Evelyn P. "Polly" Austin passed away at her Fredonia residence on Saturday, December 2, 2017, after a long illness. She was born in Cottage, NY on March 14, 1919 to the late Frank Ray and Georgia May Benton.
Polly and her late husband, Frank, were married on December 6, 1936 at the Presbyterian Parsonage in Silver Creek. Evelyn was given the nickname "Polly" by Frank and from then on, she was best known as "Polly." Unfortunately, she lost her Frank on November 11, 1988.
For 15 years, Polly worked in the sewing department of the Van Raalte Company in Dunkirk and then at Niagara Therapy in Brocton for 20 years. She also was a former member of the Methodist Church in Cottage. For many years, Polly was a caregiver to many members of her family. She was a kind and loving person who always had a smile on her face. Even though Polly was legally blind, she never stopped giving what she could to her family.
Polly is survived by two daughters, Betty L. Austin of Fredonia, who was her caregiver for many years, and Shirley J. Mancuso of Fredonia. She is also survived by nine grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Edward, Douglas and Darwin Benton; and one grandchild. Sadly, her feline companion, Jake, died on November 30, 2017.
Polly's funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 6 at 11:00 AM at the Fantauzzi Funeral Home, 82 East Main St., Fredonia, with the Rev. Rita Moniot officiating. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral service and may call the funeral home on Wednesday prior to the service from 9:30-11:00 AM. Polly's interment will be at the Glenwood Cemetery in Silver Creek.
Since Polly had a love for cats, donations in her memory to the Westfield Stray Cats Rescue and/or the Ten Lives Club of Blasdell would be appreciated.
All arrangements have been entrusted to Michael R. Fantauzzi, owner and director.
Obituary from the Observer
