Pauline P. Neiss

Pauline Pearl Neiss of 40 Salo Dr., Trumansburg, passed away unexpectedly at Cayuga Medical Center on Monday, March 23, 2009 at the age of 81.

Born on June 3, 1927 in Clarksburg, West Virginia, Pauline was the daughter of Okey Morgan Dean and Elsie Maude (Bonnell) Dean. At an early age it was evident that Pauline enjoyed helping others. Nurturing those around her seemed effortless and natural, especially when it pertained to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. This warmness of soul also benefited several foster children over the years when Pauline found a temporary safe-haven in her heart and home for them.

Pauline could often be found tending her flower gardens, crocheting a keepsake for family or friends or canning (it seemed that she gave more canned goods to others than she kept for herself). She also quietly followed a few favorite soap operas and anxiously cheered on NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt, Jr.

Wintering in Florida brought her many fond memories, but many awaited her return to Trumansburg for the comfort they gained in knowing that Pauline's coffee pot was always on and her heart open for anyone who wanted to stop and visit for awhile.

In addition to her parents, Pauline was preceded in death by her husband Charles D. Neiss, Jr on September 16, 2000; two sisters, Frances L. Ball and Leona M. Dean, and three brothers, Okey M. Dean, Jr., Clinton Dean and Maynard Dean. She is survived by three sons, Harold (Wanda), Charles (Sharon) and Randy (Lisa) all of Trumansburg; seven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Christine (Brent) Sherman of Trumansburg (Christine was a devoted friend and caregiver as well as a sister), Virginia Shanabarger of WV and Rachel Lantz of Ohio, and many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 28, 2009 at Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South St., Trumansburg with the Rev. Tim Dean officiating.

The family asks those considering a contribution in Pauline's memory to kindly consider Trumansburg Volunteer Fire Co., EMS, P.O. Box 418, Trumansburg, NY 14886.