Bronx Town Crier

06/12/2026

With regret, I inform you of the passing of Francis "Frank" Masterson, a devoted brother, uncle, cousin and friend.

(Family written obituary) Frank peacefully passed away on June 6, 2026.

He is survived by his beloved sister, Anne Marie (Tom); his brother, Larry; two cherished nieces, Virginia (Michael and Samantha) and Donna (Paul, Ryan, and Emma), and ten beloved nephews: Brian (Sharon, Jeff, Sean and Kelliann), Johnny (Peggy, Kevin, and Connor), Steven (Jane), Tommy (Steve), Tommy (Noreen, Christopher, and Erin), James (Dawn), Larry (Shelly, Michael, and Kayla), Jimmy, and Gerard (Debbie, Kayleigh, Brandon). He also leaves behind his cousin, Jack (Geri, Mary Anne, Ellen, Geraldine and John). Frank was predeceased by his parents, James and Anna Masterson; his brothers, John and Jimmy; his sisters-in-law, Bernadette, Mary Ellen, Loretta, and Darlene; and his nephew, Kevin.

Frank was born in the South Bronx on August 18, 1935, to James and Anna Masterson, both of whom immigrated to the United States from Ireland. He was raised in a loving, faith-filled family alongside his brothers Jimmy, John, and Larry, his sister Anne Marie, and his many, many cousins, including Jack, whom he considered another brother. His childhood summers were spent in Rockaway, where he created cherished memories with his extended family. Generations gathered there year after year, filling those days with laughter, love, and traditions that would remain close to his heart throughout his life.

Frank attended St. Pius Grammar School and later Cardinal Hayes High School. After graduating, he worked at Kodak until he was drafted to serve in the Korean War and was stationed in Germany. Following his service, he attended Fordham University, where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education. He spent his teaching career at P.S. 41 in the Bronx. Frank was known as a devoted educator who made a lasting impact on the lives of his students through his kindness, patience, and dedication. In his later years of teaching, he took a sabbatical and went back to school to further his education to teach computers. It was there that he learned how to create the notorious greeting cards he made for every family member for every occasion.

His strong catholic faith was the foundation of his life. He attended Mass faithfully and leaned on his deep trust in God through every season of life. Whenever someone was facing hardship, he was quick to offer comfort and encouragement, often reminding them to “keep the faith”. He truly lived by the words of the Prayer of St. Francis: “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” He lived his life as a shining example of what it means to walk in the footsteps of Jesus,

His favorite role in life was being “Uncle Frank.” He was the proud Uncle of two nieces, 10 nephews, 6 Great Nieces, 8 Great Nephews, 2 Great-Great Nephews and 4 Great-Great Nieces with one more on the way in September. He loved his family unconditionally and was always there to support and celebrate his nieces and nephews through every milestone of their lives. Whether attending baseball games, dance recitals, communions, graduations, weddings, welcoming new family members, or joining the many family trips to Bay Head, LBI, the Poconos, and California, he was always front and center with a camera in his hand—smiling from ear to ear, with love and pride shining brightly across his face. He was more than an uncle; he was a father figure, friend, mentor, and constant source of love and encouragement to all of his nieces and nephews. He adored each and every one of them, and they loved him just as deeply in return. He never needed much to be happy, yet he gave so much of himself to the people he loved.

Frank purchased his first home at 101 Edgecliff Terrace in Yonkers, New York. During his years there, he lovingly and devotedly cared for his mother. The love, patience, and extraordinary care he gave her were a true reflection of his selflessness and character. He was incredibly proud of his beautiful home and always opened it warmly to family and friends. Countless parties, family gatherings, and sleepovers were shared there, creating memories that will never be forgotten. No matter the occasion, the evening often ended the same way — with Grandma and Uncle Frank standing at the big picture window, waving goodbye as loved ones headed home.

During the early years of his retirement, he moved to Fawn Lake, New Jersey, where he enjoyed spending time with his brother John and cousin Jack. He enjoyed the peaceful and serene setting, where he spent his days swimming, fishing, golfing, eating out, visiting LBI, talking on the phone with his family and his favorite past time of all relaxing. He enjoyed watching his favorite television programs and if you knew him, you knew not to call at the time of his shows. Listening to music was another of his favorite things to do. He loved to sit in his recliner and just listen to music and the jokes of Hall Roach. His unmistakable chuckle could be heard for miles.

Upon the passing of his Mother in 2000, he made his final move to Apollo Beach, Florida, to be closer to his brother John and was later joined there by his brother Larry. There, he again enjoyed the simple things in life — swimming in the pool, relaxing in his chair while reading the newspaper, going to church, listening to music, and especially spending time with his cherished friend Edna.

More than anything, he cherished being surrounded by family and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. He loved when family came to visit him in Florida, particularly his brother Jimmy and his wife Bernadette, his sister Anne Marie and her husband Tom, and his nieces and nephews. Those visits often included trips to Bahia Beach and Anna Maria Island, two places he truly loved. The laughter shared during those family moments could be heard for miles and created memories that will be treasured forever.

During his final years, he resided at Freedom Plaza Assisted Living in Sun City Center, Florida. He was blessed to have Becky care for him daily and remain by his side until the end. Becky, along with hospice and the caring staff at Freedom Plaza, were instrumental in providing him with comfort, compassion, and dignity throughout the final chapter of his life.

While it is heartbreaking to say goodbye to someone so special, Uncle Frank’s love and the lasting impact he made on the lives he touched will never fade.

Farewell, Uncle Frank. Thank you for the love, laughter, guidance, and faith you gave so freely. You will be deeply missed, cherished always and forever loved.

My deepest condolences to the family, may Frank Rest in Peace.

06/12/2026

With regret, I inform you of the passing of Mary Wynne after a long and productive life.

(Family written obituary) Mary Wynne was born in 1923 in Throggs Neck and lived until the age of 102. She was a thoughtful, loving and wonderful mother and a great friend to so many who lived in the area.

Mary was raised on Calhoun Avenue, just off Bruckner Boulevard, daughter to Margaret and Patrick Brown. She was predeceased by two siblings - Margaret (Peggy) Brown Keating, and John (Jack) Brown.

She was a member of St. Benedict's Parish during the first 96 years of her life and much of her life revolved around St. Benedict's and the area. Her faith and love of God and the church was very strong. She was baptized, confirmed, and married in St. Benedict's Church and she also attended the St. Benedict’s grammar school.

Mary skipped two grades at St. Benedict’s and graduated from James Monroe H.S. at 16. She then applied for work papers and began working at New York Telephone Company, where she stayed for over 15 years.

Mary married James J. Wynne, in St. Benedict's Church, and left the professional work force to start a family. James was a WWII veteran, Port Authority Police Officer, and lifelong member of the “Fighting 69th” regiment. Sadly in 1969, she was widowed when James, passed away.

As a young widow, Mary successfully raised her three sons, James, Brian, and John on Revere Avenue in Throggs Neck. She viewed this as the most important and proudest achievement of her life. Mary’s life was simple. Her life revolved around her house on Revere Avenue, her children, later her grandchildren, and her dogs.

She had a special love of dogs, especially a puppy, Quincy, given to her by her nieces in the West Bronx and another - King, a beautiful German Shepard mix rescued from Hunts Point. In recent days, she enjoyed the many visits of her “grand-dogs”, Tinkerbell, Scout, and Olivia.

She had long been independent, living on own and without help, and had successfully navigated many of life's challenges. In the recent years, when she needed care, she was helped by and lived at the nursing facilities of the Little Sisters of the Poor in Throggs Neck (Jeanne Jugan Residence) and Queens (Queen of Peace Residence). She was extremely grateful for loving care she received at each of these fine facilities.

One of her proudest moments occurred during the Depression when the Interboro Movie Theater on Tremont held a paddle ball contest - she always called it Hi-Li - to win a bicycle. All the kids - young and old - in the neighborhood came to compete, but unsuccessfully. Little Mary vanquished them all and left with the bike that day. Even at 100 years of age, she continued to perform with that paddle ball, displaying an unbelievable skill with hand-eye coordination.

Additionally, she had many interests including an extensive coin collection, and a love of history. It is noteworthy that at age 101 she could recite the US Presidents in order, and refreshed her ability to recite, from memory, the entirety of the Gettysburg Address.

She is survived by her 3 sons, James (Lauren), Brian (Linda) and John (Jan) along with 3 grandchildren John (Katie), Chelsea (James) and Lindsay (Joe). Additionally, she has many loving nieces and nephews from the Keating and Brown families.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to support the fine work of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (www.t2t.org) in honor of Mary Wynne.egret, I inform you of the passing of Mary Wynne.

My deepest condolences to the family. May Mary Rest in Peace.

06/06/2026

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With regret, we inform you of the passing of Danny O'Brien (retired-former member of E79).

(Family written obituary) Daniel Thomas O’Brien, Sr. (better known as Danny), age 70, of Mohegan Lake, NY passed away in his home on June 3, 2026. Danny is survived by his son, Daniel, and ex-wife Donna. He is also survived by siblings William (Billy), Robert (Bobby), Kathleen (Kathy), and Noreen. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Michelle, who died of brain cancer in 2010, and his parents William (Bill) and Mary.

Danny graduated from Christopher Columbus High School in the Bronx, NY, meeting his wife Donna at the luncheonette run by her family on Williamsbridge Road, while he worked next door at the Wagner's Boilermaker. He had a brief stint as a cross-country truck driver before returning to the boilermaker—followed finally by joining the FDNY for twenty years before retiring in 2002.

Danny began his FDNY service at Engine 79 in The Bronx, followed by Engine 52, where he would spend the rest of his career along with his brother Billy. He served as the delegate, a leadership position within the firehouse, from 1999-2002. Danny and Donna bought their first and only home in Mohegan Lake, NY in 1984, and were married in 1985. They had their first child, Michelle, in 1989, and their second, Daniel, in 1991, both at Einstein Hospital in The Bronx.

Danny deeply enjoyed most sports—he played on the Fire Department softball team for many years—and his true fandom resided with the Yankees and the Giants. Danny was also an excellent cook, cooking both for his family, and for the guys at the firehouse. He was a charming man with a charming smile. He was deeply good-intentioned, always offered a helping hand, was endowed with an affinity for laughter, and had a hearty chuckle at that. Danny was a committed and loving husband, father, brother, uncle, neighbor, and friend for many years.

The family is grateful for the enduring support of their friends, family, and loved ones over these many years. Friends can visit with the family on Sunday, June 7, from 3:00 - 7:00 pm at Yorktown Funeral Home in Shrub Oak, NY. The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, June 8, at 10:00 am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton in Shrub Oak, NY. Services will conclude at Rose Hill Memorial Cemetery in Putnam Valley, NY.

Memorial donations in Danny’s name can be made to your preferred charity or to Friends of Firefighters, an organization committed to providing free mental health and wellness services to the FDNY community since 2001. You can donate at https://friendsoffirefighters.org.

Our very deepest condolences go out to the family. May Danny Rest in Peace.

05/31/2026

With much regret, I inform you of the premature passing of Kevin Haugh.

(Family written obituary) Kevin Thomas Haugh, a long time resident of Pearl River, New York, died of ALS on May 29,2026 at Joe Raso Hospice in New City NY. He was 63 years of age. Kevin was born 10/6/1962 in Jersey City NJ. to Thomas Haugh & Ann Guerin. He grew up in Parkchester in the Bronx and lived in Throggs Neck before moving to Pearl River.

Kevin retired in 2021 as a Captain for FDNY EMS in New York City after a thirty eight year career. He was a mentor to many who served with him and was also their greatest advocate. Kevin was a September 11th First Responder, a member of the National EMS Memorial Service and a member of The For Paul Foundation. He was a founding member of the FDNY EMS Pipes and Drums where he was a bass drummer and retired as drum major. He was proud of his Irish heritage and was honored to be part of the band.

Kevin lived in service to others, volunteering in many local organizations. He was a 4th degree Sir Knight in the Knights of Columbus St. Dominic's Council 5343, a member of the American Legion, Pearl River Elks Lodge, and The Ancient order of Hibernians where he had the honor of being aide to the grand marshall in the 2023 Pearl River St Patrick’s Day Parade. He served for the Excelsior Volunteer Fire Dept.

Kevin will be remembered for his impact on the lives of those around him. His loyalty, compassion, humor and his service to others. His strength and humility in his battle with AlS.

Kevin is survived by his mother Ann Guerin Haugh, his son Michael McNally. His brother Brendan Haugh, his wife Annie and their son Joseph. His sister Deirdre Reuther, her husband James, and their children Thomas, Emma & Aidan.

The funeral arrangements are as follows: the Wake will be held on Thursday (6/4) from 3-8pm at Wyman Fisher Funeral Home, in Pearl River; and the Funeral Mass will be held on Friday (6/5) at 10am at St Aedan R.C. Church in Pearl River.

Family Flowers only. Friends may send memorial donations to; Fight for Firefighters Foundation, The Dennis Burke Foundation or Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

My very deepest condolences to the family. May Kevin Rest in Peace. Thank you for your Service to the City of New York.

05/30/2026

With regret, I inform you of the untimely passing of James Deane.

(Family written obituary) James Anthony Deane, born October 18, 1968, from Highland Mills, NY, entered into eternal rest while surrounded by his loving family on May 2, 2026, at Westchester Medical Center. He was born in the Bronx, New York, the son of the late Ita Kelly and John Deane, who immigrated from Ireland.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Shea-Deane, of 27 years, their two daughters, Katherine and Meghan, and his sister, Margaret McCaghey, her husband, Brendan, and their children, Caila, Sean, Molly, and Brendan, of Putnam County, NY.

He graduated from Fordham Prep High School, Class of 1986, and later earned a nursing degree from Orange County Community College. His interest in building was reflected in his work, with his time at Pavarini Construction as a Project Supervisor.

He made holiday traditions special for his daughters by putting together thoughtful gifts and decorations. He attended his daughters’ activities over the years, including dance recitals and soccer games.

James was also a follower of New York sports, particularly the New York Giants and the New York Yankees.

He maintained ties to his Irish heritage and stayed in contact with longtime friends, occasionally traveling and hosting gatherings.

He will be laid to rest with his parents at St. Raymond’s Cemetery in the Bronx, New York. A Mass celebrating his life will be held at St. Barnabus Church in Woodlawn on 6/6 at 11am

In lieu of flowers, donations in his name to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation are appreciated.

My very deepest condolences to the family. May James Rest in Peace.

05/25/2026

With regret, I inform you of the passing of Dorothy Giorgio.

Dorothy is survived by her lovely daughters Jill and Hollie, and her beloved grandson Matthew.

The funeral arrangements are as follows: the Wake will be held on Tuesday (5/26) from3-8pm at Sisto Funeral Home; and the Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday (5/27) at 10:30am at St. Benedict's Church.

My very deepest condolences go out to the family. May Dorothy Rest in Peace.

05/18/2026

With much regret, I inform you of the premature passing of Billy Carter, Jr.

(From the Board of White Cross Fishing Club) Shortly after the passing of his father in November 2025, Billy began fighting a brave battle with brain cancer.

Billy was a lifelong and diehard member of the White Cross - a fiercely loyal guy who loved the Club and spent years as a Trustee on the WCFC Executive Board, as well as a member of the Interclub Committee.

Everyone has a lovable "Billy story." Billy's heart was huge and he had a smile and a nickname for everyone.

Everyone is truly saddened by his passing.

The funeral arrangements are as follows:.

Wake - Wednesday, 3pm - 7pm @ Schuyler Hill Funeral Home; and

Funeral Mass - Thursday, 10am @ St. Frances de Chantal Church.

A Memorial Luncheon will follow the funeral mass at the White Cross Fishing Club.

My deepest condolences to the family and many friends of Billy, may he Rest in Peace.

05/18/2026

With regret, I inform you of the passing of Kathleen Glynn.

(Family written obituary) Kathleen “Kay” Glynn (née Boyle), 95, of Bronx, New York, passed away peacefully on May 13, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Roscommon, Ireland, to Martin and Katie Boyle (née Kilcline), she later moved to London, where she met and married the love of her life, Jim. Together they came to America and settled in Throgs Neck, where they built a family rooted in love, faith, and strong Irish traditions.

A devoted mother, wife, grandmother, sister, daughter, aunt, and friend, she was known for her warm smile, kindness, generosity, humor, compassion, empathy, devotion to her faith, deep connection to her Irish roots, love of conversation (“a chinwag”), and pure goodness. She had the ability to connect with and touch all who knew her. She was a longtime parishioner of St. Frances de Chantal Church.

She is survived by her six children, ten grandchildren, sons- and daughters-in-law, two sisters, and nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, infant daughter, and five siblings.

Dearest Kathleen, Kay, Mom, Mommy, Mama, Grandma, “the Lady Lady,” and Mrs. Glynn, you will be dearly missed and forever remembered for the love, warmth, and faith you brought to all who knew you.

The funeral arrangements are as follows: the Wake will be held on Tuesday (5/19) from 3-7pm at Schuyler Hill Funeral Home; and the Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday (5/20) at St. Frances de Chantal at 10am.

My deepest condolences to the family. May Kay Rest in Peace.

05/02/2026

With regret, I inform you of the sudden and untimely passing of Michael Gramazio, owner of City Island's Man Overboard Bar. Mike leaves behind a Legacy of being one of the most caring, down-to-earth and hard-working individuals that you will ever come across.

The funeral arrangements are as follows: the Wake will be held on Thursday (5/7) frpm 5:00pm - 8:00pm at Sisto Funeral Home; and the Funeral Service will be held on Friday (5/9) at 6:30pm at Sisto Funeral Home.

My very deepest condolences to the family. May Mike Rest in Peace.

04/25/2026

With regret, I inform you of the passimg of Gerry Ward.

(Family written obituary) Gerry Ward, age 84, a 50-year resident of Ridgefield, beloved husband of Diana E. Ward, died peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2026, with his loving family by his side. Born in the Bronx on September 26, 1941, he was the son of the late Florence and James Ward, and brother to James (Winnie), Robert (Bobby), William (Billy), Jane, Donald, Patricia (Pat) and Virginia (Ginny).

After graduating from Cardinal Hayes High School (Bronx, NY) in 1959, Gerry attended Boston College on a basketball scholarship to study mathematics, where he won the Student-Athlete Award in 1963, was the first athlete inducted into the Boston College Hall of Fame in 1970 and had his basketball jersey retired in 2007. Following graduation from Boston College in 1963, Gerry was drafted 5th overall to the NBA by the St. Louis Hawks. He played 4 years overall for the Hawks, the Boston Celtics, the Philadelphia 76ers and the Chicago Bulls, winning a championship in 1965, and playing alongside legends such as Wilt Chamberlain and Billy Cunningham.

Gerry and Diana eventually settled in Ridgefield, CT, where Gerry founded three family businesses (WAI, GWA and WTC), combining his passion for wildlife conservation and entrepreneurial spirit with his retail experience, and founded the Ridgefield Basketball Association, where he coached his children and a generation of players. In his free time, Gerry could be found spending time with his cherished family and friends, behind a camera lens in Africa, traveling with Diana, and giving his time generously to underserved youth.

In addition to his beloved wife of 59 years, Diana, Gerry is survived by his children who loved him dearly: Caroline, James and his wife Hollie, and Gary and his wife Tricia; and his seven grandchildren who adored their “Paparino”: Camryn, McLain, Collin, Payton, Ryan, Reagan and Brennan.

With his Bronx humor, Gerry had a gift for making people laugh and feel at ease, and for making those around him feel seen and valued. He had a way of being there for others in meaningful and lasting ways, often when it mattered most, which will be his truest legacy and why he was so dearly cared for by family and friends.

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, May 26th from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Kane Funeral Home; 25 Catoonah Street, Ridgefield, CT. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 27th at 10:00 AM at Saint Elizabeth Seton Church; 520 Ridgebury Road, Ridgefield, CT. Reception to follow. Interment will take place privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America and/or The Painted Wolf Foundation.

My deepest condolences to the family. May Gerry Rest in Peace.