Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home

11/24/2025

Priscilla Wildey

Ilion - Priscilla Joy (Reed) Wildey, 73, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025, at the Wynn Hospital, following several significant illnesses, with her loving children by her side.

Born on March 28, 1952, in Rome, NY, Priscilla was the daughter of the late Glenn and Betty (Barber) Reed. She was a proud lifelong resident of Ilion and a graduate of Ilion High School, class of 1971.

On April 15, 1972, she married the love of her life, James "Jim" Wildey, at the Ilion United Methodist Church. Together, they shared 52 years of devotion and partnership until Jim's passing on June 2, 2024. Their marriage was a shining example of commitment, teamwork, and unconditional love.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Priscilla began her career at Duofold in Ilion when her children were young. Later, she began working for the State of New York for the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, Mohawk Valley Psychiatric Center and ultimately retired from SUNY Poly in 2010, celebrating retirement alongside Jim so they could spend their time camping and enjoying life together.

Priscilla loved gardening, and her beautifully maintained yard was a great source of pride, earning her "Yard of the Month" in 2020. Her greatest joy, however, came from her family. She adored every moment spent with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The passing of her beloved daughter, Jennifer in March of 2023 left a deep and lasting ache in her heart, yet she carried her memory with strength and grace.

An active member of the Ilion Marine Corps League Ladies Auxiliary, Priscilla cherished the friendships she made there and enjoyed spending time with fellow members.

She is survived by her loving and devoted children, Jodi and her husband, Jason Gay and Joshua Wildey and his wife, Jessica; grandchildren, Nathan Tabor and his fiancé Loretta Fish, Megan and her husband, Cody Church and Jakob Wildey; great-grandchildren, Adalyn and Levi Tabor and Leon and Emilia Church.

She is also survived by her beloved aunt, Pearl Zagurski, who held a special place in her heart; her sister, Debbie Donahue, sisters-in-law, Dianne Reed, Mary Tubia and her husband, Jim, Lisa Stefanec, Cathy Ingraham and Kathy Wildey as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her cherished daughter, Jennifer Wildey, her husband James, her parents, Glenn and Betty Reed, Priscilla was also pre-deceased by her sisters, Dale Ritton and Joan Crookes; her brother, Ronald Reed; brother-in-law, Jeffrey Wildey; niece, Kelly Crookes; and nephews, Daniel Ingraham and Michael Wildey.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025 from 9 AM - 12 PM in the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. in Ilion. A service will immediately follow at 12 PM in the funeral home. Priscilla, Jim and Jennifer will be laid to rest together in North Columbia Cemetery.

Priscilla's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and staff of the Wynn Hospital for their care and compassion throughout her illness, and to the Valley Health Rehabilitation Unit. A special thank-you goes to her cousin, Carolyn Kline, whose daily visits meant the world to Priscilla.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Priscilla's memory may be made to the Marine Corps League, 178 Second St, Ilion, NY 13357 or to the Herkimer County Humane Society, 514 NY-5S, Mohawk, NY 13407.

Priscilla will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her strength, and the love she poured into her home and community.

View Priscilla Wildey's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/21/2025

How much do we love the Ilion Power and Light Department? 🎄🎅

11/20/2025

It’s almost here! 🎄

Looking for a few more vendors and food trucks, please DM me

11/19/2025

Phoebe Moore

Ilion - Mrs. Phoebe Moore, 98, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2025 at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown.

Born on January 22, 1927, in Omaha, Nebraska, she was the beloved daughter of the late Frances Chipman and Thomas Desmond. Phoebe's life was one marked by creativity, kindness, and deep devotion to her family. She attended the Layton School of Art and also Alfred University, nurturing a lifelong appreciation for the arts. After college, she was employed with Dupont in Wilmington, Delaware and later, TWA Airlines in Boston, Massachusettes.

On June 2, 1951, she married the love of her life, Robert W. Moore II, in Westchester, Pennsylvania. Bob and Phoebe moved to Ilion in 1953, where they raised their family. After moving to Ilion, Phoebe was employed with the Ilion Central School System. Phoebe retired in 1984, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, understanding, and dedication to the students she cared for. The two enjoyed traveling, spending many summers in Moosehead Lake, Maine. She and Bob enjoyed hosting their annual family get-together in Cape Cod on the 4th of July, for many years. They also loved to spend their winters in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. She was an avid golfer at Maple Crest, Cedar Lake and Mohawk Valley Country Club. She loved playing games, particularly board and card games with her grandchildren.

Upon Bob's passing on September 9, 2016 she continued to be an active and cherished member of her community. Phoebe belonged to the Ilion Historical Club, the Ilion Garden Club, and was a Charter Member of the Hospital Guild. Her love of music shone through in her years as a choir member at the First Methodist Church of Ilion, where she was a member who worshiped faithfully. She volunteered at the Cornerstone Consignment Shop in Ilion for many years.

Phoebe is survived by four children, Thomas and Minda Moore, of Buffalo, Wyoming, Robert and Evelyn Moore of Durham, New Hampshire, and Charles and Sandra Moore, of Mohawk and Phoebe C. Moore and Colleen Smith, of Ilion. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, Thomas, Melissa Ann, Kristen, Katherine, Tiffany, Charles Moore, Jr., and Angela Jacopelle; five great-grandchildren, Jacob Hoke, Kaitlin Moore, Grace Bennett, Christopher Cotsifas and Quinn Cotsifas; and two great-great-grandchildren, Colson and Ayla.

A service will be held at a later date in the Morningstar United Methodist Church in Ilion. Services are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. Ilion, NY 13357. She and Bob will be laid to rest together in Armory Hill Cemetery at the convenience of their family.

Phoebe's family would like to thank Dr. Amy Grace as well as the doctors, nurses & staff at Bassett Hospital for the care & comfort they provided to their mother.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704

Hagerstown, MD 21741.

To leave condolences for Phoebe's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com

View Phoebe Moore's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/06/2025

Christopher Zito

Christopher Zito, 72, of Albany, passed away on November 4, 2025, at St. Peter's Hospital. Born in Washington, D.C., in 1953, he was the son of the late Dominic and Yvonne (Smith) Zito. Chris was a man of great intellect, creativity, and curiosity who lived life with depth and purpose.

A graduate of Georgetown University and New York Law School, Chris began his career practicing alongside his father at Zito & Zito before founding his own firm, Zito Law, where he proudly served his community for many years. Beyond his accomplished legal career, he was a talented jeweler, avid rare coin collector, passionate historian, skilled photographer, and enthusiastic world traveler, each pursuit reflecting his boundless curiosity and appreciation for life's details.

Above all, Chris was devoted to his family. He was a loving and supportive husband, father, and grandfather, known for his warmth, humor, and steadfast presence. One of his greatest joys was his nightly "tubby time" FaceTime ritual with his grandson Giorgio, a cherished tradition he kept faithfully since Giorgio's birth.

Chris was predeceased by his parents, Dominic and Yvonne (Smith) Zito, and his sister, Adrienne Zito.

He is survived by his beloved wife and partner, Diane Price; his sons, Alexander and wife Rachann Zito, and Marcus Zito; his cherished grandchildren, Sawyer and Giorgio; his brother, Dominic Mark and wife Patricia Zito; his sister, Diane Zito; his niece, Molly Zito; his nephew, Dominic John Zito; and his aunt, Fena Murray.

A funeral service celebrating Chris's life will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, NY 13357. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, NY 13357.

View Christopher Zito's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/06/2025

Richard Long

Richard James Long, 95, formerly of Ilion, NY, passed away on November 2, 2025 at the Masonic Care Communities in Utica, NY.

Born in Utica on December 16, 1929, to Kenneth and Rose (Caliguire) Long, Richard was united in marriage to Gloria Stroud in 1951; she predeceased him in 2002. He graduated from Proctor High School and earned his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Syracuse University (Utica College), where he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. Mr. Long made his career at Re*****on Arms, progressing from the loading dock to Supervisor of Production over forty years, retiring in 1987. He honorably served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1953 to 1962.

Dick was active in community service, notably with the "Lunch Bunch" at the First Presbyterian Church in Ilion (where he was a 60 year member), delivering meals to those in need. He served in leadership and committee positions at the church, the Ilion Parks Board and School Board, and as a 50-year member of the Masons. With his wife Gloria, he enjoyed hiking in the Adirondacks with the Mohawk Valley Alpiners (past president).

Survivors include three children: Laurel Voultsios, Cyndie Long, and Alison (Mark) Long Baker, as well as his daughter-in-law, Debra Long. He is also survived by grandchildren Christina Voultsios (Justin Farr), Tinos Voutisios, Casey (Missy) Long, Joshua (Jessica) Long, Brent (Laura) Long, Kicia Sears, Tara Sears (Shaun Morrison), and Rutger Sears. His legacy also includes four great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by step-grandchildren Kristy Methot, Stacy (Justin) Canavan, Aaron (Sharon) Baker, Elizabeth (Mark) Taylor, and Rebecca Lane, as well as five step-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Long was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Gloria; daughter, Deborah; son, Richard; brothers Kenneth, Robert, and Donald; sister Rosemary Latella; sisters-in-law Betty, Adela, and Rosemary Long; and brother-in-law Joseph Latella.

Services celebrating both Richard and his son Dick (who died during Covid) will be held November 15th at 11am at the First Presbyterian Church in Ilion, followed by a reception at the church. Interment will take place at Armory Hill Cemetery in Ilion at the convenience of his family. Arrangements are under the care of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. in Ilion.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Ilion, 90 Morgan St, Ilion, NY 13357 or the Adirondack Land Trust, 2861 NY-73, Keene, NY 12942.

To leave condolences for Dick's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com

View Richard Long's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/31/2025

Even though the weather didn’t quite cooperate, the Halloween fun carried on indoors at St. Francis de Sales School! The Butterfly Family of Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home was thrilled to join the festivities and hand out candy to all the wonderful students.

Thank you to St. Francis de Sales PSA for hosting such a fun and spirited event — rain or shine, the smiles made it all worthwhile! 👻🍬✨

10/30/2025

Beverly Huffman

Mohawk - Mrs. Beverly Huffman, 90, of Mohawk, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025 in the Grand at Mohawk Valley in Ilion.

She was born in Ilion on September 2, 1935, a daughter of the late Water and Charlotte Horn and she attended and graduated from Ilion and Frankfort Schools. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Albert just 6 weeks ago. She was at one time employed with the Herkimer Cheese Company as well as Hemstroughts and retired from Hannaford Supermarket. Above all else, she enjoyed time with her family and raising her children.

She is survived by her beloved children, Janice, David, and his wife, Maura and her cherished grandchildren, Ryan, Becky, Matthew, Sarah, Missy, Danielle & Erika and one brother and sister in law, Richard and Lee Horn.

Beverly and Albert will be laid to rest together in Millers Mills Cemetery later in the Spring. Arrangements are under the direction of the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. Ilion, NY 13357.

To leave condolences for Beverly's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com

View Beverly Huffman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/27/2025

Today, we’re joining the fight against breast cancer by wearing pink to raise awareness and show our support for those affected.

🎀 Did you know?

1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

Early detection through regular screenings can increase survival rates by up to 98%.

Men can get breast cancer, too—it accounts for about 1% of all cases.

Join us in spreading awareness, encouraging screenings, and supporting research that saves lives. 💕

10/20/2025

John Whittaker

Herkimer - John (Jack) Leo Whittaker, age 76, a longtime resident of Herkimer, NY, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on April 4, 1949, in Herkimer, he was the son of the late Ronald and Catherine (Horan) Whittaker. Jack was a 1967 graduate of West Canada Valley High School. On June 20, 1970, he married Janet S. Cefaly, the love of his life. Though they later divorced after 30 years of marriage, they remained close friends and deeply connected through their family.

Jack proudly worked for the United States Postal Service for over 30 years. As both a mail carrier and technician, he was beloved by those he served and respected by his coworkers. His kindness, humor, and genuine care for people earned him many lifelong friendships that he treasured dearly.

A devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Jack was truly a superhero to his children-John Whittaker, Tania Tobin, and Tammi Bowker. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the joy of his life, and he shared a special and unique bond with each of them: Jamie Whittaker, Chastity Gorinshek, Shauna Wheatley, Samantha Smith, Alexandria Tobin, Madison Serrano, Lucy Serrano, Mia Tobin, Blake Whittaker, Lorenzo Malta, Jace Pierson, Cole Whittaker, Patrick Smith, Henry Smith, Jamison Pierson, Taegan Smith, and Conway Gorinshek.

Sundays were always reserved for family and friends, often spent watching football, playing poker, hosting pool parties, or enjoying a good game of chess. Jack was known for his unconventional wit, generous heart, and mischievous sense of humor. He always put the needs of others above his own and found joy in sharing his knowledge and life lessons with everyone around him.

Jack will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him but will never be forgotten.

Funeral services for Jack will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego Street, Ilion, with Deacon Michael Carbone, officiating. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Herkimer. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until the start of the service.

To leave condolences for Jack's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com

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

10/15/2025

Marc Caliguire

Herkimer - Marc Caliguire, 62, of Herkimer, NY, passed away on October 14, 2025 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, with his loving family by his side.

Marc was born and raised in Herkimer, a son of Mario Caliguire of Estero, Florida and the late Rebecca Brothers Caliguire who predeceased him, earlier this year. Marc was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished friend to many. He was united in marriage to Patricia Brewer on May 14, 2018, on Captiva Island, a place that brought them peace through their shared love for the beach and shelling. Their bond was one of love, laughter, and shared dreams, and their time together was filled with unforgettable memories. Marc was well-known as Owner and Operator of Cal's Valley Gym in Herkimer from 1983-1997. Even after it closed, he maintained his passion for mentoring young athletes at his home gym. Marc spent every Saturday, either cheering or screaming at the television, watching Michigan Football. He also had a great love for cooking, hosting and over-preparing for family gatherings and holiday get-togethers. He loved being "Poppy" to his grandsons and always having his loyal dogs by his side.

Marc's greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his wife, Patty Caliguire of Herkimer; his beloved children, Nicole Histed and her husband, Timothy of Utica and Michael Caliguire of Herkimer; his step-children Lauryn Moore and her husband, Andrew of Marcy and Leah Davis and her partner, Colton Evans of Clinton; his beloved grandsons, Robby Imobersteg, Sully Moore, Joseph Cal Histed & Weston Evans; two brothers, Christopher Caliguire and his wife, Shaune and Thomas Caliguire and his wife, Christel; nieces and nephews, Brooke and Ben Masella, Alley and Vincent Zuardi, Kiersten Caliguire and Tanner Caliguire. He also survived by his many friends.

Calling hours will take place on Monday, October 20, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St. Ilion. A funeral service will be held privately.

Marc will be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering loyalty to those he loved, and his profound presence in the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of Marc's great love for animals, contributions in his memory may be made to the Herkimer County Humane Society, 514 NY-5S, Mohawk, NY 13407. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

To leave condolences for Marc's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com

View Marc Caliguire's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/10/2025

Have you ever heard of travel protection? ✈️

This is one of our many offerings here at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, above and beyond traditional funeral services and merchandise.

It can be purchased when making pre-arrangements or completely by itself, at any age!