| Date of Birth | October 13, 1942 |
| Date Deceased | December 1, 2022 |
| Hometown | Hornell |
| Home State | N.Y. |
| Service Date | December 10, 2022 |
| Service Time | 10 a.m. |
| Service Location | St. Ann's Church, Hornell |
| Interment Location | St. Mary's Cemetery, Town of Fremont |
George M. Sexsmith.
HORNELL – George M. Sexsmith, 80, of Elm Street, passed away Thursday afternoon (Dec. 1, 2022) at St. James Hospital surrounded by his loving family.
George was born in Hornell, NY to Merlin and Margaret (Matthews) Sexsmith on October 13, 1942. He attended St. Ann’s School and graduated Hornell Senior High in 1960.
George met the love of his life, Bonnie Curran, when he was still in high school. The two married on April 30, 1966, and made a beautiful life together with their two sons, extended family, and many, many friends who were like family.
In 1964, George enlisted in the Army Reserve where he became a drill instructor and reached the rank of Master Sergeant. In 1993, as he retired from the USAR, he was recognized with the Meritorious Service Medal for his dedication and commitment.
George was employed by the NYSDOT, retiring as a Bridge Repair Supervisor after 37 years. He was an active member of the American Legion, AmVets, K of C, and Loyal Order of Hibernians.
George was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Margaret Hill and husband Stanley Hill; his brother-in-law, John Robarts; his nieces, Kimberly Curran, Judy Daly and Karen Kemp; and his nephew, Daemen Lawrence; along with several lifelong friends who were like brothers, especially Roger Argentieri.
George is survived by his wife, Bonnie Sexsmith; sister, Martha Robarts; sons, Michael (Michele Strazzeri) and David (Lisa Arno); grandchildren (who lovingly called him Pa) Cameron, Emily, Christopher, Abby, and Sam; along with several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the Oncology Unit at Dansville and Strong hospitals, the Visiting Nurses Association, and the Comfort Care team at St. James Hospital.
Calling hours are 4 to 7 p.m. Friday (Dec. 9, 2022) at the Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, 285 Main St., Hornell where the U.S. flag and the Army flag will proudly fly in recognition of George’s military service.
Relatives and friends are invited to join his family at St. Ann’s Church, 31 Erie Ave., Hornell where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday (Dec. 10, 2022). Committal prayers and internment, with military honors, will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Town of Fremont.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in his memory to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942, or the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, 388 Upper Oakwood Ave., Elmira, NY 14903-1129. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.
The Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home is honored to assist George’s family with the arrangements.
Online condolences or remembrances of George are welcome below in the comment section or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home.
Uncle George will be so sadly missed in our family. We all have such great memories of taking the train from Wellsville to Hornell to spend the weekend in Hornell and George as a young man in charge of entertaining all of us kids for the weekends. Will so sadly miss him
So sorry to hear of George’s passing, to Bonnie, boys and family you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Uncle George was such a great guy. He had such a warm, inviting personality. He had a very distinct little chuckle that just always made us smile. We will miss George so much.
I’ll alway’s remember my Uncle George, He made us laugh and tell us funny stories too. Thankyou so very much for being such an amazing Uncle in my life . Truelly will miss you love you dearly as well . Rip .. 😪😇
R,I,P, my friend!
Rip great man
Uncle George will be missed by so many family members and friends. So many memories through the years – Christmas eve at the Hill residence, summer holidays at Loon lake, superbowl parties at the Sexsmith residence and so many other family times. I will remember Uncle George for his quit wit and how he always made me smile. I will miss you dearly but I know that you are in a better place. Rest peacefully with those that have passed before you.
It is with great sadness when I heard about George leaving us. George was always a good friend and soldier. I have many good memories with George during our time in the Army’s Wayland Guard. It is with sorrow that I salute the ever-faithful soldier and friend as he moves into his next assignment. My condolences go to the Sexsmith family during this time of loss. Please know that the rest of the soldiers from our group are also feeling the loss.
Major Tom Fraser and the Wayland Soldiers
Uncle George, tough as nails, will be greatly missed. So many fond memories of good times with him and the family.
My deepest sympathy to Bonnie and the family.
Bonnie, Mike, Dave & Families,
So sadden to hear of George’s passing. He was a wonderful guy and a true leader of men especially with the Knights of Columbus. My thoughts & Prayers are with you all during the very difficult time. Tommy