Orpha Anne Easton

DELEVAN - Orpha Anne (Edmunds) Easton passed away Wednesday (May 21, 2025), at her residence in Delevan, at the age 97.

The daughter of C. Howard and Edna Schultz Edmunds, Anne graduated from Little Valley Central School in 1944. She continued her education at Rochester General Hospital School of Nursing and became a registered nurse in 1947. Anne pursued her studies at the University of Michigan, where she received certification as a Public Health Nurse.

In June of 1950, Anne married her high school sweetheart, Cleon W. Easton. They settled in Machias to build his veterinary practice and raise their children. Anne continued her work as a Public Health Nurse until her children were born and then returned to nursing years later. She worked at the Cattaraugus County Nursing Home in Machias, now known as The Pines, retiring from her position as an RN. After retiring, Anne returned to The Pines as a volunteer. She enjoyed providing books, magazines, warm smiles and a listening ear to the residents there.

Volunteering always brought Anne joy and a sense of purpose. While her children were growing, she was a charter member of the Machias Youth Commission. She was active in community projects and at her church, Machias United Methodist. Anne was a member of the Odosagih Chapter of the Eastern Stars for many years.

After her husband retired, they moved to Delevan, where they joined the Delevan United Methodist Church. Their church family was important to them, and Anne again became an active participant in the life of the church. She and Cleon delivered Meals on Wheels in the Delevan area for a number of years. Living "on the hill," as she called it, in Delevan reminded Anne of the places she had loved in her early years, and she found great pleasure in tending to her garden and feeding her birds. Cross-country skiing was a favorite winter pastime, but all seasons brought her joy.

Having an avid interest in history, Anne also became a volunteer at the Cattaraugus County Museum, first in Little Valley, then Machias. She enjoyed greeting visitors there and served on the board.

Anne is survived by her children, H. Michael (Barbara) Easton of Batavia, Edna M. (Kevin) Scherf of Akron, Cleon W. (Leesa) Easton III of Lime Lake, Anita L. (Bruce) Reisdorf of Somers and M. Jesse (Karen) Curry of East Aurora. She also leaves behind a legacy of love in her 10 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren who all adored her.

Anne was predeceased by her beloved husband, Cleon in 2011 and her infant daughter, Elizabeth in 1959.

Anne's extended family members and dear friends played an important role in her life and were special to her. They were the grateful recipients of the many thoughtful cards and letters she sent over the years.

On a recent note that she received, a friend wrote, "My life became brighter since you crossed my path." The ripples of her love and friendship will continue to spread.

Friends will be received 4–7 p.m. Thursday (May 29, 2025) at the Babbitt & Easton Funeral Home, 7 N. Main St., Franklinville, NY 14737. Final interment will be private, in Little Valley Rural Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at babbitteastonfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Cattaraugus County Museum at P.O. Box 352, Machias, NY 14101, or to the Town of Machias Youth Commission at P.O. Box 87, Machias, NY 14101.