Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, New York, Rome, NY (2025)

09/12/2025

John Nestle

John F. Nestle, age 79, of Westernville, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on September 11, 2025.

John was born in Rome on October 2, 1945, to the late Foster and Marguerite Franz Nestle, and educated in the Rome schools. He began his career working as a Park Ranger at the Lake Delta State Park until 1964. On June 22, 1968, he was united in marriage to the former Dorothy Fiedler; a blessed union of nearly 47 years until her passing on September 16, 2015. John worked for the New York State DOT and retired in 1980.

John was a family man, and he was always willing to help anyone in need. He volunteered at the Westernville Cemetery and helped maintain the Westernville Presbyterian Church steps and driveway during the wintertime. If there was something you needed to know, John most likely had the answer and knew a lot about what was happening within the community.

John is survived by his daughters, Ann (Doug Hughes) Goff of North Western, and Sandra (Kenneth) Witek of Westernville; his son John E. (Stephanie) Nestle of Blossvale; his beloved grandchildren, Kenneth Witek II, Melissa (Jeff Ariglio) Witek, Sawyer Nestle, and Jaidyn Nestle; his great granddaughter, Leah Witek; his sister, Martha Shanley; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Rosemary Williamson.

John's funeral will be held on Thursday September 18th at 1 PM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut St., Rome. Burial will be in Westernville Cemetery.

Relative and friends may call at the funeral home from 11 AM to 1 PM prior to the funeral.

Please offer online condolences at www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View John Nestle's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/09/2025

Paul A. Fort

Paul A. Fort, age 78, of the Town of Lee, passed away unexpectedly at home on September 7, 2025.

Paul was born in Albany on August 13, 1947, to the late John and Virginia Fort. He earned his bachelor's degree from Syracuse University.

Paul had an amazing sense of humor and loved sharing his quick wit with his friends. He had a passion for golf and reading. He and Betty enjoyed delivering presentations on colonial America and the Civil War to fourth and fifth grade students. His pride and joy was his family, and he cherished making many special memories with them.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Betty; his son, Matthew (Elisabeth) Fort of Davidson, NC; his daughter, Tracy (Nick) Theilmann of Rome; his grandchildren, Hannah, Nathan, Oliver, and Miles Fort, and Logan and Liam Theilmann; his nephews, Andy and Tom Fort; and his sister-in-law, Julie Fort. He was predeceased by his brother, John.

Paul's memorial service will be held on Saturday at 11 AM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street.

Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home from 10:30 to 11AM prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Rome Humane Society.

Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.

View Paul A. Fort's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/05/2025

Dianne Mary Bush

Dianne M. Bush, age 73, of the Town of Lee, passed away at home on September 1, 2025.

Dianne was born in Pottsville, PA on December 3, 1951, to the late William and Hazel Nolan Moser. Dianne earned her master's degree from Syracuse University and then worked as a librarian for the Rome City School District. On October 17, 1972, she was united in marriage to Courtney E. Bush.

Dianne enjoyed making ceramics, crocheting, and knitting. She was an avid book reader and loved animals, donating often to local charities.

Dianne is survived by her living husband, Courtney; her sons, Edward (Emily) Bush of Barrington, RI, and James (Melanie Bartholomew) Bush of Rome; her beloved granddaughters, Abigail, Susan, and Adelyn Bush; and her sister, Margaret "Peggy" Bush.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 12, at 2 PM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street. Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home from 1 to 2 PM prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of Rome.

Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.

View Dianne Mary Bush's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

09/05/2025

Rodney O. Billman

Rodney O. Billman, age 76, of Rome, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025, at the Wynn Hospital, after a long illness.

Rodney was born in Rome, on November 4, 1948, to the late Hayden and Clara Prusinoski Billman, and graduated from RFA. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1973. He was united in marriage to the former Elaine Hatfield on October 7, 1970; a blessed union of nearly 54 years until her passing on September 1, 2024. Rodney spent his career as a machinist at Rever Copper Products in Rome.

Rodney was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved being outdoors.

Rodney is survived by his son, Rodney A. Billman of FL, and Craig M. Billman of Rome; his grandchildren, Olivia, Layla, Carter, and Alexis; his sister-in-law, Patricia (Mark) Gifford; his nieces and nephew, Karlie, Alica and Jerome; and several cousins. He was predeceased by his niece, Savannah Kellogg; and his nephew, Wayne Neiss.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, September 9, at 11 AM, at St. Peter's Church. Burial with military honors will be in St. Patrick's Cemetery, Taberg.

There are no calling hours.

Rodney's funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome, NY 13440, Nick Iselo, Funeral Director.

Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.

View Rodney O. Billman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/29/2025

Daniel S. McKissack

Daniel Steven McKissack, age 77, a longtime Rome resident, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the Wynn Hospital in Utica. At the time of his passing he had the love and support of his daughter at his side.

Born in Seattle on June 9, 1948, Daniel was the son of the late Marjorie Dawe and James E. McKissack. He was raised and educated in Port Orchard, WA and graduated from South Kitsap High School. He then went on to further his education, attended the University of Washington, and earned his bachelor's degree in liberal arts.

At one time, he shared in a marriage with the late Katherine (Furlong) McKissack, a relationship from which came their children.

Daniel lived the first part of his life in Washington State. In the late 90s he relocated to Rome, NY and went to work in the finance department at DFAS, until his retirement. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing sports. In his later years, he could be found watching TV and keeping up with the latest news.

He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer McKissack of Rome; his son, Jason McKissack of Tacoma, WA; and his grandsons, Mac McKissack and Samson (Phoebe) McKissack.

In keeping with Daniel's wishes there will be no formal funeral services. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, Rome, NY (315) 337-0055, Kevin Barry, Nick Iselo and Marty Ciaccia, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View Daniel S. McKissack's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/28/2025

Doris M. Merchant

The journey is over. Doris May Merchant passed on August 28, 2025, at that age of 100.

She was born on May 6, 1925, in North Wales, England, to the late Margaret and Levi Roberts. Doris and Herbert Frances Merchant married in 1948, a union that lasted until his passing in 2001.

Doris and Bert made the decision to leave their homeland and make a new life in the United States. In 1957, Doris flew to Cornwall, Canada with their four young sons to join Bert, who had been there for a year, getting a job and place to live with the hopes of getting into the US. Moving to Massena, NY and eventually to Rome in 1966, their dreams came true.

In 1967, they and the whole family became naturalized citizens of the United States. After raising their family on Kossuth Street and upon retirement they moved to Winter Garden, Florida and had many good years of warmth.

Doris leaves behind four sons, Martin (Mary) of Sparta, NC, Richard (Carol) of Barcelona, Spain, Stephen of Syracuse and Kevin (MaryEllen) of Kernersville, NC. She also leaves her grandchildren, Andrew, Abigail, Anna, Wyn, Colleen, Megan, Elysia and Meredith; and three great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brother, Erwin, and grandchildren, Sean and John.

The family would like to send our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Bethany Gardens for taking care of Doris as she passed through the more difficult time in her life.

Per Doris' wishes there are no calling hours. Donations in her memory may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation or to the Michelle Adey Fund.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, Rome, NY (315) 337-0055, Nick Iselo and Marty Ciaccia, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.eneafamily.com.

View Doris M. Merchant's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/28/2025

James Baker, Sr.

James Edward Baker Sr, 44, passed away on Monday, August 25, 2025, from an accidental drowning. James will be remembered for his big heart, his love for fishing with his sons and his silly ways; but mostly for being a loving father.

He is survived by his two amazing sons Ethan (Avery) Hadcock, and James Baker Jr.

He is also survived by his parents, Patricia (Will) Dupra, and Frederick (Karen) Baker. James had five siblings, Tiffany (Rob) Raison, Tisha Baker, Michael (Brandy) Dupra, Tiffany( Mike) Mauro, Ryan(Ashley) Dupra.

James also leaves behind his loving girlfriend, Tara Tennent.

James was predeceased by his maternal and paternal grandparents. James was born and raised in Oswego County and most recently was residing in Rome, New York.

Friends and relative are invited to attend James' Celebration of Life at the Scriba Volunteer Fire Department, 5618 NY 104, Oswego, NY 13126 on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 2:00PM - 5:30PM.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, Rome, NY 13440, Nick Iselo and Martin Ciaccia, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View James Baker, Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/26/2025

John Michael LaVine

John Michael LaVine, age 73, beloved father, grandfather, brother and Retired United States Navy Veteran, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, August 24, 2025, at the Sitrin Home in New Hartford, where he has resided these past five years.

Born in Syracuse on February 19, 1952, John was the son of the late John H. and Sandra (Swindon) LaVine. He was raised and educated in Rome and as a teenager worked alongside his father in his contracting business. After graduating with the RFA Class of 1970, John went on to enlist with the United States Army, which he served with for two years.

After returning home to Rome, John went to work with Revere Copper & Brass but after the company underwent some changes in 1975, John re-enlisted in the service, this time with the United States Navy. He would go on to have a long career in the military until his retirement in 1994 as a Machinist’s Mate Petty Officer First Class. During his retirement years, he worked for Phillips Lighting in Bath, NY.

John was a proud member of the VFW and of various American Legions, with his longest membership at the John P. Eaton Post 746 in Corning, NY where he was a Past Commander from 2005-2006. He was also a longtime member of the Steczko Post in Rome, NY.

Aside from his working years and his social life, John’s first and foremost priority was always the well-being of his daughters. He was their rock and their stability. As the consummate provider, he offered them advice and endless amounts of love, all while making sure their every need was met.

Anyone who knew John would say that he was an incredible person with an easy-going personality. He was also a complete jokester who never took life too seriously! In his spare time, he enjoyed reading Westerns and cheering for his beloved New York Yankees. His presence will be missed but his legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

He is survived by his daughters, Vicki LaVine of Ava and Dawn LaVine of Rome; his grandsons, Brice Eastman (Tori Wright) of Rome and Braden Eastman of Ava; his step-granddaughter, Lindsay Allen (Mikael Stapleton) and his great-granddaughter, Sadie, all of Horseheads, NY. As the oldest of eight children, John also leaves his siblings, Debra (Jack) Ungleich of Mexico, NY, Michele LaRoy of Rome, Stephen LaVine of Rome, Carolyn (Randy) Smith of Lee, Linda (Alan) Davies of North Carolina, Sandra (Rick) Stoquert of Camden and Christopher (Amanda) LaVine of North Carolina; along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and extended family members.

Aside from his parents, John was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Richard LaRoy.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend visitation for John on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 from 3:00PM – 5:00PM at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 West Chestnut Street, Rome, NY (315) 337-0055. John’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Tuesday at 5:00PM at the funeral home, immediately upon the conclusion of visitation. Prayers will be offered by Fr. Sean O’Brien and full military honors will be accorded by the US Navy.

In lieu of flowers, for those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions to the Disabled American Veterans, 407 East Dominick Street, Rome, NY 13440. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

The LaVine family has entrusted the care of their beloved father to the Barry Funeral Home, Nick Iselo and Marty Ciaccia, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.barryfuneralhome.com.

View John Michael LaVine's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/21/2025

Frank L. Johnson

Frank L. Johnson, age 73, of the Town of Floyd, passed away on August 19, 2025, at the Wynn Hospital after a battle with lung disease.

Frank was born in Arlington, MA on April 19, 1952, to the late Frank Jr. and Dorothy Chetwynde Johnson. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1975. On August 11, 1990, he was united in marriage to the former Teresa Bunal. Frank worked as a machinist for Rome Strip Steel for 32 years, and then as a mechanic at Cole Auto Repair Shop in Floyd for 12 years.

Frank was a fan of all sports with his favorite being NASCAR and his favorite driver was Chase Elliot. He loved to cook and was a leader for the AA program in Floyd and Stittville.

Frank is survived by his loving wife, Teresa; his sons, Frank Johnson, and Amedeo (Chrystal) Johnson; his grandchildren, Christeina, AJ, Allyson, Amethyst, Tyler, Ethan, and Anthony; his sisters, Jane Pierce, Christal Carley, and Wendy Johnson; his brothers, Kevin Johnson, and Wayne (Pam) Johnson; and several nieces and nephews; and many cousins. He was predeceased by an infant granddaughter, Angela; and his sister, Doreen Carlson.

Frank's funeral with military honors will be held on Tuesday, August 26, at 5 PM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street.

Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home from 3 to 5 PM prior to the funeral. In memory of Frank, the family asks that you wear sports attire and/or bring in photos of Frank to leave with his family for a memory book.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Floyd Fire Department, the Foothills Rural Community Ministry, or a charity of one's choice.

Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.

View Frank L. Johnson's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/20/2025

Lauri A. Rizio

Lauri A. Rizio, of Rome, passed away at Rome Health, on August 18, 2025, which was her 56th birthday.

Lauri was born in Rome on August 18, 1969, to the late William and Donna Clark Rizio. She earned two bachelor's degrees from Utica College of Syracuse University. She worked as a night auditor for several local hotels. She was an avid Rolling Stones and Golden Girls fan and enjoyed history and reading. Her greatest pride and joy was being an aunt to Nick.

Lauri is survived by her sister, Michele Rossi; he beloved nephew, Nicholas Rossi; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to Rome Health especially the ER, ICU, and 2E.

In keeping with Lauri's wishes, services will be private.

Interment will be in St. John's Cemetery.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street.

Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.

View Lauri A. Rizio's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/20/2025

Ronald D. Graves

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Graves at the age of 86. Also known as "Big Daddy" and "The Great White Hunter" to his hunting buddies, there wasn't a deer, fish, turkey, or goose that stood a chance if he was around. Lastly, as "King" he so deserved a crown living in a house full of girls.

Ron was born in Lyonsdale, NY and graduated from Port Lyden High School, where he served as class president, treasurer, student council president, and captain of the NYS Soccer Championship team. He would be the first to tell you that everything he accomplished was because "he was a good old Port Lyden boy!" He earned his associates degree in drafting and design at Canton ATI. His career spanned 44 years at Revere Copper and Brass in Rome, from starting in the mill right out of college ending up as customer service manager.

Ron made everyone he met laugh and fall in love with him. He was the family's stand up comic.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Nancy (Evans) Graves; his brother, Phillip (Lola) Graves; his daughters, Janet (Bob) Mutton, Laurie (Steve) Czerwinski, and Mary Kaye (Bob) Price; his grandchildren, Kristina (Craig) Martel, Sean (Jocelynne) Mutton, and Melissa Pressley; his great grandchildren, Arianna (Matt) Williams, Nick Rincon, EJ Williams, Avery Mutton, Conor Martel, and Sammy Pressley; and one great, great grandchild, Harper Dyar. He was predeceased by his mother, Edith Criss; his father, Lester Graves; brothers, Lyle and Larry Graves; and his great grandson, Kristopher Manczak.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 22, from 2 to 4 PM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, with a service to follow at 4 PM.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the special caregivers from Nascentia Health and Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care, 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY 13413 (www.hospicecareinc.org) Nascentia Health Charitable Foundation and mail it to: 1050 W Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13204, Attn: Foundation (nascentiahealth.org).

Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.

View Ronald D. Graves's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/12/2025

Marilyn J. Yocum

Marilyn J. Yocum, 82, of Floyd, passed away unexpectedly on August 7, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

She was born on May 18, 1943, in Ava, to the late Harry and Eleanor Barringer Hartson. She was raised on the family farm in Ava and attended the one room schoolhouse that was taught by her mother. She transferred to Holland Patent High School and graduated in 1960. In 1962, she married her high school boyfriend, Clarence L. Yocum. She worked several clerical positions in her career, retiring from Oneida County as a Principal Clerk Typist.

Marilyn was a member of the Floyd Methodist Church. She enjoyed spending her retirement with her cat, Pooh, tending to her flower gardens, and hosting friends for small gatherings. She enjoyed attending local music events and eating at local restaurants with friends and family.

She is survived by her son, James; her daughter, Sandra; grandchildren, Joel and Sydney Yocum; her brothers in law, Ed (Carol) Yocum, and James (Gayle) Ballard; and several nieces and nephews and extended family. She is predeceased by her husband, Clarence; her son, Thomas, her sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Ronald Flint; and her sister-in-law, Nancy Ballard.

Calling hours for family and friends will be held at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, on Friday from 10 AM to 12 Noon followed by a service. Interment will be at the Holland Patent Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Floyd Methodist Church, 8398 New Floyd Road, Rome, NY 13440 of the Floyd Volunteer Fire Department, 8367 Old Floyd Road, Rome, NY 13440.

Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.

View Marilyn J. Yocum's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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