POTSDAM . . .

Gay Ann Bennett, 60, of Potsdam, and a former Canastota resident, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 23, 2025, at The Jewish Hospital - Mercy Health, Cincinnati, Ohio.

She was born on January 12, 1965, in Oneida, NY, the daughter of Kenneth Bennett and Sandra (Bishop) Bennett.

Gay Ann spent her early years in Canastota, attending the Canastota schools. She later attended Mater Day Community College in Massena. Gay Ann has lived in Northern New York for many years.

She worked for Martin Manor Nursing Home in Canton for several years.

Gay Ann enjoyed singing, cooking, lighthouses, Elvis, Cinderella, and spoiling her grandchildren.

She married Shane F. Weller on April 11, 1981, in Canastota.

Surviving are: two daughters, Samantha J.D. Willard of Potsdam, and Kayla A. and David Gardner of Massena; her mother, Sandra Curto of Canastota; two brothers, Joseph J. Curto, II and Carlos Clavijo of NYC, and Kenneth, Jr. and Michelle Bennett of NC; one stepbrother, Louie and Mary Jo Curto of Tequesta, FL; and one stepsister, Kathy and Paul Meador of LaBelle, FL; eight grandchildren; two great grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Gay Ann was predeceased by her father, Kenneth Bennett; and her stepfather, Joseph J. Curto, Sr.

Calling hours will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the J. Homer Ball Funeral Home, Inc., 201 James Street, Canastota. A memorial service will be held following the calling hours, at 3 p.m. on Saturday, at the funeral home. Pastor Jeff Rogers of Christ Community Church, Camillus, will officiate. Interment will be in St. Agatha's Cemetery, Canastota.

In her memory, donations may be made directly to the funeral home to help with her funeral costs, with envelopes available at the funeral home.