Shirley Champion

Shirley A. Champion 73, of Burdett, NY, passed away at her “second home” on December 13, 2011, with her family at her side, at the home of her daughter in Alpine. Born on May 20, 1938, she was the youngest daughter of the late Robert L. Usher Sr. and Anna Bush Usher. She married Arthur B. Champion, who predeceased her in May of 1995, along with her sister Mary Frith, and brothers, Robert, William, and George Usher. Shirley was a lifetime resident of Burdett, working at Westinghouse, several vineyards in the Hector area and then she went on to work for Cornell University, retiring in 2000. Shirley loved to fish, hunt, play cards and spend time with her grandchildren. She was a beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother to her family and was always there for anyone in need. Shirley will be truly missed by her friends and family. Surviving her are two daughters, Lorraine Evans (Nick Lupo) of Alpine, and Sharon Champion (Paul Knapp) of Ithaca; grandchildren, Andrew Champion (Olivia Miller), Eric Wheaton, and Peter (PJ) Knapp; great-grandchildren, Andrew J. Champion Jr. (CJ), and Kristopher Champion; step-grandchildren, Sylvia, Lexi, and Juli; brother, John Usher (Christine); sister, Pauline Goelz (Jim); sisters-in-law, Paulina Usher and Gay Usher; and a very special sister-in-law and friend, Regina Usher. Also several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Calling hours will be on Saturday, Dec 17th at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. 4th St., Watkins Glen, from 12-2pm; with funeral service immediately following at 2pm. Burial at Hector Union Cemetery. Memorial donations in her memory may be made to the Burdett Fire Dept., P.O. Box 238, Burdett, NY 14818, or Schuyler County Vol. Ambulance, P.O. Box 2, Watkins Glen, NY 14891. You may sign a guestbook or “Light A Candle” online at www.Royce-Chedzoy.com.