Willis Lee Osborn

Willis Lee "Ozzie" Osborn, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on February 5, 2026, at the age of 91 in Bath, NY. Born in Corning, NY, on March 12, 1934, to the late Chester and Hazel Osborn, Ozzie grew up with a zest for life and a passion for education that he would carry with him throughout his years.

Ozzie was a devoted husband to his wife, Barbara (Ide) Dreher Osborn, with whom he shared many cherished memories, including their love for games such as bridge and euchre. They travelled extensively and spent many happy winters in Myrtle Beach, SC.

In addition to his wife, Barbara, Ozzie is survived by his son Kenneth (Sandra) Osborn of Lebanon, Indiana, and daughter, Annette Osborn of Rochester, NY. Barbara's children, Max Joseph (Denise) Dreher of Canisteo, NY, and Karen (Joe) Prescott of DeSoto, Kansas. Ozzie's grandchildren, Amaya Rose Osborn, Hillary (Brian) McCaffrey, Jay (Emily) Dreher, Gracie (Kyle) Contestabile and Michelle Leanne, and his four great-grandchildren. His family always appreciated his genuine interest in their careers, sports, and educational endeavors. Ozzie was predeceased by the mother of his children, Mitzi in 1993. They met while he was in the Air Force serving in Okinawa, Japan.

Ozzie's life was marked by his dedication to education. As a retired English teacher from Huntington High School in Long Island, NY, who also taught at Campbell High School, he left an indelible mark on the lives of countless students. His ability to connect with his students and inspire a love for literature was only matched by his quick wit and sense of humor. He was known as a joker, always ready with a playful story or a clever pun to lighten the mood.

His memory will be cherished and kept alive by those who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was a man of strong faith, a prayer warrior who also had a lovely singing voice. He will be deeply missed, but the light he brought into this world will never fade.

A Memorial Service will be held in the spring at the Campbell Methodist Church with Pastor Veronica Seeley officiating. Burial will be in Chapel Knoll Cemetery, Coopers Plains, NY.