Cannon Funeral Home

11/22/2025

Richard S. Davis

Albany - Richard Steven Davis, 65, of Albany, NY, passed away peacefully at home on November 16, 2025.

He was born in Shawnee, Oklahoma, to Richard and Mary Ellen Davis. Growing up, he was an Eagle Scout and an avid rock hound. His fondest memory of the University of Oklahoma was traveling to bowl games with the marching band (he played the tuba). He graduated with a BA in English and later earned a masters in creative writing at Florida State University. While working on a PhD in English literature at Michigan State University, he taught writing for several years there, as well as at Alma College and Oakland University. He later made a career as a financial aid counselor at University of Michigan (Ann Arbor), Duke University, Williams College, and Hudson Valley Community College. He retired in 2024 from the Office of Financial Aid at SUNY Albany.

Richard was a fiercely independent thinker with a passion for learning; he wanted to know everything about everything. Martin Luther King was his hero. His interests included the history of religion and law; he followed the workings of the Supreme Court closely and always had an opinion about their latest rulings. Well-versed in postmodern literary theory, he especially admired the American beat poets. He was also a scholar of science fiction and fantasy, in particular the work of Scottish writer Iain Banks.

It was during his time at Michigan State that Richard met and married his wife, Leslie Dorfman Davis, who shared his passion for literature and his deep love of cats. During their twenty-nine years together they adopted eight in total.

In addition to his wife, Richard is survived by his sister, Connie Ward, her husband, Kendal Ward, his brother, Ron Davis, his nephew Luke Ward, and his niece Kaleigh Davis.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on December 10, 2025, at the Avila retirement community in Albany. Those wishing to honor his memory are encouraged to donate in his name to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation or Whiskers Animal Benevolent League. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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11/21/2025

Railee C. Ford

Schenectady - Railee Ford, age 11, of Schenectady, passed away surrounded by love. Born to Ramarae Ford and Hoover Joyner and cherished by her stepfather Omar McKenzie, Railee was known for her bright spirit, sassy charm, sharp mind, and gentle, respectful heart.

She is survived by a large and loving family, deeply loved by her Gaga, Julian Anderson, and her grandmothers Julie Jones and Tonya Smith, her grandfathers Trevor Joyner and Robert Ford, as well as numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins on both sides. Railee was pre-deceased by her four great-grandmothers: Sylvia Lee Jones, Cyreen Dias, Bridget Jacobs, and Shirley Jacobs.

Railee will be deeply missed by her best friend Muyon and by the compassionate medical professionals who cared for her throughout her life, especially the staff at St. Margaret’s Center.

“Fear not, for I am with thee; I will strengthen thee and uphold thee.” — Isaiah 41:10

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Railee’s family on Wednesday November 26 from 10 to 11:30 at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie A service in celebration of Railee’s life will begin at 11:30 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Albany Medical Center Children’s Hospital, 43 New Scotland Ave., Albany, NY 12208. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

Though her life was brief, Railee touched countless hearts. Her strength, joy, and beautiful spirit will forever be remembered.

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11/18/2025

Ann C. Lala

Guilderland - Ann Lala (née Cardin), age 80, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Ann was the beloved daughter of the late Roland and Catherine Cardin.

Ann’s life was defined by generosity and her dedication to caring for others both as an educator and as an active member of her community. At the center of her life’s work was a deep commitment to children. She poured her heart and soul into fostering a classroom where each child felt recognized, supported, and inspired to grow. Even in retirement, she continued to share her time and energy with young learners, by providing them with the opportunity to practice their reading with her and her therapy dogs, Toby and Zoe. She also contributed enthusiastically to her community through Zonta and the Guilderland Library Foundation.

She loved nothing more than spending time with family and friends; a true people person, she drew immense joy and energy from those around her. Whether soaking up a bit of sunshine, chatting over coffee, hosting a party, delighting in the theatre, or traveling to new places near and far, she loved being out with the people she cherished. Her four grandchildren adored their Mémé and all of the adventures they shared with her.

Ann is the beloved wife of Gilbert Lala. She is the devoted mother of David (Andrea) Lala and Andrea (Mark) Davis. Ann is the grandmother of Nathan Lala, Benjamin Lala, Ryan Davis, and Sophia Davis. She is the sister of Paul (Diane) Cardin and Phil (Debbie) Cardin and Auntie to Kristin Cardin, Erica Elfsiades, Marc Cardin, and Michael Cardin and their children.

Ann’s life will be celebrated with a Mass of Christian Burial at the Christ the King Church in Guilderland on Saturday, November 22nd at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers and in keeping with Ann’s wishes, please consider a donation to Zonta International (www.zonta.org). To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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11/18/2025

Salvatore "Sam" Nicastro

Colonie – Salvatore “Sam” Nicastro, 94, passed away peacefully at his residence on Monday November 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Schenectady on May 29, 1931 to the late Salvatore and Rosa DiBella Nicastro. Sam is the beloved husband of Angeline “Angie” Perfetto Nicastro, whom he married on June 6, 1953.

Sam was orphaned at age five and was raised by his loving Godparents Domenica and Rosario Catalfamo, who had six children of their own. Sam was 1950 graduate of Nott Terrace High School He loved music, especially Frank Sinatra. A tenor sax player, Sam was popular in high school where he had his own seven-piece band. He played for many weddings, parties and other social events. He later played in Lenny Riccardi’s band for twenty-five years. Sam joined the Navy during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1953.

He took delight and pleasure with his grandchildren. He gave them love, time, support and encouragement. Sam encouraged his children to be the best at whatever they did in life. He was always a call away for whatever they needed. His family always looked to him for wisdom and guidance.

Sam was a man of faith and honor. He had been an altar server at St. Anthony’s Church as a young man and has been a longtime communicant of St. Luke’s Church. Sam had an enthusiasm for simplicity of life. He found great joy in family gatherings. He embraced the success of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren leaving them with his legacy of striving for excellence and strong work ethics with honesty. Sam retired from Condec after twenty-five years. He enjoyed working for his son’s business Albany Pools and City Laudromat.

In addition to his beloved wife Angie, Sam is survived by his children, Michael (Joanna) Nicastro, David Nicastro (JoAnn), Michele (Robert) Lesniak and Paul (Debra) Nicastro. He is the grandfather of Christina (Mark) LeMorta, Deanna (Justin) Witte, Michael (Kirsten) Nicastro, Sam Nicastro (Erik), Grace Nicastro (Brendon), Sophia Nicastro (Will), Sawyer Nicastro, Viviana Nicastro, Cooper Nicastro, Keri (Miquel) Yanez, Dana Lesniak (Tim), Kyle (Meg) Lesniak, Casey, Gabriela, Isabella and Mateo Caprini. He is the great grandfather of Luke and Brooks Witte, Mark and Christian LeMorta. Sam was predeceased by his beloved parents, Salvatore and Rosa DiBella Nicastro. He is the brother of the late Anita Tropea, Anna Catalfamo, Mary Napoletan, Carmella Mirabile, Joseph (Judge), Dominic and Anthony Catalfamo.

Sam’s family extends their profound gratitude to Dr. Parag Parikh for his outstanding care and knowledge. Special thanks to Community Hospice and his dedicated nurses, Lou Brown and Paul Thomas.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Sam’s family on Thursday from 4 to 7 pm at Cannon/Jones Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave. Colonie. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday at 1:00 at St. Luke’s Church, Schenectady. Entombment will follow at Memory Gardens. In keeping with Sam’s wishes and in lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to Community Hospice, 310 S. Manning Blvd. Albany, NY 12208.

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11/18/2025

William F. Aylward Jr.

Altamont - William (Bill) F. Aylward, Jr., 91, of Altamont, NY, beloved husband of Sylvia M. Aylward for 67 years, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 16, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Born November 11, 1934, in Boston, MA, Bill was the son of the late William F. and Marion Aylward.

Bill earned a B.S. in Education from Boston College in 1956, where he participated in ROTC. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958 as a First Lieutenant at Fort Bliss, Texas, teaching at the U.S. Army Air Defense School in the Guided Missiles Department. He later continued his education, earning an M.S. in Social Studies from SUNY Albany (1964) and an M.S. in Sociology from the Illinois Institute of Technology (1968).

Bill dedicated 32 years to teaching in the Guilderland School District, where he also served as Social Studies Department Chair. He was passionate about education and helping students reach their full potential.

Beyond the classroom, Bill was deeply committed to public service and local politics. He served as Mayor of the Village of Altamont for five terms (1971–1981), as a Town Board member for the Town of Guilderland (1993–1995), and as Town Supervisor—the first Democrat elected in over 100 years (1995–1997). He later served as an Albany County Legislator from 1999 until his retirement in 2011. Bill loved his community and worked tirelessly to make the world a better place.

A lifelong Boston Red Sox fan, Bill also loved the BC Eagles and cherished time on Cape Cod. Most of all, he loved his family and friends.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Sylvia; his five children: Linda of Norton, MA; Donna (Dan) of Duanesburg, NY; Bill of Delray Beach, FL; Sharon (Matt) of Middletown, NY; and Kevin (Kelly) of Falls Church, VA; seven grandchildren: Nicholas (Kelly), Emily (Chris), Mitchell (Daniella), Chris (Lauren), Caroline, Conner, and Kyle; and his four sisters: Sister Louise Aylward, ocd, of Marlborough, MA; Sister Mary Augustine, lsp, of Enfield, CT; Karen (Frank) of Mansfield, MA; and Kathy (Bill) of Raynham, MA. He is also survived by six nieces and nephews and seven great-nieces and nephews.

Bill’s legacy of service, kindness, and love will live on in all who knew him.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Bill’s family on Friday from 4-7 at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Avenue, Colonie. The Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday morning at 10 am at St. Madeline Sophie Church. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Altamont. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital (www.stjude.org).

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11/18/2025

Arthur J. Bellinger

COLONIE – A. Jeffrey Bellinger, 82, of Colonie, passed away on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at Albany Medical Center after a brief illness.

He was born in Albany and was the son of the late Arthur E. and Alice F. Bellinger. Jeff worked for the New York State Retirement System and New York State Office for the Aging. He was part of the team that developed the Senior Games Program in New York State. Jeff was a huge car enthusiast, owning over fifty-five vehicles throughout his life. He enjoyed vacationing at the ocean with his family.

Jeff is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Claire A. Bellinger. He is the devoted father of Dawn (Michael) Kelly, Jeff (Jackie) Bellinger and Susan (Kenneth) Walter. Jeff is also survived by eleven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, November 24th at 10:00 am at St. Clare’s Church, Colonie. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave., Menands, NY 12204.

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11/15/2025

James J. Carroll,Jr.

ALBANY – James J. Carroll Jr., a local union man affectionately known as “Jimmy”, remembered for his big Irish grin and an even bigger heart, passed away suddenly in his Florida home on Thursday, October 30, 2025.

He was born on November 10, 1940 and was 84 years old. He wore many hats, both literally and figuratively, as a father, a friend, a brother, a husband, an uncle, a business agent, a union worker, a sportsman, an Elk’s member, and many other various titles and tributes. Loved by many, he will be missed by all.

James sat with pride at the head of a large family table and helped raise and provide for his nine children during a life filled with laughter, adventure, charity and love. He was also a mentor and father figure to many outside of his household. Above all else, James worked tirelessly for the benefit of others.

As an avid outdoorsman, James owned a cabin in the Adirondacks as well as rural homes in Upstate New York where he enjoyed his time with friends and family. He was as comfortable harvesting game and fish, as he was relaxing on a boat or watching sporting events and old Western movies. James grew up in the Albany area with his siblings and worked various jobs in both upstate New York and Florida. He eventually settled back in the Capital District in the 1960s and married Lorraine (Labunski) Starks.

As his family grew quickly over the next two decades they moved to Ravena and James joined the Local #40 Heat and Frost Insulators Union, where his father and then several of his sons were also employed. He worked both locally and nationally for many years, and as a teacher to apprentices, before retiring as the Local #40 business agent and moving to Clearwater, Florida.

James was an active lifetime member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, becoming the Exalted Ruler of Bethlehem Lodge #2233 in 1979/1980. He was also active with Lodge #49 in Albany before joining Dunedin-Clearwater Lodge #1525, where he will be deeply missed.

James is survived by his children; William Carroll; Michael Carroll, Michele Francis (Stephen), Jason Carroll (Martina); and Jarrett Carroll (Rachel); and by his siblings William Carroll; Nancy Myers, and Katherine Rohrer.

He is also survived by many grandchildren who truly loved and adored him, as well as numerous great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; cousins; extended family; and his union and fraternal brothers and sisters.

He was pre-deceased by his parents, James Carroll and Katherine (Campbell) Carroll; wife, Lorraine; sons, James Carroll, Christopher Carroll, George Starks and Stephen Starks.

A public funeral viewing will be held at: Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie, 12205, from 11 am until 1 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 24, 2025.

A funeral service will be held in the funeral home directly after, followed by family interment at Calvary Cemetery in Glenmont. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in honor of B.P.O. Elks. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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11/15/2025

Raymond L. Phoenix

Raymond L. Phoenix, a resident of Niskayuna, NY, died at the age of 95 on Monday, November 10th, 2025, at Ellis Hospital due to complications associated from a fall he sustained on October 20th. He was the son of Raymond J. and Lillian Phoenix of Colonie, NY.

Ray enjoyed a lengthy career as a draftsman, eventually becoming Vice President at General Steel Fabricators in Latham, NY. He dedicated many years to serving the Lord as a Sunday School teacher and Superintendent, elder, and committee member at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Colonie, and later at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Schenectady.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, his infant sister, Gladys, his wife of 70 years, Mavis (2023), his eldest son, David (2009), and his second eldest son, Wayne (2024). Ray is survived by his daughter, Janice and his youngest son, Mark, as well as several nieces, nephews, five grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Details regarding a memorial service will be communicated at a later time. Rather than floral tributes, the family kindly asks that those wishing to honor Raymond L. Phoenix to consider making a memorial donation to either the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation or the Pipe Organ Fund of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, PO Box 915, Schenectady, NY 12301. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

In our sorrow and grief, may the God of all healing mercies comfort all who mourn Ray’s passing with the Gospel, which promises strength and help to the troubled and weary. We, as Christians, know that death is not the end. There is, in Christ Jesus, a resurrection and a new creation in store for all who believe. May our Father in Heaven grant us grace to pray with a believing heart, “Thy will be done” and to know that His will is a good and gracious will, even in the present hour. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; (Psalm 100:1-2). Look forward to that great day when all the ransomed of the Lord shall return; come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away (Isaiah 51:11). May the peace of God which transcends all human understanding guard our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7) and make us joyful in Christ, unto life everlasting! Amen.

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11/13/2025

Nicola Sainato

Colonie - Nicola Sainato passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by loved ones, after a battle with Glioblastoma.

He was born March 6, 1949 in Gioiosa Jonica, Reggio Calabria, Italy, the third oldest of nine children to Marianna Femia and Rocco Sainato.

At the age of 26, after serving in the Italian military, he emigrated to the United States where he found a beloved wife and best friend, a cherished son, grandsons, and nieces and nephews who affectionately knew him as Zi Nicola.

He was a constant source of warmth, love, and an always embracing smile toward his family and friends. His parents who farmed their own land, instilled in him and his siblings an appreciation for the joy of gardening. He always maintained a garden at home, yielding fresh food every summer, from fig trees to cucumbers, and maintaining a deep connection with the land, and sharing that connection and love with those around him. He worked for several local restaurants, then at Freihofer’s Bakery before retiring in 2016.

He enjoyed Calabrian music, exploring the world in traveling with his wife, sitting around a table filled with food speaking Calabrese dialect with his family and friends, the countless holidays spent in his home, with food courses being swapped in and out faster than you could eat them, and listening to the bellowing of Calabrian dialect from him and his brothers into those late evenings that unwound over a table of fruit, chestnuts, and tubs of cookies and other desserts, and scrambling out of his brother Corrado’s house with his nephews after watching Italy win the World Cup in 2006 to celebrate with all the other Italian immigrants in Albany.

Today, between Albany and Gioiosa, the silence is deeper. But, his legacy lives on in the memory of his loved ones, his beloved Margarita, his son Luca, his siblings, his nieces and nephews, all the Sainato’s scattered around the world and in every joyful heart that knew and loved him.

Nicola is survived by his wife of 42 years, Margarita Sainato, son, Luca (Julia), grandsons Jude and Leo, brothers Francesco (Aurelia), Vincenzo (Caterina), Raffaele (Michele), Corrado (Ellen), Luciano (Stefania), sisters Rosa (Rocco), Teresa (Vincenzo), dozens of nephews, nieces, cousins, and his dog, Daisy.

He is preceded in death by his parents Marianna Femia and Rocco Sainato, and sister Gina (Luigi).

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Nicola’s family on Sunday from 1 to 4 pm at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie. Funeral services will be Monday morning at 11:00 at the Funeral Home. Interment will be in Memory Gardens.

In keeping with Nicola’s specific wishes and in lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to Glioblastoma Foundation (www.GliblastomaFoundation.org). To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

“He who leaves never really dies, as long as there is someone who remembers him with love”

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11/11/2025

Today, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our country with courage, dedication, and sacrifice. Their commitment to protecting our freedoms is a debt we can never fully repay but one we carry in our hearts every day.

We are especially grateful for the opportunity to serve our veteran families and ensure that each hero receives the respectful farewell they deserve.

To all veterans, past, present, and future, thank you for your service, your strength, and your love of country.

“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” – Joseph Campbell

11/10/2025

Mary Jean Preville

BALLSTON SPA- Mary Jean Preville, 87, of Ballston Spa, passed away on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at Albany Medical Center.

She was born in Albany and was the daughter of the late Arthur R. and Dorothy Thompson. She is the wife of the late Oliver M. Preville, who passed earlier this year. After raising ten children, Mary enjoyed working at McDonald’s in Guilderland. She was a lifelong animal enthusiast and enjoyed many loyal pets. Mary liked to play bingo and make an occasional trip to the casino. She cherished time caring for her grandchildren.

Mary is the beloved mother of Thomas (Kathy), John (Christine), Frank (Helene), Todd (Andrea), Oliver (late Yvonne), Christopher Preville, Tammy Van Wormer and the late Sue Wolbert (Rick survives), Russell Preville (Allison survives) and Art Preville. She is the sister of Janet Cavallaro, Karen Espey and the late Ann Lemere (late Robert Evans). Several grandchildren and great grandchildren also survive.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Mary’s family on Thursday evening from 5 to 7 pm at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie. A prayer service will commence at 6:30 pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave, Menands, NY 12204. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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11/06/2025

John F. Mangione

COLONIE - John F. Mangione, 82, of Colonie, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Troy and was the son of the late Felix and Anna Mae Mangione (Bode). John served for four years in the U.S. Marine Corps as Lance Corporal, working as a jet mechanic on F-4B engines. He was Plant Superintendent for the New York State Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities in Niskayuna for many years. John was a talented craftsman and could build or fix anything. He especially enjoyed building various electronic DIY kits offered through the Heathkit brand, and often dragged the kids into the project for assistance.

John is the beloved husband of Karen J. Mangione (Dunn). He is the devoted father of John “Jay” F. (Lois) Mangione Jr., Dawn (Jason) Romano and Wendy Lolik (late Randy). John is the grandfather of Sarah Romano, Jack, Thaddeus and Linus Mangione and Rachel Lolik (David Costello). He is the great grandfather of Dexter & Leo Costello. John is the brother of the late Lorayne Dobert, Philip and Alfred Mangione.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with John’s family on Tuesday November 11, 2025 from 4 to 7 pm at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave. Colonie. A prayer service will commence at 6:30 at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will be Wednesday November 12, 2025 at 12 pm at the Saratoga National VA Cemetery, Schuylerville.

Memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice of Albany (communityhospice.org) or Wounded Warriors. (support.woundedwarriorsproject.org). To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.CannonFuneral.com

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