Gail Westfall Putnam

1939 - 2025

Gail (Westfall) Bliss Putnam, 86, of Remsen, NY died October 7, 2025, at Wynn Hospital with her family at her side.

She was born on May 27, 1939 in Utica, daughter of D. Everett and Ruth Bliss of Whitesboro. She was educated in Whitesboro schools, received her bachelors degree at Cornell University and her Masters degree at the University of Rhode Island. She was married to Dwight on March 31, 1958. She taught as a Home-Economics teacher briefly at Remsen HS, as an Adjunct Professor at FIT in New York City, a curator with the Remsen-Steuben Historical Society

and as an educator at Erie Canal Village and Sturbridge Village and worked in later years at Oswegatchie FFA camp as the crafts and camp store director. She was a member of the Holland Patent Presbyterian church and served for years as a Sunday school teacher, along with becoming a leader with the Methodist Youth Organization and a member of the Fortnightly Club. As a leader for the local Singing Hills 4-H club, she influenced numerous young girls in sewing, baking, gardening and numerous life skills in the community. Her meticulous focus as a seamstress resulted in many family and friend wedding dresses and creating intricate costumes for the Remsen-Steuben Players Dinner Theater. Ultimately, throughout her life, she was mainly dedicated to raising her family.

Gail is survived by her husband, Dwight and children, Dwight "Buzz" (Maryanne) Putnam and Sara (Bob) McGough, her sister, Deborah Bliss, and brother Dave (Meg) Bliss. Grandchildren, Christopher and Timothy Putnam, Danielle (John) Rogers, Krista (Matt) Smith, Melissa (Adam) Czajka, Lizzy (Matt) Rockefeller and 8 great-grandchildren, a special cousin, Skip Watrous and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents Everett and Ruth Bliss and brother, Chip Bliss.

The family would like to thank Shirley Tolbert and Debbie Bliss for their unselfish loving care during the past few years during her illness. Also a special thanks to Sebina Miskic who showed compassionate care in the family's time of need.

As per Gail's wishes, there will be no calling hours. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 on Monday, October 13 at the Holland Patent Presbyterian Church followed by interment at the North Gage Cemetery. All friends and family are welcome to celebrate Gail's life at the Holland Patent American Legion at 2PM.

Friends may consider donations to Remsen-Steuben Historical Society (Gail's favorite passion).

Arrangements are in care of Dimbleby Funeral Homes, Inc. Online tributes and messages of sympathy may be left at www.dimblebyfh.com.