Geraldine Deraco

Geraldine Deraco, 90, of Gulfport, Florida formerly of Vestal, New York passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Gerry is predeceased by her husband of 48 years Joseph, her parents Alfonso & Stella Virgilio and sister Valarie Virgilio. Gerry is survived by her son, Michael Deraco and his children, John Deraco, Elizabeth Gill and James Deraco; daughter, Mary Rose Deraco and her children Luca and Diego Sosa; and daughter Christine Juozitis (Michael) and their children Jessica and Emily Juozitis; two great-grandchildren; Henry & Margaret Gill; siblings Lawrence (Anita) Virgilio, Linda (Craig) O’Connor and several adoring nieces and nephews. Gerry was born on June 5, 1934 in Johnson City, New York to parents Alfonso and Stella Virgilio. Gerry is a graduate of Johnson City High School and continued her education at the State University of New York, College at Cortland where she received a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education and a Masters Degree in Literacy Education. In 1958 she married the love of her life Joseph Deraco and together they raised 3 children in Vestal, New York. Gerry spent her career as a beloved teacher for 34 years. Most of Gerry’s teaching career was spent in the Vestal Central School District. In her time at Vestal, she touched the hearts of countless students, colleagues and friends. Her passion for teaching, patience, and unwavering kindness left a lasting impact. After retiring from teaching in 1989, Gerry and her husband Joe began the next chapter of their lives in Gulfport, Florida where Gerry was actively involved in the community; volunteering at Gulfport Elementary School, serving as member of the Gulfport Women’s Club and knitting and crocheting for the homeless, hospice and infants. Gerry cherished time spent with her family and friends, playing cards, knitting, crocheting and traveling. She always greeted others with a sense of warmth, wisdom and laughter. Her legacy of love, friendship and dedication to others will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Gerry’s family would like to thank the palliative care team at UHS Wilson Hospital. 

A Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday March 26, 2025 at 10:30 AM at Our Lady of Sorrows Church 801 Main St. Vestal, NY 13850. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. The family will receive friends at the church on Wednesday from 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to Vestal Dollars for Scholars, PO Box 959, Vestal, NY 13851-0959 or www.vestal.dollarsforscholars.org 

Paul Choberka (Tall Paul)

Paul Choberka (Tall Paul) of Vestal, NY, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 16, 2025. He was predeceased by his parents Andy and Pauline Choberka. He is survived by his loving sister Andrea, his sons Andy (Colleen) and Doug (Tami); his grandchildren Kourtnie Rivera (Ryan), Caitlin and Corey; his great-grandchildren Liliana and Rowen Rivera; his special friend Jeanne Choberka. Paul retired from IBM. He loved hunting and fishing. Paul will be missed by all. 

Irene (Moravec) Lee

Irene (Moravec) Lee 97 of Endicott passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, at Mercy House after a short illness. She was predeceased by three sons, Robert, Michael and Richard Lee; her parents, Peter and Catherine Moravec; two sisters, Anne Demetros and Mary Gunderman. She is survived by three children, David (Sandy) Lee, Deborah (John) Lawton, Jennifer Picciano; two daughters-in-law, Margaret Lee and Elise Lee; one sister, Frances Hounslow; nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was a member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Endicott. Special thanks to the staff of Lourdes Hospital for the compassionate care of Irene. She was a loving mother and grandmother and will be greatly missed.
A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday March 22, 2025, at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church 701 W. Main St. Endicott, NY at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell, NY. The family will receive friends at the church on Saturday morning from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to either Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central New York 1100 E. Genesee St. Syracuse, NY 13210 or Mercy House 212 N. McKinley Ave. Endicott, NY 13760.

Agnes Serko (nee Kostyun)

Agnes Serko (nee Kostyun), 93, of Endwell, NY passed away Monday evening at Binghamton
General Hospital. She was predeceased by her husband of 66 years Michael Serko Jr. She is survived by her four daughters and sons-in-law Linda and Steve Tebbetts, Pennsylvania, Carole and Mike Wesko Endicott, Barbara and John Puzakulics Vestal, Mary and Miles Kliewer, North Carolina, eleven grandchildren Brooks (Sarah) and Wells Peterson, Michael and Alex Wesko, Elizabeth (Phil) Hewitt, Joanna (James Battaglini), John and Christopher Puzakulics, Nicholas, Joseph and Olivia Kliewer, two great-granddaughters Audrina Hewitt and Mia Peterson, several nieces and nephews, and dear friends.

Agnes was a lifelong member of St. Mary’s Orthodox Church in Endicott, a graduate of Union-Endicott High School, where she was a cheerleader and worked at General Electric Co. She lived in several places, including New York, New Jersey, and the Bahamas, but always considered Endicott her “home”. While she enjoyed many hobbies, such as bowling, bridge, sewing, puzzles, and games, her greatest passion and dedication was always focused on her family.

The family will receive friends on Monday March 17 at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home from 10-11 am. A funeral service will follow at 11 am. Burial will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in her memory may be made to St. Mary’s Orthodox Church or to Catholic Charities Food Pantry.

Gary E. Johnson

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Gary E. Johnson “Papa” announce his passing on March 9, 2025. He was predeceased by his wife of 65 years, the love of his life, Beverly; his daughter, Lori; his brother, Richard (Helen) Johnson; his sister, Penny; his brother-in-law, Richard Billings; his sister-in-law, Gerri Gorman. He is survived by his children, Michael (Clara) Johnson, Kimmy Mancini; his son-in-law, Thomas Richardson; six grandchildren, Michael, Anthony, Amanda, Nicholas, Vincent and Lola; five great-grandchildren including his precious “Amelia Baby”; his brother-in-law, Gary Billings; his sister-in-law, Sharon Billings. Special thanks to Patrick and Tina Shay and his neighborhood family. Gary was the true essence of a gentleman. He was a loving, kind, soft spoken man. He lived a full life and was loved by so many. To have such a man in our life we were truly blessed. He served in the US Navy during the Korean War and was a top Sonar Man. His family meant everything to him, he was a great dad and the best papa. His grandchildren were his joy. A cup of coffee, a crossword puzzle, classic oldies playing and sitting in the garage was a good day. No words can express how deeply he will be missed. Thank you, dad, for being the hero in our lives and you will be forever in our hearts. Never is it goodbye, until we see each other again. We love you.
At Gary’s request there will be no formal funeral services.

Sarah Jean “Sally” Perry

Sarah Jean “Sally” Perry, of Endwell, NY passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the age of 88, after a long life full of many blessings.  In addition to her parents, John and Florence Glasl, she was predeceased by her beloved husband, Gene; and by 2 of her 5 sisters and brothers-in-law Mary Jo and Donald Sestina, and Judy and William Erskine.  She was born on July 5, 1936, in Emporium, PA, and lived there until she eloped with her husband Gene in 1956.  They were happily married for 66 years.

She is survived by her six children:  Mark (Francesca) Perry Sr., Gene (Mary) Perry Jr., John (Lynn) Perry, Christopher (Mary) Perry, Angela (Darrell) Perry Davis, and James (Lina) Perry; 12 grandchildren:  Rachel (Brendan) Heslin, Mark Perry Jr., Allison (Kevin) Hores, Christopher (Courtney) Perry, Elizabeth (Vinny) Pardi, Christina (Alex) O’Brien, Michael Perry, Victoria Gonzalez, Austin Perry Davis, Tanner Perry Davis, Nikhita Perry, and Vijay Perry; and 13 great-grandchildren: Brady and Delaney Heslin; Liam and Mattigan Perry; Audrina and Grayson Hores; Mia, Marco, Dominique, Geno, and Paolo Pardi; and Ryan and Evan Perry.  She is also survived by 3 sisters:  Rita (Bari) Poorman, Eleanor (Edward) Mottern, and Stephanie Petty.

Sally was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose love for her family was exceeded only by her love for God.  She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Endicott, NY where she and her husband Gene attended daily mass for many years until ill health prevented them from doing so.  Even after suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, she could still follow the mass and recite the prayers until nearly the end of her life.  Her life was filled with prayer and thanksgiving, and her family, including her grandchildren, often remarked that her prayers were tremendously effective, and the list of people she prayed for was long.  She was blessed with a kind and gentle spirit and very few people ever heard a cross or unkind word from her.

Her family would like to thank her physician, Dr. Bruce Bowling, for his kind and compassionate care and all the employees at Good Shepherd Village in Endwell for their gentle, loving care during her two years there.

A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church 207 Hayes Avenue Endicott, NY 13760.  The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 9:30 AM until the time of the Mass.  Burial will follow the Mass at Calvary Cemetery Johnson City NY 13790.  In place of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Joseph Catholic Church 207 Hayes Avenue Endicott, NY 13760.

Theodore “Ted” Potochniak

Theodore “Ted” Potochniak, born on September 10, 1928, in Binghamton, NY to parents, Michael and Pauline (Pankow) Potochniak, passed away on February 24, 2025, at age 96. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to many. He lived his life fully within the community in which he was born.  

Ted served in the US Army Air Forces with the 19th Air Supply Division from 1946 to 1949, and was stationed in Guam, Iwo Jima and Tinian where he supervised multiple warehouses as a Stores Keeper following WWII.

Ted was the first of his family to go to college when he enrolled at Clarkson College of Technology in Potsdam, NY under the GI Bill.   He graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering and enjoyed a distinguished 30-year career with IBM Corporation in Endicott, NY.  He was a manager in the Quality and Reliability Department when he retired in 1984.

Ted was a member of the Holy Spirit Byzantine Catholic Church in Binghamton, NY where he sang in the choir. He later attended St. James Church in Johnson City, NY.

Ted married Marian Komack, the love of his life for 72 years, in 1952.  He was a fully engaged husband and father who always encouraged his children in their academic, athletic, and personal interests. He took his family on regular vacations to the beach in Cape May, NJ.  He took his sons to many NY Yankee games and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and attending their soccer games, basketball games, birthday parties and school activities.

Ted was a “jack-of-all-trades” and could take apart and fix almost anything, including cars, electronics, and appliances.  He could roof and side a house, clean a carburetor, untangle a fishing line and repair a watch. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t tackle including rebuilding an Oldsmobile engine and repairing a boat motor without any instructions.

Among Ted’s hobbies were bowling, fishing, golfing, auto repair, bird watching and playing cards.  He enjoyed his annual trip to Little Rideau Lake in Ontario, Canada fishing for Walleye with his boys and his father-in-law Frank, and his many weekends trout fishing and ice fishing locally with his children.  He participated in several bowling leagues with friends and bowled a perfect 300 game.  Shortly after retirement, he took up golf and made a rare hole-in-one.

Ted’s quick wit, endearing sense of humor, and natural warmth and charisma lit up a room. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need at a moment’s notice.  In addition to his hobbies, some of the other things he enjoyed were backyard grilling, mushroom picking, taking home movies, making cherries jubilee for his family, finding a “special deal” and revealing a winning scratch-off lottery ticket. He would always entertain his family at Christmas time by singing traditional Ukrainian songs.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Pauline, his brothers Michael “Puddy” and Nicholas, and his sisters Helen, Anne, Katherine and Josephine.   He is survived by his loving wife Marian, his sons Mark (Bernadette) Potochniak and David (Cecilia) Rivers, his daughters Laura (John) Hagan and Sharon (Mark) Burdick, five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Our family would like to thank the staffs of Home Instead, Elizabeth Church Campus, Lourdes Hospital and Wilson Hospital for their compassionate care of our father. We are grateful for their kindness.

Per Ted’s wishes, the family will hold a private Celebration of Life at a future date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Ted's preferred charity of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a charity of your choice.

Sharon Marie (Blevins) Nelson

Sharon Marie (Blevins) Nelson was born on October 15, 1959 in Columbus, OH to Carl Blevins and Bertie Mae Neary. She went home to be with the Lord the morning of January 28, 2025 after battling Alzheimer’s for the past few years at The Vestal Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Vestal, NY. Sharon was the beloved wife of Donald Nelson, Sr. (Endwell, NY) of nearly 43 years; the loving mother of Carl A Blevins (deceased; wife Haley), Donald Nelson, Jr. and Pamela (Nelson) Pascale (husband Rob); adoring grandmother to Trent, Ava, Teagan, Cora, Andrew and Cade. Being one of 12 siblings, Sharon had many brother/sister-in-laws, nieces/nephews, aunts/uncles - all of whom she loved, and who loved her in return. Family meant everything to Sharon. She loved to laugh and help others whenever she could. To know her was to love her. A celebration of life will be organized for the Spring/Summer.

Thomas Esposito

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas Esposito on Thursday, February
20, 2025 at the age of 53 years. Tom was born on December 18, 1971 to Carl (Butch) and
Cynthia (Nee Kondrach) Esposito and was a lifelong resident of Endwell/Endicott, NY. Tom is survived by his father Carl (Butch) Esposito, brother Mark Esposito, sister Kelly Esposito (Mitchell Bennett, spouse), cousin John Esposito (Mandy Esposito, spouse, and their son David). Tom is also survived by and was a loving uncle to Grey Esposito-Krier. Tom’s loyal companion was his dog, Buddy. Tom was predeceased by his mother Cynthia Esposito.

Tom was passionate about his job as a bartender. He loved his patrons and learning about new
cocktails. He enjoyed music, especially the Grateful Dead, and enjoyed going to see a variety of live shows. Tom also seemed to have an opinion about everything. He held strong views about the environment and human rights. Underneath his sometimes-rough exterior and quiet demeanor, Tom wanted the best for everyone.

A celebration of life will occur Saturday, March 1st at the American Legion Post 1700 on Maple Street in Endicott from 2:00PM-5:00PM (casual dress). We look forward to welcoming family and friends to gather and share memories of the many special times you shared with Tom. We are very proud of Tom’s final act of kindness and generosity. Tom was an organ donor whose contributions will live on in three grateful recipients. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, Arbor Day Foundation, or the American Legion Post 1700.

Christopher John Metritikas

Christopher John Metritikas

Being in a 5-year cancer battle at 64 years old has allowed me to read many obituaries and inspired me to write my own. After a 5 year fight the cancer has taken my life. Do not mourn for me, as I have lived a happy and fortunate life. Seeing it coming has allowed me to make amends and exchange feelings of love with many people. I’ve also been able to make Jesus a bigger part of my life and to pray for forgiveness as I am a sinner. I am the first son of a great man and father, Peter Metritikas. Survived also by my loving wife Maryfrances and two wonderful children, Stavros, and Eva. By my brothers, George and Paul, his kids, Peter and Jenna, and grandchildren, Levi and Maddox. I would like to thank everyone who donated to my benefit, and I ask that instead of any flowers, donate in my memory to St. Jude’s. The thought of a child or the child’s family going through this is completely heartbreaking to me. Please pray for my salvation and for a continued happy future for my family.
-John Metritikas

Funeral services will be held Thursday February 27th at 11:00 AM at the Greek Church of the Annunciation, 4121 Ohara Dr. Vestal, NY 13850. Entombment will follow at Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell, NY. The family will receive friends at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY 13760 on Wednesday February 26th from 5 to 7 PM.

Jacqueline Charis (Peploe) Schoonmaker

Jacqueline Charis (Peploe) Schoonmaker, 84, formerly of Dunedin, Florida, passed away peacefully in her sleep on February 15, 2025 in Endicott, New York. She is survived by her six children and spouses.... Robin and Darryl Preble, Dawn and Joseph Backes, Julie Schoonmaker, Richard and Michele Schoonmaker, Kim Schoonmaker, and Becky Schoonmaker, 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, sisters Donna and Bill Sczesny, Cindy and Wayne Cook. 

She is preceded in death by her husband James R. Schoonmaker, grandmother Augusta Gelz, mother Corrine Peploe Gelz, her father James Peploe, sister Cheri Peploe, niece Courtney Sczesny, great niece Maddy Shaw, grandson Justin Backes, and cousins Beverly and Richard Moriarty. 

She was an exceptional person, anyone that met her, loved her instantly. She loved making crafts, gardening, reading, and being with her family. She will be forever in our hearts and missed every day. 

In lieu of flowers, please make  donations to Alex's Lemonade Stand (Foundation for Childhood Cancer) 333 E. Lancaster Ave, #414, Wynnewood, PA 19096.

Barbara J. Maxian

Barbara J. Maxian, 88 of Endwell, NY, passed away Friday February 14, 2025, at Good Shepherd Village at Endwell. She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Michael Maxian; two daughters, Pamela Jobin (Richard), Janet Maxian; five grandchildren, Thomas Kurz (Bethany Hunt), Matthew Kurz (Hannah), Ryan McManus (Brianne LaRue), Colin McManus (Allie Talarico), Shannon McManus (Roberto Vides); three great-grandchildren, Lily, Lucy and Indy.

Barbara was an interested and actively involved teacher of English at Maine Endwell High School.  She was a faculty advisor to a number of student groups. She was especially fond of a group called Z-Club because besides doing charity work it produced all the high school drama and musical performances.  

She was actively engaged in ELOCA, a local community charity group.  She served many roles including a stint as president. 

The family will receive friends at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY, on Saturday February 22nd from 1:00 – 3:00 PM at which time there will be a short memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to either ELOCA P.O. Box 8503 Endicott, NY 13760 or The Broome County Humane Society 167 Conklin Ave. Binghamton, NY 13903

Richard C. Rivanera

Richard C. Rivanera, 95, passed away on February 17, 2025, at his home following a brief illness. Richard was born in Hobart, NY and was the son of the late Attilio and Elizabeth Rivanera. Richard was predeceased by his sister Shirley Morrison and his loving wife Viola Rivanera. He is survived by his sister Doris Simonsen, son Richard (Cheryl) Rivanera, daughter Lisa (Charles) Poole. Four grandsons, Michael (Nicole) Rivanera, Anthony Rivanera and fiancé Mary Corbett, Tyler (Katie Bowers) Poole, Christopher Poole, and girlfriend Dr. Anne Claire Saint Georges. He also leaves behind four great grandchildren, Leah Rivanera, Nolan Rivanera, Noah Powers, Julian Powers and several nieces and nephews. Richard served in the Air Force during the Korean War and took part in the Berlin Airlift. After his military service, he was employed with Scintilla, which later became Bendix and Amphenol located in Sidney, NY. After retirement, Richard spent much quality time perfecting his golf game at the Afton Golf course. He also enjoyed dancing, music festivals, and watching the NY Giants. His sense of humor will be greatly missed. When asked how he was doing his response would always be "I'm alright, the world is wrong." At the request of the family, a private service will be held at a later date. Contributions in his memory can be made to the Union Volunteer Emergency Squad Inc., 8 South Ave B, Endwell, NY 13760 or Meals on Wheels of Western Broome, 705 W Main Street, Ste 4, Endicott NY 13760.

Patricia M Patterson (Patty) 43

Our little Bluebird earned her wings on Feb 12th 2025, she fought a long hard battle with A.C.C and went down swinging surrounded by her family and friends. 

Patty was a huge Miranda Lambert super fan, loved the music scene and was a favorite person to so many, she truly made this world a better place and now she can finally sing again! Make a difference in someone’s life and live like Patty P!

She is survived by her parents Michael Patterson of Windham PA and Andrea DeBetta of Afton NY

Her fur babies- Jack, Moria and Willy 

Her sister and brothers, Tammy Jayne, Big Bob- Bob Jayne and Little Bob- Bob Patterson ! 

She loved being an Aunt to all her nieces and nephews Zack, Andi, Jackie, Seth, George, Tristen and Bailey. 

Several Aunts, Uncles and cousins. And so many amazing friends who stood by her side always and on behalf of her family, thank you for that! 

In lieu of flowers Patty would like you to donate to muttnation.com 

Rest Easy Bluebird, we got it from here!

Carolina DeBenedittis Sanfilippo

Carolina DeBenedittis Sanfilippo, 88 of Endicott, NY, passed away on Tuesday January 28, 2025. Carolina was born on November 4, 1936 in Scranton, PA to Elizabeth and Anthony DeBenedittis. She was predeceased by her parents, brother Frank and her husband Peter. Surviving are nieces, nephews and cousins of the Tarricone, DeBenedittis clans as well as her spousal relatives. Carol’s childhood and early adult years were spent in Brooklyn, NY where she attended school and then graduated from Fashion Institute of Technology. After marriage to Peter Sanfilippo she found employment in Macy’s Department Store in Manhattan where she worked for 25 years. Upon her husband's retirement from Motorola, the DeBenedittis parents and Sanfilippo couple moved to Endicott, NY to be close to the Tarricone family roots and to spend retirement years in this area. Peter predeceased Carol in 2002. Later her mother who was 96 years old passed away. Carol joined and became active in St. Anthony of Padua Church in Endicott and participated in various social activities of making pepper cookies, working fish dinners and feast days. She depended on the personnel who provided healthcare directives at Endwell Family Physicians. Following periods of declining health and falls and physical instability she succumbed to serious health issues and passed in the attentive care of Doctors, Nurses and attendants at Lourdes Guthrie, UHS Wilson Hospital and Ideal Living Center.

Conrad (Connie) Bishop

Conrad (Connie) Bishop, 91 of Endicott, NY, passed away on Tuesday January 28, 2025, at his home. He was predeceased by his son, Dennis Bishop. He is survived by three children, Lynn Millard, Charles Bishop (Donna), James Bishop; 7 grandchildren. He was a veteran of the US Army serving from 1953-1955. He was a member of the Endicott Elks Lodge, the American Legion Post #1700 and the Son’s of Italy Lodge #443, Endicott. Connie played football and basketball in his younger days and was an avid hunter, fisherman and golfer. He retired from Local #112 after 55 years of service.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday February 5th at 4:00 PM at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY. The family will receive friends at the Pucedo Funeral Home on Wednesday from 2:00 PM until time of service at 4:00 PM.

Floyd Spoor Jr.

It is of real sadness that our oldest brother Floyd Spoor 67, passed away on January 24 after a brief illness.Floyd was kind, sweet and quiet, and will be truly missed. He loved listening to the music of Elvis and the Beatles and enjoyed watching his favorite football team the Minnesota Vikings. He retired from Absolute Care after 20 years. The family would like to thank Guthrie Lordes and UHS hospital for the compassionate care.

He was predeceased by his Brother Gary Spoor, Sister Andrea Holcombe, Nephew  Brent Wheeler, Brother-In-Law Sean Lake, Brother-In-Law Randy Hoskins. He is survived by his brother, Richard (Debbie) Spoor, Sisters Sherry (Ray) Smith, Charlene Lake, Melissa Hoskins; his Nephews, Charles, Anthony, Scott, Brockton and Jacob and Nieces, Stefanie and Emily.There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to a charity that gives you joy.

Joseph David Taylor

JOSEPH DAVID TAYLOR, 93, OF ENDICOTT PASSED AWAY PEACEFULLY AT HIS HOME JANUARY 21, 2025. HE WAS BORN ON OCTOBER 4, 1931, IN HADDONFIELD, NJ TO THE LATE DOROTHY WEYAND AND BENJAMIN TAYLOR. HE IS PREDECEASED BY HIS WIFE ELIZABETH TAYLOR (BETZ), GRANDSON RYAN TAYLOR AND GRANDDAUGHTER REBECCA CRERAR. HE IS SURVIVED BY HIS SON ROBERT TAYLOR (LENORA), DAUGHTERS COLLEEN DEBENEDITTIS AND JOY CRERAR. HIS GRANDCHILDREN JILLIAN GONZALEZ (CHRIS), ERIC DEBENEDITTIS (KELSEY), MATTHEW TAYLOR, KRISTINA KISSNER (JOHN), AND ANDREW CRERAR. HIS GREAT GRANDCHILDREN BELLA, CARTER, TRISTEN, JAXSON, KAYLINA AND ELLIANNA. HE IS ALSO SURVIVED BY HIS EXCEPTIONAL FRIENDS AND CAREGIVERS LIA AND KENYA. JOE GREW UP IN HADDONFIELD, NJ AND GRADUATED FROM CAMDEN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL IN 1949. AFTER GRADUATION HE ENLISTED IN THE UNITED STATE AIR FORCE. WHILE SERVING, HE MARRIED HIS HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEART ELIZABETH JANE BETZ IN 1953. AFTER HIS ENLISTMENT WAS OVER, HE WAS HIRED BY IBM. HE WORKED AT IBM FOR OVER 30 YRS. IN THAT TIME, HE MOVED TO SEVERAL DIFFERENT STATES AND SPENT THE LAST OF HIS CAREER IN OWEGO, NY. HE WAS AN ACTIVE MEMBER OF AMERICAN LEGION POST 1700 AS A MEMBER OF THE HONOR GUARD AND MARCHED WITH THE CONTINENTAL FIFE AND DRUM CORPS, PERFORMING IN PARADES ALL OVER THE STATE. HE VOLUNTEERED AT LOURDES HOSPITAL, WORKED AT ST JOSEPH'S CATHOLIC CHURCH DOING BINGO AND THE CHURCH BAZAARS. HE ENJOYED ROAD TRIPS WITH HIS FRIENDS BUTCH NABINGER AND VIC TENNANT. HE AND VIC VISITED FERNANDINA BEACH FOR YEARS. HE AND BUTCH TRAVELED TO NUMEROUS AMERICAN LEGIONS THROUGHOUT THE SOUTHERN TIER. THE FAMILY WILL RECEIVE FRIENDS AT LEON PUCEDO FUNERAL HOME, INC. 1905 WATSON BLVD. ENDICOTT, NY ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 28TH, 5-7PM. A FUNERAL MASS WILL BE CELEBRATED WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29TH AT SAINT JOSEPH'S CATHOLIC CHURCH 207 HAYES AVE. ENDICOTT, NY AT 10:00 AM. BURIAL WILL BE AT CALVARY CEMETERY.

Judith (Judy) Bianco

Judith (Judy) Bianco, 86, of Endwell, NY passed away on January 20, 2025, at Mercy House (Endicott, NY.) She was predeceased by her husband John (Nick) Bianco, her sister Jeanne Payette, her nephew Art Payette, and her parents Arthur and Beatrice Bowen. She is survived by her children Michael (Kathy) Bianco, Patrick Bianco, John (Sonya) Bianco, Debbie Bianco Cartie, Carolyn (Bill) Bianco Snethen, Matthew Bianco, nine grandchildren Brittany (Tyler Fedoris), Haley (Dakarai Pecikonis), Jenny, Zachary, Sabrina (Maliek Howell), Brandon, Bridget, Ryan, and Regina, three great-grandchildren, Kaiya, Zayna, and DJ, three nieces Laura, Chrissy, and Alexis, and many dear, lifelong friends. Judy lived her life in service to others and to her family. She was a devoted member of the Church of the Holy Family and had an active presence in her church community. A proud graduate of St. Patrick’s High School (Binghamton, N.Y.) and Marywood University (Scranton, Pa.), she was a retired teacher from the Vestal and Union-Endicott school districts. Her characteristic warmth, wisdom, and patience shined brightly in the classroom, and continued with her family at home. Judy was the family matriarch, cheerleader, and caretaker; graciously supporting each member of her family, from the youngest grandchild to her beloved husband who passed away in 2017, they were married 55 years. She was a fan of sports, professional or otherwise, and could be found cheering on her team, her kids, and her grandkids at every game. She never missed an opportunity to celebrate with her loved ones, initiating an array of cherished traditions at each holiday, and making sure to have a greeting card at the ready for every occasion. She loved dining with her family, whether a night out at Nick’s, breakfast at one of her many favorite local diners or a "Spaghetti Monday” at home, she was just happy to be in the company of those she held most dear. Her nurturing, welcoming and hospitable charm made friends and strangers alike feel like they were family too. Judy was a vibrant storyteller; recalling memories and details about every person, place, object, and moment she ever encountered. She took great pride in her family lineage, Irish ancestry, and her husband Nick’s Italian heritage. Judy famously kept meticulous records of all of that. She found joy in music and dancing, always striving to master the “Irish jig”. She had simple rituals: brewing a fresh cup of coffee and pairing it with a crisp piece of toast and sharing the daily newspaper with her loving husband, applying a sweep of her signature Revlon lipstick, and joining her husband for lunch outings at their favorite spots. Amongst her joys were going bowling, bridge parties with her friends, family trips, endless games with her loved ones, and having lunch with her girlfriends. Family, faith, fun, and food were a staple in her life. Judy left a mark on the hearts of all who knew her. She made every event, milestone, and moment special. She was a strong, dependable figure to those she loved and a caring and compassionate example to all. 
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday January 30that 11:30 AM at the Church of the Holy Family, 3600 Phyllis St. Endwell, NY. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. The family will receive friends on Thursday at the church from 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Mercy House 212 N. McKinley Ave. Endicott, NY 13760

John F. Belpulsi

John F. Belpulsi, 69, of Endicott, went to be with the Lord, Monday, January 13, 2025, after a battle with cancer. John was predeceased by his parents, John Belpulsi and Mary Matteo, and his brother-in-law, James Rossi, Sr. He is survived by his daughters, Tara Adee (William) and Nicole Beilstein (Matthew), his sisters Colleen Rossi and Donna Bolson, his granddaughters Alicia Adee, Alana Jimenez, and Hannah Jimenez, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was a proud owner of Housemasters, a home inspection business for many years. He was a big fan of football and baseball. His favorite teams were the New York Giants and New York Yankees. 

John particularly loved celebrating holiday traditions with his family and always made them memorable. His light-hearted good sense of humor in daily life will especially be missed. The family would like to thank the staff at Broome Oncology and the Palliative Care Unit at Binghamton General Hospital for the care given to John.

The family will receive friends at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, 1905 Watson Blvd., Endicott, on Wednesday, January 29th from 4:00 to 5:00, followed by a service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Leukemia Research Foundation, or Mercy House of Endicott.