Cornelius, Dodd & Connell, Inc. Funeral Home

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United States
Middletown, NY
Cornelius, Dodd & Connell, Inc. Funeral Home

Independently Owned & Operated Since 1900

We are Dedicated to Providing Caring and Conscientious Service

A Reputation You Can Trust

Whether a grandparent has passed or the love of your life wants to pre-plan for the inevitable, arranging a funeral is never easy. For more than 100 years, Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Inc. Funeral Home in Middletown, NY, has given families the love and respect they deserve when dealing with the difficulties of losing a family member or loved one and planning to say goodbye one final time. When dealing with loss, you may feel the urge to want to do everything alone. With the leadership offered at this funeral home, you won’t have to. Their funeral director and other staff members are dedicated to providing a welcoming and comfortable environment for the grieving. If you’re making pre-arrangements, they'll ensure that the wishes of you or your loved one are completely carried out. This funeral home also offers burial services for veterans, consisting of the folding and presentation of the flag and the playing of Taps. When you want to share the life of your loved one with the world, this funeral home also offers customized memorial services. From crafting beautiful obituaries to delivering eulogies, they'll encapsulate the very essence of who your loved one was as a person. As a family-owned and -operated business, they understand the importance of family; when you turn to them for graveside services, their top priority is ensuring you loved one's legacy is remembered. In addition to provide funeral planning and burials, they also offer cremation services. Their team always has your best interests at heart and will help you plan customized ash scattering ceremonies, earth burials, and other memorial services after cremation. Whether you’re saying goodbye to your best friend or preparing for your own farewell, Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Inc. Funeral Home will be there for you and yours. Contact them today by visiting them online, liking them on Facebook, or by calling (845) 343-2142.

04/03/2026

William F. Goetschius
January 14, 1939 ~ March 19, 2026 (age 87)

William F. Goetschius of Middletown entered into rest on Thursday, March 19, 2026. He was 87 years of age.

The son of the late Francis A. & Evelyn (Gurnee) Goetschius he was born on January 14, 1939 in Tappan, NY. After marrying his father, Esther (Briggs) Goetschius raised William from the age of four and was the only woman he called “Mom” throughout his life.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1958-1962. He was a graduate of Suffern High School. He attended the N.Y. Maritime College in the Bronx before entering the Coast Guard. After his honorable discharge, Bill began a career in banking that lasted 35 years in Rockland, Orange & Ulster counties. He retired from the Bank of New York after 21 years and then continued his career at other banks for 14 more years. He then worked as an accountant in the Sullivan County Government Center, the Office of Transportation and the WIC Department, where he was awarded Employee of the Quarter. He continued working there for 5 years. Following that he worked for 7 years as a monitor for the Middletown City School District.

He was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Bullville. Bill was a Past President of the Suffern Lions Club, Chairman of the Board for the Suffern United Methodist Church, and served as Financial Secretary for the Our Lady of Hope Center in Newburgh. Bill enjoyed hunting and boating during his younger years and always enjoyed hiking. He loved playing both the piano and the harmonica. Bill had a beautiful voice, and for years participated in the Music Ministry at Our Lady of Hope Center in Newburgh.

Bill is survived by his wonderful wife, Beverly (Lederman) Goetschius, a son Barry (Mary Jane), granddaughter Natalie, a daughter Susan Slinskey and two grandchildren, Ashley and Brittany as well as Beverly’s two sons, Matthew (Hayley) and Brett (Stacey). Surviving him are also three grandsons, Max, Jake and Luke who often called him “Grampy”. Bill is also survived by his brother Tom (Carol) of Florida and his nephews Brandon and Scott, along with two sisters Jody Waples of Louisiana, and Sandy Piccolo of Long Island. He also leaves a niece Courtney Downing and her sons Matthew and Daniel.

Following cremation at the Cedar Hill Crematory, Bill’s cremains will be interred in the Orange County Veterans Memorial Cemetery with military honors.

Memorial contributions in Bill’s honor may be made to the Orange County Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 111 Craigville Road, Goshen, NY 10924.

04/03/2026

Wesley C. Gilbert
June 29, 1946 ~ March 2, 2026 (age 79)

Wesley C. Gilbert of Kissimmee, FL and formerly of Middletown, NY entered into rest on Monday, March 2, 2026 at his home in Kissimmee, FL. He was 79 years of age.

The son of the late Clifford and Marguerite Gilbert, he was born on June 29, 1946 in Hobert, NY.

Wes retired from the housekeeping department of the Middletown Psychiatric Center. He was involved in the following organizations: member, Past Vice President & Trustee of the Waalkill Engine Co. #6 in Middletown, Past Captain & Chaplain of Middletown Special (Fire) Police, Past President & Life Member of Orange County Volunteer Firemen’s Association, Past President, Chaplain & Life Member of Orange County Volunteer Fire Police, Orange County Peace Officers, Life Member of Fleet H & L Co. #1 in Montgomery, NY, Director & Life Member of the NY State Fire Police Association, Special Deputy of Orange County Sheriff’s Department, Life Member of Red Vest of Hudson Valley, Honorary Chaplain of Middletown Veteran Firemen’s Association, Hudson Valley Volunteer Firemen’s Association, NY State Association F.A.S.N.Y., NY State Fire Chaplain’s Association, Life Member of NY State Fire Chief’s Association, Social Member of Rescue #3 Port Jervis, Southern NY State Volunteer Fire Police, Charter & Life Member of National Association of Fire Police Officers.

Survivors include: his daughter, TammyAnn McGrath of Kissimmee, FL; 5 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; brother David Redmond; nieces & nephews. Wes was predeceased by his wife Harriet Gilbert, daughter Harriet Gilbert, brother Bruce Gilbert, sisters Shirley Conklin & Marguerite Redmond.

Cremation took place at Cremation Services of Mid Florida, Davenport, FL

Interment of Wesley’s cremains will take place at 10 AM Friday, April 24th in the family plot in the Pine Hill Cemetery, Town of Wawayanda, NY. A gathering for family & friends will take place at the Washington Heights Fire Department immediately following the interment service.

03/26/2026

Charles William Murray
December 1, 1927 ~ March 24, 2026 (age 98)

Charles William Murray, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, at the age of 98, at his home in Circleville, NY

Born on December 1, 1927, in Middletown, NY, at Horton Hospital, Charlie was a lifelong resident of Circleville, where he built deep roots in the community and formed lasting friendships with neighbors and colleagues alike.

Charlie lived a long and meaningful life defined by family, laughter, dedication, kindness, and quiet strength. In his youth, he was one of the greatest athletes of his time, a highly recognized standout who excelled in baseball, basketball, and football at Middletown High School, and was frequently highlighted in the local paper. His talent, determination, and love of sports left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege to watch him play.

He dedicated 47 years of service to Orange and Rockland Utilities, as a lineman, where he was respected for his hard work, reliability, and character. Even after retirement, Charlie maintained close friendships with many of his fellow workers, staying connected with them through regular breakfast get togethers at The Colonial Diner.

Charlie also cherished friendships with his neighbors on Renton Road, where they built their homes, raised their families, and began their working lives together. Those lifelong bonds remained an important and treasured part of his life.

Charlie was a devoted and loving husband to his high school sweetheart, Leona Hinckley, with whom he shared 68 years of marriage until her passing. Their enduring love was the foundation of a close and caring family.

Charlie was known for his steady presence, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family. Laughter was always at the core of the family he raised, and he took great joy in bringing people together. He especially loved regular family gatherings, most notably the annual Fourth of July celebration in Circleville, where the entire family would gather at his home and proudly walk together in the parade.

Their family also looked forward each year to well-planned trips out west in their Dodge station wagon, creating cherished memories while visiting some of the nation’s most beautiful places, including Grand Canyon, Grand Teton National Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park. These adventures reflected his love of family, travel, and experiencing the natural beauty of the country.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures—time spent with loved ones, meaningful conversations, and daily routines that reflected his disciplined and thoughtful nature, including his early morning workouts at the YMCA of Middletown, where he was such a familiar and dedicated presence that he was entrusted with his own set of keys.

He is survived by his children, Charles Murray II, Thomas Murray, and Marianne Murray; his children’s spouses, Richard Rowley and Kimberly Carlson; He is also survived by his grandchildren and their spouses, Carly Murray, Connor Murray, Charles Murray III, and Michelle Murray; his step grandchildren, Andrew, Elizabeth, and Lauren Rowley and his great-grandchildren, Charles Murray IV, Andrew Murray, and William Murray.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Leona Hinckley Murray; his daughter Peggy Murray, his brother, Harold Murray; and his beloved daughter-in-law, Dr. Rose DeLeo, who lovingly cared for both Charles and Leona as their physician for many years.

Charlie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him—known affectionately as “Mr. Charlie” “G-Pa,” and “Chas.”

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 2-5 PM Sunday, March 29th at Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Funeral Home 26 Grove St. Middletown.

A private burial for family will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the YMCA of Middletown, or to Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties.

03/10/2026

Paul Olivieri Sr.
SCHENECTADY, NY FORMERLY MIDDLETOWN, NY

Paul N. Olivieri, Sr., 79, passed away peacefully in his home on February 25, 2026.

Paul was born in Englewood, NJ to Theresa Constantino and Dominick Rocco Olivieri on February 12, 1947. He graduated from Middletown High School in 1964 and joined the Navy, serving from 1964-1967. He attended Orange County Community College and married his wife, Mary. Paul worked as a manager in the transportation industry for over 30 years. He enjoyed cooking, cars, and casinos.

Paul is survived by his wife of 54 years, Mary Callahan Olivieri; daughter, Danielle Singh; son, Paul Olivieri, Jr. (Danielle); grandchildren Abbi, Maya, Sophia, and Dylan; sister, Maria Bruno and brother-in-law, Larry McDowell; sister-in-law, Alice Keener and brother-in-law, Richard Keener; niece Lisa (Kenny) Ferrier and their children, Kenny Jr., Patrick and Brandon.

Military Honors will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 20, 2026 at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

03/02/2026

Jean G. Mattes
August 15, 1936 ~ March 1, 2026
89 Years Old

Jean G. Mattes, a 56 year area resident, entered into rest on Sunday, March 1, 2026 at Campbell Hall Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. She was 89 years of age.

The daughter of the late Salvatore & Josephine Lanuto, she was born on August 15, 1936 in Brooklyn, NY.

Jean was a retired sales associate having been employed at Macy’s in Middletown. She attended St. Joseph’s Church in Middletown.

Survivors include: her children, Deborah Rushing and husband Michael of Middletown, Kathy Butera of Middletown, and Robert Mattes and his wife Tania of Staten Island, NY; her grandchildren, Michelle Rushing, Nicole Murray and Michael Mattes; great grandchildren, Emma Simmons, Madison Bennett and Hunter Bennett; and numerous nieces and nephews. Jean was predeceased by her husband Edward W. Mattes, daughter Dina Mattes and brothers Danny and Sonny Lanuto.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 2-4 & 7-9 PM Thursday, March 5th at Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Funeral Home, 26 Grove St., Middletown, NY.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered 11 AM on Friday, March 6th at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, 149 Cottage St., Middletown, NY. Interment will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Middletown.

02/11/2026

Nicholas Philip Corbacio
January 30, 1944 ~ February 9, 2026 (age 82)

Nicholas Philip Corbacio passed peacefully on February 9, 2026, surrounded by loving family. He was born to Vincent and Rose Guerrera Corbacio on January 30,1944. Nick just celebrated his 82nd birthday. Nick was a proud 1962 graduate of Middletown High School. He went on to serve his country in the United States Army as a sergeant stationed in South Korea from 1964 to 1966- a chapter of his life that he held with quiet pride.

Nick was predeceased by his beloved brother, Vincent E. Corbacio. He leaves behind many cousins and friends that meant the world to him: Dominick Corbacio, Mary Ann Corbacio Ronkese (Joseph), Regina Corbacio Kashmer (Jim), Frances Corbacio Wittman (Robin), Joseph Corbacio (Maureen), Cheryl Viele, Frank Dwyer, Rich and Fran, and Tracy Racine.

Nicky was an essential part of two families who had the good fortune of calling him theirs. Ron and Mary Ann Palmer’s family (Elaine, Russell, Kristin, Isabella) who Nicky has been a huge part of for fifty years. The second family includes sister/ cousin Anna Rose Hamilton (David), Ashley (Dan), Lauren (Anthony) and his beloved little ones Acelia, Vincenzo, Eloise, and Giana who Nicky adored.

Nick spent more than 32 years with IBM starting in the warehouse and working his way up through determination and hard work to become the line supervisor in purchasing. His work ethic was matched only by his loyalty- to his family, his faith as an active member of Denton Presbyterian Church and his deeply held beliefs.

Above all else, Nicolas loved his family fiercely. He was steady, devoted, and kind in his own beautiful way. His presence, stories, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation for family and friends will be held from 4-7 pm Monday, February 16th at the Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Funeral Home, 26 Grove Street, Middletown, NY. Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 am Tuesday, February 17th at Denton Presbyterian Church New Hampton, N.Y. Pastor Dorinda Violante will officiate. Interment will follow in the Wallkill Cemetery, Philipsburg, N.Y. Donations may be made to the Denton Presbyterian Church.

02/03/2026

Lorea Ann Brown
November 12, 1954 ~ November 30, 2025 (age 71)

Lorea Ann (Lori) Brown of Middletown, NY passed away on November 30, 2025. She was 71.

Lori was born on November 12, 1954 in Middletown, NY to Donald and Charlotte Keller (Soderblom). A born farm girl, Lori was a great lover of animals and a natural hard worker. She attended high school at Garden State Academy in New Jersey, where she was the class president and well-known trouble maker.

After graduation in 1972, Lori headed home to Middletown, where she attended Orange County Community College for accounting and worked at The Country Gardener, her family’s business.

Lori met her husband, Jeffrey, in January of 1971, while still in high school. Even though he remained in south Jersey during the course of their courtship, they made it work and married in May of 1976. Marriage tends to lead to children, in which they had two, Adrienne and Daniel.

Looking for a change, the family moved to California in 1981. Lori took a job at the University of Loma Linda’s Campus Store while attending Crafton Hills College at night to complete her accounting degree. After graduation she was promoted to Purchasing Agent at the University of Loma Linda. She oversaw many large projects while there and worked her way up to Senior Purchasing Controller.

After ten years in California, the Brown Family moved back to Middletown to open Maples Farm & Garden Center. This joint brother and sister venture was successful for over 30 years. Lori focused on the store, the books, and helping her father with his farming business. Maples Farm became a major focus in Lori’s life and she took great pride in it.

There are so many aspects to Lori that weren’t appreciated enough. She was selfless, always willing to help family and friends, even if they didn’t notice. She was an absolute workhorse, teaching her children to hold their own and take pride in themselves and their work. She was incredibly intelligent, and held her business together during hard times. She was the backbone of her family.

She will be greatly missed by her husband, Jeffrey, her children, and her grandchildren, who will carry on her spirit through her lessons on dedication and perseverance.

“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever we are, you will always be in our hearts.”

All services are private. If you wish to make a donation in her name, please consider your local animal shelter.

01/31/2026

Bruce G. Friedman
April 25, 1952 ~ January 28, 2026 (age 73)

Bruce G. Friedman, died Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, NY. He was 73 years of age.

The son of the late Edward and Frances Friedman, he was born on April 25, 1952 in Hartford, CT.

Bruce was a retired Registered Nurse for the State of New York. He was a member of Temple Sinai in Middletown and a member of the Volunteer Nurses Corp.

Survivors include: his wife, Arline G. Friedman at home in Middletown; his sister, Karen Friedman of Washington, D.C.; his twin brother, Mitchell Friedman of Avon, CT.

Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 Noon on Monday, February 2nd at Temple Sinai, 75 Highland Ave., Middletown, NY. Rabbi Paul Kurland, a friend of 55 years will officiate. Interment will be in Temple Sinai Cemetery, Circleville, NY immediately following services.

01/18/2026

Gloria J. Hall
May 15, 1941 ~ January 5, 2026 (age 84)

Gloria J. Hall, age 85, passed away on Monday, January 5, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Amsterdam, NY, with the comforting presence of her daughter Rebecca at her side.

Born on May 15, 1941, in Middletown, NY, Gloria spent her final years living a full and blessed life in Johnstown, NY. She was the daughter of the late Theodore and Grace (Tuthill) Knapp.

Her marriage to Frank M. Hall on August 29, 1964, was a cherished partnership until his passing in 2016.

Gloria lived a life that was as joyful as it was inspiring, marked by her deep-seated faith in God, which guided her through both the simplest and the most profound moments of her life. Known for her exceptional mothering, Gloria's nurturing did not stop with her own family. A testament to her boundless love was her treasured grandcat, Ellie, whom she adored babysitting. Her daily phone calls with her niece, Debby Kainu, were a source of great joy and comfort, weaving a tight-knit bond that stretched far beyond distance.

Family meant everything to Gloria. She is survived by a family that adores her, including her daughter, Rebecca Bartlett (Cory), her loving brothers and sister, as well as her dear friends, Jason and Jennifer Loya, and their children, Adam and Cameron Loya.

In addition to her husband, Gloria is predeceased by her daughter, Naomi Hall and one sister.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the Saint Mary’s Emergency Room Department and the dedicated staff on the 4th floor for their exceptional professionalism and compassion during Mom’s stay.

Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.

Interment will be at Ridgebury Cemetery, Slate Hill ,NY.

01/12/2026

Edward Francis Brewer Sr.
May 9, 1941 ~ January 11, 2026
84 Years Old

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our father, Edward Francis Brewer, Sr., on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Highland Rehabilitation & Nursing Center. He was 84 years of age.

The son of the late Edward & Lettie Johnson Brewer, he was born on May 9, 1941 in Middletown, NY. Formerly of Thompson Ridge, NY and growing up in Middletown and Otisville, NY. He passed from this life to be reunited with our mother, Patricia M. Brewer, that passed and has been waiting for him since March 2004.

"Pop" will forever be remembered for his big smile, and his love of spaghetti and meatballs and coffee.

Edward Francis Brewer, Sr., was pre-deceased by wife, Patricia M. Brewer. He was also pre-deceased by his siblings, Joseph Johnson, James Brewer, Francis Brewer and Ethel Roe, son, Edward C. Brewer, and grandson, Edward P. Brewer. He was also pre-deceased by Margaret Burlingame, his long-term girlfriend before her passing in April 2025.

He is survived by his daughter, Patricia L. Vesely (Richard) of Woodridge, NY, and his son, Edward F. Brewer, Jr. (Shirley) of Port Jervis, NY. Grandchildren Christopher R. Doland (Leigh), Joseph D. Brewer, Nicole Bishop (Joshua), and Kristina Brewer, Beth Waraksa (Brian), Marcus Privette (Jody), Anthony Switala and Caitlyn Switala. Great Grandchildren Tessa Doland and Wyatt Bishop. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many former foster children he thought of as his own.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11AM to 12 Noon on Thursday, January 15th at Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Funeral Home, 26 Grove St., Middletown, NY. Funeral services will follow the visitation at 12 PM.

Interment will be in the family plot in New Prospect Cemetery, Pine Bush, NY.

12/31/2025

Carole E. Tanzillo
September 29, 1965 ~ December 28, 2025 (age 60)

Carole Tanzillo, a longtime resident of Wawayanda, NY and lifelong resident of Orange County, NY, passed away on Sunday, December 28th. She was 60 years old.

The daughter of the late Frederick and Barbara Heddy, Carole was born on September 29, 1965 in Los Angeles, CA.

Carole was a devoted mother and grandmother who loved to be surrounded by her family and friends. She was happiest traveling to new places, caring for her pets, tending to her garden, or tackling a new home improvement project. Carole was also an avid reader and music lover all her life. She was perhaps most at peace by the water, finding contentment at the beach or by the pool. Hosting family and friends for holidays, celebrations, and simple get-togethers was also a joy for her. She was truly the glue that held our family together.

Even in her passing, her spirit of giving endured as an organ donor.

Carole is survived by her husband, Gregg Tanzillo of Middletown, NY; daughter Amy Tanzillo and husband Giancarlo Soverini of Fiesole, Italy; son Matthew Tanzillo and partner Kelly McDonald of Warwick, NY; four grandchildren Jackson, Nora, Gianna, and Giorgia; brother Bruce Heddy and companion Donna Villane of Ewing, NJ; brother Brian Heddy and wife Mary of Gloversville, NY; as well as nieces and nephews Melissa Sweet, Christine Washock, Eric Heddy, Andrew Heddy, and Laura Heddy.

A Memorial Visitation for family and friends will be held from 5-8 PM Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Funeral Home, 26 Grove St., Middletown, NY

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Carole’s memory to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the ASPCA.

12/26/2025

Dorothy E. Hopper
July 12, 1933 ~ December 24, 2025 (age 92)

Dorothy E. “Nanny” Hopper, of Honesdale, PA and formerly of Bloomingburg, NY entered into rest on Wednesday, December 24, 2025 in the Town of Bethel, NY. She was 92 years of age.

The daughter of the late Walter and Ruth Bulson Hoehn, she was born on July 12, 1933 in Nyack, NY.

Dorothy was a homemaker and a 30 year member of the Tallman Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary.

Survivors include: her daughter, Sheila Eckerson and her husband Gregory of Honesdale, PA; 11 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild on the way. She was predeceased by her husband Raymond Hopper Jr., her daughters Karen Jones and her husband Chauncey Jones, and Darlene Baggatta.

A visitation for family and friends will take place from 10 AM – 12 Noon Wednesday, December 31st at Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Funeral Home, 26 Grove St., Middletown, NY. The funeral service will begin at 12 Noon following the visitation.

Interment will be in the family plot in Bloomingburg Rural Cemetery, Bloomingburg, NY.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942.

Address

26 Grove St
Middletown, NY
10940

Telephone

+18453432142

Website

http://www.connellfuneralhome.com/

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