Category: Obituaries

Wade Pawlak, a remarkable man whose presence was as vibrant as it was steadfast, passed away suddenly at home on September 5, 2026. Born on June 21, 1975, in Rochester, NY, Wade was a beloved son of Regina and Frederick Pawlak. He is predeceased by his brother, Matthew Pawlak, and his grandparents, Walter and Stella Pawlak.

Wade was a master electrician and dedicated many years of his life to his own company, Bayside Electric. His work was not just a profession but a reflection of his love for complex challenges and problem-solving.

Wade’s passion extended beyond his career into his hobbies, where he found joy in the difficulties of intricate projects, the thrill of live music, especially Led Zeppelin, and the serenity of the great outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, cherishing the moments spent by the water or around a campfire.

Known for his loud and boisterous personality, Wade was a man of strong opinions and even stronger passions. His bluntness and tough love were balanced by his readiness to support those he cared about.

A conversationalist at heart, he thrived on discussions that spanned a wide array of topics, from politics to music, world events, history, religion, and mechanics. Though private when it came to showing emotion, Wade’s big heart was evident in his actions and the love he had for his family.

He leaves behind a legacy through his children, Alexandra Pawlak and Kayden Anderson, and his grandson, Justin Thomas, whom he adored and with whom he shared a special bond. Wade enjoyed playing with HAM radios and taking walks through Durand Park with Justin, moments that will be cherished forever. He is also survived by his brother, Adam Pawlak, and his loving parents, Regina and Frederick.

A service to honor Wade’s life will be held on September 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, located at 34 St. Stanislaus St., Rochester, NY 14621.

A celebration of Wade’s life to follow at M’s Bar and Grill immediately following the service. All are welcome. 4300 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY 14622

Wade Pawlak will be remembered for his unwavering spirit, his deep love for his family, and the lasting mark he left on all who knew him. His life was a testament to the beauty of embracing challenges and the joy found in simple pleasures. Wade will be dearly missed, but his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those he loved and who loved him.

James Edgar William “Petey” Newton
December 17, 1973 – September 2, 2026

James Edgar William Newton, affectionately known as Petey, was born on December 17, 1973, in Rochester, New York, to James Newton Jr. and Brenda Adams. A beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Petey’s life was marked by devotion to family, faith, and the simple joys that brought him peace.

Petey was married to Kay (“Munchie”) for 20 years, and through their union they were blessed with seven children. Though their marriage ended, their bond as family remained strong and enduring. Raised and educated in Rochester, Petey attended elementary, middle, and high school locally, forming lifelong friendships and deep community ties.

A man of many passions, Petey found joy in fishing, mechanics, and spending time outdoors. He especially cherished moments with his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews—taking them fishing, shooting hoops, and creating memories that will live on in their hearts. His love for family was unwavering, and he embraced every opportunity to pour into the younger generations.

Petey worked most of his life as a machinist, known for his skill, dedication, and strong work ethic. He also owned and operated a used car business, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit and natural talent with engines and mechanics.

A man of faith, Petey loved singing, attending church, and participating in Bible study. His favorite scripture, Isaiah 54:17, guided his life and strengthened his spirit: “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.”

Petey was preceded in death by his father, James Newton Jr., his daughters Mary Rose and Dominique, his son David, and his sister Nichole.

He leaves to honor his legacy his loving mother Brenda Adams; his children James (Tre), Kaydon (Cheese), Cinamin, William (Will), Janiya (Mimi), Tasha, and Amani; and his cherished grandchildren Mary Rose, Leilani, Nila, Frankie, Delilah, Mary Rose, Everlee, Karter, Orion, Amiyharose, Melanie, and Olivia.

Petey is also survived by his siblings Theresa, Amanda, Nekia, Darrell, Robbie James, Christopher (Chris), James Lee, Nichole, Ellis, and Remington, along with a host of cousins, aunts, uncles, god‑siblings, and extended family from both Rochester and Buffalo, New York.

His pallbearers will be Darrell, Nekia, James (Tre), Ellis, William (Will), and Remington, with Shawn serving as alternate.

Petey will be remembered for his generous heart, his love for family, his faith, and the joy he found in life’s simple blessings. His legacy lives on in all who loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 11am. A public viewing will be held on Friday, September 11th, from 6-8PM at Gospel in the City, 1775 East Ave. Interment: Riverside Cemetery.

In Loving Memory

Predeceased by his father Samuel Callari, mother Rose DePaul Callari, sister Lucille Callari, and Grandson Joseph Sylvester Callari. Survived by his wife Joan, children Andrea (Brett) Eliasz, Joseph Vincent (Minyi Lin) Callari, and Kristy De Rovira Callari (former daughter in law), grandchildren Giancarlo Joseph Eliasz, Christopher Jackson Callari and Walter Zhong, sister Maryanne (Sam) Masaracchio, brother-in-law Victor Tomaselli, cousins Paula Tomaselli Vieira, Bob Tomaselli, nieces and nephews Roseanne Masaracchio, Angelo Masaracchio, Michael Tomaselli, Gregory (Cassie) Tomaselli, and great niece Melissa Manuele.

He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and a friend to so many. He spent his entire life working tirelessly to provide his wife and two children with the very best life he could give them. His family was his greatest pride, and he sacrificed everything to make sure they were happy and cared for.
He was known for his incredible sense of humor, his ability to make everyone laugh, and his generous heart. If anyone ever needed anything, he was there at a moment’s notice. He made friends wherever life took him and treasured friendships old and new.
He loved his Harley-Davidson, which he proudly built from scratch, hunting, and woodworking. He was an incredibly talented carpenter who could build almost anything with his own two hands.
Above all, he adored his grandsons. They were his pride and joy, and he loved them more than words could ever express.
He gave his family a lifetime of love, laughter, memories, and unwavering devotion. He was deeply loved by many and will be missed beyond measure.
His greatest legacy is the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the family he built. He will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Calling hours will be Sunday September 27, from 2-5pm at Dierna Funeral Home 2309 Culver Rd. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday September 28, at 10am at St. Ambrose Church.

James “Jim” Edwin Herman

James “Jim” Edwin Herman, of Rochester, New York, passed away peacefully at the age of 77 on August 6, 2026. Born on January 8, 1949, Jim grew up in Rochester’s Charlotte neighborhood, a community that remained a part of his identity throughout his life. After dropping out of high school and struggling with some challenging life circumstances, he turned his life around at the age of 26, eventually earning his GED and pursuing higher education at SUNY Brockport. He earned both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in counseling preparing for a career dedicated to helping others.

For more than 25 years, Jim served as a chemical dependency counselor at Park Ridge Chemical Dependency center, where he devoted himself to supporting individuals and families affected by alcoholism and addiction. He then went on to open his own private practice and continued to counsel up until he had a stroke in 2025. Colleagues and those he counseled knew him as a compassionate listener who believed in hope, healing, and the possibility of lasting recovery. He was also known for his direct and at times gruff manner. Jim was never afraid to tell you the truth about himself or about those he was counseling. He had a special way of communicating in his loud, gravelly voice that got through to even the toughest of exteriors. One of Jim’s proudest accomplishments was maintaining 51 years of continuous sobriety himself, a milestone he celebrated a week and a half before his passing at his favorite meeting. Recovery became more than a personal journey—it became his life’s calling. Drawing from his own experience with humility, compassion, and hope, Jim dedicated his career to walking alongside others as they sought lives of healing and purpose. Jim never sought the spotlight, yet his influence reached far beyond what most people ever knew. Through his own tough brand of encouragement, listening, and an unwavering belief that people could change, he helped countless individuals and families find hope during their darkest moments. The measure of his life is found not in awards or recognition, but in the lives he touched, the burdens he helped lighten, and the hope he inspired in others. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience and service. Those who were fortunate enough to know Jim will remember a man who proved, day after day and year after year, that healing is possible and that one person can make an extraordinary difference simply by caring for others.

Jim never married and had no children, but he built meaningful relationships through his work, his recovery community, and the many lives he touched over the years. He was preceded in death by cherished members of his family, including his beloved Aunt Virginia. He is survived by his brother, John Herman, and his sister who resides in Canandaigua, New York.

Those who knew Jim will remember his ability to tell a great story, sometimes too colorful for the moment but nevertheless meant to encourage others. His legacy lives on in the countless individuals whose lives were changed because he believed in them when they needed it most. Following Jim’s stroke, he then received a diagnosis of advanced liver cancer. In his remaining weeks on earth, he was cared for by those who honored and respected his wishes for privacy and dignity in making his own choices up until the end. In particular, he was grateful to many friends of Bill’s and one of his oldest and dearest friends, Richard Caruso. His friends are in gratitude to his caregivers who offered Jim companionship and kindness during his last days, including the staff at Unity Hospital’s Hildebrandt Hospice Home.

May his memory be a blessing and a reminder that one life dedicated to helping others can leave an enduring impact. And many stories of Jim’s big personality, colorful life, and gruff but loveable demeanor continue to be told by those who had the privilege of knowing him for years in the rooms of AA. In this way, his legacy of love and service will continue to widen for years to come.

A service will be held on October 23,2026 from 6-8PM at Dierna Funeral Home 2309 Culver Rd.

Irma Leon passed away unexpectedly on August 17,2026 while in Florida.

Irma was born to her parents Francisco Leon Arguinzoni and Feliciana Leon in Carolina, Puerto Rico on August 17,1961. Irma was a mother of four, grandmother of fourteen grandchildren, great grandmother of two great grandchildren and a devoted lifelong partner. A woman who love knew no limits and whose presence touch the lives of so many.

She was loving, devoted, hardworking and a true giver. She was always willing to give of herself to the people she loved. She was independent and strong who faced life’s challenges with courage, determination, and grace.

Irma is predeceased by her father Francisco Leon Arguinzoni and brother Ruben Leon. She is survived by her life long partner of 51 yrs David Antonetti, her siblings Mickie Leon, Ray Leon, Mari Leon, Noel Leon and Oscar Leon, her children David Antonetti Jr, Ricardo Antonetti, Emily Antonetti (Alex Rivera), Joshua Antonetti (Tanina)  Dayton Antonetti (Betzaida) fourteen grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Irma will be truly missed.

Calling hours are as follows:

Tuesday September 1, 2026 from 4pm-8pm at Dierna Funeral Home 2309 Culver Rd.

Her funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday September 2, 2026 at 10am at Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Church 864 East Main Street Rochester NY 14605.

Wednesday Sept 2,2026  10 am

Joann Rita Miller
June 25, 1931 – August 23, 2026

Joann Rita (Fox) Miller, June 25, 1931, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026, at Cherry Ridge Assisted Living Facility.

Joann was predeceased by her husband of 71 years, Gerald R. Miller, and is survived by her children Greg (Judy), Allison McManus (Jim), Mark (Kellie), Kurt (Nah), her grandchildren, Sarah Bates (Scott), Jerry Palumbo (Deanna), Brenna Wade (Ethan), Brett, Gunnar (Molly), Rachel, Garrett, Katie Cameron (CJ), and her great grandchildren, Owen and Kylie Bates, Griffin and Cooper Wade, Sloane Palumbo and Callan Miller.

Joann was born and raised in Irondequoit and attended Our Lady of Mercy High School. Following high school, she worked at Graflex, where she met Jerry. They married, and Joann was a stay-at-home mother, raising their four children. She was a devoted wife and mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She was an avid reader and loved to cross stitch and knit. She was deeply committed to her Catholic faith and served her parishes her entire life.

Joann made everyone feel welcome in her home where she always treated people to a delicious lunch or dinner followed by her famous cookies and warm conversation. She loved hosting family gatherings and special occasions. She was always there for her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events, concerts, plays and dance recitals.

Joann was the anchor of her family and will be missed dearly. Nothing meant more to her than family.

A mass in her honor is scheduled for 10:30 am on Friday, September 4 at Cherry Ridge Chapel, 900 Cherry Ridge Blvd., Webster, NY 14580 with lunch to follow. All friends and family are welcome.

Denton E. Lundy was born September 12, 1969, in Rochester, New York. He was the son of the late Denton A. Lundy and Florine E. Cummings. He received his education through the Rochester City School District, attending Edison High School.

After earning his G.E.D., Denton worked various jobs in the Hospitality field. His most recent employment was with URMC.

Despite deriving great satisfaction from serving others, Denton’s greatest passion was music. He not only loved listening to various genres of music, but he had a gift for writing music and rapping, as well. Known by many as “Scrags”, Denton could relate to and entertain audiences of all ages. He was so devoted to his music that he spent countless hours in the studio, developing his own particular style and message to be delivered through his music. As a youngster, he accepted Christ as his savior, and became a member of First Church Divine, where he displayed his musical genius playing the trumpet and the drums.

Denton will be remembered as a caring son, father and friend to many. He touched the lives of numerous people in a manner that has and continues to have a lasting impact on their lives in meaningful ways.

On August 16, 2026, Denton transitioned his earthly life. He was predeceased by his father, Denton A. Lundy and grandparents, Raleigh and Mary Cummings. He leaves to cherish fond memories: four children: Janye J. Lundy, J-Lyn C. Marshall, Emery N. Lundy, and Emery Denton Lundy; his mother, Florine E. Cummings; his siblings: Maurice M. Young, McKinley Lundy, and Lawrence Stearns. He also leaves a host of uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends, including special friends: Byran Gibson, Travis Lundy, and Quan.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, August 29th, at 12 noon at Holy Trinity M.B. Church, 397 North Street, Rochester, NY 14605, with prior calling hours from 10-12.

Mother Mary Serena Moody was born April 9, 1939, in Andrews, South Carolina to Charles and Nancy
Rutledge. She attended Rosemary High School in Andrews.
Mary moved to Rochester, New York at a young age. She was briefly employed with Highland
Hospital; however, her primary job was as a homemaker, taking care of her children. Well-
known and loved by many, Mary was the mother of the community. Her great sense of humor
attracted many people to her. She had a special ability to make people laugh, and would light up
any room she entered. Being the outspoken person she was, Mary always had something to
say about everyone, but you could count on everything being said in love. A woman of great
wisdom, she always had good advice, and Mary would share it with you, whether you wanted to
hear it or not. Mary believed in cultivating relationships with family and friends, so having long
conversations on the phone was no surprise.
As a child, Mary had an inquisitive mind, and it grew as she grew. She became “The Source” for
information needed by family and friends, alike. In her leisure time, Mary loved watching her
Soaps (stories), game shows, Tyler Perry shows, Westerns, and doing her scratch offs. Our
fondest memories of Mary are her generous spirit, and the loving care and support she showed
as an exemplary mother, grandmother, sister, auntie, and friend.
Mary departed this life suddenly on August 21, 2026, surrounded by her family and loved ones.
She is predeceased by her sons: Ronnie Rutledge Sr., Kenneth Lee Moody and Jeffery Moody;
a grandson, Tajuan Polite; her parents, Charles and Nancy Rutledge; brothers, Charles
Rutledge Sr. and Richard Rutledge; sisters: Maggie Dozier, Nellie Rutledge, and Bertie
Rutledge. She leaves to cherish her memory: her daughters, Patricia Moody and Charlene
Moody of Charlotte, NC; sons, Jonathan Rutledge of Columbia, SC and Donovan Moody;
grandchildren: David Heath Jr., Clifton Wright Jr., Jamari Moody, Jhane’ Moody, Ronnie
Rutledge Jr., Chiron Rutledge, Jonathan Tubbs, Maurice Jones, Lashay Tubbs, Jonisha
Rutledge, Jamar Moody, Nakia Scott, Andrea Moody, Jasmine Scott, Chyna Harris, Tansanika
Moody, Donovan Moody Jr., and Lakesha Moody; 35 great-grandchildren; six great-great-
grandchildren; sister-in-law and best friend, Geraldine Moody; brother-in-law, Roy Moody;
special friend, Jesse; special little friend, GiGi, along with a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, August 29 th at 1pm, at First Church of God, 334 Clarissa
Street, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2pm.

Carolyn A. Webb “Papoose” “Annie Oakley”
February 18, 1959 – August 20, 2026

Affectionately known as “Papoose” or “Annie Oakley” Carolyn A. Webb, age 67, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026. A loving daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Carolyn touched the lives of many through her kindness, warmth, and caring spirit.

Carolyn was a dedicated employee of the Hyatt Hotel, where she took great pride in serving others and building meaningful relationships with guests and coworkers alike. Her compassionate heart and welcoming smile will be remembered by all who knew her.

She was predeceased by her father, Calvin H. Webb, Sr.; her brothers, Calvin H. Webb, Jr. and Curtis Webb, Sr.; and her sisters, Pamela & Jessica Webb.

Carolyn leaves to cherish her memory her beloved daughter, Juminda L. Webb; her three grandchildren, Janavia Brown, Jamir Cochran, Sr., and Jah’Bril Mitchum; and her three great-grandchildren, Azai Bridges, Emiyah Cochran, Jamir Cochran, Jr.. She is also survived by her devoted mother, Peggy A. Webb, whom she adored; her brother, Alvin Webb; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Carolyn’s life on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Dierna Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 10-11AM, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00AM. Interment will take place at Riverside Cemetery.

Carolyn’s love, strength, and beautiful spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The family invites you to share a message of love and remembrance in her honor.

Teresa “Terry” Cicotte

August 23, 2026 at 89. Predeceased by her husband John R. Cicotte, son Richard M. Nelson, daughter in law Norma A. Nelson and nephew Vito Calzone Jr. She is survived by her sons Rob Nelson (Melanie Gallo) and Rick Cicotte, grandson Paul Nelson (Sara DiFrancesca), great grandsons Nicholas and Brady Nelson, her beloved stepchildren, nieces, nephews and many friends.

She enjoyed many social activities including dominos and A Time Out For Women. She loved music and dancing to jazz and blues and rooting for her Buffalo Bills.

Terry enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as an office administrator for various companies throughout Rochester. Her strong work ethic, attention to details and dedication kept her working well into her later years, retiring at the age of 86.

When she wasn’t working, she was volunteering for organizations such as Veterans Outreach, Honor Flight, Animal Rescue and Fairy Godmothers.

Calling hours will be Friday August 28^th from 4-8pm at Dierna Funeral Home 2309 Culver Rd. Her Funeral Service will be held on Saturday August 29^th at 11:30am at Dierna Funeral Home, followed by interment at Riverside Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the Veterans Outreach Center 447 South Ave Rochester, NY 14620