James Dowd
James Dowd Jr., also known as JP, a native of Peekskill, NY, and a longtime resident of Beacon, NY, passed away on April 6, 2025, leaving behind a lifetime of unforgettable memories.
Born on July 29, 1972, in Valhalla NY, son of Laura Parker-Bey (Ricardo) and James Dowd Sr (Hana), and stepfather Darrell Barber.
James is survived by his beloved daughters Mia Dowd and Tyra Lee; grandson Legend Lee, who brought him endless joy; two sisters, Asia Earth and Gabriella Levine; brother Umajesty Earth; paternal grandparents Cleo and Joe Floyd (NC), several aunts and uncles, along with a tribe of cousins. He was predeceased by one sister, Shinaka Earth, and a brother, Mainebo Dowd.
JP was a true New Yorker at heart, a lifelong fan of the New York Jets and the Mets. He wore his team colors so proudly through every season, win or lose. His passion for the games was deeply devoted in his belief he was a co-coach on the sidelines.
JP will be remembered as a loving and caring soul. He had a gift for making others feel seen, heard and appreciated. He was a great person to be around and loyal friend to many. He had a heart as big as his sense of humor. His presence would light up a room-often accompanied by his signature bad singing, followed by his infectious laughter. His striking blue eyes held the twinkle of mischief and warmth, reflecting the kind and generous spirit he shared with all who knew him.
His passing leaves a deep void, but his spirit lives on in the stories we tell, the laughter we share and the love he instills in all of us. Though he is no longer with us, his unique spirit will live on in our hearts and of those who were lucky enough to know him.
To celebrate the remembrance of JP’s life, we ask that you wear green or blue on game days and raise a glass in his honor.
(Curry & Giordano Funeral Home Inc.)
Gail Franko
With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our mother, Gail Franko, who left this world on April 9, 2025, at the age of 82.
She was born in the Morris Park section of the Bronx on May 23, 1942, to parents Henry and Liberta.
She graduated from Our Savior Lutheran High School in 1960. She then worked at New York Life Insurance Company in Manhattan, where she met her future husband, Ted Franko (also from the Bronx).
Gail and Ted were married on November 3, 1962, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in the Bronx and lived at Haight Avenue in the Bronx, where they had three children. In 1969, they moved to Buchanan, NY.
During her lifetime, she worked at an insurance company, a bakery, a school, and was a member of the Buchanan Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. Gail also volunteered at Hudson Valley Hospital for 45 years, where every Friday she donated her time to work in the gift shop.
Gail was a devoted member of the Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in Peekskill, NY. She was an animal lover who had several dogs throughout her lifetime. She also enjoyed watching her children’s dogs, reading, and swimming in the summertime.
Gail lived a simple life and found joy in the little things. She didn’t ask for much, and she gave everything she had. Her love for her family was the fire that lit her up from the inside. It shaped who she was and how she lived. Although she wasn’t one to boast or seek attention, her presence was strong and anchored us all.
She was a kind and generous person who always brought a smile to the people she crossed paths with every day.
Gail is predeceased by her parents, Henry and Liberta, and her husband, Ted Franko.
She is survived by her daughter Dina Franko, daughter Kara Vandivier and her husband Bobby, son John Franko and his wife Tiffany, nieces Eva and Julie Franko.
Her spirit will live on in every one of her family members…
Visitation was at Joseph F. Nardone Funeral Home, Peekskill, NY, on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Chapel Service was at Joseph F. Nardone Funeral Home on April 15, 2025, followed by private cremation. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local animal shelter in Gail’s memory. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Gail Franko, please visit our Tree Store.
(Legacy.com)
