ADAMS –MILLIE REBECCA HORTON, 82, widow of Clifford C. Horton, Sr., a long-time resident of Roaring Branch RR 1, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 1997 at the Darway Nursing Home in Estella, Pa., where she resided since August 1997.  Millie was born March 19, 1915 in Leolyn, Lycoming Co., PA.  She was a daughter of the late Reuben Adams and Margaret Barns Adams Hemenway.  She met Clifford Horton in East Smithfield, Pa.  The couple married on July 18, 1932, sharing 65 years of loving marriage.  He preceded her in death on Sept. 18, 1997.  For many years, Millie assisted Clifford on the family’s arm.  She was also employed as inspector by the Swayze Folding Box Company in Canton for 21 years until her retirement in 1978.  Millie was widely known for her backing skills, especially her sticky buns and pies.  She won many first-place ribbons for her baking skills at the Bloomsburg Fair, and her homemade sticky buns have traveled as far as Japan for a wedding.  Mrs. Horton also enjoyed making old-fashioned patchwork quilts.  She was a lifetime member of the Grover Church of Christ.  Surviving are a daughter and son-in-law, Dawn and Lewis Schanbacher of Canton RR2; four sons and daughters-in-law, Alfred and Charlotte Horton of East Camrron Mills, N.Y., James and Pauline Horton of Canton RR2, Bradley and Sharon Horton of  Canton RR 1, Clifford (Calvin) Jr. and Joan Horton of Montoursville, Pa.; a daughter and her husband Grace and James Gantt of Rock Hill, S.C.; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; a sister, Flora Mae Burguess of Canton RR 2; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  In addition to her husband, Millie was predeceased by a sister Mazie Elizabeth Adams in 1928; three brothers, Clarence Andrew Adams in 1927, James Adams in 1980 and Henry Adams in 1993.  The family will receive friends from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday Oct. 24, 1997 at the Pepper Funeral Home, Canton, Pa.  The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday at the Grover Church of Christ with her pastor, Rev. Willard Strunk and Rev. Duane Taylor, pastor of the North Union Christian Church, officiating.  Interment will be in the Beech Flats Cemetery, Canton Twp.  Memorials may be directed to the Grover Church of Christ Memorial fund in Mrs. Millie Rebecca Horton’s memory.  –Towanda Daily Review.

ROY R. ADAMS, 79, of Roaring Branch RD 1, died Saturday, June 14, 1986, at his home.  Mr. Adams was born Sept. 6, 1906, in Leolyn (Lycoming County) a son of Henry and Rosalyn Barnes Adams.  He was a self-employed lumberman most of his live and in 1971 he retired from Schweitzer Aircraft in Elmira, where he had been employed as a laborer.  He was a member of the Faith Baptist Church in Canton.  Surviving are his wife, the former, Louise Wilcox, to whom he was married 41 years; three sons, and daughters-in-law, Walter and Sylva Adams, Big Flats, N.Y., Harold (Butch) and Dawn Adams, Corning, N.Y., and William and Nancy Woodward, Bentley Creek; six daughters and sons-in-law, Phyllis and Aldene Clegg, of Roaring Branch RD 1, Helen and Ralph Davy and Audrey and Lewis Howell, both of Canton, Betty and Dale Jennings, of Elmira, Mary and Tom McGuirk, of Horseheads, N.Y., and Joyce and Jim Sheldon, Candor, N.Y.; a daughter-in-law, Donna Adams, of Big Flats, N.Y.; 23 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.  He was predeceased by a son, Carl Adams, in 1974.  Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 2 p.m. from the Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center in Canton, with the Rev. Duane Taylor, minister at large, officiating.  Interment will be in the Beech Flats Cemetery in Canton Township.  Friends may call at the funeral home Monday from 7 until 9 p.m.  Memorial donations may be directed to the Canton Community Nursing service in Mr. Adams’ memory.

ALDERFER Harry Willard
On the evening of Monday, Oct. 18, 2010, Henry Willard Alderfer, a well-known dairy farmer of Troy (Columbia Township), died
quietly at Troy Community Hospital after a brief illness. He was 71 years of age. Born July 24, 1939, at his family's Bedminster Township farm, he was the son of Henry and Aquilla (Miller) Alderfer. Known to family and friends as Willard, he grew to develop a lifelong passion for dairy farming and for the tranquility of the bucolic northern Bucks County countryside. From the very beginning Willard was instructed in the ways of the Lord, and was baptized into the Christian fellowship of the Mennonite Church. As a young man he met the love of his life, Gladys Landis, and they were married July 23, 1960. Shortly thereafter Willard was called up for 1-W service during the Vietnam War. After serving two years he returned with Gladys to Bedminster, and the couple made their home at the Landis family farm. The tranquil countryside was beginning to get developed, and available farmland was starting to vanish, so five years and two children later the Alderfers bought a farm in Bradford County. The family grew by two more children. Willard became active in the growing Mennonite community, first at Calvary Mennonite Fellowship at Morris Run, and later at the newly formed Canton Mennonite Church. Willard devoted the last 43 years of his life to the Lord's service, as a Sunday School teacher and trustee and as his church's representative to the Mennonite Disaster Service. In addition to his teaching and administrative duties Willard was always available to lend a hand with construction and repair projects. As part of their 50th wedding anniversary celebration, Willard and Gladys recently returned from an extensive tour of the American West, taking in all of the pikes, the peaks and the canyons. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who walked through life as a living example of his faith. Willard is survived by: his wife, Gladys, at home; sons Doug, at home, and Brian of Mansfield; daughters Wanda (and Tim) Moyer of Turbotville and Renee (and Phil) Rice of Perkasie; brother Claude Alderfer of Souderton; sisters Grace Scheetz, Mary Rice, Elizabeth Myers, Florence Alderfer, all of Souderton, Alice (and Elmer) Detweiler of Bedminster, Miriam (and Durrel) Detweiler of Hickory, N.C., and Pearl (and Norman) Freed of Perkasie; eight grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter. Calling hours will be from 5-8 p.m. Friday at the Canton Mennonite Church, North Center and Union streets in Canton. A celebration of his life will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 23, at the church with Pastor Doug Graybill, Rev. David Weaver, retired bishop of the North Penn Mennonite District, and Pastor Ralph Bender of Calvary Mennonite Fellowship officiating. Interment will follow in Beech Flats Cemetery, Canton Township. The family will provide the flowers and suggests that memorial contributions be directed to Mennonite Disaster Service, 1018 Main Street, Akron, PA 17501. Professional services have been entrusted to Morse & Kleese Funeral Home Inc., 94 N. Center St., Canton. - Towanda Daily Review, October 20, 2010
 

HENRY WILLARD ALDERFER - On the evening of Monday, October 18, 2010, Henry Willard Alderfer, a well-known dairy farmer of Troy (Columbia Township), died
quietly at Troy Community Hospital after a brief illness.  He was 71 years of age.  Born July 24, 1939, at his family's Bedminster Township farm, he was the son of Henry and Aquilla (Miller) Alderfer.  Known to family and friends as Willard, he grew to develop a lifelong passion for dairy farming and for the tranquility of the bucolic northern Bucks County countryside.  From the very beginning Willard was instructed in the ways of the Lord, and was baptized into the Christian fellowship of the Mennonite Church.  As a young man he met the love of his life, Gladys Landis, and they were married July 23, 1960.  Shortly thereafter, Willard was called up for 1-W service during the Vietnam War.  After serving two years he returned to Gladys to Bedminster, and the couple made their home at the Landis family farm.  The tranquil countryside was beginning to get developed, and available farmland was starting to vanish, so five years and two children later, the Alderfers bought a farm in Bradford County.  The family grew by two more children.  Willard became active in the growing Mennonite community, first at Calvary Mennonite Fellowship at Morris Run, and later at the newly-formed Canton Mennonite Church.  Willard devoted the last forty-three years of his life to the Lord's service, as a Sunday School teacher and Trustee and as his church's representative to the Mennonite Disaster Service.  In addition to his teaching and administrative duties Willard was always available to lend a hand with construction and repair projects.  As part of their fiftieth wedding anniversary celebration, Willard and Gladys recently returned from an extensive tour of the American West, taking in all of the pikes, the peaks and the canyons.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who walked through life as a living example of his faith.  Willard is survived by his wife, Gladys, at home; sons Doug, at home, and Brian of Mansfield, daughters Wanda (and Tim) Moyer of Turbotville and Renee (and Phil) Rice of Perkasie, brother Clyde Alderfer of Souderton, sisters grace Scheetz, Mary Rice, Elizabeth Myers, Florence Alderfer, all of Souderton, Alice (and Elmer) Detweiler of Bedminster, Miriam (and Durrel) Detweiler of Hickory, NC, and Pearl (and Norman) Freed of Perkasie, eight grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.  Calling hours will be Friday, 5 to 8 p.m. at the Canton Mennonite Church, North Center and Union Streets, Canton.  A celebration of his life will be held at 10 am Saturday, October 23 at the church with Pastor Doug Graybill, Rev. David Weaver, retired Bishop of the North Penn Mennonite District, and Pastor Ralph Bender of Calvary Mennonite Fellowship officiating.  Interment will follow in Beech Flats Cemetery, Canton Township.  The family will provide the flowers, and suggests that memorial contributions be directed to Mennonite Disaster Service, 1108 Main Street, Akron, PA.  Professional services have been entrusted to Morse & Kleese Funeral Home, Inc., 94 N. Center Street, Canton. –Canton Independent-Sentinel/Troy Gazette-Register 10/22/2010

Albert P. 'Bob' Allen, 82, Canton
02/20/2002 Towanda Daily Review
On the morning of Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2002, well-known Canton-area resident Albert Paul "Bob" Allen died quietly at his home, surrounded by his beloved family, after a brave battle with cancer. He was 82 years of age. Born in Granville Township on Oct. 23, 1919, he was the son of Lester Allen and Mida Colton Allen Landon. Bob grew up in the Granville and Canton vicinity, having attended both the East Canton and Windfall schools. He courted a young lady named Dorothy Laninger, and on Dec. 26, 1942, they were united in marriage. Bob and his bride settled on a farm in Canton Township, where they raised a son and two daughters. He had been a member of the Beech Flats Grange. In 1972, they sold the farm, moving to a home on South Avenue, just outside Canton Borough. Bob took a position with PennDOT, retiring in 1985. He and Dorothy could now share more time together. They enjoyed square dancing and camping, having been members of the former Rolling Hills and Knights of the Road camping clubs. Over the years these activities introduced them to many new friends. Bob was an avid card player and horseshoe pitcher, and he was especially fond of draft horses. He was a great fan of country and western music and in October of 2000 shared with Dorothy a most enjoyable trip to Branson, Mo. Bob was a man who enjoyed the company of family and friends, whether engaged in work or leisure. Wherever help was needed Bob was usually among the first to volunteer. He would often assist his son-in-law with several projects for the Canton Fire Department. For more years than anyone can remember Bob cooked for the annual Firemen's Fair. His years of dedicated service earned him a life membership in the Innes Hose Company. Perhaps nothing exemplified Bob's goodhearted spirit more than his annual elaborate Christmas display, his personal holiday gift to the community. One might even describe him as Canton's very own Father Christmas. Each year, beginning the day after Thanksgiving, he would endeavor to transform his front yard into a treasure trove of seasonal sights and sounds, much to the delight of young and old alike. Not only Canton-area folks, but people from several miles away would drive through this Wonderland to see the ornate and intricate decorations, most of which were designed and built by Bob and Dorothy. Each year he would add a new display to the cast of characters. Though the assembly was laborious, it was a labor of love. Once it was up and running, Bob took great pleasure in the joy and excitement on the faces of the children who visited. It was his intent that everyone should have a truly merry Christmas. Bob is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dorothy, at home; son, Tim (and Dianne) Allen; daughters, Dottie (and Bob) Shedden and Lou Ann Trick (and special friend Roy Vargason), all of Canton RR 1; grandchildren, Tina (and Jack) Seeley, Gina (and Bill) Bastion, Wendy (and Moe) Mosher, Mike (and Billie Joe) Shedden, Sherry Wamsley and Shawn Trick (and fiancee Shelley Freeman); nine great-grandchildren; a stepbrother, Tom (and Dora) Landon of Canton RR 1; a stepsister, Jean (and Gene) Harman of Canton RR3; a half-sister, Judy Mosier of Sugar Run; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Linda, in 1947, and a son-in-law, Grant Trick, in 2000. Calling hours will be held Thursday, Feb. 21, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton. The funeral service will be conducted at the funeral home at 11 a.m. Friday, with the Rev. Duane Taylor, pastor of the North Union Christian Church, officiating. Interment will follow in Beech Flats Cemetery. Contributions in Bob's memory may be directed to Innes Hose Co., P.O. Box 72, Canton, Pa. 17724, or to Guthrie Hospice, RR 1, Box 154, Towanda, Pa. 18848.

ALLEN –MRS. DOROTHY L. BELLOWS age 64 of RD 11, Troy, PA Sunday, December30, 1984.  Friends may call at the Morse & Kleese Funeral Home, 40 North Center St., Canton, PA Tuesday 7 to 9 pm.  Funeral services there Wednesday at 11 am. Rev. David B. Morris.  Interment Beech Flats Cemetery.  Memorial Donations may be made to the Alba Christian Church Memorial Fund.  Survived by husband.  Willis (Bill); daughters, Mrs. Robert Williams of Troy, PA, Mrs. Paul Tillotson of RD2, Canton. Mrs. Robert Bentley of Canton; 2 sons, Roger of Troy and Larry of Troy RD 1; 2 sisters, Mrs. Ruth McNeal of Gillett and Mrs. Gertrude Hoagland of Troy; 25 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren.  –Elmira Star-Gazette 1/1/1985

ALLEN Linda Ann-one-month old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Allen of Canton died Tuesday evening, April 5 (1949). In addition to her parents, she is survived by one brother, Timothy, at home. Funeral services will be held at the family home Thursday morning, April 7 at 10:30. Rev. Russell Camp officiating. Burial in Beech Flats cemetery.

TIMOTHY ROBERT ALLEN - On Friday, Nov. 20, 2020, lifelong Canton area resident Timothy Robert Allen passed away peacefully at Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre. He was 76 years of age. Born at his family’s farm Oct. 17, 1944, he was the son of Albert and Dorothy (Laninger) Allen. Tim was a graduate of Canton area High School and was blessed with a strong work ethic. Over the years he worked at coal mining and construction, and more recently as an assistant manager for PennDOT. He married his high school sweetheart, Dianne (Bellows) Allen, on Aug. 25, 1964, and together they raised two daughters and shared 42- years until her passing in 2006. In 2011 Tim married Patricia (nee Rieman) Curran, who brought into his life six daughters of her own. Tim enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, camping, trapping and tinkering in the garage, all of which are traits that he passed on to his grandchildren. He was also a member of Canton Lodge No. 415 F&AM, A special thanks to Edna Byler and family for their devoted care giving. Tim is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughters, Tina (and Jack) Seeley, Gina (and William) Bastion; grandchildren, Joshua (and Tessa) Seeley, Melinda Seeley, Kyle (and Kristen) Bastion, Kody Bastion (and Paige Van Noy); great-grandchildren, Hunter Seagraves, Blaine Jennings, Kolten Bastion, Klayton Bastion, Kensley Bastion, Baby Seeley; two step-great grandchildren, Mack and Brantley; stepdaughters, Carol (and Ken) Sherwood, Connie (and James) Murphy, Bobbie Pratt, Lisa (and Mike) Redlich, Candy Drake (and Jeremy Saltzer), Sandra (and Kenny) Sieglaff; 17 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Graveside service will be Tuesday, Nov. 24, 11 a.m., at Beech Flats Cemetery. Social distancing will be observed. Professional services entrusted to Morse & Kleese Funeral Home, Canton. -Towanda Daily Review 11/22/2020

HOWARD M. ANDRUS, of Alba, died Thursday, June 13, 1929, after a long illness of a complication of disease.  He was 56 years old, and leaves his wife, seven sons, Kenneth, Abel, and Leon, of Alba; Howard and Lee of Elmira; and Ira and Donald of Hawaii; two daughters, Mrs. Joseph Glenn of Pittsburgh; and Catherine of Alba.  The funeral was held Saturday afternoon from his late residence and interment was made in the Beech Flats Cemetery. –Canton Independent Sentinel.

ARBOGAST –BESSIE IRENE (ARBOGAST) HOFFA - On the morning of Monday, May 25, 2015, Canton resident Bessie Irene (Arbogast) Hoffa passed away quietly at Bradford County Manor. She was 96 years of age. Born March 2, 1919 in Spencertown (Union Township) Tioga County, Pa., she was the daughter of Jacob and Edna (Allen) Arbogast. For many years Bessie was employed as a machine operator for the former Swayze Folding Box Company in Canton. In 1955 she married Edwin Hoffa. Bessie and Ed were inseparable, and during the next 60 years shared time together fishing, raising Thanksgiving turkeys and motorcycling. Bessie was an active member of the Canton Church of Christ (Disciples of Christ) where she and Ed, like the Levites of Biblical times, voluntarily tended to the custodial needs of the Lord's House. Bessie was also known as a great cook, and enjoyed cooking for large groups, such as the Canton High School girls' volleyball team. She had also been a member of the Canton Lady Rebekahs. Bessie always considered the feelings of others and placed the needs of others before her own. She made it a point to live each day by the Golden Rule. She is survived by her husband, Ed, at home; special friends, Sharon Alexander and Sheila Wesneski of Canton; nieces, Virginia Black of Blossburg, Cindy Evans of Canton and JoAnn Day of Elmira; as well as numerous other nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Harry, Clifford and Nathan Arbogast; sisters, Catherine Johnson and Viola Conn; niece, Barbara Mix and nephews, Richard and Robert Arbogast. Visitation will be 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 30 at the Church of Christ (Disciples of Christ) in Canton. The service will be at 11 a.m. with Pastor Bonnie Browning officiating. Interment will follow in Beech Flats Cemetery. The family will provide the flowers and suggests that contributions in Bessie's name be directed to the Church of Christ (Disciples of Christ). Professional services have been entrusted to Morse & Kleese Funeral Home, Inc., 94 N. Center St., Canton. –Towanda Daily Review 5/27/2015

GERALD D. AVERY, SR., 85, of Grover died Saturday, Jan. 23, 1999, at the Bradford County Manor following a period of declining health.  Born March 10, 1913, in Eldredsville, Sullivan County, Gerald was a son of the late Eugene and Orrill Whitely Avery.  Gerald graduated from the Estella High School and the Elmira Business Institute, majoring in business management.  In earlier years, Gerald moved to Grover and was a Massey-Harrison equipment dealer.  He acquired the town’s general store from Mr. and Mrs. Burt Whipple and later operated the store and a greenhouse for a total of 49 years.  Gerald was also an independent school bus driver for Canton School District for 26 years.  On Sept. 26, 1976, he married the former Mabell Castle Wright in the Grover Church of Christ.  Gerald enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and feeding the wildlife.  Gerald was a member of the Grover Church of Christ and the Canton Masonic Lodge No. 415.  He was a Boy Scout leader and served as a Canton Township auditor for several years.  Surviving besides his wife, Mabell, are four sons and daughters-in-law, Floyd and Virginia Avery, Alvah and Barbara Avery, and Richard and Katie Avery, all of Canton, and Burton and Barbara Avery of Elmira, N.Y.; a daughter and son-in-law, Eunice and Mart McFall of Grover; a daughter-in-law Theola Avery of Canton; two stepsons and their spouses, Milton and Janice Brown and Kenneth and Edith Brown, all of Canton; 18 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, nine step-grandchildren and nine step-great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.  Gerald was preceded in death by his first wife, Lenora Mae Morgan Avery; two infant daughters, Maxine and Charlene; a son, Gerald Avery, Jr.; a grandson, Allan Avery; and four brothers, John Roy, Arnold, Thurber and Eugene Avery.  The family will receive friends 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Monday, Jan. 25, 1999, at the Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook Drive, Canton.  The Canton Masonic Lodge No. 415, F. & A.M. will conduct a memorial service for its brother at 6:45 p.m.  The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with his pastor, the Rev. Willard Strunk, officiating.  Interment will follow in the Beech Flats Cemetery, Canton Township.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials may be directed to the Grover Church of Christ Window Fund, PO Box 83, Grover, Pa. 17735, or to the Canton High School, Attention Mr. William Krause, 139 E. Main St., Canton, Pa. 17724 to establish a botany-horticulture scholarship fund in Mr. Gerald Avery Sr.’s memory.

EMORY F. AYERS JR., 57 Watkins Glenn, NY, died January 17, 1994 at home.  Born March 30, 1936 in Blossburg, he was the son of Emory F. and Ida Winder Ayers.  He grew up in Dundee where he graduated from DCS in 1954.  In 1954, he joined the New York National Guard and was employed as assistant manager of J. J. Newberry’s Store in Endicott, NY.  In January 1955, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, served two tours of duty in Vietnam and retired in 1975 with the rank of chief warrant officer in military intelligence.  After returning from Vietnam in 1973, he started a cattle ranch near Guffey, Co. and in 1983 sold the ranch and bought the Miner’s Saloon in Manhattan, NV, which he operated through 1990.  My Ayers and his wife of 37 years, the former Sheila Ann Dailey of Penn Yan, NY, returned to New York state for retirement at the end of 1990.  He was a member of the VFW and the American Legion in Dundee, NY.  Surviving besides his wife are one son and daughter-in-law, Emory III, and Susan Ayers, Gloconda, NV; one daughter, April Ayers, Denver, CO; granddaughter, Amy C. Ruiz, Tonopah, NV; four sisters, Leona Cowan, Shady Acres, FL, Esther Hyer, Odessa, NY, Evelyn Ayres, Ontario, Canada, and Essie Haflett, Canton; two brothers, Elwood Ayers, Summerville, SC and Edward Ayers, Roaring Branch; many nieces and nephews.  Burial was in Beech Flats Cemetery, Canton, at the convenience of the family.  Arrangements were handled by Holly-Keck and Baker Funeral Home. –Towanda Daily Review.

CHARLES J. AYRTON, 70, of Granville Summit, died Tuesday, March 25, 1971, at Troy Community Hospital.  Mr. Ayrton was a veteran of World War I and a retired employee of the Canton Telephone Company.  He is survived by his wife, Elouise Ayrton; three daughters, Mrs. Cora Hipple of Ithaca, N. Y., Mrs. Joan Temple of Groton, N. Y., and Mrs. Bonnie Bastion of Troy; RD 2; a son Denzil Ayrton of Canton; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  Funeral and committal services were held Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at the Morse Funeral Home, with the Rev. Dewey Ashby officiating.  Burial was in Beech Flats Cemetery.  –Canton Independent Sentinel.

DENZIL CHARLES AYRTON, 57, QUIETLY AND PEACEFULLY WENT HOME TO BE WITH THE Lord on Tuesday, April 11, 1995, at his home in Ralston, Pa., after a courageous battle with C.O.P.D. and cancer.  He was born on Oct. 7, 1937, in Windfall, Bradford County, Pa., a son of the late Charles J. and Eloise (Trent) Ayrton.  Denzil was the husband of France A. (Meuse) Ayrton and had celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary on Jan. 22 of this year.  Mr. Ayrton attended Troy schools and served in the United States Army.  He retired from the Antrim Mining Co. after 17 years and was previously employed by the Jones and Brague Mining Co.  He was a member of the Red Run Rod and Gun Club of Ralston, Pa.  Denzil is survived by his wife; two sons: Denny C. Ayrton and Timothy J. Ayrton, both of Ralston; two granddaughters; Brittany and Bridget and their mother Angie, and Timothy’s special friend, Tawna and her daughter; three sisters and brothers-in-law; Cora and Herbert Crandall of Alpine, N.Y., Joan and James Lockwood of Windsor, N.Y., and Bonnie and Robert Bastion of Troy, an aunt, Hallie McWilliams of Canton; nieces and nephews; Susan Hipple of Ithaca, N.Y., Sandra VanOstrand of Odessa, N.Y., Karen Harvey of Newfield, N.Y., James Hipple of Marietta, Ga., Mark Hipple of Orlando, Fla., Charles Bastion, Sandra Bastion, Todd Bastion, all of Troy, and Katrena Lockwood of Binghamton.  Also surviving are a special family friend who assisted with Denzil’s birth, Betty Landon of Addison, N.Y., and five cousins.  He was predeceased by a grandson, Timothy James Ayrton Jr., in August of 1994.  As per his request, there will be no calling hours.  A graveside memorial service will be held on Monday, April 17, 1995, at 11 a.m. at the Beech Flats Cemetery with the Dr. J. Morris Smith officiating.  The family will provide the flowers; Memorial contributions may be made to either the Susquehanna Home Health Hospice, Williamsport, Pa. or to the Divine Providence Hospital Foundation, Williamsport.  Arrangements are being handled by the Morse and Kleese Funeral Home Inc., Canton.  –Towanda Daily Review.

BAKER -VERA M. GRIFFIN, 58, of Canton RD 1 died April 29, 1984 at the Williamsport Hospital.  Mrs. Griffin was born June 2, 1925, in Savona, New York, the daughter of John and May Gillette Baker.  Mrs. Griffin was a relief operator at the former Canford Manufacturing Company for 11 years, retiring in 1970.  She was predeceased by her husband of 40 years, the late Theodore (Nub) Griffin, who died April 17, 1983.  She is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Duane (Dawn) Rockwell and Mrs. Gordan (Katherine) Stone, both of Canton RD 1: two brothers, Kenneth Baker of Washington, Gerald Baker of 29 Palms, California; four grandchildren, Gerald and Douglas Stone and Shawn and Tricia Rockwell; foster children, Connie Martin of Newburry, Pa, James Walburn and William Ackley, both of Canton RD  2 and Roger Quinn of Waverly, NY.  Mrs. Griffin also raised 14 additional foster children with whom she has since lost contact.  Private family graveside services will be held today at 2 p.m. in the Beech Flats Cemetery with the Rev. Richard Leonard officiating.  Memorial may be directed to the Canton Ambulance Association.  –Towanda Daily Review.

BAKER - GRIFFIN, VERA M.,   Graveside services were held April 30 for Vera M. Griffin, 58, Canton, with Rev. Richard Leonard officiating at Beech Flats Cemetery.  Mrs. Griffin died April 29, 1984 at Williamsport Hospital. She was born June 2, 1925 in Savona, NY, daughter of John and May Gillette Baker.  She was a relief operator at the former Canford Mfg. Co. for 11 years.  She is survived by daughters, Mrs. Duane (Dawn) Rockwell and Mrs. Gordon (Katherine) Stone, both of Canton; brothers, Kenneth Baker of Washington and Gerald Baker of 29 Palms, CA.; four grandchildren; foster children, Connie Martin of New burry, PA, James Walburn and William Ackley, both of Canton, Roger Quinn of Waverly, NY and 14 with whom she had since lost contact with.  (TGR May 3, 1984

GARY M. BARNES - On the morning of Thursday, May 11, 2017, Gary M. Barnes of Canton passed away quietly at his residence following his courageous battle with a prolonged illness. He was 63 years of age. Born on Oct. 15, 1953 in Blossburg, he was the son of the late Elwin R. Barnes Sr,. and Audrey Leonard Barnes (Jennelle). Known to family and friends as "Bubba," he was a self-employed handyman and was well known in the Canton community. He enjoyed hunting, camping at County Bridge Park, country music, NASCAR and playing BINGO. Bubba was also known as being a very talented sketch artist. But with all of his recreational pursuits his favorite activity was mowing lawns. A familiar figure in his ever-present cowboy hat, he'd rather be out working with his beloved tractor mower than be doing anything else. Bubba was one of those special people who could light up a room with his smile. His friendly handshake and honest straightforwardness endeared him to all who knew him. Though he never married he had all of the devoted family members that any man could want. He especially loved his nieces and nephews very much, and they in turn loved him equally as much. He also knew and loved his Lord, who, on that Thursday morning, took Bubba by the hand and led him home. Bubba is survived by his mother, Audrey Jennelle of Towanda; sisters, Anna Watkins, Robin (Jeff) Campbell, and Linda Perry, all of Canton, Jennifer (Raymond "Skeeter") Cole of Ralston, and Waneta Winder of Williamsport; brother Elwin Jr. (Tami) Barnes of Canton; special friends, Tony Liberati, Fred Richter Sr., Fred Richter Jr., and Ted Bown; as well as numerous nieces and great-nieces, nephews and great-nephews and cousins. The family also wishes to thank Cathy Clark Seelye, Karen Milazzo and Heather Rose Baillie for the wonderful, loving care they gave Gary, enabling him to be at home surrounded by those who loved him. He was preceded in death by his father, Elwin R. Barnes Sr.; brother Allen Leonard; and stepfather, Floyd Colin Jennelle. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until noon, Saturday, May 20 at the Church of Christ (Disciples) in Canton. A celebration of his life will follow at noon with Pastor Nancy Beahm officiating. Interment will follow in Beech Flats Cemetery. –Towanda Daily Review 5/15/2017

BARNES - Elwin "Butt" Barnes Sr., 87, of Canton, Pa., died
while surrounded by his family on Saturday evening, May 1, 2010 at the Bradford County Manor.  Elwin R. Barnes was born on March 31, 1923, in Langton near Ralston, Pa. He was one of six children of the late Stephen Ardell and Edna J. (HURLBURT) Barnes. "Butt," as he was affectionately known by family and friends, proudly served our country during World War II with the U.S. Army's 103rd Infantry.  He was employed by several area sawmills, including W. Baumunk in Forksville, L. Baumunk in Shunk, Bagley's Pallet Mill in Canton, McCarty/Driscoll in Shunk, House Brothers in Blossburg and Cummings in Ralston. He also worked for the Monahan Coal Mine and Belmar Manufacturing in Canton.  Butt was a man who believed in a good day's work. He was loved by family and friends for his quiet and caring nature. Butt was happiest while being outdoors. He was a knowledgeable woodsman and outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing and working in his yard. He also was a handy-man type and liked to tinker on cars and fix lawn mowers.  Surviving are: his six children, Anna Watkins (Gerald Groover) of Canton, Juanita Winder of Williamsport, Linda Perry (Kevin Rhinehart), Robin (Jeff) Campbell, Gary Barnes and Elwin Jr. (Tammy) Barnes, all of Canton; 12 grandchildren, Josh (Martha) Watkins, Treasha Watkins, Danny, Thomas and Rose Winder, Shane (Brenda) Joralemon, Brandon and Dylan Perry, Melissa and Brock Gardner, Stephanie Calkins and Sammy Barnes; 12 great-grandchildren, Avery and Isais Watkins, Kirsten and Kayla Winder, Abby Joralemon, Morgan Champaign, Kaiden and Teriyn Walmsley, Nathaniel Hieatt-Calkins, Noah and Blaine Calkins and new baby girl, born on May 2, Marian Rose Watkins; two brothers, Steve Barnes of Beech Flats and Art (Thelma) Barnes of Leolyn; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.  Also special to Elwin were three special "Poppa II grandkids": Yelena Michelle Morgan, Gracie Mae Colton, Bella Rodriguez and Austin J. Willow, his caregivers and friends at Bradford County Manor.  He was predeceased by: a great-grandson and great-granddaughter, Jamie Winder and Kayla Winder; three siblings, Christine Saunders, Frances Rouppert and Lawrence Barnes; and brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law, William Rouppert, James Saunders and Shirley Barnes.  His family invites friends to call from 6–8 p.m. Wednesday at Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook Drive in Canton. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 6, at the funeral home with Rev. Duane Taylor and Rev. Jeff Wilkinson officiating. Burial will be in Beech Flats Cemetery with full military honors accorded. Those who wish may direct memorials to Bradford County Manor's Activity Fund, RR 3 Box 322, Troy, PA 16947.  May 04, 2010, Towanda Daily Review.

BARNES, ROSETTA M.  -MRS. JOB CRANDLE, one of Canton’s old residents, died on Tuesday morning from illness following an operation for hernia.  She leaves a husband and large family of children  The funeral was held Thursday from her late resident. – July 1905 Canton Independent Sentinel.  (Born 20 JUL 1844 died 18 JUL 1905.

 

BARTLETT Harold O. "Hobby" Bartlett, Sr.

age 93, of Tioga, PA, died Monday, September 2, 2013 at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hospital, Wellsboro, PA. Harold was born October 19, 1919 in Tioga, PA, a son of Frank and Myrle (Osborne) Bartlett. He and his wife, Harriett (Brass) Bartlett, celebrated 72 years of marriage. He was a machinist at Ingersoll Rand until his retirement. Harold was a member of Trinity Presbyterian Church, Tioga, PA; the American Legion, Tioga, PA; assisted in founding the Tioga Fire Department; enjoyed fishing, hunting, work, spending time with his family, socializing and roller skating. He was a WWII Army veteran. Harold is survived by his wife, Harriet; a son and daughter-in-law, Harold "Hobby" and Marj (Hartman) Bartlett of Tioga, PA; 3 daughters and a son-in-law, Helen Bradshaw of Austin, TX, Shirley and Robert Sullivan of Avon, CT, Joanne Saylor-Lowe of Elmira, NY; 12 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Catherine Shertz of Canton, PA. Harold was predeceased by a daughter, Norma Racheck in 1997 and two brothers, Ronald and Dee Bartlett. Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday, September 5, 2013 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. and Friday, September 6, 2013 from 9:30 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. at Buckheit Funeral Chapel and Crematory, Inc., 637 S. Main St., Mansfield, PA. Funeral services will be held on Friday at 10:00 A.M. at the funeral home with Pastor Debbie Button officiating. Military honors will be presented by the Tioga County Honor Guard. Burial will be in Beech Flats Cemetery, Canton Twp. Memorial donations may be made in Harold's memory to the Tioga American Legion, Tioga, PA 16946, or Bath VA Hospital, 76 Veterans St., Bath, NY 14810.   Star Gazette – September 3, 2013

 

BARTLETT –NORMA JEAN BARTLETT RACHEK – On June 25, 2007 a memorial service was held for Norma Jean Bartlett Rachek at Beech Flats Cemetery.  Norma was born on Christmas Day 1941 in Canton, PA at the home of her aunt Catherine English Shertz.  Norma left this earth on December 20, 1997.  The memorial service was officiated by Deacon Bill Graham.  In attendance were her husband, Alfred, son Alex; her parents Harold and Marie Bartlett; sister, Helen Bradsaw and Fred Lamoreaux, Sister, Shirley and Bob Sullivan, sister, Joanne Saylor and brother, Harold Bartlett Jr.  Also in attendance, aunt Catherine Shertz, uncle, Jimmy and Dolly Bras, uncle, Kenny Brass, sister-in-law, Peggy and Duwayne.  Norma had picked June 25 to celebrate her birthday and so the family picked June 25th to celebrate her life.  The family gathered at Catherine Shertz’s home to complete the celebration of Norma Jean Rachek’s life where she was born.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

 

BASSETT –DONNA L. GOOD, 78, of Canton passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, July 11, 2017 from injuries received in a tragic automobile accident near Troy, Pa. Donna Lee was born Sept. 12, 1938 in Canton, Pa., a daughter of the late Wendell and Mildred (Norman) Bassett. She was a 1956 graduate of Canton High School and on July 5, 1956, she married Dean Good in Canton's Ecumenical Church. They shared 52 years of marriage before his passing on March 26, 2009. Dean and Donna owned and operated the former Sears Store in Canton for over 20 years. Caring for her beloved family and home always came first in Donna's life. She also loved being outdoors and enjoyed watching nature. Many special times were spent on the porch just relaxing or visiting with family and friends. She was a great supporter of both Canton and Troy school sports and was a social member of the Canton VFW. Post 714. Donna also crocheted, made many beautiful afghans and she enjoyed solving word puzzles. Surviving are her three daughters, Lynn Holmes (special friend, Jim Bryan), Laurie (Craig) Parker and LeAnn "Mick" (David) Black all of Canton; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Judy (Jack) Pepper of Leroy and Terry (Vance) Seeley of Towanda; and a special friend, Richard Sherman of East Troy. Also several nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends. In addition to her husband Dean, Donna was predeceased by her grandson, Ryan Holmes, and son-in-law, Ed Holmes III. In keeping with Donna's wishes, there will be no calling hours. Rev. Jerry Schmidt will officiate the funeral service in celebration of her life at 11 a.m. Monday, July 17, at Pepper Funeral Home, 578 Springbrook Drive in Canton. Burial will follow in Beech Flats Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in Donna's name to the Fallen Warrior Fund, c/o Canton High School, 139 E. Main St., Canton, PA. –Towanda Daily Review 7/13/2017

 

BASSETT -MRS. GERTRUDE A. BEST, 74, OF Granville Summit, Pa. died Tuesday, Feb. 8, 1983 at her home.  Mrs. Best was born April 18, 1908, in Wellsboro, Tioga County, Pa., a daughter of Martin and Sadie Ollinger Bassett.  She was a member of the Canton Moose Lodge No. 429, Women of the Moose.  She is survived by six sons, Robert Best, Sr. of Canton RD 1, Lloyd and Martin Best of Granville Summit, James Best, Sr. of Troy, Paul Best of Canton and Dale Best of Canton RD 1; four daughters, Mrs. Glen (Betty) Morgan of Canton; Mrs. Willard (Doris) Wright of Penn Yan RD 2, NY, Mrs. Robert (Janice) Ward of Granville Summit and Ms. Beatrice Best of Granville Summit; two brothers, Wendell Bassett of Canton RD 1 and Kenneth Bassett of Canton; one sister, Mrs. Alice Storrs of Canton; 20 grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren.  Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.  Mrs. Best was predeceased by her husband, James H. Best, in July of 1973.  Funeral and committal services will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at the Morse-Kleese funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton with the Rev. Duane Taylor, supply minister, officiating.  Interment will be in the Beech Flats Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home Thursday from 7-9 p.m.  Memorial donations may be directed to the Canton Ambulance Association in Mrs. Best’s memory. –Towanda Daily Review.

WENDELL E. BASSETT, 84, of Canton RR 3, died on Sunday, Nov. 28, 1998, at the Bradford County Manor.  Wendell was born May 23, 1914 in Canton.  He was a son of the late Martin and Sarah Olinger Bassett.  Wendell married the former Mildred “Millie” Norman on Sept. 16, 1935.  Together they have shared 63 years of loving marriage.  Mr. Bassett served in the U.S. Navy during WW II, until his honorable discharge in April 1946.  He was employed by the former Schrader Bellows Valvair in Canton for may years, retiring in 1979.  He was a member of the Canton Ecumenical Parish and sang in its choir.  He was a long-time member and past governor of the Loyal Order of the Moose, Canton Lodge No. 42 and the Buck-Horn Hunting Club in Tioga Co. Wendell loved to golf and belonged to the Pinecroft Golf Club in Centerville.  He also was an avid hunter and fisherman.  Surviving are his wife, Millie, at home; three daughters and sons-in-law, Donna and Dean Good of Canton RR 3, Judy and Jack Pepper of Canton RR 1, Terry and Vance Seeley of Towanda RR 1; eight grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; a sister, Alice Stores of Canton; several nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to his parents, Mr. Bassett was preceded in death by his step-mother, Daisy Bassett, a sister Gertrude Best and two brothers, Kenneth and Niles Bassett. The family will receive friends from 3:30 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, 1998, at the Canton Ecumenical Parish.  A memorial service will immediately follow at 4 p.m. with the church’s pastor, Nancy Goff, officiating.  Interment will be held in the Beech Flats Cemetery at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials may be directed to the Canton Ecumenical Parish, 43 N. Center St., Canton, Pa., 17724, or to a charity of one’s choice in Mr. Bassett’s memory.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Pepper funeral Home, Springbrook Drive, Canton. –Towanda Daily Review.

BYRON M. ‘BARNEY’ BELLOWS, 76, Elmira, NY, died February 11, 2004 at Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, PA, after an extended illness.  Born November 9, 1927 in West LeRoy, PA, he was the son of the late Marshall and Laura Bellows.  He attended Canton Area schools; served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.  After his service he returned to Canton and his job at the Swayze Folding Box Co.  He worked there about 13 years before leaving to open Bellows Hardware on Main Street in Canton.  After closing the hardware store in the 1960s, he moved to Elmira, NY, where he worked for F.M. Howell Co. before retiring from Super Duper Markets.  “Retirement is the best job I’ve ever had,” he often said.  He loved to travel and frequently took long trips in his car and once drove across the country.  He also loved children and animals, especially his dog, “Tyler”.  Surviving are a sister, Mrs. Erma Nett, Newark Valley, NY; brother, Earl L. Bellows, Bradford Co. Manor, Burlington; Marvin F. Olmstead, Elmira, NY; whom he regarded as a son and several nieces, nephews and cousins.  Funeral services were held on February 14 from the James D. Barrett Funeral Home, Elmira with the Rev. Donald Hoff officiating.  Interment was in Beech Flats Cemetery, East Canton.  Memorials may be directed to the Chemung County Humane Society and SPCA, Inc. 2435 State Route 352, Elmira, NY 14903-7933. –Canton Independent Sentinel.

BELLOWS –DARLENE A. TILLOTSON, 72, of Canton, Pa. passed away peacefully in the loving arms of the Lord and her family at Devine Providence Hospital's The Gatehouse on June 29, 2014. Darlene Ann Bellows was born on April 7, 1942 in Sayre, Pa. to the late Willis "Bill" and Dorothy (Allen) Bellows. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Paul E. Tillotson Sr. of Canton; eight children, Stephen E. (Lisa) Tillotson of Conestoga, Pa., Michele R. (Ralph) Griffin of Canton, Richard L. (Bonnie) Tillotson of Lancaster, Pa., Jeffrey F. Tillotson of Manheim, Pa., Sharon K. (Mark) Geist of Chenango Forks, N.Y., Bradley J. (Kathy) Tillotson of Roaring Branch, Brian D. (Angkeara) Tillotson of Palmyra, Pa. and Paul E. Jr. (Brooke) Tillotson of Roaring Branch; 24 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; two brothers and two sisters, Connie (Robert) Williams of Troy, Doris Ann (Robert) Bentley of Canton, Larry (Gale) Bellows of Troy and Robert Allen (Sharon) Hoagland of Pikeville, N.C.; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and a very special family friend, Ronda Phillips. In addition to her parents, Darlene was predeceased by two daughters, Cindy Tillotson and Wendy Reinhard; and a brother, Roger Bellows. Darlene loved life, God and all the greatness He brought. She was a member of the First Christian Church of Alba. Her family was blessed by her lifetime of unconditional love and devotion. Her greatest joys were spending time with her extra-large family (especially tent city reunions and birthday parties), flower gardening, collecting rooster knick-knacks, various crafts and her horse Gabby. She would be best described as a caring, kind, fun-loving and always joyful person. Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Wednesday, July 2, at Pepper Funeral Home, 578 Springbrook Dr., Canton. Rev. Charlotte Morse will officiate the funeral service at noon followed by internment at Beech Flats Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, her family suggests memorials in Darlene's name be made to The Gatehouse, 1100 Grampian Blvd., Williamsport, PA. –Towanda Daily Review 7/1/2014

DERRIKE BELLOWS, 28 of Williamsport, PA, formerly of Canton, passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 30, 2019. …..a reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one, George R.R. Martin. Derrike Jordan was born Aug. 26, 1991 in Towanda, PA to Randy and Amy (Boyd) Bellows. At an early age Derrike made technology a part of his life. He excelled in elementary and high school. He attended Canton High School and was a graduate of the class of 2010 where he was a member of the track team and the National Honor Society. After graduating, he attended Juniata College for Computer Science. He was a five-year employee of Best Buy’s Geek Squad in Muncy. Derrike’s knowledge and skills qualified him to go to the Best Buy Achiever’s Convention in San Antonia, TX in May of 2018, taking his sister, Cassidy with him. Derrike most recently accepted an IT position at Vibra Healthcare in Mechanicsburg. Derrike was an avid recreational reader, movie goer and a huge Beatles fan. Derrike enjoyed the Williamsport Riverwalk and frequented the James V. Brown Library. He will always be remembered as a quiet, kind and giving individual. Derrike had a strong faith in the Lord and was a member of the Ward United Methodist Church on Armenia Mountain. Derrike was predeceased by his grandfathers, Roger Bellows Sr. in 1994 and William Boyd in 2013, and an uncle, Michael Walker in 2008. Surviving Derrike are his parents, Randy and Amy (Boyd) Bellows of Canton; sister, Cassidy Jo Bellows and her friend Travis Butcher; grandmothers, Alene Boyd and Eunice (Don) Haflett, aunts and uncles, Karen and Bob Coles and Angie and Jeff Sechrist all of Canton, Ken and Dawn Boyd of Morrisdale, Debbie Walker of Gillett, Patty Quint of Wassilla, Arkansas, and Roger and Anita Bellows of Troy; cousins, Andi (Dan) Moretski, Erica (Tim) Williams, Kendra (Tyler) Piotrowski, Wesley (Jaime) Boyd, Tyler (Julie) Sechrist, Jill Sechrist (Barry Matthews), Chris (Tonya) Walker, Jeremi (Tracey) Walker, Ian and Emma Quint and Mason Bellows; and special friends, Jess Claypool and Chris Patrick. A time of visitation will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2019 at Pepper Funeral Home, 578 Springbrook Drive, Canton, PA. A private family funeral service will be held on Friday with burial following in Beech Flats Cemetery. In lieu of flowers consider a donation in Derrike’s name to the Canton Elementary School c/o Mike Wells, 545 East Main Street, Canton, PA. The donations will be used to purchase scholastic books for the students. -Towanda Daily Review 10/2/2019

BELLOWS – DIANNE ALLEN.  On the afternoon of Saturday, Oct. 21, 2006, Dianne (Bellows) Allen of LeRoy died quietly at Williamsport Hospital with her loving family at her side.  She was 62 years of age.  Born in Troy on April 26, 1944, she was the daughter of Earl and Jennie (Wright) Bellows.  Dianne graduated from Canton Area High School with the class of 1962. The following year she was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Timothy Allen.  Together they raised two daughters and shared 43 years.  Dianne was the consummate homemaker, the virtuous woman as depicted in Proverbs 31:10. She enjoyed the simple tasks involved in the care of her family.  Dianne was well-known for her expertise with a needle and thread.  She enjoyed communing with nature while camping, as well as the good-natured revelry of a bingo game.  She possessed an extensive collection of angels, from ceramic figures to apparel and ornamental pins.  In recent months Dianne would sit by her window and enjoy the beauty and gracefulness of a team of Belgian horses working the fields of her good friend and neighbor, Johnny Miller.  She was a woman with a deep, abiding faith in the Lord, and was a member of the East Canton United Methodist Church.  Throughout her lingering illness, Dianne drew strength from the two most important things in her life, the two things that meant all the world to her, faith and family.  On Saturday, while surrounded by both of these precious elements, Dianne took hold of God's hand.  She is survived by her husband, Timothy Allen, at home; father, Earl Bellows of West Burlington; daughters, Tina (and Jack) Seeley and Gina (and Bill) Bastion, all of Canton RR 1; grandchildren, Josh and Mindy Seeley and Kyle and Kody Bastion; brother, Dennis (and Paula) Bellows of Granville Summit; sisters-in-law, LuAnn (Roy) Vargason of Troy and Dottie (Bob) Shedden of Canton; mother-in-law and special bingo buddy, Dorothy Allen; sewing buddies Marie May and Merylene DeWalt; and faithful companion, her cat Sophie; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.   She was preceded in death by her mother, Jennie Bellows; brother, Harold Bellows; and father-in-law, Albert "Bob" Allen.  Calling hours will be 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at Morse & Kleese Funeral Home Inc., 40 N. Center St., Canton.  Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, conducted at the East Canton United Methodist Church, with Pastor Jay Morris officiating. There will be visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. at the church.  Interment will follow in Beech Flats Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be directed to the East Canton United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, RR 1, Box 1396, Canton, Pa. –Towanda Daily Review

EARL BELLOWS, 86 longtime West LeRoy resident died on Wednesday, November 29, 2006 at the Bradford County Manor.  Earl was born in Canton, Pa. on March 17, 1920.  He was a son of the late Marshall and Laura (Williams) Bellows and the beloved husband of the late Jennie (Wright) Bellows.  Earl and Jennie were both hard-working people who took great pride in the operations of their dairy farm.  Earl was a supportive husband and father who enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He loved to tell of his first trip to see the ocean when he was 67 years young.  He was a member of the Windfall United Methodist Church.  Mr. Bellows is survived by: a son and daughter-in-law, Denny and Paula Bellows of Granville Summit; a son-in-law, Tim Allen of Canton; 6 grandchildren, Tina (Jack) Seeley, Gina (William) Bastion, Grey (Becky) Bellows, Jason (Wendy) Bellows, Stacey Stedge and Jody Bellows (Brandy Kilmer). Also several great grandchildren; a sister and brother-in-law, Erma and Ed Nett of Newark Valley, N.J.; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and wonderful aids and staff, at Bradford County Manor, who cared for him.  He was predeceased by: his wife, Jennie, on July 19, 2002; a daughter and son, Diane Allen on Oct. 21, 2006 and Harold on Sept. 22, 2005; a brother, Barney; and a sister, Leah Thomas.  Friends may call Saturday, December 2, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook Dr. Canton. The funeral service will follow at noon with Rev. Jasper Smith officiating.  Burial will be held in Beech Flats Cemetery.  His family suggests that those who wish may consider memorials, in Earl's name, to The LeRoy Community Assoc. c/o RR 1 Canton, PA.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

HAROLD BELLOWS, 56, Fredericktown, MO formerly of Canton died, Sept. 22, 2005 at the John J. Pershing, VA Hospital in Poplar Bluff, MO.  Born in Sayre on July 10, 19049 he was the son of Earl Bellows and the late Jennie (Wright) Bellows.  One week after his 18th birthday he entered the U.S. Army and served in combat in Vietnam for two years before receiving an honorable discharge in 1970.  He was employed as a truck driver until his health no longer permitted.  In 1922 he received full military service disability.  Surviving are his father Earl, Bradford Co. Manor; wife, Sidney Bellows, Missouri; children, Jody Bellows, Alba, Stacey Stedge, LeRoy and Tom Walker, Florida; grandchildren, Shayla and Corrina Bellows, Michael and Wesley Campbell and Ethan Stedge; brother and sister, Dennis (Paula) Bellows, Granville Summit and Diane (Tim) Allen, Canton; several nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was predeceased by his mother, Jennie Bellows, July 19, 2002.  The Canton V.F.W. Post No. 714 will accord full military honors at the Beech Flats Cemetery 2:30 October 8, 2005.  Arrangements are under the direction of Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook Drive, Canton.  –Canton Independent Sentinel

BELLOWS -JANE L. DEERY, 92, of the Bakercrest Rest Home in Millerton formerly of Gillett and LeRoy, died peacefully Saturday, June 29, 2002, at the Troy Community Hospital.  Jane was born in Leroy, on Sept. 28, 1909, a daughter of the late Kelley and Augusta Mott Bellows.  On July 28, 1930, she married the love of her life, Harry A. Deery Sr., in Elmira, N.Y.  Harry predeceased her in 1974.  She was employed as a clerk for the former S. S. Kresge Co. in Elmira for 15 years until her retirement.  Jane was a very ambitious woman and also assisted her husband with the daily operations of their dairy farm, located in Gillett.  Mrs. Deery was a woman with a strong faith in her Lord.  She was an active member of the Southside Baptist Church in Elmira since 1953.  A generous and friendly woman.  Jane loved visiting with people.  Jane enjoyed cooking and baking.  She also was talented at sewing, crocheting and all kinds of needlework.  Surviving are three sons and three daughters-in-law, Harry Jr. and Ruth Deery of Shortsville, N.Y., H. Martin and Lois Deery of Knoxville, Pa., and Clifford and Dawn Deery of Elmira, N.Y.; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Pauline and David Orr of Albemarle, N.C., Jane Rice of Gillett, and Helen and Bernard Tomko of Lake Villa, Ill.; 28 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren.  In addition to her beloved husband, Harry, Mrs. Deery was predeceased by a son Kelly, and a son-in-law, Jerry Rice.  Friends may call from 11 a.m. to l p.m. Tuesday, July 2, at the Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook Drive, Canton.  The funeral service will immediately follow with the Rev. James Donahoo officiating.  Burial will be in the Beech Flats Cemetery.  The family suggests that those who wish may direct memorials to a charity of one’s choice in Mrs. Deery’s name. –Towanda Daily Review.

LEWIS E. BELLOWS, 63, of Canton RD 1 died November 15, 1984 at the Troy, Community Hospital.  The funeral and committal services will be held Saturday, Nov. 17 at 1 p.m. at the Morse-Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton with the Rev. Jasper Smith, pastor of the Ward United Methodist Church and the Rev. Mercy Kasambira, his pastor, officiating.  Interment will be in the Beech Flats Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home Saturday from 11 a.m. until the time of the service.  The Canton Moose lodge will conduct a memorial service at 12:45 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.  Those wishing may forward memorial donations to the American Cancer Society in memory of Mr. Bellows.

LUTHER J. BELLOWS
 Services for Luther J. Bellows, 92, of 10 South Minnequa Ave., Canton, were held Sept 18 at the Morse Funeral Home, Canton, with the Rev. Larry Clark officiating.  Interment was in the Beech Flats cemetery.  Mr. Bellows died Sept 16, 1976 at the Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre.  He was a retired farmer in the Canton area and a member of the East Canton United Methodist Church.  Surviving are: daughter, Mrs. Dwight (Deanie) Freeman of Canton; sons, Willts of Troy RD 1 and Lewis of Canton RD 1; 16 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild; a sister, Mrs. Nellie Percival of Bath, NY; several nieces and nephews. (TGR, Thursday, Sept 23, 1976)

MYRTON H. BELLOWS, 67, of LeRoy, Pa., died Tuesday, March 17, 1981, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Elmira, N.Y.  Mr. Bellows was born Jan. 25, 1914 in Canton Township, Bradford County, a son of Kelley S. and Agusta Mott Bellows.  Mr. Bellows was a retired electrician and mechanic for Bradford County and was a 40 year member of the LeRoy Odd Fellows Lodge No. 843.  He is survived by his wife the former Doris Sage; two sons, Richard G. of Canton and Larry K. of LeRoy; one daughter, Mrs. William (Shirley) Hawkins of Troy; five sisters. Mrs. Elvira Ogden of Brocton Dale, N.Y., Mrs. Dowin McCauley of Millport, N.Y., Mrs. Melissa Viele of Pennyan, N.Y., Mrs. Mildred Mitstifer of Kayuta, N.Y. and Mrs. Jane Deery of LeRoy , one brother Luther Bellows of Gillett, Pa.; 11 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.  Three great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.  Funeral and committal services will be held at Mores-Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton on Friday at 8:30 p.m. with the Rev. Mrs. Lillian Dallas, lay minister in the Canton area, and the Rev. Kent Lattimer, pastor of the Free Methodist Church in Elmira, N.Y., officiating.  Interment will be in the Beech Flats Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 2 to 4 and 7 until 8:30 p.m.  Memorials may be directed to a church of one’s choice or to the Hospice Program in Mr. Bellow’s name. –Towanda Daily Review.

WILLIS ‘BILL’ BELLOWS, of Troy, Pa., died at home while surrounded by his loving family on Monday morning, Feb. 27, 2006.  Bill was born Nov. 26, 1918 in West LeRoy, Pa., a son of the late Luther John and Jenny (Hoagland) Bellows.  He was married to the former Dorothy L. Allen, who died on Dec. 30, 1984. Together Bill and Dorothy celebrated over 46 years of marriage and raised five children.  Bill possessed a strong work ethic all his life. He helped on the family farm, and while still a young teen, worked to support himself. Bill was later called to serve our country during World War II and saw action in Germany with the U.S. Army. Upon returning home, Bill worked as a mechanic and truck driver for area businesses for several years. He and Dorothy owned and operated the former White Tavern Restaurant in Alba for a time before he started his own trucking business.  He was a member of the Troy VFW Club, the Canton Moose Lodge and the First Christian Church of Alba. Bill’s family was most important in his life. He also loved to visit with people and had many friends. His story telling and sense of humor will always be remembered by all who knew him. Bill enjoyed many things in life, but especially loved playing cards, bowling, fishing, pitching horse shoes and playing the harmonica.  Surviving are his children, Connie (Bob) Williams of Troy, Darlene (Paul) Tillotson of Canton, Doris Ann (Bob) Bentley of Canton and Larry (Gale) Bellows of Troy 24 grandchildren, Debbie (Mike) Walker, Patty Quint, Roger Jr. (Anita) Bellows, Randy (Amy) Bellows, Vickie (John) Kuterbach, Kathy (Brian) Fleming, Lisa (Don) Skinner, Tim (Michele) Williams, David (Stephanie) Williams, Robert Jr. (Mickie) Williams, Stephen (Lisa) Tillotson, Shelly (Ralph) Griffin, Richard (Bonnie) Tillotson, Jeffrey Tillotson, Sharon (Mark) Geist, Bradley (Kathy) Tillotson, Brian Tillotson, Paul Jr. (Brooke) Tillotson, Kip Bentley, Sonia Bentley (Armand Gamache), Brett (Stephanie) Bentley, Robin Bentley, Lawrence T. (Krista) Bellows and Laura Bellows (Tony Mileo); 52 great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren; a special friend, Sharlene Colton of Granville Summit; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to his wife Dorothy, Bill was predeceased by a son, Roger Bellows Sr.; a granddaughter, Wendy Tillotson Reinhard; two sisters and a brother, Geraldine Freeman, Dolla Rockwell and Louis Bellows.  In keeping with Bill’s wishes, funeral services will be private with the burial in Beech Flats Cemetery; Pepper Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.  His family will provide flowers and suggest your consideration of a memorial to The Troy Vet’s Club, P.O. Box 113, Troy, Pa., The Moose Retirement Village, Moosehaven, c/o Canton Moose Lodge, 17 Sullivan St., Canton, Pa., Guthrie Hospice, RR 1, Box 154 Towanda, Pa. or to the charity of one’s choice.  –Towanda Daily Review.

BENJAMIN –MABEL IRENE LOOMIS, 83, of 143 W. South Ave., Canton, Pa., died on Sunday morning, Nov. 2, 1980, at Divine Providence Hospital in Williamsport, Pa., after an extended illness.  Mrs. Loomis was born in Parsons, Tucker Co., W. Va., on July 6, 1897, a daughter of William and Doris Bahr Benjamin.  She was a former member of the Canton Garden Club.  She was married on Aug. 13, 1921 and observed her 59th wedding anniversary this year.  She is survived by her husband, Edward W. Loomis, at home: a daughter, Mrs. Howard (Rose Marie) Waldrip of Canton, Pa.: three sons, Kenneth E. Loomis of Elmira, N.Y., Elwyn (Vic) Loomis of Williamsport, Pa. and Phillip E. Loomis of Harrisburg, Pa., seven grandchildren: nieces, nephews and cousins.  A sister, the late Ethel A. Palmer predeceased her on June 6, 1980.  Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, Canton with Ethel Warren Carnwright of the Jehovah Witnesses in Towanda, Pa., officiating.  Burial will be in the Beech Flats Cemetery, Canton Twp.  Friends may call at the funeral home on Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. –Towanda Daily Review.

BEATRICE BEST, Beatrice Irene “Beatie” Best, 54, of Granville Summit, Pa., died October 28, 1997 at home.  Beatrice was born at her family’s home on Lake Hill (Canton RR 3) on December 11, 1942.  She was a daughter of the late James and Gertrude Bassett Best.  Beatie was a lifetime resident of the area and was a 1960 graduate of Canton High School.  She worked various jobs after graduation.  In 1966 she was employed by Canton Manufacturing, formerly Canford’s.  Beatie worked there 30 years, retiring in August 1996.  Surviving are brothers and their spouses, Paul and Lenore Best of Roaring Branch, PA, Dale and Kathy Best of Grover and Marty Best of Granville Summit; sisters and spouses, Betty and Glen Morgan of Canton, Janice and Robert Ward of Granville, PA and Doris and Bill Wright of Auburn, NY; aunts, Alice Storrs and Irene Bassett, both of Canton; uncle and aunt Wandell and Millie Bassett of Canton RR 3; sisters-in-law, Donna Best of Troy and Marjorie Best of Canton RR 3; several nieces, nephews and cousins.  In addition to her parents, Beatrice was preceded in death by brothers, James, Lloyd and Robert Best.  Funeral services were held at the Pepper Funeral Home in Canton on October 31 with the Rev. Duane Taylor, pastor of the North Union Christian Church officiating and interment to be in Beech Flats Cemetery, Canton Township.  Memorials may be directed to a charity of one’s choice in Miss Beatrice Irene Best’s memory. –Canton Independent Sentinel.

 

BEST Amanda Best

of Columbia Cross Roads, Pa., died unexpectedly on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2011, the result of a tragic automobile accident. She was 28 years old.  Amanda Lynn Best, "Mandy" to family and friends, was born on April 27, 1983, in Sayre, Pa. She was the proud mother of three wonderful children, Zoelynn (10), Piper (6) and Elijah (3); with her she will take fond and loving memories of the time she had with her children.  Mandy loved doing many things in life. She was the first to step up and lend a hand to anyone that needed it. Opening her heart of gold to anyone.   She was a very happy-go-lucky person who told it like it was. She especially enjoyed playing computer games and possessed a beautiful singing voice. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.  In addition to her children, Mandy leaves behind her companion Douglass Williams; parents Debbie (Colton) and Marty Best of Columbia Cross Roads and Ralph and Joann Woodruff of Litchfield; five siblings Helen Ayres, Amber Best, Brooklyn Eddy – all of Columbia Cross Rds, Pa. — Misti Hause (Craig) of Wyoming, Jessica Best, Endicott, N.Y., Jessica Woodruff Smith. Alicia Woodruff, Litchfield, Pa.; and brothers Martin Best (Melissa), Millerton, Pa., and Tyler Woodruff, Litchfield, Pa. She is also survived by grandparents Donna Best and Ron Wandell of Troy and a great-grandmother, Jeanette Beardslee of Troy; plus many cousins, nieces and nephews.  Mandy was predeceased by an infant son, Douglass Williams Jr.; a brother Jamie Best; and grandparents Fay and Marion Colton and James P. Best Sr.  Family will receive friends from 10 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, Nov. 9, at Pepper Funeral Home, Springbrook Drive, in Canton. The funeral service will follow at noon with Rev. Kenneth Marple officiating. Burial will be in Beech Flats Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to help benefit Mandy's children, 234 Seymour Dr., Columbia Cross Road., PA 16914.   Towanda Daily Review – November 7, 2011

 

BEST
Best, James H. age 66 of Canton RD 1, Pa., Tuesday, July 3, 1973. Friends are invited to call at the Ralph Kleese Funeral Home, Canton, Pa., Thursday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral and committal there Friday 11 a.m., Rev. Owen Barrett. Beech Flats Cemetery. Survived by wife, Gertrude (Bassett) Best: four daughters, Miss. Beatrice Best at home, Mrs. Robert (Janice) Ward of Granville Summit, Pa., Mrs. Willard (Doris) Wright of Penn Yan, N.Y., Mrs. Glenn (Betty) Morgan of Canton, Pa.; six sons, Robert L. Best and Paul best of Canton, Pa.; RD 1, Dale Best, Lloyd Best and Martin Best of Canton, Pa., James P. Best of Columbia Cross Roads RD 1, Pa.; 20 grandchildren two great-grandsons; one nephew, James Carl of Rochester, N.Y. He was a retired signal man of the Pennsylvania Railroad, member of Canton Moose Lodge No. 429, the Canton Rod & Gun Club and a life member of the Innes Hose Co. A memorial service will be held Thursday 8 p.m. by the members of the Canton Moose Lodge No. 429 at the funeral home.

JAMES P. BEST SR., 47, Granville Summit died August 10, 1985.  Born May 6, 1938 in Canton, PA he was the son of James and Gertrude Bassett Best.  He was employed by McClure Motor Co. in Troy for many years.  He was a member of Canton Moose Lodge No. 429.  He is survived by his wife, Donna Best of Troy; daughters, Mrs. Debra Lane of Troy, Lori Best and Tina Best, both of Troy; sons, Marty Bets, Troy, James Best Jr. of Fort Benning, GA, David Best and Dennis Best of Troy; six grandchildren; brothers, Robert Best Sr., Canton, Lloyd Best of Granville Summit, Martin Best, Granville Summit, Paul Best, Canton RD 1, Dale Best, Canton RD 1; sisters, Mrs. Glenn (Betty) Morgan of Canton, Mrs. Willard (Doris) Wright, Penn Yan, NY, Mrs. Robert (Janice) Ward of Granville Summit and Beatrice Best, Granville Summit; several nieces and nephews.  A memorial service was held at the Vickery Funeral Home in Troy on August 16 with rev. Ken Marple officiating and burial to be in Beech Flats Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made to Canton Moose Lodge No. 429 Building Fund. –Troy Gazette-Register.

LLOYD W. BEST, 54, of Granville Summit, died Thursday, Feb. 4, 1989 at his home.  Lloyd was born March 1, 1933 at Canton, son of the late James H. and Gertrude A. Bassett Best.  He was employed as a make ready for 28 years with the Swayze Folding Box Co., Canton.  He was also a member of Moose Lodge No. 429.  Surviving are four sisters; Mrs. Glen (Betty) Morgan of Canton, Mrs. Willard (Doris) Wright of Hornell, N.Y., Mrs. Robert (Janice) Ward of Granville Summit, Ms. Beatrice Best of Granville Summit; four brothers and sisters-in-law; Robert and Marge Best of Canton RD 1; Martin Best of Granville Summit, Leroy Paul and Leonore Best of Roaring Branch and Dale and Kathy Best of Canton RD 1; sister-in-law, Donna Best of Troy; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was predeceased by a brother, James P. Best on Aug. 10, 1985.  Funeral and committal services will be held Saturday, Feb. 6, at 11 a.m. from the Morse and Kleese Funeral Home, 40 N. Center St., Canton with the Rev. Duane Taylor officiating.  Interment will be in Beech Flats Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home today from 7-9 p.m.  The Canton Moose Lodge No. 429 will hold a memorial service for their departed brother at 8:30 tonight.  In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial donations be forwarded to the Canton Moose Lodge No. 429 Building Fund in Lloyd’s memory. –Canton Independent Sentinel.

MARTY L. BEST, 63, Canton (formerly a long time resident of Granville Summit), died, November 5, 1998, at his home in McCallum Manor, Canton.  Born December 22, 1934 in Canton Twp., he was the son of the late James and Gertrude Bassett Best.  He attended Canton schools and later entered theUS Army until his honorable discharge in Oct. 1963.  Mr. Best was employed by the former Swayze Folding Box Company in Canton for several years until his retirement.  Memberships include the Loyal Order of the Moose Canton Lodge, 429 and Canton V.F.W. Post 714.  He enjoyed the simple things in life.  In earlier years he loved to fish and camp.  Surviving are: son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Becky Best, Jersey Shore, Pa; daughters and sons-in-law, Robin and Dave Pollock, Barbara and Mike Stewart, all of Disputanta, VA; and Hope Best Canton; four grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in-law, Betty and Glen Morgan, Canton; Janice and Robert Ward, Granville, PA; Doris and Bill Wright, Auburn, NY; aunts, Alice Storrs and Irene Bassett, both of Canton; uncle and aunt, Wendell and Millie Bassett, Canton; sisters-in-law, Donna Best, Troy and Marjorie Best, Canton; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  In addition to his parents, Marty was predeceased by three brothers; James, Lloyd, and Robert Best and sister, Beatrice Best.  A private service and interment will be held at the convenience of the family.  The family suggests memorial be directed to a charity of one’s choice in Mr. Best’s Memory.  Arrangements were under the direction of the Pepper funeral Home, Canton. –Canton Independent Sentinel.

ROBERT L. BEST Sr., 68, lifelong resident of Lake Hill (Canton RR 3), died unexpectedly September 15, 1996, at the Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre.  He was born at his family’s home on Lake Hill Dec. 4, 1929, a son of the late James and Gertrude Bassett Best.  He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean conflict.  He was employed for many years at the former Swayze factory in Canton until its closure in July of 1991.  Mr. Best was a member of the Canton VFW Post #714; the Morris Run American Legion; and Loyal Order of the Moose, Canton Lodge No. 492.  He was a former member of the Beech Flats Grange No. 336.  In earlier years he was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing.  Surviving are his wife of 43 years Marjorie Johnston Best, at home; a daughter, Vickie Best Kelly, Canton; a son and daughter-in-law, Robert J. and Brenda Best, Canton, RR 3; a very special grandson, Brock Kelly, Canton; brothers and sisters-in-law, Paul & Lenore Best, Roaring Branch, Dale & Kathy Best, Grover, and Marty Best, Granville Summit; sisters and brothers-in-law, Betty & Glen Morgan, Canton, Janice & Robert Ward, Granville, Doris & Bill Wright, Auburn, NY, and Beatrice Best, Granville Summit; an uncle and aunts, Wendell & Millie Bassett, Canton RR 3 and Alice Storrs and Irene Bassett, both of Canton; a sister-in-law, Donna Best, Covert, PA; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by two brothers; James and Lloyd Best.  The funeral was held September 18 from the Pepper Funeral Home, with the Rev. Duane Taylor, pastor of the North Union Christian Church, officiating.  The Canton Moose Lodge No. 429 conducted a memorial service at the funeral home, September 17.  Interment was in the Beech Flats Cemetery, Canton, with the Canton VFW Post No. 714 according full military honors.  The family suggests memorials may be directed to the Canton Ambulance Association.  –Canton Independent Sentinel