Category Archives: Obituaries

HUDSON FALLS – Joyce Pearl Eldridge Maynard, 96, formerly of Hudson Falls, eagerly flew into the arms of her Lord and Savior on February 9, 2023.

Joyce was born January 20, 1927, to Clara (Hopkins) Eldridge and Edward Howard Eldridge in Glens Falls, she was one of 6 children.

Joyce grew up in Glens Falls and graduated from Glens Falls High School. Growing up she loved to ice skate, read, fish, write, and paint. Her mother said that she was born with a paintbrush in her hand. She continued her love of reading, knitting, crocheting, writing and painting throughout her life, and became an accomplished artist selling several of her paintings.

In 1945, she married Roger Maynard. Roger passed away in 1986. She loved the Lord and wanted to make sure everyone knew that God loved them. She prayed for all of her family’s salvation, so that they could all be together for eternity.

Joyce fulfilled two of her lifelong dreams. She was able to publish a book she had written entitled, “Rose’s Angel”.  A second book containing articles, poems, short stories, and photographs of her paintings was being printed at the time of her passing.

Joyce loved vacationing at Marginal Way, Ogunquit, Maine.

She was a nurse’s aide for many years at Glens Falls Hospital and Fort Hudson Nursing Home. She was a member of Ridge Road Wesleyan Church and loved singing and listening to hymns.

Joyce was predeceased by a daughter, Linda Skellie, and her son, Michael Maynard, a daughter-in-law, Tracey Maynard and is predeceased by all of her siblings.

She is survived by her children, Stephen Maynard (Alyce) of South Carolina, Richard Maynard (Darla) of South Glens Falls, Mark Maynard (Deborah) of Hudson Falls, Virginia Waddington (Gary) of Hudson Falls, Shirley Demers (Rick) of Fort Ann, Jeff Maynard (Paula) of Jacksonville, FL, Bill Maynard (Maria) of South Glens Falls, and Tim Maynard (Ellen) of Jacksonville, FL; a son-in-law Joe Skellie of Georgia; 22 grandchildren, 41 great grandchildren, and 27 great-great grandchildren.

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, February 18, 2023, from 11 am to 12 noon, at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc. 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

A funeral service, officiated by Rev. Loren Gage, will follow at noon at the funeral home. A zoom meeting has been created for those wishing to view the service remotely, Meeting ID:755 1627 4129 Passcode: rV7KZw

https://us04web.zoom.us/j/75516274129?pwd=nrD1PzRbOaKJluwIJwKPauf7Ytb6lM.1

Burial will be in the spring at Moss Street Cemetery in the town of Kingsbury. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Community Hospice of North East Florida who took such amazing care of Joyce for years. Also, consider a donation to The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled.

SOUTH GLENS FALLS – Carol A. Yemans, 70, a long-time resident of Hudson Falls, passed away unexpectedly at her home in South Glens Falls on Tuesday, February 7, 2023.

Born February 19, 1952, Carol was the daughter of the late John and Vera (Backus) Rainbow.

Carol was a 1969 high school graduate of Hudson Falls. Following high school, she earned her bachelor’s degree in music education from the College of Saint Rose in Albany.

In 1978, Carol married Earl Yemans at the Gospel Lighthouse Church in Hudson Falls.  Earl passed away in September of 1980.

Earlier in her life, Carol taught music at St. Mary’s/St. Alphonsus School in Glens Falls. Carol also worked at several churches in New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Maine. Carol worked as a secretary to the president at the Zion Bible Institute, finishing her occupational career at BOCES in Saratoga.

Carol enjoyed playing the piano and loved sitting by the ocean and listening to the waves. She also enjoyed the beauty of all flowers, especially cut flowers to have in a vase in her home.

Survivors include her siblings, Diana Race, Ricky Rainbow and John Robert Rainbow; her nephews, Sheridan Race (Marcy) and their son, Dana Race (Celine) and their children; Ricky; her nieces, Heather, Rachel, Reba, Ruthie, Reanna, and their families; as well as numerous cousins.

Per Carol’s wishes, there will be no calling hours.

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

QUEENSBURY – Sherri Lynn Pattee, 55, of Queensbury passed away on Monday, February 6, 2023, at Saratoga Hospital after a long struggle with her health, surrounded by her loving family.

Born April 24, 1967, in Tucson, AZ, Sherri was the daughter of the late Susan Reynolds.

Sherri was a graduate of South Glens Falls High School. Later in life, she attended Adirondack Community College and then The College of Saint Rose, where she obtained her Associates Degree in Criminal Justice.

She was known for being crafty and would make anything and everything she could.  Her many skills included making jewelry, crocheting, beadwork, cross stitching and working with clay, often times gifting items such as blanket and scarfs for her family and friends. Sherri took great pride in her Facebook page called, “The Little Room of Treasure” where she loved sharing her talents with others and selling her masterpieces.

Sherri was an authentic, genuine caring woman. She was loved by everyone she met, always placing their needs before her own.  Before her passing, Sherri shared the following, “I just want you to remember the fun we used to have and that I love you all very much.”

Besides her mother, Sherri was predeceased by her stepfather, Michael Aubrey; her grandparents, Laura and Earl Bessette; and her uncle, Doug Bessette.

Survivors include her children, Amber Barrisford and her husband, Bobby of Queensbury, Zepplin Murphy of Fort Edward; her favorite grandson, Colin Barrisford; her brother, Scott French of Jacksonville, FL; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who became family over the years.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations in Sherri’s name may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

HUDSON FALLS – It is with great sadness, that we say goodbye to our beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Barbara Cummings, who passed away on Friday, February 3, 2023, after a long struggle with her health.

Barb was born to Letitia and Thomas Fisher in Hempstead, on September 12, 1936.

She graduated from Sewanhaka High School (go purple and white!) in 1955.  She met the love of her life, Richard Cummings, Sr, and they married in 1958.  They settled first in Flushing and in 1964, they moved here to the North Country.

As a young woman with small children, she focused on them.  She gave back to her community by teaching religious education at St. Mary’s/St. Paul’s Church and as a Den Mother for Cub Scouts.  Summers were filled with time at her and the in-law’s lake house on Loon Lake, swimming, boating, laughing, playing card games and endless fish fry’s (always including “freshwater shrimp”).

After her husband passed away, she enjoyed a career as a home health aide, where she could cook, chat and keep busy.

In her later years, she devoted time to her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  In addition to that, she spent many summers keeping track of everyone at Country Haven Campground, while enjoying a “Not Your Father’s Root Beer”.  On nice days, she could be found fishing on Brant Lake on her beloved pontoon boat, the S.S. Bucky Lee.  Nothing would make her happier than a day filled with boating, swimming, bingo and family!

The last five years found her at the Glens Falls Center due to a bad fall.  Once there she quickly became first the “Mayor” of the Rehab Wing and then the “Queen Bee” of the center, always flitting from activity to activity, she was always at the middle of everything!

She was predeceased by her parents, husband, son, Richard Cummings, Jr. and her two sisters, Letty and Arlene Fisher.

Left to remember her (usually as “Buck-a-Luck” or “Whispers”) are her son and daughter in law, Thomas and Denise Cummings; her daughter in law, Karen Cummings; her grandchildren, Joseph (Ginger) Cummings, Christopher (Sarah) Cummings, TJ (Jen) Cummings, Elizabeth (Ryan) Wild and Ray (Megan) Cummings.  She was blessed with eight great grandchildren, Ellie, Parker, Myka, Kelsie, Riley, Everett, Matthew and Hanna; she also leaves behind her wonderful friends, JoAnn Mercurio and Theresa Bombard; as well as many nieces and nephews; She was also survived by Pamela and Lyndi, who held a special place in her heart.

As per her request, there will be no calling hours and a private service for her immediate family will be at the convenience of the family.

Burial will be announced in the spring with a Celebration of Life open to all.

In both her memory as well as the memory of her favorite pups, Gemini, Crystal and Charmin, we ask that in lieu of flowers, those who wish to, donate to your local SPCA.

GLENS FALLS – Edward William Staunches, 76, of Glens Falls, went into the arms of his family and God on February 4, 2023, at the Pines Nursing Home with the amazing staff and his family by his side.

Born January 4, 1947, in Ticonderoga, he was the son of the late Edith (Knights) and Jerome F. Staunches, Sr.

Following Edwards education at Mineville School, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and the Army National Guard.

For many years, Edward was employed at General Electric as a crane inspector and retired in 2007. He also worked with his best friend, Bill Rogers at B & B Roofing.

Edward enjoyed listening to country music and was a huge fan of Johnny Cash. He would travel anywhere and everywhere to enjoy fishing, hunting, and camping trips. Most of all, Edward loved spending time with his family.  Edward was artistic when it came to drawing, wood burning and wood carvings.

In addition to his parents, Edward is predeceased by his siblings Jerome Staunches, Jr., Robert Staunches, Joan Thomas, Leo Staunches, Thomas Staunches, and Gloria Swinton.

Survivors include his children, Stephen Staunches and his wife, Tatum of South Glens Falls, Stacey Samoei of North Carolina, Christina Schlaeg and her husband, John of Charlton; his grandchildren, Ashley, Jonathan, Ryan, Matthew and Tyler; his siblings, Gerri Yasment of Keeseville, Nancy Bell (David) of Glens Falls, David Staunches (Cindy) of Glens Falls, Sue Swinton (Lee) of Queensbury, and Mary Hobbs (Terry) of Glens Falls; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be no calling hours. All are welcomed to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, March 11, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Queensbury VFW, 32 Luzerne Rd., Queensbury.

Memorial donations in Edwards name may be sent to the Queensbury VFW, 32 Luzerne Rd, Queensbury, NY 12804 or the Alzheimer’s Association, 1003 Loudon Rd., Cohoes, NY 12047.

HUDSON FALLS – Albert G. Thaxton, 71, of Hudson Falls, passed away after a long illness on Thursday, January 26, 2023 at Glens Falls Hospital.

Born on June 23, 1951 in Manhattan, New York City, he was the son of the late Bernie Thaxton, Sr. and Bernette (Laye) Thaxton.

Albert was a graduate of Nanuet High School. He worked for many years as a security guard for several companies and also was a cleaner, working for the Glens Falls National Bank. Albert loved the outdoors and nature and enjoyed fishing. More recently, his family turned him on to camping which he also enjoyed doing in the summer. Albert was an avid sports fan. He loved to draw and was a talented artist.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by a daughter, Nicole Thaxton; and a son, Anthony Thaxton.

He is survived by his loving companion of 45 years, Debra Conklin of Hudson Falls; his children, Bernard Thaxton and Bernette Thaxton, both of South Carolina, James Conklin of Queensbury, Karim Thaxton (Rachel) of Hudson Falls, and Annie Thaxton-Colombe (Jerry) of Fort Edward; a daughter in law, Lisa Leibold; son in law, Gerald Taylor; grandchildren, Anthony and Ryan Conklin, Lanyia, Serenity and Keke Taylor, Zane and Kshawn Thaxton, and Karim Thaxton, Jr; a great grandson, Josiah Thaxton; his brother, Bernie Thaxton, Jr.; sister, Joanne Thaxton; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends are invited to call from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Monday, February 6, 2023 at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.

HUDSON FALLS – Marguerite E. Waite, 91, of Hudson Falls went into the arms of the Lord on January 25, 2023 surrounded by her loving family.

Born on March 29, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Madalyn (Carpenter) Smith.

In August of 1959, she married Frank Edgar Waite, Sr. They were married for 29 years until his passing on August 30, 1988.

Marguerite, also known as “Peggy” to family and friends, was a mother of 10 children, 7 girls and 3 boys.

She enjoyed crossword puzzles, crocheting, pinnacle, wrestling, football and of course her scratch offs, and spending time with her family.

In addition to her parents and husband, Marguerite was predeceased by her brother William “Bill” Smith; sister Eleanor M Huguley; her daughters, Wanda Flewelling, Robin Larson (Marcus) all of Hudson Falls; her sons Kenneth Fisher, Jr. (Joyce) of North Carolina, and Frank E. Waite, Jr. of Hudson Falls; granddaughter, Nicole Mitchell of South Glens Falls; and grandson Frederick Blanchard, III (Michelle).

Marguerite is survived by her children, Carol Potter of Granville, Marguerite Mitchell of South Glens Falls, Nancy Lopienski (Michael) of Hudson Falls, Madalyn Waters, Theresa Blanchard (Fred) of Hudson Falls, and Rick Fisher of Indiana; several grandchildren, great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at Prospect Hill Cemetery in Argyle.

Memorial donations in Marguerite’s name may be made to the American Heart Association, PO BOX 840692, Dallas, TX 79284-0692.

HUDSON FALLS – Katie VanTassell, 76, a long-time resident of Hudson Falls, most recently of Queensbury, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 25, 2023, at Glens Falls Hospital.

Born on February 11, 1946, in Glens Falls, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Dorothy VanTassell.

For many years, Katie was the proud owner and operator of Kay Bee’s Cleaning in Lake George, where she provided housekeeping services for many area homes and businesses.

She was a proud mother to nine children and was the neighborhood mother and caretaker of all.  Over the years Katie inherently lived her life for her children, pets and the love of her life, Michael Dougher.  In her later years, she was a homebody who enjoyed watching James Dean and Marilyn Monroe movies, as well as westerns, with Michael.  Katie enjoyed gardening and will be remembered by her children for the wonderful meals she would cook.

She had a passion for animals and she loved all her pets.  There wasn’t a rescue animal she wouldn’t try to help. Katie was always willing to help an animal or person in need.

She also had the taste for high fashion, her makeup was always on point back in the day.  She enjoyed the 70’s and 80’s era makeup and hair styles and loved embellishing herself and going out with her friends.  Katie had a quick wit, and she had a great sense of humor who would hold court with her friends.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Rebecca Yell; her siblings, Peter VanTassell, Dolores Burke and her grandson, Thomas Warren Yell.

She is survived by her beloved partner, Michael Dougher; her children, Mary Beth Yell, Wyman Yell, Eric Yell, Warren Yell, John Yell, Peter Yell, Jesse Dougher and Jordan Dougher; her beloved nephew, David Burke; her grandchildren, Meghan, Daniel, Joanne, Cindi, Kevin, Adam, Michael, Tyler, Rachel, Adam and Karliegh; many great grandchildren; her sister, Carol Wells; and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.

Funeral services will be conducted at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, at the funeral home, following the calling hours.

Graveside services will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 1, 2023 at Pine View Cemetery on Quaker Road in Queensbury.

HUDSON FALLS – Mark Fenton, 65, of Hudson Falls, passed away Thursday afternoon, January 19, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving family, after a long fight with cancer.

Born on March 6, 1957 in Glens Falls, he was a life-long Hudson Falls resident and son of the late Robert and Lorraine Fenton.

Mark was a 1976 graduate of Hudson Falls High School and after graduation, he started his career as a welder and metal fabricator, working in various shops in the area. He had a passion for classic cars and enjoyed assembling model cars and die cast cars and even owned his own beloved classic 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle. Mark attended many car shows over the years and enjoyed watching car shows on television. He was a member of the Adirondack Car Enthusiasts as well as an honorary member of the Red Barons Car Club. Mark was also a collector of coins and loved to watch his favorite wrestlers on WWE.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by a brother, Daniel Fenton; a niece, Emma Calabrese; and a nephew, Jarrod Fenton.

He is survived by his boys, Raymond, Walter, Terrance and Shane Maynard, and Bob Fenton; his siblings, David, Marybeth, Bill (Kathy), and John (Kim) Fenton; his beloved grandchildren, Skylin, Carson, Knoa, Avah, and Hailey Maynard; very special friends, Al and Bonnie Edgerly, and Steve “Chico” Clark; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Friends are invited to call from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Monday, January 23, 2023, at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude and thanks to Dr. Gaiotti-Grubbs at the C.R. Wood Cancer Center at Glens Falls Hospital, and Mark’s sister, Marybeth, for the care that was given to Mark and the family during this difficult time.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society, 1 Penny Lane, Latham, NY 12110.