Constance A. Buckholtz

Age 86.98, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 5, 2021. Connie was born in Elmira, the daughter of Ross and Gertrude (Qualey) Lewis. She is predeceased by her loving husband William L. Buckholtz; daughters, Cindy and Colleen; brothers and sisters-in-law, Ross "June" Lewis, Jr., Gerald and Gladys Lewis, Robert "Bucky" and Rosemary Lewis; brother-in-law Eugene Buckholtz and his long-time partner Ann Madison. Connie is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Scott Buckholtz and Stacie Armstrong of Horseheads, NY; daughter and son-in-law, Gail and Michael Hamblin of Jackson, GA; grandchildren, Jessica Buckholtz, Jamie Scanlan, Benjamin (his wife Jessica) and Amanda Hamblin, Katelyn and Collin Armstrong; great-grandchildren, Debron Lee, Charlee and Andy Scanlan; sister-in-law, Betty Lewis; along with several nieces and nephews. Connie graduated in 1952 from Elmira Free Academy and married her high school sweetheart, William Buckholtz in 1955, at which time she was pictured in a national bridal magazine. Connie enjoyed time with her family as a mother and housewife, and after the passing of her sister-in-law Gladys in 1967, she stepped in with caring for the eight Lewis children, becoming their second mom. Connie's love of children led into a lifelong career as one of the best babysitters ever known, and will be remembered for her culinary skills with PB&J and bologna sandwiches. Connie and Bill loved horse-racing, enjoying frequent trips to racetracks in Canandaigua and Saratoga and attended several Triple Crown races. Throughout the years, Connie and Bill could be found at the family cottage at Keuka Lake, at a horserace, on a road trip, out for happy hour, dinner or hosting a get-together, laughing and joking with family and many friends. Connie loved everyone, as she lacked judgement of others and made the best of any situation. Loved by all, Connie will be remembered for the warmth of her smile and her sparkling personality. She was very simply, love and joy. The family would like to express their gratitude to all the home caregivers and the staff of St. Joseph's SNF who have been a part of Connie's life during the last few years. Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W. Water Street, Elmira, on Monday, November 8, 2021 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. A prayer service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at 9:15 a.m., followed by a 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Patrick's Church, 604 Park Place, Elmira. A livestream of the Mass will be available through the Facebook page for Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish (https://www.facebook.com/ElmiraCatholic). Masks are required at the church. Interment, with committal prayers will then take place at St. Peter & Paul's Cemetery.