Simple Choices, Inc. Cremation Service

04/22/2026

SCHENECTADY –

Judith A. DeMarco (Judi), 81, of Schenectady, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026 at Ellis Hospital with her children by her side.

Judi was born, March 13, 1945 and was the daughter of the late Margaret Fortier Caringi.

Judi was a lifelong Schenectady resident. She graduated from Mohonasen High School with the class of 1963. Her senior class is responsible for the orange and black school colors still being used today. Judi was a Candy Striper at St. Clare’s Hospital during her early teens.

Judi spent the spring and summer months cheering on the NY Mets and spent the fall and winter months cheering for her beloved Dallas Cowboys…she sure did LUVDBOYS!

Judi worked as an insurance agent for more than 50 years working for a few different agencies. Her last place of employment was The Guilbeau Insurance Agency in Scotia. She was nearly 80 when she finally “retired”. Her customers would still call her with changes, which she would, in turn, call the agency to have the changes made. She loved all her customers and they loved her.

Judi was a proud member of Federation of New York Insurance Professionals for many, many years and had gone to numerous yearly conventions with the 2025 convention being her final appearance. She was a past president, a title she was very proud of. Most recently she was charged with gathering all the personal information she could from all the “newbies”. She made a list of questions from spouse’s name to pets and children. She diligently called every one of the new members and rattled off her list of questions and, by the end of the conversation, had a new friend. Judi would then proudly announce all the new members and tell a little story, like she’d known them forever!

Judi was also a bowling coach with NYS Special Olympics for 30 years. She often referred to them as “my bowlers” and was always at the lanes, cheering them on. She became friends with a lot families throughout her years coaching. Judi also volunteered her time with Hospice, The AIDS Council & Literacy Volunteers.

Judi is survived by her daughter, Jodi (Jim) Liegeot and her son, Cory DeMarco. Her pride and joy was her grandson Noah (Abby) DeMarco. She also has 2 granddaughters and several cousins.

Memorial contributions, in Judi’s name, can be made to The American Cancer Society, PO Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 or to IPHNY, 176 Sheridan Ave, Albany, NY 12210.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

https://www.simplechoicescremation.com/obituaries/judith-demarco

04/18/2026

Agnes D. Parslow

HALFMOON –

Agnes D. Parslow, 73, of Halfmoon and formerly of Carlisle, NY, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at Ellis Hospital in Schenectady, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Walton, NY, on October 21, 1952, she was the daughter of the late Wilford and Shirley Seward. Agnes was raised in Carlisle and was a graduate of the local high school. On October 24, 1970, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, Wallace W. Parslow, Jr., in Cobleskill, NY. Together, they shared over 55 years of devotion and family.

Agnes was an avid reader and found great joy in her various crafts. She had a deep love for the ocean and cherished her time spent at Cape Cod. Above all, she was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Wallace; her daughter, Angela (Mike) Nikolaus; and her three cherished grandchildren, Michael, Alexander, and Ashlynn. She also leaves behind her brother, David (Lisa) Seward, along with several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the pulmonary nursing staff at Ellis Hospital for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Agnes.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Agnes D. Parslow's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/18/2026

William N. Grosch

GUILDERLAND –

William N. Grosch, a doctor, a minister, husband and father, had a kind and gentle spirit. He died on April 7, 2026, at home at the age of 81. He died from complications of Alzheimer’s. He was born October 12, 1944 in California during World War II while his father was stationed there. For the first years of his youth, he lived with his parents, sister and grandparents in an apartment in the Bronx. He started public school by riding the Bronx city bus. At age 8 his immediate family moved to Syosset, NY, on Long Island. He graduated from Syosset High School in 1962. In his childhood he kept a stamp collection, collected baseball cards, and played baseball. He was active in the Boy Scouts and attained the rank of Eagle Scout. He went to Albright College, a liberal arts institution, where he studied in their pre-med program majoring in Biology earning his bachelor’s degree in 1966. He had fond memories of running on the college’s track team; while not a top runner, he enjoyed the pursuit of improving his own time and competing against his friend. For a few summers he studied at Union Theological Seminary in New York City starting to work toward his Master of Divinity degree. He went to Albany Medical College for medical school and graduated in the class of 1970. He completed his psychiatry residency at Duke University Medical Center and then continued to work for Duke as a psychiatrist. While doing his residency, he also studied at Duke Divinity School and earned his Master of Divinity in 1974. He was ordained in the United Church of Christ and pastored the O’Kelly Chapel. For his profession, Dr. Grosch worked as a psychiatrist for Albany Medical Center for 31 years. He and his beloved wife, Kay Lichy Grosch, met while they both worked at Duke. They got to know each other through a co-worker Bible study group and co-worker volleyball. They married at Duke Chapel in 1977. They moved to Guilderland in 1980 where they raised their two children, Adam and Holly. It was this home where he died, surrounded by his wife and children.

William, who often went by Bill, worked in the hospital on Albany Med’s inpatient psychiatry floor. Prior to that, he was the director of Albany Med.’s outpatient psychiatry clinic. He was a tenured Professor at Albany Medical College and retired as Professor Emeritus. He co-authored a book, “When Helping Starts to Hurt: A New Look at Burnout Among Psychotherapist” in 1994. He was a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Always interested in the intersection of psychiatry and religion, for many years he served as the director of pastoral services at the Capital District Psychiatric Center.

Throughout his life, he cherished summer vacation at a family cabin his grandfather built in Sunapee, New Hampshire. He was an avid reader of non-fiction, and enjoyed traveling internationally with his wife.

His life and vocation were grounded in a deep, abiding and unassuming faith, marked by a lifelong intellectual curiosity, a steady pursuit of the divine within the Christian tradition, a deep concern for those on the margins of society, and a kind and gentle spirit.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 49 years, Kay Lichy Grosch; his children, Holly Sociagrosch (Matt) of Rotterdam, NY; Adam Grosch (Alison) of St. Clair Shores, Michigan and their children, his grandchildren: Natalie, Elijah and Caleb Grosch. He is also survived by his sister, Virginia Kowalski, and niece, Lara Richardson of Huntington Station, NY. He is survived, too, by other nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his grandniece, Celeste Richardson, and by his parents, William Anson Grosch and Vivian H. (Watts) Grosch.

A memorial service will be held at Lynnwood Reformed Church, 3714 Carman Road in Guilderland, NY, 12303 on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. A lunch reception will immediately follow in the church fellowship hall. Burial will be private at Prospect Hill Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s memory to Habitat for Humanity, Alzheimer's Association or Albright College in Reading, Pennsylvania.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View William N. Grosch's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/10/2026

Pamela Ann O'Donnell (Hotaling)

SCHENECTADY –

Pamela Ann O’Donnell, a lifelong resident of Schenectady and a woman of unmistakable flair, passed away on February 8, 2026, at the age of 63.

Born on December 19, 1962, Pamela was the daughter of the late Earl Hotaling and Germaine (LeBuis) Hotaling. She was a true original, known for her big personality.

She was not afraid to make a bold impression. Her signature style was defined by her extensive and quirky collection of hats and brooches. A talented and versatile artist, Pamela’s creativity knew no bounds. She expressed herself through ceramics, stained glass, beading, weaving, painting, pastels, and more. Her creativity extended to the kitchen, where she enjoyed inventing her own recipes and "concoctions" to feed those she loved.

She is survived by her loving daughters: Cassie Miranda (John), Jessie Zweigenthal (Mark), and Chelsea Leader (Darren). She was the proud grandmother of seven: Jack, Elliott, and Ryan Miranda; Kate and Eliza Zweigenthal; and Ruby and Desmond Leader. She is also survived by her siblings, Timothy Hotaling and Jacqueline Foss (Mark). She now joins her parents and her sister, Karen Hotaling, in eternal rest.

A memorial for family and friends will be held on May 2, 2026 at 10:00 am at Liberty Church (1840 Albany Street, Schenectady, NY 12304.) Reception to follow.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Pamela Ann O'Donnell (Hotaling)'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/10/2026

James Michael Seman

EAST DURHAM -

James Michael Seman, 74, of East Durham, NY, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, after spending his final days surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on July 5, 1951, in Queens, NY, Jim graduated from Andrew Jackson High School. Jim sought to live a life free of stress and worked to cultivate a life that allowed him to be available to others whenever they needed him.Jim prioritized his family above all else, always working within his means to provide for his children, grandchildren, and wife. Whether it was back-to-school clothes, baseball gear, horseback riding lessons, or even moving the family based on where they wanted to be, he found a way to make it happen. He consistently put others’ needs ahead of his own when it mattered most.Earlier in life, Jim looked up to his older brothers, Jerry and Steve, and spent his younger years traveling with friends, capturing moments through his camera lens, going to concerts (often recording them on a tape recorder tucked into his jacket), and hunting - much of it centered around spending time with and preserving memories of his friends and family. During this time, he also built a career as an early computer programmer working on DOS operating systems, notably working in the Empire State Building.

He took pride in showing his children what was possible and giving them something to strive toward.He spent many years driving taxis - primarily with Decker’s in Catskill. While it wasn’t glamorous and often required long days, he found joy in the work. He loved being on the road, meeting new people, hearing their stories, and forming connections. He had a special place in his heart for his elderly customers, often going out of his way to help - making sure they got to medical appointments, picking up groceries, covering fares when they were short, and doing what he could to make life a little easier for those who needed it most. For anyone who knew Jim, it comes as no surprise that he was happiest tinkering around his apartment complex - with a cigarette in hand, a coffee nearby, and a good meal to look forward to. He loved simple comforts: a rare steak, pot cheese and noodles (if you know, you know), and traditional Hungarian double-smoked bacon or paprika szalonna. He also found joy in birdwatching, taking the time to learn local species, looking forward to their yearly migratory patterns, and even creating his own bird feed mixes. Just as much, he cherished the little things - painting Easter eggs with his grandchildren and, above all else, enjoying those rare, pleasant days when the whole family was together. Jim was a good friend, a devoted and loving father, and someone with a sharp and unforgettable sense of humor. He was always ready to lend a helping hand, make a stranger feel welcome, or bring a smile to someone’s face. He was a kind man and will be deeply missed.

Jim is survived by his wife Carmela Seman; his children, Joseph Seman-Graves (Maggie Barber), Elizabeth Mammano; his grandchildren, Tyler Kern, David Meltz, Sadie Graves and Finnegan Graves; his Sister-in-Law Rebecca Anderson; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who will forever miss his humor, warmth, and presence. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Elizabeth Seman; His brothers, Jerry Anderson and Steve Seman (Elaine Seman). Per Jim’s wishes, there will be no formal services, but rather a celebration of life. Friends and family are welcome to gather on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Shamrock House, 2388 State Route 145, East Durham, NY 12423, to share stories, laughter, and memories.In lieu of flowers (Jim would probably tell you not to bother), please share your favorite pictures, stories, and memories with his family.

Jim’s presence, humor, and quiet generosity left a lasting mark on those who knew him. His loss will be deeply felt, and his memory will live on through the many lives he touched.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View James Michael Seman's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/10/2026

Louis Edward Pompey, Jr.

TROY -

Louis E. Pompey Jr. passed away on Friday, April 3, 2026 at the Victorian Nursing Home in North Troy, where residents and staff affectionately knew him as "Pops."

A lifelong resident of Troy, Louis was the son of the late Louis E. Pompey Sr. and Phosia Rowe.

Louis was educated in the Troy Public Schools and dedicated his career to his community, serving as a sanitation worker for the Troy Department of Public Works and later working at the steel mill in South Troy. Those who knew him will remember his work ethic and the many friendships he formed throughout his life.

He is survived by his daughter, Shaunte Pompey of California, and two grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brothers and sisters: Patricia Stinney of Bloomfield, CT; Phyllis Beale of El Paso, TX; Eric Pompey of Troy, NY; Deric Pompey of Fulton, NY; Russell Pompey of Schenectady, NY; Sonya Tucker of Troy, NY; Stephanie Tucker of Baltimore, MD; Stacey Pompey-Goss of Charlotte, NC; Doreen King of Jacksonville, FL; and William H. Rowe Jr. of Troy. He is further survived by a large host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Louis was preceded in death by two sisters, Rhodell Pompey and Cynthia Pompey, both of Troy.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Louis Edward Pompey, Jr.'s obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/10/2026

Rose Ellan Ayen

TROY –

Rose Ellan Ayen, 61, passed away March 28, 2026, at the Samaritan Hospital of Troy, NY. She was born March 24, 1965, to Bernice Bennett and Herbert Bushman in Granville, NY. She grew up in parts of Alexandria Bay, NY, and Vermont with her siblings, Scott L. Bushman (Janet Bushman) and Tina L. Scanlon. She was predeceased by her mother Bernice, her father Herbert, and her son Andrew.

Rose was a cowgirl at heart who enjoyed horseback riding and old-time country music. She had a deep love for animals, donating her time to the SPCA and taking in abused or wounded farm animals. Most of all, she loved her family. She was a mother of four: Jessica A. Gordon (Countryman), Miranda C. Snide (Abby Retzlaff), Andrew D. Ayen, and Joseph D. Ayen. Rose extended her mothering heart to her stepchildren: Ann Marie Narvaes (Francisco Narvaes), Troy Burns, Richard Shibles (Mariah Bryant), Carl Burns Jr., and Cheyenne Burns (Jamie Bonanno).

She was the proud grandmother of 16: Kobe W. Gordon (Mickayla Gordon), Brianna L. Gordon (Brandon Schaefer), Morgan E. Gordon (Jacob Moyer), Grayson Krages, Braylynn Krages, Bryson Birht Jr., Ethan Krages, Itaska Birht, Adriana Narvaes, Marcus Narvaes, Daniel Narvaes, Ember Jo Burns, Rae-Lynn Burns, Jadence Lashbrooks, Reed Shibles, and Walker Shibles; and great-grandmother of 5: Starlitt Schaefer, Gabriel Gordon, Gideon Gordon, Willow Moyer, and Everleigh Gordon.

Even though they were no longer in a romantic relationship, Rose remained best friends with the love of her life and "ride or die," Carl (Dave) Burns, who was by her side in her final days alongside her daughters, Jessica and Miranda. Rose will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of life will be held in Philadelphia, NY, with the date to be determined.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Simple Choices Funeral Home for making this difficult time just a little easier. They also wish to send a special thanks to their family and friends for all their love and support.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Rose Ellan Ayen's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/08/2026

Cora Paulette Richardson

NEW LEBANON –

Cora Paulette Richardson, aged 81, of New Lebanon, New York, peacefully passed away at her home surrounded by her loving family on April 2, 2026.

Born in Rhinebeck, New York, on August 11, 1944, she was the daughter of the late James Lawrence and Pauline Hosier. Cora spent many years in Wassaic, New York, before settling in New Lebanon. She dedicated a fulfilling career to the Taconic DDSO, from which she eventually retired.

On New Year’s Day in 1995, Cora wed her beloved husband, Stuart James Richardson, in Amenia, New York. Together, they shared a life defined by a mutual love for the outdoors. Whether camping, fishing, hiking, or exploring new destinations, Cora was happiest when surrounded by nature and her family. The Outer Banks of North Carolina held a particularly special place in her heart—a legacy of beautiful memories that her family will continue to cherish.

Cora’s greatest joy was her expansive family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Stuart; and her children: William McCaul, Ernest McCaul, Carol Arrigo, Susan (Robert) Wood, Kathy (Kenneth) Risch, and Amy (Damon) Haire. Her legacy continues through her 29 grandchildren and 42 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Edith Rodgerdts and Ernie "Buddy" Lawrence.

She was preceded in death by her children, Sherri McCaul and Robert McCaul; four grandchildren; and her sister, Fannie Jones.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 7:30 PM at the Schodack Kingdom Hall, located at: 1169 US-9, Castleton-On-Hudson, NY 12033

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude and special acknowledgments to the Kingdom Hall of Schodack and the supportive brothers and sisters who provided comfort and care during this difficult time.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Cora Paulette Richardson's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/07/2026

Catherine Ann Kilmer

CLIFTON PARK –

Mrs. Catherine Ann Kilmer, 79, of Clifton Park and formerly of Troy, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at Glens Falls Hospital.

Born in Troy on July 25, 1946, at Leonard Hospital, she was the beloved daughter of the late David and Shirley Roberts. A graduate of local schools, Catherine dedicated nearly 40 years of her professional life to Hudson Valley Community College, where she served with distinction as the Secretary for the Dean of Business. On December 20, 1975, Catherine was united in marriage to Donald Kilmer in Troy. Together, they shared nearly 50 years of devotion until his passing on June 19, 2025.

A woman of deep warmth and selflessness, Catherine’s greatest joys were found in the company of those she loved. She cherished annual trips to Hampton Beach and looked forward to regular breakfasts and lunches with her former coworkers. At home, she was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and spent many quiet afternoons working on puzzles alongside her husband. She will be remembered most for her loving nature and her innate tendency to care for others before herself.

She is survived by her devoted son, Christopher Kilmer, and his wife, Susan; her brother, Dave Roberts, and his wife, Paula; and several extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her sister, Paula Daigneault, in addition to her parents and her husband, Donald.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Simple Choices, Inc. & Riverview Funeral Home, located at 218 2nd Avenue (corner of 104th Street), Troy, NY 12180. A memorial service will follow the calling hours at 4:00 p.m. in the funeral home.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Catherine Ann Kilmer's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/07/2026

Michael Daniel Barletta

CHARLTON –

Michael Daniel Barletta, 32, of Charlton, NY, passed away on April 2, 2026, leaving behind a deep void in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Michael was born on June 28th, 1993, in Niskayuna, NY to his loving parents Mary and Daniel Barletta. From an early age, he had a way of making people feel comfortable - whether through his sense of humor, his loyalty, or simply the way he showed up for the people he cared about. He was raised in Charlton and remained local to the area that he considered home. Michael will be remembered for his kind genuine spirit and always being true to himself. He had a deep love for music, a passion for cars, and cherished the time he spent with those he loved. The moments spent with him whether laughing, talking, or just being present will forever be treasured. He had a way of turning ordinary days into something memorable. To know Michael was to know someone who cared deeply. He was a devoted son/brother/friend and his relationships meant everything to him. He stood by the people he loved and never hesitated to lend a hand or share a moment of laughter.

Michael is survived by his sister, Amanda Murphy (Ben Murphy); his aunts, Sandra DeThorne and Liza Esperti (Joe Schepis); his uncles, Harold DeThorne (Maureen DeThorne) and Phillip Bergeron (Kathy Bergeron); and his loving cousins, Jennifer Sizemore, Harrison DeThorne, Shawn Esperti, Matthew Esperti, Kevin Esperti, and Eric Lenge, along with many friends who considered him family.

Michael’s life, though far too short, was full of moments, connections, and memories that will never fade. He shared the gift of life through organ donation, successfully saving multiple lives. He will be missed more than words can express and remembered always.

A celebration of life will be announced in the near future, where family and friends will be invited to gather in honor and remembrance. Further details will be shared at a later time.

Donations can be made in his honor to American Heart Association or Donate Life America. Special thanks for the care and compassion of the Charlton Fire Department and EMS, and Ellis ICU.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Michael Daniel Barletta's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/04/2026

Terence S. Tanney III

LATHAM –

Terence S. Tanney III, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026 after an extended illness.

He was born on March 4, 1948 to Terence S. Tanney, Jr. and Ruth (Sheffer) Tanney. Terry grew up in Menands, NY. He graduated From LaSalle Institute and attended Hudson Valley Community College. Terry worked many years for Esquire Food and Drug Store. He was also employed as a photocopier salesman for many years, which he excelled at, earning many wonderful trips.

Terry married the love of his life Diann Breads on April 13, 1984. Terry and Diann built a life of travel and enjoying skiing and touring many countries. They bought a home in Delanson, NY and loved the country life, hosting many family gatherings. They also enjoyed every summer at their camp on Trout Lake with lots of friends and family. Also, many years of year around fun at the “ski house” in Vermont with family and friends.

Terry was a longtime member of the OC Ski Club and enjoyed ski trips, summer volleyball league and fall tournaments.

As Terry’s health declined they moved into a cozy 55+ community in Latham, NY.

Terry is survived by his wife Diann, his sisters, Michele (late Edward) Delehanty, Beth (Phil) Occhino and Kim (late William) Fitzpatrick. And many sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. And many, many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews which he loved and enjoyed picking on them.

As per Terry’s request, services will be private. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Terence S. Tanney III's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/26/2026

Robert Vincent Kent

BALLSTON LAKE –

Mr. Robert V. Kent, age 74, of Ballston Lake, formerly of Syracuse, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loved ones, on March 19, 2026.

Born on September 4, 1952, in Brooklyn, New York, Robert was the son of the late Ralph and Margaret Kent. He spent many formative years in Syracuse, New York, before eventually settling in the Ballston Lake area. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Robert served his country with dedication and honor. Those who knew him best will remember him as a hard worker and a man of few words, though he possessed a sharp sense of humor and a deep, unwavering love for his family.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, several children, and multiple grandchildren. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks and acknowledgments to those who stood by Robert and offered support during this time, especially his closest family members, to whom he was profoundly devoted.

Interment will be held on April 1, 2026, at 1 o'clock in the afternoon. Robert will be laid to rest with military honors at the Gerald B.H. Solomon - Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY 12871. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com

View Robert Vincent Kent's obituary, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.