Jeanne VanDeWall
Jeanne VanDeWall lived a life defined by care for patients, for family, and for community. A respected nurse for nearly three decades at Samaritan Medical Center, she was known for her steady compassion and quiet presence at life’s most critical moments. Her work reflected a simple belief: people deserve dignity, kindness, and to be truly seen. Raised in Rochester and educated at Jefferson Community College, Jeanne earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and built both a career and a life rooted in service. She married Leonard Wilmer Quiring in 1968. Together, they raised a son and two daughters and celebrated nearly 23 years of marriage until Leonard passed away in 1991. She married Dr. LaVerne VanDeWall in 2003. He passed away in 2022. Jeanne devoted herself to her family, her faith, and the causes that mattered most, giving generously of her time and spirit. In honoring her late husband, Dr. LaVerne VanDeWall, Jeanne established the LaVerne R. VanDeWall Jr. Legacy Fund at the Community Foundation. The fund reflects the couple’s shared values — faith, generosity, and lifting others — and continues to support those in need across the North Country. Jeanne’s legacy lives on in every life touched by her care and in the enduring good her generosity makes possible.
Ronald P. Haymond
Ronald Haymond lived a life shaped by craft, community, and quiet generosity. A master carpenter and stoneworker, he brought vision and patience to every project, building homes, crafting woodwork, and creating stone fireplaces that stand as lasting testaments to his skill. A graduate of Antwerp High School who studied at SUNY Oswego, Ronald carried his love of learning and teaching into all he did. He was also a gifted musician, sharing his talents as a trumpet player in local dance bands and as a charter member of The Original Yanks Drum and Bugle Corps. A marriage to Judith Feather ended in divorce but blessed him with five children. Ronald’s service extended far beyond his craft. As a longtime hardware store owner and for 29 years as mayor of Antwerp, he led with humility and a deep commitment to helping others, often giving quietly, without recognition. When Ronald passed away in March at 89, his family suggested memorial gifts to the Community Foundation to help build the Northern New York Arts Preservation Fund, ensuring his enduring passion for the arts continues to inspire future generations.
Marie Chisholm
Marie Vivian Call Chisholm lived a life rooted in care — for her family, her community, and the generations she quietly helped guide. A 1953 salutatorian of Evans Mills High School, Marie began her career at the National Bank, later KeyBank, before dedicating herself to raising her son and three daughters. During those years, she also opened her home as a foster parent to newborns, offering comfort and stability at life’s very beginning. She later returned to work with MPS/Roe and Roe Farm Service, serving communities across the region and rising to secretary/treasurer before retiring in 2000 after 33 years of steady leadership. Marie’s generosity extended beyond her work. She was a longtime volunteer for the Miss New York State and Miss Ireland pageants as well as the Michael J. Cerroni Memorial 5K Run/Walk, embracing opportunities that brought people together. When she passed away in March at age 89, her family directed memorial gifts to the Community Foundation to help build the Michael J. Cerroni Scholarship Fund for future students.
Constance Hoard
Steady service and an enduring commitment to her community defined Constance A. Hoard’s life. Raised in Utica and educated at St. Mary of Mount Carmel School, she began her career as a paralegal before settling in Glen Park with her husband, C. Gerard Hoard, where they raised four children. A lifelong public servant, Constance broke new ground as the first woman to serve as clerk for the Village of Glen Park, a role she held with distinction for 56 years. Through decades of change in the Village of Brownville, she was a constant, trusted presence, helping guide her community forward while also preserving its history as village historian. Her impact reached beyond municipal work. Constance shared her talents generously with local organizations and, for many years, assisted families as a tax preparer with Frederick J. Quencer CPA. In February, at age 91, her legacy continued through her family’s support of the C. Gerard Hoard Community Service Award Fund at the Community Foundation. Honoring her late husband’s career in education, the fund ensures Constance’s spirit of service will inspire and support future generations.
Benjamin P. Coe
Benjamin Plaisted Coe lived with a spirit of service, curiosity, and connection that continues to shape the community he loved. From his early years, spanning Long Beach, Calif., to Winchester, Mass., and studies at Bowdoin College and MIT, he carried an ease with people and a sense of adventure that defined his path. That spirit found lasting purpose in Northern New York. As the first executive director of the Tug Hill Commission, Ben spent two decades guiding communities through complex challenges with a collaborative, grassroots approach that earned deep trust and respect. He also founded the Volunteer Center of Jefferson County, creating new pathways for neighbors to support one another, and remained an active presence in Rotary and his church. At the center of his life was family. He and his wife, Peggy, shared 72 years of marriage grounded in partnership and shared purpose. Together, they raised a son and three daughters. Today, Ben’s legacy endures through the Benjamin P. and Margaret B. Coe Family Fund at the Northern New York Community Foundation. Memorial gifts made in his honor ensure his lifelong commitment to service continues, strengthening communities, fostering connection, and carrying forward a spirit that defined his remarkable life.
Martin G. “Marty” Jones Sr.
Martin G. “Marty” Jones Sr. lived a life defined by craftsmanship, service, and quiet devotion to community. Raised in Three Mile Bay and a 1952 graduate of Lyme Central School, Marty carried with him a lifelong love of teamwork, music, and hard work. After serving in the U.S. Army, he built a family and career rooted in skill and integrity, first at George Brothers Hardware, then through his own business, and eventually Burkhardt’s Plumbing, from which he retired in 1996. For more than six decades, Marty and his wife, Jeanette, created a home centered on faith, family, and encouragement. Together, they raised two daughters and four sons. Marty took special pride in supporting his children’s pursuits and instilled in them the value of education and perseverance. Throughout his life, Marty helped shape his community, serving his church, mentoring youth, and giving generously of his time and talents to many organizations that were special to him. When he passed away at age 91 in March, his family suggested memorial gift to the Community Foundation to help build the Lyme Central School Scholarship Fund. Though this special tribute, Marty’s legacy lives on in the family he nurtured and the community he strengthened.
Janice M. “Jan” Beck
Janice M. “Jan” Beck was a champion of learning, devoting her life to opening doors through reading. Across a 33-year career as a librarian at the Jefferson Avenue and Brooks Hill Elementary schools in Fairport, she helped generations of students discover curiosity, confidence, and a lasting love of books. A Watertown native and graduate of Lyme Central School and SUNY Geneseo, Jan carried her passion for learning wherever she went, from Northern New York to The Villages in Florida. She was an avid reader and golfer, but her greatest joy came from encouraging young minds. When Jan passed away in February at age 81, her family chose to honor that legacy in a meaningful way. Memorial gifts to the Community Foundation to help build the Lyme Central School Scholarship Fund ensure her belief in the power of education continues to inspire students in the community she always called home. Through this lasting tribute, Jan’s quiet influence lives on, one learner, one opportunity, and one bright future at a time.
Caleb Wesley Alford
Caleb Wesley Alford brought energy, humor, and kindness to every place he went. Born in Rochester in 1998, a son to Rebekah Alford, he spent his early years working alongside his grandfather on the family farm, developing the strong work ethic and warm spirit that defined him. A 2016 graduate of South Jefferson High School, Caleb was a standout athlete who loved sports, but lacrosse was his true passion. He continued his playing career at SUNY Oswego, where he earned a degree in business management in 2020 and led the Lakers as the team’s top scorer during his sophomore season. Caleb carried that same enthusiasm into his work and everyday life, from helping at his family’s restaurant, Rainbow Shores, to traveling for work along the East Coast and discovering new places and great food. Most recently, he had begun a new chapter in Charleston, S.C. When Caleb passed away unexpectedly at 27, his family honored his life by establishing Caleb Alford Memorial Scholarship at the Community Foundation for South Jefferson students, ensuring his passion for lacrosse and encouragement of others will inspire young athletes for years to come.
Ronald L. Bovay
Ronald Lee Bovay believed deeply in family, hard work, and the strength of community. An entrepreneur and small-business owner, Ron operated Richville Furniture for many years, building not only a livelihood but lasting relationships with neighbors and friends across the region. Born in 1937, Ron graduated from Hermon High School and attended Canton ATC. He married Gail Aldridge in 1955, and together they raised a daughter and two sons while sharing 43 years of marriage before her passing in 1999. In 2013, Ron married Ann Adams, continuing a life centered on family and companionship. Beyond business, Ron was known for his generosity and quiet commitment to helping others. A longtime friend of the Community Foundation, he supported charitable causes that were meaningful to him and Ann, while also volunteering his time with numerous organizations. When Ron passed away at 88, his family honored his spirit of giving by directing memorial gifts to the Community Foundation. Through this thoughtful tribute, his example of service, generosity, and community pride continues to inspire and make a difference.
Nancy A. Chamberlain
For more than three decades, Nancy A. Chamberlain shaped young lives through teaching, encouragement, and example. A home economics educator whose career began at Copenhagen Central School, Nancy later returned to Lewis County to teach at Beaver River Central School, where she inspired generations of students until her retirement in 1979. Born in Ilion in 1924, Nancy graduated from Ilion High School and earned her degree from Cornell University in 1945. She married Clifford Ivan Chamberlain in 1947, and together they raised four sons while sharing nearly 50 years of marriage. Beyond the classroom, Nancy devoted her time to church and community, offering her talents to organizations and causes that reflected her generous spirit. Family remained at the center of her life. When Nancy passed away in February at the remarkable age of 101, her family honored her legacy by directing memorial gifts to the Community Foundation in support of the Beaver River Central School District Educational Foundation Annual Fund, ensuring the school she served so faithfully continues to benefit future generations.
Velma M. Cobb
Velma M. Cobb was a steady source of kindness whose generosity quietly shaped the lives around her. Born in Woodville in 1939, she grew up surrounded by brothers and treasured the close-knit family bonds that would remain central throughout her life. A graduate of Union Academy of Belleville, Velma began her career in the Watertown office of Black Clawson before building a loving home in Adams with her husband, John W. Cobb Jr., whom she married in 1960. Together they raised a son and daughter and shared 51 years of marriage. Along the way, Velma worked as a secretary, helped neighbors care for their homes, and offered friendship and support to many who needed it most. Velma and John were devoted to their community and to causes that strengthened it. When Velma passed away at 86, her family honored that spirit by directing memorial gifts to the Community Foundation to help build the John W. Cobb Memorial Fund Scholarship, also recognizing her support of John’s longtime dedication to the fire service. Through this thoughtful tribute, Velma’s compassion and devotion to others continue to make a difference.
Charlotte M. Fulkerson
Charlotte Marie Fulkerson inspired generations of students through nearly three decades in the classroom. A dedicated educator and lifelong learner, she taught mathematics at South Jefferson Central School from 1962 until her retirement in 1988, encouraging students to think critically and pursue new possibilities. She also helped introduce computer classes to the school—an early step toward preparing students for a changing world. Born in Bellona, New York, in 1936, Charlotte spent part of her childhood on the family farm before moving to Rochester. She later attended Union Academy in Belleville and earned her teaching degree from SUNY Brockport. In 1953, she married William “Bill” Fulkerson, and together they shared 72 years of marriage while raising a son and three daughters. A devoted teacher and passionate student of art, Charlotte believed in helping others flourish. When she passed away in January at age 90, her family honored her life through memorial gifts to the Community Foundation, ensuring her spirit of learning and encouragement continues to uplift others in the community she served.
Debra S. Galloway
Debra S. Galloway devoted her life to inspiring creativity and curiosity in young people. A passionate art educator, she spent her entire career at General Brown Central School District, where she established the school’s art department and curriculum, opening doors for generations of students to explore their talents. She also shared her love of language by teaching Spanish during her tenure. Born in Watertown in 1952 and raised in Black River, Debra graduated from Carthage Central High School before pursuing her passion for art and education at Canton ATC, SUNY Potsdam, and SUNY Buffalo, earning a Master of Fine Arts and certification in art education. Beyond the classroom, Debra cherished life with her husband, Clifford “Skip” Galloway, at their home in Pillar Point, where they operated a small hobby farm and welcomed family and friends. She cared deeply for animals and was dedicated to preserving local history and culture. To honor her legacy, Debra’s family established the Debra S. Galloway Memorial Scholarship at the Community Foundation, supporting graduating seniors from General Brown High School and continuing her lifelong encouragement of creativity and learning.
Kevin S. Johnson
Kevin S. Johnson was known for the quiet kindness and generosity he showed to family, friends, and everyone he met. Born in Watertown in 1976, Kevin graduated from Indian River Central School and went on to earn degrees from Jefferson Community College and SUNY Albany. He recently joined the Nanotech Center in Albany as a technician with New York Creates, where he became part of a team advancing cutting-edge technology. When Kevin passed away unexpectedly at 49, his family chose a meaningful way to honor his life. Memorial gifts were directed to the Community Foundation to help build the Kelli Johnson Memorial Scholarship Fund, celebrating his sister’s legacy while supporting future students. Through this thoughtful tribute, Kevin’s spirit of generosity continues to open doors for young people pursuing their education.
Carol Ann Kaban
Carol Ann Kaban devoted her life to caring for others as a nurse, military officer, and mentor to fellow caregivers. Born in Lowville in 1942, Carol graduated from Lowville Academy and earned her nursing diploma from the House of the Good Samaritan in 1962. She built a distinguished career defined by clinical excellence and constant learning, earning advanced certifications in lifesaving and trauma care while serving patients across the North Country. Her work ranged from hospital nursing to high-intensity roles as a flight nurse and paramedic assistant, where her calm expertise made a critical difference. Carol also served her country for 22 years in the United States Army Reserve, retiring as a lieutenant colonel at Fort Drum. Adventure, travel, and the outdoors brought her joy beyond her profession. When Carol passed away in January at 83, her family directed memorial gifts to the Community Foundation to strengthen the Rosamond Van Arnam Memorial Nursing Scholarship, ensuring her commitment to compassionate care continues through future generations of nurses in our community.
John George “Jack” Lewis
John George “Jack” Lewis carried his Northern New York roots with him throughout a lifetime devoted to education and community. A proud member of the Watertown High School Class of 1956, Jack built a distinguished 37-year career in public education. After earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in educational administration from SUNY Oswego and a doctorate from SUNY Albany, he served students and families at Shenendehowa Central Schools in Clifton Park, including three decades in school leadership. Together with his wife, Valerie, they raised a daughter and a son and celebrated 61 years of marriage. Jack also believed deeply in community involvement. A passionate sports enthusiast, he helped young athletes discover the discipline and confidence of wrestling, serving as a coach and mentor to many. When Jack passed away in January, his family directed memorial gifts to the Community Foundation to help grow the Watertown High School Class of 1956 Scholarship, a lasting tribute that will support students from the hometown he always cherished.
Joseph P. Malatino
Joseph Peter Malatino believed in serving others, whether standing proud in the U.S. Air Force or helping customers at the Post Office. Born in Watertown in 1933, Joe graduated from Watertown High School and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. As an aircraft engine mechanic, he served around the world before returning home with an honorable discharge as a staff sergeant. Following the service, he was a lineman for the New York Telephone Company. He later joined the United States Postal Service, where he built a nearly three-decade career. In 1976, Joe married Marianne Belcher, and together, they made their home in Hounsfield and shared a love of the outdoors. They also shared a deep appreciation for their community and the importance of education. Following Joe’s passing at age 92, his family honored his life by directing memorial gifts to help grow the Belcher Scholarship of the Community Foundation, which will continue to have a lasting impact upon local students as they pursue studies in environmental conservation.
Donald H. McKean
Donald H. McKean helped young people chart their futures. A teacher, coach, and ultimately director of guidance at Thousand Islands Central School, Don steered hundreds of students toward college and careers. His steady counsel shaped lives and strengthened a community. A graduate of Palmyra-Macedon Central School, SUNY Brockport, and the University of Rochester, Don began his career in physical education before finding his calling as a guidance counselor, helping to set hundreds of young men and women on their paths to success. He also served for many years as a part-time immigration officer at the Thousand Islands border and gave generously of his time to civic and charitable causes. He married Joyce A. Milligan in 1965 in Cape Vincent and together they raised two sons. When he passed away in January at 85, his family honored his lifelong commitment to students by directing memorial gifts to the Thousand Islands Foundation, a Community Foundation affiliate. Through this tribute, Don’s enduring belief in education, and in young people, continues to open doors.
Edward Allen Russell
Edward Allen Russell built a life defined by hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to his community. A 1975 graduate of Watertown High School, Ed followed in his father Harold’s footsteps and took over the family service station in 1989. For decades, it was more than a place for repairs, it was a trusted neighborhood hub where customers were greeted by name and neighbors looked out for one another. Under Ed’s steady leadership, the station stood as a symbol of reliability and honesty. He was known not only for skilled work, but for his willingness to help anyone in need, whether supporting local causes or making sure someone could get safely back on the road. Ed proudly operated the business until retiring in 2021. Family meant everything to him. With his wife, Barbara, they raised a daughter, Julia, and built a life rooted in love and community. Following his passing in February at age 68, his family established the Edward A. Russell Scholarship at the Community Foundation to support students pursuing studies in auto mechanics, ensuring Ed’s legacy of perseverance, craftsmanship, and community service continues for generations.
Bradley W. Smith
Bradley W. Smith spent his life grounded in the place he loved most. Born in Pierrepont Manor in 1936, he remained deeply connected to his hometown and the people who shaped it. A graduate of Mannsville-Manor High School, Brad built a career as an agricultural salesman, traveling throughout the Northeast, forming friendships as readily as business ties. In 1962, Brad married Nancy Belloff. Together they raised a son and two daughters and built a life centered on faith, family, and service. An avid outdoorsman, Brad found joy in the woods, on the trail, and wherever nature called. In retirement, he and Nancy spent part of each year in Arizona, where they embraced warm weather, hiking, and volunteering in their communities. Longtime friends of the Community Foundation, Brad and Nancy established charitable funds to support causes close to their hearts in the communities they cherished. Through their generosity, Brad’s legacy of kindness and care for community continues to make a lasting difference.
Robert “Bob” Sturtz
Robert “Bob” Sturtz believed that success carried a simple responsibility: give back to the community that helped make it possible. A lifelong North Country businessman, Bob built Slack Chemical Company into one of the Northeast’s leading chemical distributors after purchasing the Carthage-based firm in 1986. Under his leadership, the company grew, guided by his belief that people — especially employees — were the heart of any successful enterprise. His success in business was only part of Bob’s story. Service and generosity were equally central to his life. He and his wife, Jean, shared a deep commitment to the North Country and to the organizations that strengthen its communities. Together, they raised a family while building a culture rooted in hard work, kindness, and giving back. Through the years, Bob lent his leadership and support to many causes across the region, stepping forward to lead when he saw a need, often without being asked. He and his family were longtime friends of the Community Foundation, believing strongly in its mission to grow philanthropy for the good of the area. In 2015, through a transformative gift, Bob and Jean were instrumental in the creation of the Foundation’s Northern New York Philanthropy Center, creating a welcoming space where nonprofits, donors, and community partners can come together to strengthen the region. Through his example, Bob demonstrated that leadership is measured not only by what one builds in business, but also by what one gives back. The Community Foundation’s philanthropic impact on the region was forever enhanced because of his steadfast commitment.
Joan Taylor Welch
Joan Taylor Welch devoted her life to helping young students discover the joy of learning. Born in Massena in 1933, Joan graduated from Massena School before earning a bachelor’s degree from Potsdam State College and a master’s degree from St. Lawrence University. She spent more than 25 years teaching fourth grade at Nightengale School, leaving a lasting impression on generations of students. In 1997, she married Dr. Allen A. Welch. She remained dedicated to education throughout her life and in 2014 established the Dr. Allen A. and Joan Taylor Welch Education Fund in memory of her husband, who practiced dentistry in Massena for over 37 years, and Donald J. Connors and Kathryn Fay. The fund provides annual scholarships to graduating Madrid-Waddington seniors. Through Joan’s will and in her memory, an additional gift will be added to the fund to provide scholarships to students graduating from Massena Central School. This gift is also in memory of Joan’s parents, Henry Ward Taylor and Beulah Hess Taylor. The Welch’s lasting imprint on local students will continue for generations to come.
Nancie S. Williams
For nearly four decades, Nancie S. “Wiggy” Williams shaped the lives of young students with patience, humor, and a deep commitment to learning. A beloved fourth-grade teacher at Holy Family School, she began teaching in 1956 and remained in the classroom until her retirement in 1995, guiding generations of children. Born in Watertown in 1935, Nancie graduated from Watertown High School and pursued her calling in education through studies at LeMoyne College and SUNY Potsdam, earning her permanent teaching certificate. Her classroom was known not only for learning, but for laughter, reflecting the warmth and wit that made her so memorable to students and colleagues alike. Nancie’s life was grounded in her Catholic faith and a quiet dedication to serving others. She generously volunteered her time and talents to organizations that strengthened her community. Through a gift in her will to the Community Foundation, Nancie ensured her kindness and generosity will continue to benefit the community she loved, an enduring tribute to a life devoted to teaching and service.
Lawrence C. “Larry” Barone devoted his life to art, teaching, and the communities he loved. A Batavia native who earned degrees from SUNY Buffalo and UMass Amherst, he inspired generations of students as an art educator in New York and Massachusetts. His belief in young people was profound as he helped hundreds of students find their path. When he and his wife, Constance, settled in Sackets Harbor in 2002, Larry continued to share his gifts. He opened The Gallery-Fine Art, taught at Jefferson Community College, and remained an active, thoughtful voice. His service as a village trustee, historian, and volunteer reflected a deep sense of responsibility to place. A celebrated printmaker and pastel artist, Larry’s work appeared in exhibitions across the country. Memorial gifts to the Brennan-Barone Fund at the Community Foundation will help ensure that Larry and Connie’s passion for community and the causes they value most continue to leave an imprint on the people and places of our region and beyond.
Lee Donald Berry leaves a legacy grounded in family, service, and a deep commitment to the North Country’s forests and rural communities. An Adams Center native and South Jefferson graduate, Lee built his life around stewardship — shaped at the New York State Ranger School and strengthened during his Vietnam War service. With his brother, Gary, he helped lead Berry Brothers Lumber, reflecting both his entrepreneurial drive and respect for the land. He and his wife of 55 years, Sue, raised two children and rooted their family in generosity and community spirit. Lee shared his expertise widely. For more than 20 years, he served on the Ranger School Board and championed responsible forestry and land use. He also gave back locally as a member of the Lorraine Town Board. To honor his memory, Lee’s family directed gifts to the Community Foundation to grow the Berry Brothers Lumber FFA Award, a scholarship he and Sue established in 2021 to support students pursuing agricultural studies. We extend our sympathy to Lee’s family as we celebrate his enduring legacy of stewardship and service.
Peter L. Clough lived a life rooted in service, compassion, and a deep love for family, faith, and community. A proud Massena native and 1965 graduate of Massena High School, he served his country with distinction in the U.S. Army military intelligence during the Vietnam War before dedicating his career to the New York State Department of Corrections. A devoted resident of Watertown’s North Side, Peter poured his energy into public service, serving 12 years on the Watertown City Council and in leadership roles with the North Side Improvement League and other local organizations. Together with his wife of 53 years, Susan, they raised two sons and two daughters. Peter’s humor, generosity, and steadfast commitment to others left an enduring mark on all who knew him. When he passed away in July at age 77, his family chose to celebrate his life through the Community Foundation’s North Side Legacy Fund, ensuring his lifelong spirit of service continues to strengthen the community he loved.
Theresa Ann Constance Desormeaux spent 93 years living her values of faith, family, hard work, and service to others. A Cape Vincent native and Watertown School of Commerce graduate, she built an early career at Knowlton Brothers before beginning the chapter that defined her life: raising a son and six daughters while operating a successful Gouverneur dairy farm with her husband, Albert. Theresa’s commitment to community ran just as deep. She volunteered generously, supporting local nonprofits, her church, and neighbors who knew they could always count on her steady presence and practical kindness. Giving back was a shared priority for Theresa and Albert. Together they supported the Community Foundation and its Friends of the Foundation Community Betterment Fund, later establishing family funds to lift the causes they cared about most, both now and in the future. When she passed in October, her family chose to honor her by directing memorial gifts to the Foundation, an enduring reflection of her belief in helping others. Theresa’s legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the community she strengthened, and the charitable impact she set in motion. We are grateful to honor her life, her generosity, and her example.
William P. “Bill” Doyle II built a life defined by warmth, humor, and generosity. A Potsdam native and 1968 Immaculate Heart Central graduate, he cultivated friendships everywhere he went — from his early days at Century Housewares, where he rose to district manager, to his later career in sales at WWTI TV 50. Bill proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserve and remained deeply engaged in his community. He valued family above all. Together with his first wife, he shared two daughters. Bill later married Debra Platko, building a family that included a son and daughter. When he passed away in September, his family chose a tribute that reflects his enduring connection to service and the place that shaped him. Memorial gifts helped establish the William P. Doyle Memorial Golf Scholarship at the Community Foundation, supporting graduating seniors from Immaculate Heart Central. In this special way, Bill’s legacy will continue to lift young people forward, just as he lifted others throughout his life.
For more than five decades, Daniel G. “Danno” Fay shaped the lives of thousands of students at SUNY Canton. As a beloved professor of accounting and business, he inspired generations to think critically, work hard, and give back; lessons that reached far beyond the classroom. Born in Massena in 1944, Dan graduated from Massena High School and earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Clarkson University. He and his wife, Linda, settled in Canton, where they raised a daughter and two sons and built a life grounded in faith, friendship, and service. A tireless advocate for his community, Dan gave generously of his time, serving on numerous boards and supporting causes close to his heart. As longtime Friends of the Community Foundation, he and Linda established family funds at the Foundation to benefit the people and places of St. Lawrence County. Dan’s legacy endures in the students he mentored, the community he strengthened, and the love he shared with all who knew him.
Cathleen Freeman shaped the lives of hundreds of young people, mentoring them with skill, patience, and heart. A Watertown native and Copenhagen Central School graduate, she built her life around family, community, and a deep love for her craft. After studying cosmetology at Howard G. Sackett Technical Center and later earning a technical education degree from SUNY Oswego, Cathleen found her purpose in the classroom. For more than 25 years at the Sackett Technical Center and Jeff-Lewis BOCES, she prepared students for meaningful careers, instilling confidence that stayed with them long after graduation. Cathleen shared 48 years of marriage with her husband, Gerald, and together they raised a daughter and a son. She also nurtured community through her home salon for more than 30 years. In August, colleagues and friends established the Cathleen Freeman Memorial Scholarship at the Community Foundation, ensuring her impact continues for future cosmetology students. We are honored to be part of the enduring way she will be remembered.
Ellen A. Hayes built a life grounded in kindness, learning, and family, values she passed to her children, grandchildren, and the many people she quietly lifted along the way. Born in Rochester in 1950, Ellen pursued education with purpose, graduating from Penfield High School, earning a bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan University, and completing a master’s in teaching at SUNY Potsdam. She and her husband, Daniel, shared 50 years of marriage and raised a daughter and three sons. Ellen taught reading at Norwood-Norfolk Elementary School, nurturing a love of learning in countless young students. While raising her family, she devoted herself to community service, giving time and heart to organizations that strengthened the places she called home. Together with Dan, her long-standing leadership with the Sandstoner Foundation (and partnership with the Community Foundation), that generations of Potsdam High School students will be inspired to pursue their own educational dreams. Ellen’s legacy of generosity endures in every life she touched. We honor her memory and extend our deepest sympathy to Dan and their family.
Mary M. McDonald Mascott cared deeply for her family, community, and the North Country. An accomplished attorney who spent most of her career with Merck & Co., Inc., she never forgot her roots in Northern New York. Mary supported many local and regional causes while sharing her leadership with a wide range of organizations throughout her life of 80 years, including the Community Foundation. She served on the Foundation’s Board from 2002 to 2009 and was instrumental in its growth and development as a steadfast advocate for its important role. She brought insight and wisdom in extraordinary ways. A Watertown native, Mary was born in 1944, a daughter to Anna M. (Murrock) and J. Donald McDonald. She graduated from Immaculate Heart Academy in 1962 and earned a bachelor’s degree from D’Youville College, Buffalo, and a Juris Doctor from the Fordham University School of Law. She married G. Theodore “Ted” Mascott in 1983. Mary began her career practicing public service law in New York City for five years with the Legal Aid Society and the City Bar Association. Mary concluded her career at Merck as General Counsel, the first woman to hold that position in a major American corporation. We share our heartfelt sympathy as we mourn her loss and celebrate her life and legacy. We are grateful that, together with Ted, she established numerous funds at the Community Foundation that will touch the lives of many in our region for generations to come.
John J. O’Brien poured pride and purpose into serving students, teachers, and staff as a special patrol officer with the Oneida County Sheriff’s Department at Camden Central Schools. His calm presence and easy rapport made him a trusted part of school life. Born at Fort Sill in 1964, John grew up in Watertown, graduated from Immaculate Heart Central in 1982, and attended Buffalo State University, where he played football. He continued his love of the game with the Watertown Red and Black and went on to a 29-year career with the New York State Department of Corrections, retiring as a lieutenant. John married Colleen Bennett in 1991, and together they raised two sons. After his unexpected passing in August, his family directed memorial gifts to the Community Foundation to strengthen the Terry O’Brien Memorial Scholarship, honoring both John and his late brother. In this special way, John’s legacy will help support IHC students for years to come.
William D. O’Brien built a life anchored in faith, family, and community service. Born in Rhode Island in 1940, he grew up in Providence before serving in the U.S. Army at Camp Drum. He married Katherine “Kay” Lortie in 1961 and raised a daughter and four sons together. After his honorable discharge in 1966, they made their home in Watertown. William worked for Seaway Motor Express, co-owned the Elbow Room, and later retired from Fort Drum, where he spent many years as a skilled mechanic. When William passed away in September at age 85, his family directed memorial gifts to the Community Foundation to help build the Terry O’Brien Memorial Scholarship. The fund honors his late son while supporting Immaculate Heart Central graduates. We are saddened by William’s loss as we celebrate his life and legacy of generosity.