Category: Obituaries

Franklin Crisler, Jr.
1937-2026

A Time to be Born

Franklin Crisler, Jr., age 88, was born June 18, 1939, in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, to the late Louvenia Pendleton and Frank Crisler Sr. He peacefully transitioned on February 26, 2026, having lived a life characterized by service, devotion, wisdom, and unwavering love for God and his family.

A Time to Serve

Franklin proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason, reflecting his commitment to leadership, brotherhood, and lifelong learning.

As a hardworking man of exceptional discipline and dedication, Franklin was employed by Xerox Corporation for over 40 years, where he faithfully served until his retirement. His strong work ethic and commitment to excellence were evident in every area of his life.

A Time to Love and be Loved

A defining moment in Franklin’s life was meeting Jewel, the woman who would become his lifelong partner. At their first encounter, he looked at her with confidence and said, “You are going to be my wife one day.” She stood there surprised and shocked by such an emphatic statement. What began as a bold declaration developed into a beautiful love story. His declaration proved true, and Jewel became the love of his life. They were wedded in 1964, and the two of them shared many years of marital bliss. Franklin remained a devoted, faithful and loving husband and provider throughout their journey together. He was the head of his household and a true protector of his wife and two children. He took great pride in providing for his family and ensuring their needs were met. He was a present and loving father—supportive, and deeply involved, guiding his children with wisdom courage, and love. He represented strength and courage in every season of life.

Franklin joined Mount Vernon Missionary Baptist Church, where he worshipped faithfully under the leadership of Reverend Jackson. His faith in God remained an important foundation in his life, and he carried that faith with him in how he treated others with kindness, wisdom, and integrity. He was a dedicated servant in Christ and to the church. A man of God, Franklin shared wisdom freely. He loved telling stories about what life was like when he was younger, teaching lessons about perseverance, faith, and resilience. People often came just to sit with him and listen because his words carried experience, truth, and understanding.

Franklin loved to play his father’s guitar for his father was the founder of the Mississipi gospel singing group, The Jackson Southernaires. Franklin was so very proud of his father and all of his accomplishments. He enjoyed watching old western movies, fishing, traveling, playing pool, swimming, going to the YMCA, cooking (especially frying fish), and going for long drives with his beloved wife. He also loved talking on the CB radio, where he was known by his handle name, “Meat Skin.” He will be remembered as a man of many talents, including playing the guitar, singing, solving mathematical problems, and saving money. One of his special songs was “Nee Na Nae” which he sung as a lullaby. He was admired, respected, and loved by many. His wisdom, knowledge, sense of humor, leadership, kind heart, and straightforward demeaner which had such an impact on countless individuals, will never be forgotten. His special tone of voice when asking someone: “Bring me a Pepsi and a cup of ice” still resonates in our ears.

A Time of Cherished Memories

Franklin is preceded in death by his parents, Franklin Crisler Sr. and Louvenia Pendleton; his siblings: Howard Crisler and Jerry Pendleton, both of Chicago, Illinois, Donnie Pendleton and Stanley Pendleton, both of Jackson, Mississippi.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Jewel Crisler; two children, Frank (Cindy) Crisler and Denoris Crisler, all of Rochester, New York; grandchildren: Kerima Crisler, Marquese Crisler, Frank D. (Devon) Crisler, Imani Crisler, and Essence Brownlee; great-grandchildren: Madison Crisler, Marquese Jr., Kareem Beasley, K’von Beasley Crisler, and Kehlani Beasley Crisler; siblings: Madis Lacy, Carolyn Evans, Clarence Pendleton, and Fred Culver along with a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 13th at Noon (Visitation 11-Noon) at the Mircale Valley Deliverance Church, 290 North St. Interment Riverside Cemetery.

Ms. Hazel Elizabeth Jones
November 22, 1938 – February 22, 2026

Hazel Elizabeth Jones was born on November 22, 1938, to the union of Howard Jones
and Christine Gordon. She began her journey surrounded by family and love, which
would become the foundation of her beautiful life.
In 1942, Hazel and her family relocated from New Jersey to Rochester, New York,
where she would plant deep roots and build a lasting legacy. She attended Our Lady of
Mercy and later Franklin High School, forming friendships and memories that would
carry her through the years.
In the summer of 1956, Hazel met Willie B. Washington. From that union, two beloved
children were born, Cathy and Curtis Washington. Family was the heart of Hazel’s
world. She poured her love, wisdom, and strength into each generation, always making
sure her family knew they were cherished.
Hazel worked faithfully for many years at Harris Corporation until her well-earned
retirement. She carried herself with quiet strength, dedication, and pride in everything
she did.
Raised in the Episcopal faith, Hazel was a devoted member of Saint Simon’s Episcopal
Church in Rochester, New York. Her faith remained her anchor and guiding light
throughout her life. Through every season, she leaned on her belief in God, and it
carried her with grace.
Hazel found joy in simple and meaningful things. She loved spending time with her
friends and family, especially sitting on her porch, catching up, sharing stories, and
enjoying laughter that filled the air. Those porch conversations were more than
moments — they were memories in the making.
On Sunday, February 22, 2026, Hazel peacefully answered the Lord’s call and went
home to be with Him. Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice knowing she has
received her eternal rest.
Hazel was preceded in death by her father, Howard Jones; her mother, Christine
Gordon; her grandmother, Hazel Gordon; her sister, Yvonne Jackson; and her great-
granddaughter, Trinity Dempsey.
She leaves to cherish her loving memory her longtime companion, Edward Bailey; her
devoted children, Cathy Washington and Curtis Washington (Regina); her niece, Beryl
Bright; her honorary daughter, Whitney Booth; her beloved grandchildren, Tanisha Lee,
Toya Robinson (Namath), Brandon Hayden, Chariek and Asia Ball; six treasured great-
grandchildren; her dear friends Dot Jones and Helen Heath and a host of extended
family and friends whose lives were forever touched by her love.

Hazel’s life was a testament to faith, family, strength, and unwavering love. She leaves
behind a legacy of resilience, grace, and devotion that will continue to shine through
each of us.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 7th at 11:00 a.m. at Church of Love Faith Center, 700 Exchange Blvd. Visitation will take place from 9:00–11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery.
The family invites all who knew and loved Ms. Jones to share fond memories below. Flowers may be sent directly to Church of Love.

Judith Mae Baker

Irondequoit, NY – On December 24, 2025, at the age of 80.

Predeceased by her parents Floyed and Eva Jesmer; sister Carol (Dave) Hugginson; and her daughter Kelly St. John.

Survived by her daughter Marcia Baker; Grandkids Jeremy, Crystal, Jessica, Becky, Brandon, Justin and Robert; Great-grandkids Tristine, Brandon Jr., Connor, Tommy, Ari, Jahmere, Quentin, Klara and Jeorgia; Great-great-grandson Carson; sisters Joyce (Ken) Morris and Jennie (Mike)Tripp; brothers Floyd Jesmer Jr., Richard (Chantel) Jesmer, and Thomas Jesmer; and several nieces and nephews.

Judith retired from Rochester General Hospital, where she worked for 50+ years.

Kenneth M. Sheedy

Passed away suddenly on February 25, 2026.

Predeceased by parents, Mary & Joseph Sheedy, beloved dog, Bo.

Survived by children Sara (Matt) Whited and Sam Sheedy; Lifelong friend, Betsy Weinhart. Brother, John Sheedy; extended family and many friends.

Ken worked in the commercial glass industry for years owning his own business. He realized his true passion was in custom frameless showers and branched off creating his company Shower Designs Inc., where he provided many beautiful high end shower designs and installations in the Rochester area.

He was known for his positive outlook on life and carefree spirit, becoming a popular guy everywhere he went, especially the dog park. He was a passionate man with many talents, enjoying wood working and creating beautiful pieces of art. He was an amazing cook, specializing in his vodka sauce and his green thumb was top notch – often effortlessly growing the hardest of plants.

Ken cherished his dog and best friend, Bo. The last 12 years together they went on many adventures – including a road trip to California and participating in a surfing competition in Huntington Beach. Where Ken was, Bo was.

Family and friends can take comfort knowing that he is now reunited with some of his most favorite people, including his adored Uncle Frank & Aunt Fran.

Georgia Beebe, 68, of Melbourne, Florida, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026. Born on March 10, 1957, in Utica, New York, she was the daughter of the late Charles N. Diamond and Alexandra Diamond.

Georgia attended Greece Athena High School and went on to dedicate her life to helping others through her work. She held various roles throughout her career, including working overnight shifts at the hospital, serving in the public education system, and providing private caregiving services for many years. Her commitment to caring for others was a reflection of her generous spirit and deep compassion.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Georgia is survived by her loving husband, Jeffrey Beebe; her children John (Melissa) Triantafilou, Charles (Toni-Ann) Triantafilou, and Efstratia Triantafilou; and her former spouse Steven Triantafilou. She was a proud grandmother to Raymond Nikos, Stratos Ashton, Luke, Eleni, and Loukas. Georgia is also survived by her brother Charles Diamond and sister-in-law Angela Diamond; nieces and nephews Michael Maliarakis; Alexandra (Andrew) Durfee; Zoe; Dino; Nikki; Matteo; Odin Diamond; Lynn (sister-in-law) and P.J. Diamond; Kalliope Triantafilou (sister-in-law); Nikolas (Katie) Fallieros and their children; Irene (Greg) Ellis and their children; Anna Diakomihalis (sister-in-law); Dino (Katie), Ilias, Irene Diakomihalis and their children; Ilias Triantafilou (Marika) and Polymnia; Irene (Tucker) Costich.

She was predeceased by her parents Charles N. Diamond and Alexandra Diamond as well as her siblings Nicholas Diamond, Peter Diamond, Krystall Diamond (Maliarakis), George Fallieros (brother-in-law), and John Diakomihalis (brother-in-law).

Georgia’s Greek Orthodox faith was central to her life. She was an active member of St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Melbourne, Florida. Her faith guided her actions as she consistently sought to help those less fortunate. She found joy in cooking traditional Greek dishes for loved ones—a skill that brought family together around the table and enjoyed reading religious books that deepened her spiritual connection.

In addition to cooking for family gatherings, Georgia loved shopping at Walmart and Ross for treasures that brought smiles to those around her. Her pets were a source of comfort and companionship throughout her life.

Georgia will be remembered for the love she shared with family and friends as well as her unwavering dedication to helping others. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

May her memory be eternal. A Funeral Service will be held on March 3, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit 835 South Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620 followed by burial at Mt. Hope cemetery.

Danielle Marie Dawley, 57, of Rochester, New York, passed away on February 10, 2026, in her
hometown. Born on October 22, 1968 Danielle lived a vibrant and deeply engaged life rooted in
faith, family, and community.
Danielle was the beloved wife of Robert and devoted mother to Anna, Emma, and Mitchell. She
was the cherished daughter of Peter (Barbara) and her late mother Sheila Major. She shared a
close bond with her siblings Michel Major-Melidona (Mario) and Marc Major (Joanne), their
families, her in-laws Joan Barr (mother in-law), Ray Dawley, Kathi (Rick) Rickman, their families
and many other family members and friends.
She was affectionately known by many names- Mom, Mama, Sissy, Marie, Aunt Danielle,
“GOATA” (Greatest Of All Time Aunts- self proclaimed, but undeniably true) and Dani. Danielle
embodied a spirit that was joyful, hardworking, and generous. Her presence lit up every room
she entered—whether through her infectious laughter, well timed jokes (whether you thought so
or not) or her boundless energy. She was the life of the party and a source of strength for those
around her. Her thoughtful nature and selfless heart made her dependable in times of need and
always ready to lend a hand.
Danielle’s love for life was evident in everything she did. She had a passion for travel and embraced outdoor activities—whether it was running, morning walks, paddle boarding—especially when in her favorite places, Colorado, and the Outer Banks. She found joy in social
gatherings— live music, lunch dates, family meals, sporting events —and giving gifts that reflected her deep care for others. Her spontaneity kept life exciting for those who knew her best. Her deeply competitive heart not only shone through her accomplishments as an athlete (MCC Soccer- National Champion) but through coaching, volunteering in the community and church, and family games of euchre.
Faith played a central role in Danielle’s life. She lived by the words of Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” This verse guided her actions and inspired the way she loved those around her—with courage, compassion, and unwavering belief.
Danielle’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched with her warmth, resilience, and unwavering devotion to others. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.
If you would like to join us in carrying on her devotion and care for others please consider donating to Sunset House, Wings Flights of Hope or Ovarian Cancer Foundation.
The Celebration of Life will be held at Shamrock Jack’s on March 21st from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. (4554 Culver Road, Rochester, NY 14622)

Nickie L. “ChiChi” Pruitt
September 11, 1982 – February 22, 2026

Nickie L. Pruitt, lovingly known as “ChiChi,” was a vibrant light whose presence could fill any room. Born on September 11, 1982, in Rochester, NY, to Willie J. Pruitt and Gloria J. Session, she grew into a devoted mother, daughter, sister, and friend, whose love and energy touched countless lives.

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, ChiChi departed this life suddenly, leaving behind a legacy of joy, strength, and unwavering love. She is survived by her beloved son, Marquan C. Trammell; her two cherished daughters, Adore and Flossie Washington; and her precious grandchildren, S’Khani Haywood and Pharooo Pruitt. She also leaves to honor her memory her devoted parents, Gloria J. Session and Willie J. Pruitt, her seven siblings, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends who will forever carry her spirit in their hearts.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 7th at 2:00 PM, with visitation from 12:00–2:00 PM, at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, 304 Joseph Avenue. Interment will be private.

The family invites all who loved ChiChi to leave a message of love in her memory. In lieu of flowers, donations to assist with burial arrangements may be made by contacting Dierna or her son Marquan. To honor ChiChi’s beautiful spirit, the family kindly asks all attendees to wear pink.

Her laughter, her warmth, and her unforgettable presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

David Newell Foster

Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and loved ones on February 22, 2026.

He was a loving husband, Dad, and Pop Pop. Survived by his wife Carol, son Mark, daughter Sarah, and grandson J.D.

David was born and raised in Rochester, NY. He loved the water and spent many happy times in the Thousand Islands and Canandaigua Lake with family and friends. He was an active member of his Masonic Temple, and a long-time member of Salem United Church of Christ and Third Presbyterian Church.

A memorial service will be held Monday, March 2nd at 2PM at Third Presbyterian Church, 4 Meigs St. Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to a charity of your choice.

Mr. John H. Cooke
January 23, 1957 – February 12, 2026