Jim’s prized possession was his Harley that he loved to ride with his wife.  His loyal companions were his dog Sadie and his cats, Sandy and Andre.  He is now reunited with his dogs Buddy, Deuce and Harley and his cats, Harley and Crystal.  His many interests were playing guitar, singing in several bands, and spending summers at his camp since childhood at Trout Lake.  Jim and Kathy traveled to Jamaica several times and met life-long friends.  Jim always looked forward to spending time with the light of his life, his grandson Ben.  Jim was a devoted husband and beloved son, stepfather and grandfather. He was a genuine friend to countless people.  We will all remember his infectious smile and laugh.

Friends may call from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 6, 2021, at the Carleton Funeral Home Inc., 68 Main St., in Hudson Falls.

A memorial service will follow the calling hours, 3 p.m., at the funeral home. For all those wishing to attend the service virtually, a Zoom meeting has been created with session ID – 79063109464 password – 8v5qqi

A special thank you to his oncologist, nurses and technicians at Fairfax Hospital, the Hospice of Piedmont team and his special cousin, Karen (Murray) Martin.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s name can be made to the Sarcoma Foundation of America.  Donate online: www.curesarcoma.org.  

GLENS FALLS – Bernard “Bernie” R. Gregory, 82, of Third Street, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 4, 2021 at Glens Falls Hospital.

Bernie, a Glens Falls native and life-long resident, was born on Thursday, Nov. 24, 1938.  He was one of five children.

He was the beloved husband of Joyce Ann LaFarr, who sadly predeceased him in 2009.  Joyce and Bernie met in 1956 and were married in 1957.  Together they started a family in Glens Falls having three children, George, Bernie, and Betsy.  After several years, life chose a different path for Bernie and he and Joyce parted temporarily.

Bernie and Joyce spent eight years apart, but never lost their love for one another.  In 1978 Bernie was reunited with his teenage sweetheart only now their family included a new member, his stepson Jimmy.  For more than 30 years they raised their four children and several grandchildren.

Bernie was not just a loving husband, father “Dad”, and grandfather “Pa”, he also had a rewarding career at Glens Falls Portland Cement Co., now Lehigh Cement.  He worked at the cement company for decades and was so proud to drive the huge Caterpillar front end loaders in their pits.  He was so proud driving family and friends into the mill to show them his loader.

For those who knew Bernie, it was obvious he absolutely cherished his family, especially the little ones.  He loved to dress the babies up in goofy clothes and hats just to get a laugh.  Bernie loved people and if you were blessed to know him you couldn’t help but love him.   He would enjoy a conversation with anyone about anything, but he definitely could not “make a long story short”.

When Bernie wasn’t spending time with family or working at the mill you could find him cruising on his motorcycle, a Honda Goldwing.  In his words “that baby floats over the road” and he loved to punch it, “oh baby”!  He was also an amazing deer hunter.  We all have heard him tell stories of how he shot at four deer and dropped each one with his trusty .270.

Sadly, Bernie was predeceased by his love Joyce, son George H. Gregory Sr., granddaughter Theresa Mulcahy, brother Edgar, brother Anthony, and sister Beatrice (Gregory) Shaw.

Survivors include his son, Bernie Gregory and his wife, Kelly of South Glens Falls and their children Ben and Hannah, his daughter, Betsy Sanders and her husband, Gary of Queensbury, and her children, Charlie and Ronnie; his stepson, Jim LaFarr, and his wife, Dori of Queensbury, and their son Tanner; his grandson, George Gregory Jr.; and a sister, Mary (Gregory) Alger who he recently reunited with by traveling to Virginia for his first time on a jet plane.  Bernie was also blessed with numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins, who he loved dearly.

Family and friends are asked to call from 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021, at the Carleton Funeral Home Inc., 68 Main St., in Hudson Falls.

Burial will follow the calling hours, 1:30 p.m., at Corinth Rural Cemetery, 38 Saratoga Ave. in Corinth, with the Reverend Patti Girard, officiating.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.carletonfuneralhome.net.