Lee Gridley, 82

Wellsville, NY - Lee Gridley, 82, passed away on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at Highland Hospital in Rochester, NY following a long battle with illness. She was born in Buffalo, NY on May 19, 1938 the daughter of the late Daniel and Cynthia (Fassett) Gridley. 

Lee was a lifelong resident of Wellsville; who was a 1956 graduate from Wellsville High School. In 1960 she graduated from Goucher College in Towson, MD with her Bachelor's degree. She later earned her Master's in Education from Alfred University. She taught history at Richburg Central School for the majority of her career before retiring. History was not only a subject to teach, but a passion. Lee was a very active member in the Allegany County community, highlights from her very long resume of service include: The Allegany County Planning Board, where at different times she has held the positions of member, secretary, vice chairman, and chairman; The Woman of Distinction Award from the New York State Senate, awarded to her on April 25, 2003; an original and current member of the Comprehensive Plan Implementation Group; a founding member of Genesee River Wilds, where she also served as secretary for years; one of the original members of the Greater Allegany Chamber of Commerce, also serving as secretary for a number of years; a member of the Allegany County Development Advisory Board; and a member of Allegany County Republican Party where she served as committeeman and female vice chairman. She was also a member of St. John’s Episcopal church. 

She is survived by: a sister, Samantha (Clinton) Gilkey of Wellsville; a nephew, Christopher (Mary) Minges of West Henrietta; a niece, Sheila (Kevin) Murphy of Wellsville; and great nieces and nephews, Jenna Minges, Ryan Minges, Daniel Murphy, and Shawn Murphy. 

At this time Lee’s family is  planning a memorial service for a later date due to COVID restrictions. Burial will take place in Woodlawn Cemetery. Friends are asked to please consider memorial donations to the Jones Memorial Hospital Foundation or The David A. Howe Library. To leave online condolences please visit, www.embserfuneralhome.com.