Category: Obituaries

Luriesa “Reese” Carter-Padgett completed her earthly journey on Monday, September 14, 2026. She was born April 1, 1956, in Washington, DC, to Samuel and Lydia Carter. As the first daughter born after seven sons, she held a very special place in her family’s heart and was cherished from the very beginning. She was lovingly known by her family and friends as “Reese.” She had a grand and unforgettable personality that filled every room she entered, leaving a lasting impression on everyone blessed to know her.

She attended Washington, D.C. Public Schools where she obtained her high school diploma. Reese and her family moved to Rochester, New York in the early 80’s, where she began her new life. In 1985 she obtained her cosmetology license at Continental School of Beauty. Moving on, she worked as a laborer at Eastman Kodak Company in 1986. In 1990 she became Housekeeping Manager at the Depot Inn in Pittsford, New York.

Reese had a passion for cooking. She had a generous heart and would feed the entire community, even giving her last with a smile. Seafood boils were her absolute favorite. She loved gathering with family and friends around good food. She also loved cleaning, decorating, and interior design. She could turn any house into a beautiful, welcoming home and was always happy to share her talents with family and friends. She also loved playing board games, especially Trouble, Yahtzee, and a good game of Spades. She loved everyone. To know her was to love her. She was truly a “one-of-a-kind” lady whose vibrant personality touched everyone around her. She was a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan and loved watching wrestling. She hosted many Super Bowl Sunday parties, bringing family and friends together to share good food, laughter, and love.

Reese had a special and unconditional love for her grandchildren, cherishing every moment she shared with them. No matter how she was feeling, family always came first, always there whenever they needed her. She was a loving, caring, and devoted mother and grandmother who made sure her family always knew they were loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lydia and Samuel Carter; her brothers: Carlton Carter, Benjamin O’Connor, Cortez Carter, and Michael Carter; her granddaughter, Britney Jacque; her significant other, Alton Smith; and her Godmother, Mildred Johnson.

She leaves to cherish her memory and carry on her legacy: her loving children: Daniel Carter, Anthony “Man” Carter, and Travaris Meeks, LaShawn Lightfoot, Denitras Carter, and Nikia Smith; stepchildren: Nathaniel Boyd, Maxine Edwards, Alton Smith, and Tracey Davis; grandchildren: Lacrecia Carter, Donyell “Duda” Carter, Pierre Holmes, Sterling Carter, Jaquan McCullough, Dexter Walton, Jahmarl Lee, Daniel Carter, Jr., Jameesa McClain, Yaseen Sharif and Yamina Sharif; her step-grandchildren: Arjanay Smith, Jonnya Hicks, Naje Smith, Dmetrioni Edwards, Dsani Edwards, Dynastie Edwards, Demetriyah Edwards, Diamante Edwards and Kelvin Hunt; a host of great-grandchildren; her beloved siblings: George (Mary) O’Connor, Samuel “Skip” Carter Bey, Ricardo (Cynthia) Carter, Kerwin (Eddie Jo, deceased) Carter, Donyell Carter, Jada Spriggs, and Philip (Patricia) Johnson; special nieces: Coresa Lomax-Watson, Alecia Cameron, Jaden Spriggs, Fran Johnson, and Ebony Appleberry; special nephews, Michael Spriggs and Thomas McGee; special cousins: Maja Rasheed, Darrell Mitchell, Ardella (Mickie) Fowler and LaJuanda Sydnor; bonus children, Michael Waters and Lisa Waters; sisters-in-law, Emma Wiliams and Louise Padgett; Goddaughters: Sequoia Graham, Crystal Taylor, and Tanja Garrett; extended family: The Taylor, Pugh, Johnson, and Brown Families; special friends: Beverly (Belle) Taylor, Hazel Pugh, and Yvette Brown and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends whom she loved deeply.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Noon (Visitation 10-Noon) at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, 304 Joseph Ave. Pastor James L. Cherry, Pastor, officiating. The family will have a horse & carriage procession to Eastman Ave. following the service.

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Andre Lavar Cleveland Sr.

Andre Lavar Cleveland was born on July 14, 1979, to Deborah Singleton and Charles “Chuckie” Cleveland Jr. Andre possessed a warm spirit, and an unforgettable smile.

Andre attended West Irondequoit Central School District before attending East High School in Rochester, New York. He later continued his education and earned an associate degree in Criminal Justice. Andre hoped to use his education and life experiences to mentor young men, encourage them, and help guide them toward a positive path in life.

Andre was a devoted husband and father who deeply loved his family. He leaves his loving wife, Aijah Cleveland; his beloved children, Natori White, Andre Cleveland Jr., and Ariah Rose Cleveland; his loving sister, Nakia Cleveland.

Andre is also survived by his granddaughter; his niece, his nephew, two great-nephews; one great-niece; and several loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his nephew, Ali Huntley Jr., and his niece, Zaria Florence.

Some of Andre’s most treasured memories were rooted in family and the simple things that brought him happiness. One of his favorite pastimes was fishing with his beloved Big Nana. Cooking was truly one of Andre’s greatest passions. He had an incredible gift for creating flavors and meals that many could only dream of. Food was more than something Andre prepared—it was one of the ways he showed love. Whether he was cooking for family, friends, or others fortunate enough to enjoy one of his meals, he put his heart into everything he made. You could taste the love, creativity, and passion in every bite.

Andre was also a devoted Denver Broncos fan. Whether watching a game, talking football, fishing, cooking, or simply spending time with the people he loved, Andre knew how to enjoy life and create memories with those around him.

His infectious smile could light up any room. Andre had a positive outlook on life, a wonderful sense of humor, an unforgettable laugh, and a way of making people feel comfortable and welcome. His presence was something people remembered. Throughout his life, Andre made a meaningful impact on countless people. His strong work ethic began early, working at Romeo’s at just 15 years old. He later spent seven years working at Highland Hospital, along with other positions throughout his life. Wherever Andre went, he touched lives through his kindness, humor, generosity, and genuine spirit.

Andre tragically and unexpectedly departed this life on September 16th. His family, friends, coworkers, and everyone fortunate enough to have known him will deeply miss his laughter, his cooking, his smile, his kindness, and the beautiful presence that made Andre who he was. The love he gave and the memories he created will continue to live through his wife, his children, his family, his friends, and every person whose life he touched.

A memorial service celebrating Andre’s life will be held on Saturday, October 3rd from 12:00–4:00PM at Dierna Funeral Home 2309 Culver Rd.

It is with tremendous sadness we announce the passing of our sweetest Patricia (Trish) Gaudioso (Chudyk) on September 22, 2026, at the age of 61.

Trish was bigger than life itself; her laughter, ability to talk your ear off (often faster than you could even comprehend), and the overwhelming amount of love she gave filled many people’s hearts. Her passing leaves a huge hole in the lives of her loved ones.

Trish was born October 2nd, 1964, in Rochester, NY. She is predeceased by her parents, Lawerence and Elaine Ronayne; life partner, Nicholas “Butchie” Chudyk; sister, Laurie Bruse; nephew, Jonathan Mayl; and fur babies, Jack and Jax. She is survived by her miracle child and right-hand man, Spencer Chudyk; sisters, Susan Mayl (Ronayne), Kathy McGhan; nieces/nephews, Karen Deuel (Josh Scuby), Brian Deuel, Aimee Bergren (Kris), Tyler Murray (Kristen); great nieces/nephew; cousins, numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and numerous nieces/nephews within the Chudyk Family.

Trish also leaves behind her very best friends in entire world, Lenore Pizzingrilli, Anita Ricci, Mary Hartquist, and Cyndi LaPietra Chieselko, who provided her with so much joy, laughter, support, and fun times over many years of her life. She will be so dearly missed by this tremendous group of women.

Trish was a caregiver of the elderly and children her entire life; every single soul that crossed her path was cared for as if they were her own family. She was a fierce advocate and would give truly everything she had to anyone if it meant they could have some comfort, a listening ear, or just a moment to feel special.

She was the family historian to her nieces and nephews, who could always call her for a funny story, a reminder of something from your childhood (she remembered every single detail), or some true embarrassment if you needed that too. We will all miss her annual birthday phone calls, her silly nicknames (“meemarooni”, “garbanzo beans”, “rock lobsters”, and “lovey”), recipes off the top of her head, and genuine and sincere support and love we received from her over our entire lives.

Trish was always there for everyone in her life, despite her ongoing health challenges. Any time, day or night, she was simply a phone call away. She was emotional, kind, non-judgmental, and the keeper of everyone’s secrets. She adored babies, animals (most recently her best fur pals Sadie & Bruce), and Coca-Cola. Spencer was her entire world, she did everything she could to have him, love him, and do right by him. She loved him with everything inside of her and beyond. She cried at the Campbell’s Soup Snowman commercial every year, joked with her sister Kathy about the “dead canary on a silver platter”, and talked to her big sister Sue every single day about their days, their hopes, their dreams, or even just the weather outside.

Trish’s sudden loss has left her family and friends with great sadness. She will be so, so missed. We will see you again, someday, you sweet Angel. A Catholic Mass will be celebrated in her honor on the day of her birth at St. Mary’s Church (15 St. Mary’s Place, Rochester), Friday, October 2nd at 10 am. A private gathering to celebrate Trish’s life will immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in her memory to ROC the Dogs Rescue (https://www.rocthedogsrescue.com/donate).

Susie Louise Mason, cherished mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend, departed this world on September 12, 2026, in Macon, Georgia. She was the beloved daughter of Zeter and Joseph Mason.

The family moved to Rochester, New York where Susie continued her education through the Rochester City School District. A proud graduate of Madison High School in 1969, her career was as varied as her interests. She worked in positions ranging from school bus driver to drag racer, and she dedicated many years to serving as a compassionate home health aide. Susie’s personality touched everyone she crossed paths with. She adored the music of Betty Wright and Sam Cooke, telling her stories, and being with her family.

For more than two decades, Susie shared her life with her beloved companion, Gerard Nettles Sr. She cherished his memory deeply and carried it in her heart.

Susie was predeceased by her beloved son, Ronnie Scott; her cherished parents, Zeter and Joseph Mason, as well as her dear companion, Gerard Nettles Sr. She also lovingly remembered her siblings: Joseph and Larry Mason, Dolores and Deborah Mason, Virginia Martin; her aunt, Lizzie Phelps; her dear nephews, Kenny Coley and Jermaine Martin, and her cousin, Elisha Phelps.

She is survived by a loving family who will continue to honor her memory: her children: Jerome (Bobbi) Mason, Varneisha Dixon, Areale (Brian) Nettles, and Gerard Nettles Jr. Susie was the proud grandmother of 13 grandchildren: Ronald, Brianna S., Brandi, Brianna, Jada, Jeremiah, Shanquell (Arthur), Jason, Shamiah, Da’Naja, Ta’Liah, Rhyan, and Dominick; the cherished great-grandmother of five great-grandchildren: Lawyra, Royal, Drayden, Ezra, and Iclynn. She leaves her beloved sister, Renee Anderson; her brothers: Walter, David, and Steven Mason; special nieces, Shalimar Owens and Fatima (Robert) Hunter, who held a unique place in her heart, as did her close cousins: Janelle Mason and Ronald Phelps. Susie’s life was further enriched by her dear friends, Evelyn Wiggins and Sheila Robertson, along with a host of other special family members and friends.

Susie’s life was a tapestry of vibrant threads woven together by her infectious laughter and her unapologetic self. She was a woman who embraced every moment, and her legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Nathaniel Duncan was born on November 4, 1958, in Rochester, New York, to the late Willie Bob and Loreatha Duncan. He spent much of his childhood and young adult life in Florida with his parents, where he graduated from Plant City High School in Plant City, Florida. He later returned to Rochester, where he met and married Brenda Ann Robinson (Duncan). Their union was blessed with four children: Coye, Courtney, Cameron, and Colin. He also raised his stepson, Roosevelt Collins.

Nathaniel worked in construction and was a member of Local 435 Workers Union in Rochester, NY. Being raised in a Christian home, Nate loved the body of Christ as a young child. He would set up chairs in the back of the house, and he would preach to the chairs. While his siblings were outside playing, he would be having church. When he returned to Rochester, he became active in Faith Deliverance Christian Fellowship under Pastor Sarah McNairy. He accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and served faithfully in the ministry for 40 years. Included among the roles he filled in the ministry were: doorkeeper (usher), deacon, minister, missionary, Sunday School Superintendent, and Ordained Elder. He later founded Word Inspired Ministry located at 630 Portland Avenue, where he pastored for six years. He remained committed to ministering to the lost and sharing the love of Jesus Christ. Elder Duncan was a devoted servant of God and a caring friend who listened, encouraged, and made people feel valued. Through his wisdom, service, and presence, he left a lasting impression on many lives.

Nathaniel was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, pastor, mentor, and friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Bob and Loretha Duncan; two brothers, Ira Duncan and Willie Duncan; and one sister, Lorestine Duncan. He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Brenda Ann Duncan; four children: Coye (Deanna) Courtney, Cameron (Misty), Colin, and Roosevelt Collins; Deanna and Misty became cherished members of the Duncan family, sharing in its love, memories, laughter, and challenges. He also leaves behind grandchildren; three brothers: Lee Ernest (Marilyn) Duncan, Troy (Jackie) Duncan, and Murray (Mary) Duncan; two sisters, Lily Duncan and Nita Duncan; extended family, spiritual sons and daughters, lifelong friends, and countless others whose lives were touched by his presence and ministry.

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that the life he lived continues to speak. Elder Nathaniel Duncan served God, loved his family, helped others, and planted seeds of faith, perseverance, and service. Those seeds now live on through his family and everyone blessed to know him. We will carry his stories, lessons, laughter, and faith. Most importantly, we will carry his legacy.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, September 19th at Faith Deliverance Christian Fellowship, 94 Central Park at 12:00PM with prior visitation beginning at 11:00AM.

Michael T. Johnson II was born on February 19, 1985, to Dorrice L. Green and Michael Johnson. He was the first of seven children. In the summer of 1985, Dorrice met Bishop Dr. Burnice Green, and together, the three formed a loving family. Following the untimely passing of his mother, Dorrice, Bishop Dr. Burnice Green met and married Dr. Karen Green, who lovingly embraced Michael and took on the role of his mother.

As a youth, Michael was a member of the Ark of Jesus under the leadership of Bishop David J. Singleton. He was very active in the church and developed a strong foundation of faith and service.

Michael attended the School of the Arts and later earned his associate degree from Monroe Community College (MCC). He went on to obtain both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from the University of Rochester. In 2008 he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served his country.

Michael dedicated his professional life to educating and inspiring young people. At the time of his passing, he was employed by the Rochester City School District as an 8th grade English teacher at Thurgood Marshall Middle School. He was passionate about his students and took great pride in making a positive difference in their lives.

Outside of his career, Michael enjoyed working out and spending quality time with his family. He was deeply committed to his community and was passionate about helping under served individuals and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. His compassion, dedication, and willingness to serve will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Dorrice L. Green; grandparents, Burnice and Annie Ruth Green; grandmothers, Margaret Johnson and Sam Eller Rice; grandfathers, Pastor Jack Rice and Pastor Clarence Sharp Jr.; great-grandmother, Hattie Walden; and special uncle, Bryant Johnson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his father, Michael Johnson; his parents, Bishop Dr. Burnice and Dr. Karen Green; his brothers, Burnice Jr. (Kyecia), Jonathan Sr. (Kendra) Green, Anthony Hicks, William, IIan, and Joshua Johnson; his grandmothers, Barbara J. Campbell, Patricia Sharp, and Bobbie Rice; as well as a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, colleagues, students, and loved ones.

Michael’s life was a testament to the power of family, faith, education, service, and love. He touched countless lives through his work, his community involvement, and the love he shared with his family and friends. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory and the impact he made will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever in our hearts.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held on Friday, September 18th at 11:00AM at God’s Vision Ministries, Inc., 694 Hudson Avenue, with prior visitation to be held at 10:00AM.

Shantell “Mama” Green was born November 2, 1987, in Rochester, New York. She was the beloved daughter of the late Jimmie Tobie and Sandra Green. Shantell was called to her final resting place peacefully on August 30, 2026. Educated in the Rochester City Schools, Shantell attended Dr. Freddie Thomas School. In her earlier years, she was employed with The Convention Center as a server. Other employment included positions in the fast-food industry.

Shantell was a loving daughter, mother, sister, aunt, and niece whose life was filled with both challenges and beautiful moments. Though she faced many hardships throughout her journey, those difficult chapters do not define the woman she was or the love she carried in her heart.

Shantell had a kind heart and loved her family deeply. She had a special way of showing love through the things she enjoyed most. She loved doing hair, and in fact, had a natural talent for making people beautiful. In addition to making you look beautiful, Shantell wanted everyone to be “good.” She could be counted on to help anyone she could in times of need, and pouring into others gave her a sense of worth and well-being. If you were feeling down, she had the ability to bring a smile to your face. Music was dear to Shantell’s heart. Full of life, fun, energy and laughter, Shantell loved to dance. Among the activities she loved most was decorating for family gatherings, making each one uniquely special.

Shantell was preceded in death by her daughter, Adrionna Givens; grandparents, Hezekiah Green and Sadie Parson (Green); sister, Shaneek Gross; aunts, Petrina Tina Greene and Maryanne Harris; and her uncle, Robert Tobler. She leaves to cherish her memory and continue her legacy of love and devotion: her beloved children: Davidson Simeus, Javon Miles, Hope Ford, Kendal Ford, and Faith Green; her loving siblings: Ladreama (Walter) Weems, Shaya Green, Shawandra Williams, Jimmie Tobie, and Markus Tobie; aunts and uncles: Sharon (Arthur) Hill, Anthony Green, James Harris, Harry Harris and Michelle Mitchell; 31 nieces and nephews; six great-nieces and nephews; and a host of family, friends and loved ones who will miss her dearly. Though her journey was not perfect, she was loved, she mattered, and her life significantly touched those around her. Her memory will live on through her children, her family and all those who were blessed to know and love her.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 19th at 10:00AM with a celebration of Shantell’s life to follow at 11:00AM at Dierna Funeral Home.

Justin Robert Wurtenberg 

September 14, 1987 – September 6, 2026 

Justin Robert Wurtenberg, 38, passed away on September 6, 2026. 

Justin was a deeply loved son, brother, uncle, and friend. He will be forever cherished by his mother, Lynn Hotte; his sister, Lauren Wurtenberg; his brothers, Christian Hotte and Damien Hotte; his nephews, Jaiden and Benjamin; and his niece, Lila. 

Justin was an artist with a creative spirit and a fun-loving personality. He brought joy, laughter, and warmth to the lives of those around him. He was also proud of his successful business endeavors and the accomplishments he achieved throughout his life. 

Justin was loved more deeply than words can express. He was an important part of his family, and his presence brought memories, moments, and connections that will remain treasured forever. His family will hold him close in their hearts and carry his memory with them every day. 

Though his time with us was far too short, the love his family has for Justin will never fade. He will be missed beyond measure and remembered always—not only for the years he was here, but for the lasting place he holds in the hearts of everyone who loved him. 

Justin will forever be loved, cherished, and never forgotten.