Gerald Russell Crainey, age 90, of Cayuta, NY, passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Schuyler Hospital.
Gerald was born on June 13, 1935, in Cayuta, NY, to the late Russell and Myrtle (States) Crainey. Gerald is predeceased by a son, Russell Crainey; a daughter, Andrea Brooke; sister, Gladys Beebe; son-in-law, Michael Merrick; and grandsons, Levi Merrick and Joey Besecker.
He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 56 years, C. Joyce Crainey, at home; his children, Tammy Merrick of Waverly, NY, Julie Pfister of Ohio, Randy Besecker of Horseheads, NY, and Monica Gardner of Burdett, NY; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Nick Schroth (Cassie Povero) and their children, Kristine (Jennifer) Gardner and their daughter; Ashley Schroth; Danielle Schroth and her children; Russell Crainey and his son, Tyler Crainey; Brandon Besecker and his family; Riley Merrick and his daughter; Cody Merrick and his family; Amber Merrick and her children; Matthew Brooke; Becka Pfister and her family; and Bradley Pfister.
Gerald attended Odessa-Montour High School, graduating with the Class of 1953. He worked for Schuyler County Highway Department as a mechanic and supervisor, retiring in 1998 after 27 years of devoted service. He loved the outdoors. After making his home in Cayuta, he found joy in making maple syrup, as well as hunting and fishing.
A special thank you to Nick, Cassie, and Tammy for their love and care.
There will be no funeral services held at this time.