Photo courtesy of Reed & Benoit Funeral Home Inc. - Watertown
Watertown, New York
Aug 11, 1945 – May 19, 2025
WATERTOWN, NY – Earl M. Alberry, 79, of Breen Ave, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 19, 2025 at Hospice of Jefferson County, surrounded by his loving family.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 from 11-1 pm at Reed & Benoit Funeral Home. A memorial service will immediately follow at 1 pm at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will then take place in the Sackets Harbor Military Cemetery. There will be a Celebration-of-Life gathering to follow at 4:00 pm at the Watertown VFW, Bellew Ave.
Earl was born on August 11, 1945 in Watertown, New York, son of the late Marshall Alberry and Pauline (Belcher) Simmons. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1965. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served with distinction during the Vietnam War. After nearly four years of active duty, he was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant. Committed to continued service, he went on to join the Army National Guard, dedicating nearly 23 additional years to his country.
On May 7, 1971 he married Deborah Fortunato in Watertown, NY.
Earl found great joy in traveling, riding motorcycles, and, above all, bringing happiness to his beloved wife. His greatest pleasure was spending time with his family - especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who held a special place in his heart. He was a former member of the Watertown VFW, honoring his lifelong dedication to service and community.
Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Deborah; three children, Tina (Josh) Brackett of Harrisville, NY, Timothy (Kaleigh) Alberry of Watertown, NY, and Kristy (Michael) Buchalla of Cortland, NY; grandchildren, Jared, Justin, Jayna, Hunter, Jake, and Benjamin; two step-granddaughters, Madison and Kennedy; four great-grandchildren, Laelynn, Jaxon, Lilah, and Rowan; as well as several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Earl was predeceased by six siblings.
Arrangements are with Reed & Benoit Funeral Home, Inc. and condolences may be made online at www.reedbenoit.com.
Read MoreI am so sorry for your family's loss Earl was a great guy. I knew Earl back in the late 60's. I used to visit at his home
and had many great chats with his family. Hugs & prayers for you all
Carol Kostyk-Hackett
May 22, 2025 | Dexter, NY | Friend
Debbie, My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Earl and I had been friends for 65 years and I cherished all of them. He was a very caring man who was liked by everyone we knew. He enjoyed checking out my dad's trucks and like me he enjoyed all the equipment. I feel bad that our lives and careers took us so far apart for decades but like a true friend every time we did get together it was if no time time at all had passed. He will be very much missed by me and all who had the...
Wayne Warner
May 22, 2025 | Clay, NY | Friend
I worked with earl at county for a few years great grade all operater and friend
George Cummings
May 22, 2025 | Watertown, NY | Coworker
My sincere condolences to the Alberry family on the passing of Earl. I met Earl at the wash rack on Fort Frum and he and I became good friends. Every time I stopped to wash my military vehicle, Earl was always so helpful and always happy with some kind of a humorous remark. RIP Earl we will take it from here.
James Howley
May 22, 2025 | Beaver Falls, NY | Friend
Veteran's assembly, Smith Intermediate School
Kristy Buchalla
May 22, 2025 | Cortland, NY | Daughter
Dad and daughter, 7/18/15
Kristy Buchalla
May 22, 2025 | Cortland, NY | Daughter
Deepest Sympathies.
Brian Wohnsiedler
May 22, 2025 | Harisville, NY | Classmate
Debbie, and family, I’m very sorry for your loss.
Some of my fondest moments growing up were around Earl and all the military equipment. Our Dad’s would drive the Army tractor and trailers pulling tanks in the parades, I don’t think they missed many. Timmy and I would dress up like soldiers and ride in the trucks or on the tanks while going through the parades. These moments seem like just yesterday. I remember Earl saying, “I heard they are going to start putting round tires on...
Chucky Wilcox
May 22, 2025 | Charlotte, NC | Friend
Earl and I had a shared connection but I never had the opportunity to meet him. My condolences to his wife, children, grand children and great grandchildren.
Amos Blood
May 22, 2025 | Watertown, NY | Brother