Lai Citron

Lai Citron, 87, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025. She is survived by her brothers, Giang Khac Nguyen, Duoc Ngoc Nguyen, and Hai Khac Nguyen; daughter, Lisa Ngo-Nguyen; niece, Thao Nguyen-Spratt; nephew, An Nguyen; four grandchildren, Jonathan Nguyen, Jordan Nguyen, Angelina Nguyen, and Annabella Nguyen; and five great nieces/nephews.

Born in Cambodia, she carried with her the strength, traditions, and warmth of her homeland as she built a life in America. She was a woman of deep generosity, always giving more than she had, and her love was felt by all who were fortunate to know her.

She is reunited in peace with her loving husband, Sidney Citron; sister, Lan Hendrix; father, Han Khac Nguyen; and mother, Huong Thi Ngo.

She married Sidney Citron on June 5, 1994, at a family home in Cortlandt Manor, where she settled, forming a community of friends where she was the life of the party. Lai was a beloved wife, sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, great-aunt, and friend. Her devotion to her family, easy laugh, and generous heart will be truly missed.

She will be remembered as a lovable and kind-heated woman whose greatest value was family. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and extended family who will carry her spirit forward with love.

Visitation was held at Joseph F. Nardone Funeral Home on Thursday, September 18, 2025. Interment followed at Rose Hill Memorial Park Cemetery.

Mary Ellen McGurty

Mary Ellen McGurty, a beacon of light and warmth in the lives of all who knew her, died peacefully on September 14, 2025, in Cortlandt Manor, NY. Born in Peekskill during a memorable Christmas Day blizzard in 1947, Mary Ellen was a daughter of the much-admired Dr. John A. McGurty Sr. and Josephine Trenty McGurty. She was 77. 

Mary Ellen’s formative years were spent in Peekskill, where she attended the Assumption School and graduated from Mary Immaculate School in Ossining. She furthered her education at Manhattanville College in Purchase and earned a master’s degree at Fordham University Lincoln Center. 

Dedicated to her career, Mary Ellen served as a social worker, clinician, and administrator at St. Vincent’s Hospital in New York City. In 1971 as a new social worker, she met colleague Bill Cook with whose family and her own, she celebrated many holidays and occasions. 

In the ensuing years, they often attended concerts at the Paramount Theater and the families enjoyed Mary Ellen’s stories about her travels and collections of china and crystal. Her compassion and commitment to those in need were unparalleled. Her professional involvement extended to the Westchester Board of Health, where she was a valued member, contributing her expertise and knowledge to improve community health services.

Mary Ellen’s interests and contributions to her local Peekskill community were diverse and impactful. As a proud member of the Garden Club of Peekskill, she shared her love for beauty and horticulture with fellow enthusiasts. She was the chairperson at the time who spearheaded the creation of a scholarship fund for the Garden Club to give yearly to an outstanding high school senior. ”Mary Ellen liked nothing better than sitting outside in the open air at Ruben’s Cafe in her beloved downtown, listening to the Westchester swing band as they filled the night with music,” said her friend Sally Bentley. 

Her dedication to civic service was further exemplified in her role as vice chair of the Peekskill Republican Party, where she worked tirelessly to uphold the values she held dear. For a long period of time, she also served as chairperson of the Zoning Board. Mary Ellen also served with distinction on the City of Peekskill Board of Education from 1991 to 1994, advocating for educational excellence and the well-being of the city’s youth.

For those who had the privilege of knowing Mary Ellen she will be remembered not only for her professional accomplishments and community involvement but also for the grace and kindness she exuded in every facet of her life. Her friendship was a source of comfort and inspiration to many.  “She was the kindest person I have ever known; the first person to volunteer to help others, offering care to tend to the needs of others. She was so selfless and giving,” her friend Cathy Pisani recalled. “She left a quiet legacy of love.”

She is survived by her brother, Dr. John McGurty Jr., his wife Kathy, and their family, along with a tapestry of dear friends and colleagues whose lives she enriched. Her memory will be cherished and celebrated, as she lived a life that embodied the virtues of love, service, and compassion.

Comfort can be taken in knowing that her spirit is at peace. Friends recall she did not like the limelight and told them when it was time to say goodbye: “I have many friends from many parts of my life and they will celebrate me in their own way, in their own time.” As per her wishes, there are no services. 

In Mary Ellen’s memory, donations to either the Garden Club of Peekskill Scholarship Fund or the Peekskill Museum are greatly appreciated.

– Sourced from Dorsey Carlone Funeral Home and Ann Douglas

Shawn O’Mara

Shawn Michael O’Mara, a devoted father, beloved son, caring brother, and cherished friend, died on September 13, 2025, at the age of 53. Born on November 23, 1971, in Peekskill, NY, Shawn’s vibrant spirit and compassionate heart touched the lives of all who knew him. His final days were spent working hard, as always, in the funeral home he loved in Verplanck, NY.

Shawn is survived by his adoring family: his daughter Gabriella, his son Shawn Michael Jr., and his daughter Jayla Rose. His loving mother, Elizabeth O’Mara, his sister Kelley O’Mara Donovan and her husband Daniel, his brother Brian O’Mara, nieces Danica and Haley Donovan, nephew Ryan O’Mara, and his loving companion Michelle Mattson, along with beloved family and friends will all hold his memory dear. Shawn was predeceased by his father, Harold O’Mara, in November of 1998; his guidance inspired Shawn throughout his life.

Shawn’s commitment to service began after high school, in 1991, joining the Navy and serving with valor as a medic in Desert Storm. He was honorably discharged in 1994 and as a civilian decided to become a funeral director.

Educated at the American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service, NY, Shawn earned his associate’s degree and dedicated himself to serving others as a licensed funeral director. He owned his own funeral trade service, All County Funeral Service, offering comfort and support to countless families and working side by side with many funeral homes in the area. During times of greatest need, he was always there for others. Most recently he had personal pride and satisfaction in running the O’Mara and Carpentieri Funeral Home in Verplanck.

Shawn’s legacy of service extended into his community involvement as well. He was the Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners for the Verplanck Fire District and an active, longtime member of the Verplanck Fire Department.

The Verplanck Fire Department said in a statement that Shawn joined the department in November of 1989 and held several leadership roles, most recently serving as chairman of the Fire District Board and as past captain. “His presence will be deeply missed by all members of the Verplanck Fire Department and the community he served so faithfully,” the department said.

Shawn’s community spirit found additional outlets in the Mt. Carmel Society of Verplanck, the American Legion William J. Boyle Post, the Elks Club of Ossining, and the Free Masons Club of Verplanck.

Friends and family will remember Shawn as a loving, and courageous and fun-loving man. His warm smile and generous nature made him a beacon of light in his community. 

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” —Winston Churchill

Shawn indeed made a life rich in giving, love, and laughter.

As we bid farewell to Shawn Michael O’Mara, we celebrate a life, though shorter than we ever wanted, that was lived to the fullest, marked by unwavering dedication to his family, his country, and his community. His spirit of generosity and kindness will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.

A mass of Christian burial was held on Thursday, September 18, at St. Patrick’s Church in Verplanck, followed by interment with military honors in St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Visiting was held on Wednesday at O’Mara and Carpentieri Funeral Home, 97 Broadway, Verplanck.

The O’Mara & Carpentieri Funeral Home website can be viewed here.

A GoFundMe to support the three O’Mara children who tragically lost their father can be accessed here. As of this writing, it has raised over $20,000 out of a $75,000 goal.

– Sourced from Dorsey-Carlone Funeral Home

Roberta Resendez

Roberta “Robby” Resendez was born on September 30, 1969, in Burley, Idaho. She was the second born to Robert A. Resendez and Maria Guadalupe Gonzalez. On September 8, 2025, she passed away surrounded by her family while listening to her favorite song, Richie Valens’ “We Belong Together.”

Robby attended Minico High School in Heyburn, Idaho. Upon graduation in 1988, she enlisted in the US Marines, becoming a Field Radio Operator serving in Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield during the Gulf War. Robby Resendez was a proud and accomplished Marine; amongst her numerous medals include the South West Asia Service Medal (with two stars) along with the Kuwaiti Liberation Medal. She was honorably discharged as a Corporal in 1992.

Upon leaving service, she started work as a client services representative at Informa Investments, where she worked for twenty-five years. In 2000 she had her twins, Chris and Robert Russo, with Corey Russo. Her boys know her as a dedicated mother with a sense of humor, great strength, and a reserved manner that was coupled with a warm presence. On July 30, 2010, she married her husband, Hugo R. Herrera Jr., at the Peekskill riverfront, a setting dear to her. She was an excellent dancer who loved dancing salsa, bachata, and cumbia with her dance partner and soulmate, Hugo.

Robby is predeceased by her father, Robert A. Resendez, maternal and paternal grandparents, maternal and paternal aunts and uncles, cousins, and her nephew Alejandro Ramirez. She leaves behind her husband Hugo R. Herrera Jr., her sons Robert and Chris, her mother Maria Guadalupe Gonzales, her younger sister Monica Resendez, her older sister Sylvia Farrer with brother-in-law Tony Farrer, her step-son Hugo R. Herrera III with daughter-in-law Maleda Herrera, her grandchildren Edison J. Herrera and Mariella V. Herrera, her step-daughter Carolyn E. Herrera-Perez with son-in-law John D. Herrera-Perez, and a host of friends, fellow Marines, and loved ones.

Robby, we love you, we miss you, and we carry you in our hearts.

Semper Fi.

A memorial service was held at Joseph F. Nardone Funeral Home on Sunday, September 14, 2025.

Rendering of Military Honors by the United States Marine Corps Honor Guard was held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the Peekskill Riverfront Park.

Flowers may be sent directly to Nardone Funeral Home, and/or donations in Robby’s memory can be made to your local animal shelter or veteran’s organizations.

– Sourced from Joseph F. Nardone Funeral Home

Robert Strang

With love and gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Robert A. Strang announces his peaceful passing on Friday, September 12, 2025, at the age of 89.

Born on October 4, 1935, to Harold and Mary Strang, Robert spent much of his life in Montrose, NY, before settling in nearby Crugers. He attended Hendrick Hudson High School and received a bachelor’s degree in education from SUNY Oneonta. He later completed his master’s at NYU. On April 17, 1960, he married the love of his life, Shirley, and together they built a beautiful life and family over 63 joyful years of marriage until her passing in 2023.

Robert dedicated 35 years of his career to teaching in the Peekskill City Schools, shaping countless young lives with patience, knowledge, and kindness. Never one to stay still, he also ran a successful real estate business for more than three decades, building connections and friendships throughout his community.

He found joy in the simple and meaningful moments: playing softball, tending to his garden, and spending time outdoors. Blessed with a beautiful singing voice, Robert filled family gatherings, church services, and quiet evenings alike with music. A man of faith, he lived deeply rooted in his love for God and shared that spirit with all who knew him.

Robert was happiest surrounded by family, especially over hibachi dinners where laughter, love, and storytelling were always on the menu. His greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his sons David (Jen), Jeffrey (Susan), and Mark (Colleen), and his seven cherished grandchildren: Steven, Jessica (Richie), Anna, Matthew, McKenzie, Cole, and Kayley, all of whom adored him. He is also survived by his brother Paul Strang, sister-in-law Stenya Strang, niece Tami Strang, and nephew Nathan Strang. He was predeceased by his brother, Warren.

Robert’s legacy is one of devotion, humor, faith, and unconditional love. His voice, his laughter, and his generous spirit will continue to echo in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

A memorial service and chapel service were held at Joseph F. Nardone Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, followed by a private family internment.

– Sourced from Joseph F. Nardone Funeral Home

Waddell Thornton

With hearts full of love and gratitude for the time we shared, we remember and celebrate the life of Waddell Thornton, who passed away peacefully on September 11, 2025, at the age of 68, surrounded by those who loved him most.

Born on June 8, 1957, in Oxford, North Carolina. Waddell was the oldest son of Robert and Katie Thornton. At an early age, he relocated to New York, where he began his own family.

Waddell was a man who lived for his family. He was happiest at home, surrounded by the laughter of his children and grandchildren, and his love for them was boundless. Whether it was watching football on Sunday, catching the excitement of a NASCAR race, or savoring a good cigar after a long day, Waddell knew how to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

He spent more than three decades proudly serving as a skilled truck driver for the City of Peekskill, where he built friendships along the way.

Those who knew him will always remember his warm smile, his sense of humor, and the way he made everyone feel welcome. He was more than a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend — he was the heart of his family, a steady presence who brought people together.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Deanna; his children, Brittany, Kaitlyn, Jessica (Julian), Ronnie, and Bob; his siblings Wallace Thornton (April), Robin Thorton (Barbara), Kaye Parker, Demetris, Michelle Blue (Bernard), and Connie Brown (Asa); his uncles, Charles Thornton (Brenda), Donell Thornton, and Pervis Downey; his aunts, Mary Moore, Lucy Young, Mary Thornton, Madie Smith, and Lillie Strong (Ben); eighteen grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; cousins; and a lifetime of friends who will forever cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by sister Roberta Miller, parents Robert and Katie Thornton, and grandparents Tom and Maddie Thornton. Though his chair may now sit empty, the love he gave and the lessons he taught will live on in all of us.

A celebration of Waddell’s life will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 10 am to 2 pm at Joseph F. Nardone Funeral Home, 414 Washington Street, Peekskill, NY.

Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor a life that touched so many.

Rest easy, Man Law. Your love, laughter, and legacy will be with us always.

– Sourced from Joseph F. Nardone Funeral Home