Erial Ann Seeley

Erial A. Seeley passed away on June 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and the memories of a life well lived. She will be remembered for her kindness, dedication to her family, and the simple joys she found in everyday life.

Born in Cooperstown, New York, Erial attended the Utica School of Commerce, where she pursued her education before beginning a career that reflected her strong work ethic and commitment to her community. She was employed by L.P. Butts and Breese’s, where she formed lasting friendships and earned the respect of her colleagues.

Erial was a devoted volunteer with the Morris Cottontails 4-H Club, sharing her time and talents with local youth and helping to foster a sense of community. She found happiness in life’s quiet pleasures, especially reading, working on puzzles, and bird watching. Whether enjoying a good book, completing a challenging puzzle, or observing the birds outside her window, she appreciated the beauty and wonder in the world around her.

She is survived by her loving children: Erial A. C. Jones of Fort Plain, New York; Billie Jo Seeley of Oneonta, New York; Patricia M. Wood of Oneonta, New York; and William L. Seeley Jr. of Oneonta, New York.

She was a proud grandmother to Kayla Seeley and Alissa Seeley, both of Oneonta, New York; Kristopher Wood of Oneonta, New York; Cassandra Byrd of Duffield, West Virginia; Kyle Southern-Wood of Pinetops, North Carolina; Katelynn Jones of Waterloo New York, Travis Jones, and Christian Jones, of Fort Plain, New York; and Dale Brandenburg of Oneonta, New York. She was also blessed with twelve great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

Erial was predeceased by her grandfather, Harry Danforth; her mother, Erial R. Danforth-Buddenhagen; her father, Kurt Patterson; her stepfather, Harold Buddenhagen; and her beloved granddaughter, Ashley Mallette.

Above all, Erial cherished her family. Her love, wisdom, and gentle presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Though she is no longer with us, her memory will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives she touched.

A memorial service will take place on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 12 PM at Grummons-Bookhout-Bennett Funerals & Cremations, 14 Grand Street, Oneonta, where family will greet friends from 11am till service time.

Burial will take place after the service in Oneonta Plains Cemetery, Oneonta. A celebration of Erial’s life will be held in Neahwa Park immediately following. Please bring a dish to pass.

Family and friends are invited to remember her by sharing stories, enjoying a good book, solving a favorite puzzle, or taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature she loved so much.

Arrangements are by Grummons Bookhout Bennett Funerals and Cremations, Oneonta.

Please visit www.grummonsfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence or memory for the family.