Obituaries

Evelyn Gerchman, 93, a beloved educator and cherished member of her community, passed away on October 29, 2025, at the Gardens of Green Ridge, Scranton, PA. Born on June 2, 1932, in Thompson, PA, Evelyn was a dedicated teacher and an inspiring figure whose influence extended far beyond the classroom.

Evelyn graduated from Thompson High School. After high school she earned her teacher's certificate from Mansfield State College and later achieved her master's degree, demonstrating her commitment to education and lifelong learning. She began her career teaching in the Susquehanna Valley School and spent the majority of her career in Susquehanna Community School District until her retirement. Even after retirement, she continued to enrich the lives of students as a substitute teacher until 2019. Throughout her career, Evelyn was known for her involvement in various school initiatives, such as Santa's Secret Shop, the 4th grade camping trip and working with the parent involvement committee. She was also a long-time member of the Susquehanna County Amateur Radio Club.

Evelyn's spirit of generosity and willingness to help others were hallmarks of her personality. She was a hard-working woman who took great pride in caring for her family and community. She married Anthony in 1961, and together, they built a house in 1966 that became a warm home filled with love and laughter. She was an avid gardener which she spent countless hours maintaining.

As a lifelong member of the North Jackson Community Church. Evelyn was actively involved in the church women's group. She was a proud member of the Eastern Star where she held many governance positions. Additionally, her dedication to youth development shone through her role as a 4-H leader for over 35 years sharing her passion for crocheting and quilting. She was also a member of the "Monday Club" reflecting her creative spirit and desire to connect with others.

Evelyn found immense joy in her family, taking great pride in her daughters, Amy Young, Cindy Wood and son-in-law, Frank Wood; grandchildren, Paul Young and Sara Young; sister, Twila Williams; many nieces, nephews and cousins who will carry her legacy forward.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Jennetta (Holbrook) Potter; brothers, Francis Jr., Stewart, Robert; as well as sisters, Janet, Marjorie, Linda. Each of them left a mark on her life, and she cherished their memories.

A visitation to honor Evelyn's life will be held on November 8, 2025, from 9:00am to 11:00am at the North Jackson Community Church, 976 Deer Ridge Road, Susquehanna.

A Memorial Service will begin at 11:00am followed by interment in North Jackson Cemetery. There will be a luncheon after, and all are invited to stay and share memories.

Evelyn Gerchman will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to education, her nurturing spirit, and the love she shared with her family and community. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of kindness, commitment and compassion that will not be forgotten.

Arrangements by Hennessey's Funeral Home, Inc., 747 Jackson Avenue, Susquehanna.

Kathleen M. Ragard, 63, of Great Bend, PA entered into rest on November 2, 2025 with her family by her side.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Robert Ragard; children, Michael (Danielle) Ragard, Nicole Ragard, Kristen Ragard, Joseph (Kristen) Ragard; granddaughter, Madison; siblings, Paulette (Billy) Allen, Donna (Jim) Theobald, Donald (Jeanne) Button, Rosie (Jim) Dunn, Christine (Mark) Jones; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

She was predeceased by her parents, Donald and Beatrice Button.

Kathy graduated from Blue Ridge in 1980. Organizing chaos, forming a plan and following through with the plan, she implemented in every aspect of her life. She was the Office Manager for the District Attorney for 27 years. She served as a Eucharistic Minister for St. Lawrence Catholic Church, where she was a longtime member. Kathy was an EMT with Great Bend/Hallstead Volunteer Ambulance. She served as the Blue Ridge Triplets President and the Knights of Columbus Auxiliary President. Kathy had an eye for design and decorated for every holiday. She was widely known as "Aunt Kathy" within the community. She enjoyed cooking, baking and loved to entertain family and friends. Her nieces and nephews will miss squirreling away her special treats. Kathy was a devoted member of her community and special part of her family, her absence leaves a void that will never be filled.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00am, Friday, November 7, 2025 at the Most Holy Trinity Parish, the St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Great Bend, PA location.

Interment will be made in St. Lawrence Cemetery.

Friends may call from 1:00-3:00pm and 6:00-8:00pm, Thursday at the Tuttle-Yeisley Funeral Home, Inc. Hallstead, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her memory may be made to: Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 53 Glenmaura National Blvd, Moosic, PA 18507.

Thomas F. Feely, Jr. of Jackson, PA died on October 29 at Geisinger CMC after a short illness. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; daughters, Kristen Wilson and husband, Philip, Jennifer Bellamy and her husband, Cy; son, Tommy and his wife, Anna; grandchildren, Ryan Logan, Tim Wilson and wife, Millie, Brett Wilson, Shaylee Bellamy, Brody Feely, Caitlyn Feely; great-grandchildren, Bram, Griffin, Hewitt, and Camden Wilson. He is survived by his sisters, Kathy White and Joanne Laspino.

He was preceded in death by his older brother, Jim and his younger brother, Joe.

Tom was a military miniature enthusiast, and made his living creating, painting and selling 54mm figures and dioramas. He had a special respect for The Battle of the Alamo in Texas, and produced several large-scale dioramas which exist in multiple locations in Texas. His masterwork is the creation of a 24 foot by 14 foot full scale depiction of the Alamo, which is enshrined in a place of honor in the prestigious Texas Hall of State in Dallas, Texas.

While he was known for building masterful dioramas of historical events, his proudest accomplishment was starring in the leading role in the classic 1952 Christmas school production of Frosty the Snowman. While the pressure might have been too much for some, it gave him the courage to face the Vietnamese in 1968, where he earned the Bronze Star. He aspired to become Santa in his later years. With a few more years he would have succeeded.

Arrangements by Daniel K. Regan Funeral Home, 232 South Main Street, Montrose, PA.