Category Archives: Obituaries

HUDSON FALLS – Phyllis Ann (McGinnis) LaPan, 86, died April 28, 2021, after a brief illness.  

Phyllis was born on November 9, 1934, the daughter of Aurilla (Havens) and Edward McGinnis, Sr., in Hudson Falls.

She graduated from Hudson Falls High School in 1953.  

Phyllis married the love of her life, Edward LaPan, on October 30, 1955. They celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in 2020.

Upon graduation, Phyllis started working at WT Grant’s Department store in Glens Falls.  She then went to work for the Carroll’s Corporation in Queensbury.  She worked many years for McDonald’s, eventually retiring from the Fort Edward location.  

Phyllis had a love of reading, was an avid BINGO player and enjoyed date night with Ed at the local casino.  She loved spending time with her family, especially her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.  She was especially close to her nieces, Karen Skizynski, Michelle Hunt and Diane Leonelli.

Phyllis was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Debora Ellis.  Besides her parents and daughter, she was also predeceased by her brothers:  Edward McGinnis and his wife, Joan; Robert McGinnis; Paul McGinnis and his wife Betty; Richard McGinnis; Jack McGinnis; and her sisters:  Margaret Eagle and her husband Charles and Marilyn Riganta.

She is survived by her husband, Edward; her son, Michael and his wife, Debbie of South Glens Falls; her son-in-law, Larry Ellis of Hudson Falls; her grandsons, Nicholas Ellis and his wife, Taylor and their son, Edison of Albany; Neil Ellis (Cindy) and their sons, Hunter and Ashton of Hudson Falls; Kristopher LaPan and his wife, Carrie of Saratoga and Kameron LaPan of New Albany, Ohio;  Phyllis is also survived by her sister, Susan Palmer and her husband, Loren of Hudson Falls; sister- in-laws, Janet McGinnis, Helen McGinnis and Doris Trackey and her husband, Joseph of Hudson Falls; brother-in-laws, Lester LaPan, Jr. and his wife, Janice of Hudson Falls; and Wallace LaPan and his wife, Rhea of Hudson Falls.  She leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Phyllis’s name to the Fort Edward Rescue Squad, Inc., PO Box 226, Fort Edward, NY 12828.

Arrangements are under the care of the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

HUDSON FALLS – Barbara Jeannine Foster, 70, a longtime resident of Whitehall, died on Saturday, April 24th, 2021, at her home, with her family by her side.

Born on March 30, 1951, in Granville, she was the daughter of the late Isaac and Jeannine Wright.

Barbara enjoyed reading, bingo, and little league sports, supporting many of the youth sport programs in Whitehall. She had an insatiable love for music, knew the words to all her favorite songs, and enjoyed attending concerts with her friends. Her fondest memories were the times spent with her girlfriends in Maine and camping by the river. Barbara was a life-long Yankee fan and reveled in the Yankee-Red Sox rivalry between her and her best giggle & camping partner, Erin Barber.

She retired from New York Telephone, having memorized the zip code of every town in New York State. She went on to work at the Prospect Child & Family Center, where she realized her greatest joy was caring for disabled children.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Nancy Mija.

Barbara is survived by her sister, Debbie (John); her brother, Jeffrey (Brenda); two daughters and their spouses, Kristen and John Petillo and Michele and Christopher DeNardo; her son, Matthew and her two grandchildren.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Ms. Ann Malleson for the gentle care and companionship she provided to Mom over the last few months.  

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

A memorial service will be held on Friday, at 7 p.m., following the calling hours, at the funeral home.

Memorial donations in memory of Barbara may be sent to Prospect Child & Family Center, 133 Aviation Rd, Queensbury, NY 12804.

HUDSON FALLS – Francis “Peanut” Earl Roy Marshall, Sr., of North Street, went into the arms of the Lord, April 21, 2021, at Glens Falls Hospital, after a long illness.

Born on July 18, 1939, In Morrisonville, he was the son of the late Roy C. and Theresa M. (Gonyea) Marshall.

Peanut attended school in Morrisonville and continued his education at BOCES, obtaining his electrician certificate.

On April 8, 1961, he married Agnes Ellen Guyett at the Hudson Falls Methodist Church.

Peanut was a jack of all trades.  Early in his career, he worked at Harder Silo, then he settled as an electrician, during which time he was employed with several companies, which included SW&B out of Georgia, and Cianbro out of Maine.  While working for these companies, Peanut traveled up and down the eastern seaboard.  When the Gospel Lighthouse added the new sanctuary, Peanut completed all the electrical work with help from his four sons and two nephews.  He loved working in God’s house.

He was an avid reader of history.  Peanut especially loved studying the Civil War and enjoyed his travels to Gettysburg.  He was also a devoted follower of the New York Yankees and the New York Giants.  Through the years, Peanut spent many hours on the golf course.  Although he had many interests, his life centered around his church, family and friends.

Besides his parents, Peanut was predeceased by his brother, Roy Marshall, his daughter-in-law, Penny Marshall and his aunt, Shirley Marshall.

Survivors include his loving wife of 60 years, Ellen Marshall of Hudson Falls; his five children, Tammy Stelts and her husband, Craig of Felton, PA; Francis Marshall Jr. of Argyle, Robbie Marshall of Argyle, Peter Marshall, Jr. and his wife, Dawn of Hudson Falls and Danny Marshall and his wife, June of Argyle; 11 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Ronald Marshall and his wife, Theresa of Hudson Falls; Nancy Marshall of Plattsburgh; Randy Marshall and his wife Cheryl of Dannemora; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends may call Tuesday, April 27, 2021, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street, in Hudson Falls.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 1 p.m., on Tuesday, at the funeral home, with Pastor Paul Mead, officiating.

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

SOUTH GLENS FALLS – Sandra L. “Hobby” Hobbs, 74, of South Glens Falls, passed away peacefully with her family by her side, on Friday April 23, 2021, after a short illness.

Born July 30, 1946, in Glens Falls, she was the daughter of the late Ralph and Mary (Keating) Havens. Sandy was a graduate of Hudson Falls High School.

Sandy was everyone’s favorite baby-sitter. For many years Sandy’s life revolved around the many kids she loved and cared for. She prepared her grandchildren, nieces, nephews and the Dupuis crew for school. Sandy taught them life lessons, respect for others and how to have fun.

Sandy loved spending time with her family. Her children and her grandchildren were her life’s greatest blessings.

Sandy’s love of country music was her favorite source of entertainment.  She spent many years following the local country bands and dancing the night away.  Sandy was always the life of the party. In most recent years she could be found at the local parks sitting in a lawn chair, enjoying music with her friends and family.

Besides her parents she was predeceased by her sister, Judy Kibling and her brother, Daniel Havens.

Left to cherish her memories are her husband, Earl Hobbs Jr. of South Glens Falls; her children, Charles Conlon Jr. of South Glens Falls, Veljohn (Jessica) Diffee of Pensicola, FL. and April Diffee of Hudson Falls; her six loving grandchildren, Celeste Conlon, Lauren and Hayden Diffee, Tyler (Maddie) Briggs, Cody Briggs and Hunter Briggs; her sisters, Rita (Bob) Kibling of Medical Lake,  WA,  Flossie Hobbs (Richard Collins) of Surfide Beach, SC, Barbara (Chris) Fontaine of Fort Edward and Anna (George) Dowling of Victory Mills; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Sandy’s family would especially like to thank her niece and friend, Donna Lampmon for all the love and care she has shown Sandy throughout the years.

Friends may call Monday, April 26, 2021, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the New Life Baptist Church, 62 Main St., in Hudson Falls.

A Funeral Service will be conducted, at 5 p.m., following the callings hours, with Pastor  Jon Hawkins, officiating. 

The family would also like to thank the ICU doctors and nursing staff at Glens Falls Hospital for all their compassion and care.

Sandra was a light in the lives of all who loved her, and we are sure if you listen close you can hear her laugh all the way from heaven.

HUDSON FALLS – Sandy (Pincheon) Priest, 81, of Hudson Falls, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 20, 2021.

Born on January 9, 1940 in Glens Falls, she was the daughter of the late Carl and Charlotte Pincheon. 

Sandy lived her entire life in Hudson Falls and spent many of those years, caring for her parents, until their passing.

She was employed at the Troy Shirt Factory and also at Bubbles & Sun.

Sandy loved watching NASCAR, especially her favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt, Jr.  She also was an avid reader and loved the challenge of Word Search Puzzles.  Sandy was talented at embroidery and took great pride in giving them away as gifts.   She enjoyed tapping her foot to country music and watching old TV shows.

Sandy will be dearly missed by her neighbors, close friends and family.  The family wishes to thank Dr. Ann Evans for the care, compassion and kindness given to Sandy and her family. 

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Barbara Chadwick.

Those left to miss Sandy include her son, Tim Priest and  Louise Nason of Kingsbury and grandson, Tony Priest. Also, she is survived by her son, Kevin and his wife, Cindy Priest of Niskayuna and grandson, Will Priest and granddaughter, Alex Priest.  She will be missed by her daughter, Wendy Meccariello of Scotia and granddaughter, Allison (Joseph) Sisson and grandson, Vincent Meccariello, and two great granddaughters, Ava and Charlotte Sisson. She is also survived by her daughter, Laurie Brizzell of Loudonville and grandson, Zachary Brizzell; and several nieces and nephews.

Sandy requested that services will be private and for immediate family only.  Those that attend the services, are required to wear face masks and maintain social distance.

Arrangements are under the care of the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to SPCA of Upstate NY, 588 Queensbury Ave., Queensbury, NY  12804.

SOUTH GLENS FALLS – William R. “Billy” Keays, 66, of South Glens Falls and a longtime resident of Hudson Falls, passed away peacefully at his home, Men of Moreau, on April 21, 2021, after complications from years of health problems.

Born on June 7, 1954 in Glens Falls, he was the son of the late Constance and David Keays.

Billy was a 1974 graduate of Hudson Falls High School.  Following graduation, he started his long relationship with the Green Jackets Football team, where he was so proud to have been their waterboy.  In 2012, Billy was inducted into the Green Jackets Hall of Fame for all the hard work and dedication he gave to the team. 

He was also a hard worker and very devoted at his job.  Billy was an assembler at the Community Workshop in Queensbury and after three decades of service, he retired from CWI North County Ventures. 

As an avid member of the Special Olympics, Billy competed in bowling, track and field and swimming.  Every year, he walked away with many medals and trophies. Billy was a proud athlete.   He enjoyed going to Sandy’s, Humbugs and Good Times, where he enjoyed the atmosphere of rock and roll music and dancing.  Billy also looked forward to his annual birthday dinner at Hooters. 

He was an enthusiastic and friendly man, with a sensitive, caring nature, soft-spoken manner and an outgoing personality.  Billy will be greatly missed by his many friends at day program and his housemates, Charlie, Ted and Sean and his cats, Jack and Spirit.

Survivors include his sister, Darah Keays-Todd and her husband Scott of Queensbury; his niece, Jennifer Norris and her husband, Craig of Hudson Falls and children, John and Caira; his nephew, Adam Willis and his wife, Megan and children, Avery, Addison and Ashton.

Billy’s family wishes to extend a special thank you for the love and support provided to Billy from his caregivers throughout the years.

Friends may call on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.  All those that attend will be required to wear face masks and maintain social distance.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 28, 2021, at the funeral home.

Billy will be laid to rest, following the funeral service, at Union Cemetery in the town of Fort Edward.

The family suggests that memorial donations by made to SPCA of Upstate NY, 588 Queensbury Avenue, Queensbury, NY  12804.

QUEENSBURY—Dorothy “Dot” Morehouse, 89, a longtime resident of Queensbury, passed away peacefully at her home, with her family by her side, on Tuesday, April 20, 2021.

Born on September 4, 1931, in Fort Edward, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Anna (Thompson) Dickinson.

On December 23, 1951, she married Walter F. Morehouse and they spent 51 years together, before Walter passed away in July of 2002.

After graduating from Fort Edward High School in 1950, she began working at Glens Falls Hospital as a nurse’s aide. Dot stayed home to raise her children before going back to work at Clark’s Department Store in 1963. After that, she worked at the family businesses, Walt’s Bike and Walt’s Grocery with her husband.

When her children were young, Dot started the West Glens Falls Cub Scout Pack 17 and was involved for over 15 years. Then she helped her husband with Boy Scout Troop 17 in West Glens Falls. Dot loved working with the young children. She was a very talented craftsman, building many beautiful creations in her workshop. Dot spent many hours working in her gardens. She was also talented at knitting and crocheting wonderful gifts for her family. She enjoyed square dancing with the Merry Mohicans Square Dance Club.  Dots greatest treasured love was time spent with her many family members and she held a special place in her heart for her dog, Roo. 

In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her three brothers, Kenneth Dickinson, Frederick Dickinson, and Gerald Dickinson, her stepson, Butch Morehouse and her sister, Virginia Austin.

Survivors include her children, Linda Morehouse and her companion, Nelson Dixon of Queensbury, Theresa DeCastro and her husband, Gino of Queensbury, Walter Morehouse of Stony Creek, Roger Morehouse and his wife, Gail of Queensbury, Ronnie Morehouse and his companion, Karen Holcomb of Glens Falls and Brenda Lewis and her companion, Ron Petty of Hudson Falls; several grandchildren and step-grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren; one great-great grandson; her two sisters, Elizabeth “Betty” Langer of Pulaski and Carol Gibbs of Queensbury; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Friends and family may call on Sunday, April 25, 2021, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

The funeral service will be conducted on Sunday at 2 p.m. following the calling hours at the funeral home with the Reverend Penny Brink, of the United Methodist Church of South Glens Falls, officiating.

Burial will follow at Moss Street Cemetery.

Dot’s family suggests that memorial donations be made in her name to the Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York, 213 Meadowbrook Rd., Queensbury, NY 12804.

GLENS FALLS – Marcus J. Berg, 61, formerly of Dix Avenue, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 18, 2021 at The Pines in Glens Falls.

Born on October 2, 1959 in Schenectady, he was the son of the late Frederick Marcus Berg and Mildred Louise Woodcock.

He was a graduate of Schenectady High School, and for some time, a former student at Adirondack Community College.  Marcus also spent much of his time studying independently and taking Harvard classes.

He proudly served his country in the Army National Guard and was honorably discharged on September 26th,1977.

For many years, Marcus was in the roofing industry, and was often considered a workaholic.

He enjoyed studying, building computers, his music, painting, visiting family and friends, picnics, and spending time with his daughter and grandchildren. Marcus enjoyed watching silent movies, war documentaries, martial art films and animated movies, hiking and exploring nature.  He  loved all animals, especially dogs. Marcus also enjoyed helping others, going out to eat, and taking many pictures.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Keith Berg; his nephew, Lawrence “Buddy” Berg; his niece, Niah Lynn Durham; his longtime friend and brother, Shaun Millington, and his sister, Tammy Lynn Palmer.

Survivors include his daughter, Krystal Bekele and her husband, Michael Alexander-Bekele; his granddaughters, Hadley and Athena Bekele of North Carolina; his brother, Larry Berg and his wife, Tabitha Millington of South Glens Falls ; his older sister, Frederika Berg; his nieces, Alicia Berg, Brianna Berg, Heather Berg, Tammy Lord; his nephews, Damien Berg, Noah Berg, Sebastion Berg, Braxton Berg, Carter Berg; lifelong friends, Rose Nueman, Frericka Stevens, Thomas Holcomb, Althea Burts and Tanya Burts; and many friends.

Friends may call on Monday, April 26, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., in Hudson Falls.   Masks and social distancing are required at the funeral home.

He will be laid to rest at 2 p.m., on Monday, at the Corinth Rural Cemetery in Corinth. Those that wish to attend the graveside service, are asked to meet at the cemetery.

The family suggests that memorial donations be made to C.R. Wood Cancer Center, 100 Park Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801.

HUDSON FALLS – Beverly L. Avidon, 81, formerly of Hudson Falls, passed away on Monday, April 19, 2021 at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern.

Burial will be private, at Glens Falls Cemetery on Bay Street in the city of Glens Falls.

HUDSON FALLS – Douglas A. French, 77, passed away on Saturday, April 17, 2021, following a short illness.  Doug was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who will be immeasurably missed by those who loved him.

Doug was born on July 25, 1943 to Everett and Mabel (White) French.  He graduated from Hudson Falls High School in 1961 and subsequently attended Norwich University in Vermont.

On January 8, 1966, Doug married the love of his life, Donna Edgerly at St. Mary’s/St. Paul’s Church in Hudson Falls.

Doug enjoyed an accomplished career at Glens Falls Hospital.  His engineering acumen and keen knowledge of mechanical systems were crucial to the “behind the scenes” operation of the hospital during his tenure.   As Director of Facilities, Doug oversaw the design and construction of Pruyn Pavilion and was instrumental in executing the rigorous building requirements needed for the installation of the facility’s then state-of-the-art linear accelerator.  Doug’s contributions at the hospital, led to his promotion as Vice President for Environmental Services, a position he held until his retirement.

Doug was a master carpenter and could expertly build a house as easily as he could make a stunning piece of custom furniture.  With his two sons, he started DA2B (Dad and 2Boys) Builders in his retirement and quickly found that the quality of his craftmanship and his integrity created a high demand for his services.

One of Doug’s greatest pleasures in retirement was going to the “flying field” to pilot his model aircraft with fellow enthusiasts and when he could, sharing the experience with is grandchildren.

Besides his parents, Doug  was predeceased by his loving wife, Donna, who passed away in 2003.

Left to cherish his memory are his son, Matthew (Jennifer) French, his daughter, Mechelle (Chris) Barden and his son, Joshua (Melissa) French.  Doug was also adored by his grandchildren, Erica (Trevor) Jensen, Nathan French, Nicholas Barden, Natalie Barden, Isabella French, Austin French, Shawn Lunt and Alexis Peterson.  Doug appreciated the kindness and care over the years, from his sister in law, Deb Palmer and Colleen Russell and particularly treasured his 75-year friendship with Bill Larmon.

Sincere gratitude for the kindness, compassion and competence of the Tower 3 and Tower 2 nurses and caregivers at the Glens Falls Hospital -you are a remarkable group of people.

As per Doug’s wishes, there will be no calling hours and a graveside service will be private.

Memorial donations in memory of Doug may be made to the C.R. Wood Cancer Center, 100 Park St., Glens Falls, NY 12801.

HUDSON FALLS & SALEM – Douglas S. “Doug” Barber, 62, of Hudson Falls and formerly of Salem, passed away peacefully in his wife, Erin’s arms at home, on Thursday, April 15, 2021, after a valiant battle with cancer.    

Born on October 16, 1958 in Cambridge, he was the son of Barbara Barber and the late John Barber.

Doug spent his childhood in Salem and graduated from Washington Academy, where he enjoyed playing sports.  Following high school, for several years, he worked with his mentor and friend, the late Edward Shaler, in the trucking industry.  Doug later was in the wholesale car business.

He spent his whole life learning the ins and outs of playing golf.   Doug loved being on the course, where he made many friends and where he enjoyed swinging the clubs almost every weekend.  If he wasn’t playing his favorite sport, Doug was with his favorite people.  He loved his family and his friends.  Doug was a great friend with a keen sense of humor and sharp wit. 

Doug was blessed to have found his soulmate and friend in Erin.  They were a wonderful team that lived, knowing unconditional love.  Doug carried himself with effortless kindness and a gentle walk through life.  He will be forever missed and loved by Erin, his family and his friends.  Those closest to him will always be thankful and appreciative to everyone that cared for him and for his family. 

Besides his mother, Doug leaves behind his beloved wife, Erin; his brother, Mitchell (Lisa) Barber; two nieces, Dr. Lindsay (Sherman) Barber and Laurel (Brittany) Teixeiras; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Services for Doug will be private.

Memorial donations may be made to Fort Edward Rescue Squad, Inc., P.O. Box 225, Fort Edward, NY 12828.

GANSEVOORT – Nina Mary Nichols-DeHues, 59 years young, and a longtime resident of Fort Edward has passed peacefully on Sunday, April 11, 2021, following a long illness.

Born in Glen Falls, on July 6, 1961, to the late Carl and Shirley (Bates) Nichols.

Nina attended Queensbury High School, following high school she went to medical school and served in the U.S. Navy.

In 1997, she married Bernie DeHues, III.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her granddaughter, Keara.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Aubree Bannister, Moriah (Bill) Hoffer, Hillary Bannister, Adam Bannister; her grandchildren, Keana, Kali and Mason.

A viewing for Nina will be on Monday, April 19, 2021 from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

Graveside services will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Tuesday at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in the Town of Stillwater.

HUDSON FALLS – Venita M. Duffany, 88, a longtime resident of Vaughn Road, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2021, at Fort Hudson Nursing Center, Inc., in Fort Edward.

Born on February 7, 1933 in Hudson Falls, she was the daughter of the late Louis and Rose (Jessey) Mumblo.

Venita was a 1951 graduate of Hudson Falls High School.

On May 25, 1958, she married Nelson E. Duffany, Jr. at St. Paul’s Church in Hudson Falls.  They shared 58 loving years of marriage together until his passing on March 25, 2017.

She worked at the Imperial Chemical, formerly in Queensbury, where she was a private secretary.

Venita was a communicant of St. Mary’s/St. Paul’s Church in Hudson Falls and enjoyed knitting, crocheting and picture taking.

In addition to her parents and husband, she is predeceased by a sister, Vida Dashnaw and her brothers, Archie, Reginald and Donald Mumblo.

Survivors include her two sons, Mark Duffany and his wife, Pam of Hudson Falls and David Duffany, and her daughter in law, Lynn of South Glens Falls; five grandchildren, Patrick Duffany and his late wife, Sara, Jonathan Duffany, David Duffany, Jr., Michael Duffany and Alyssa Duffany; her beloved caregiver and niece, Paulette Foote, as well as many other nieces and nephews.

Due to the current pandemic, services will be private

The Rite of Committal will take place at St. Paul’s Cemetery, on Vaughn Rd, in the town of Kingsbury.

Memorial donations in her memory of Venita may be made to the CR Wood Cancer Center, 100 Park St., Glens Falls, NY 12801.

Venita’s family wishes to extend a special thank you for the love and care provided by the staff at Fort Hudson Nursing Center, Inc.