George M. Sexsmith

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.