Village of Elmsford

06/14/2026

06/05/2026

I regret to inform you of the passing of Attilio Oliva.

Attilio was a much loved School Crossing Guard for the Village,
safely crossing the Dixson Primary School Children on
the corner of Van Wart Street and South Hillside Avenue.

Everytime you went by that corner he had a big smile on his face
and he waved to you with the biggest greeting.

The students, parents and teachers loved saying hello and goodbye to him each day.

He loved the job, and we loved having him there.

In the summer he was the Lunch Program Director at our Summer Camp
where he enjoyed seeing the children for the summer.

His daughter Crissy is our Summer Camp Director and his other daughter
Marisa is our Assistant Camp Director.

I have directed all Village Flags to be lowered to Half Staff today
until after Attilio's funeral on Monday.

Attilio will be missed my all.

Thank you to Ballard Durand Funeral Home for handling the arrangements

Please join the Trustees, Administrator, Village Staff and I,
and keep the Oliva family in your prayers.

Sincerely,
Robert Williams
Mayor
Village of Elmsford

Wake:

Sunday June 7, 2026 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Ballard Durand Funeral Home
72 East Main Street
Elmsford, N.Y. 10523
914-592-6300

Funeral Mass:

Monday June 8, 2026 11:00 A.M.
Church of the Magdalene
525 Bedofrd Road
Pocantico Hills, N.Y. 10591 (Sleepy Hollow)
914-631-0529

Interment:

Mount Calvary Cemetery

Obituary:

Attilio 'Til' Oliva of Elmsford, NY was called to God on June 3rd, after a brief and sudden illness surrounded by his family. He was 72.

Born to Orazio and Rosa in the village of Montessarchio in Naples, Italy, he and his family immigrated to White Plains, NY when he was very young. He attended St. Bernard's parish school, and went on to be a standout All County football player at Archbishop Stepinac (Class of '72). He went to the University of Bridgeport on a full football scholarship.
'Til' wed his high school sweetheart, the love of his life, 'Jo' -Joann (Iannibelli) in 1976. The couple was getting ready to celebrate 50 years of marriage and were going to be recognized for this momentous golden anniversary at St. Patrick's Cathedral this coming weekend. They loved listening to good music together, going to concerts, and trips to their 'second home' in A.C. at Oceans Resort. Mostly, they loved sharing time with family and found great joy in hosting family gatherings including the much awaited grilled stuffed lobster 'feasts'.

In the early part of his career, Attilio worked for various distributors including Wonder Bread, Pepsi, Boars Head and Coca Cola before retiring in his early 60s. More recently, when he was not golfing or working in his garden, he could be found on his corner serving as a school crossing guard for the Village of Elmsford. He also volunteered regularly with the hot lunch program at Our Lady of Sorrows School. And for the last five summers, Attilio was the lunch program manager at Elmsford Day Camp where he truly enjoyed working alongside his two daughters, Cristina and Marisa, not only preparing the lunch, but also creating and designing systems to make everything run efficiently. He also served as a mentor to the young people he supervised in this role.

He was a loyal NY Yankees fan, and NY Jets fan (J-E-T-S). But, his favorite team to cheer on was the Pearl River Pirates that his son Michael coached in both football and baseball, along with any and every team that his children and grandkids have played on or coached through the years. He was also an avid golfer, and he took great pride in both his vegetable and flower gardens. All of his grandchildren loved helping 'Grandpa' or 'P pop' with the garden. They will remember him as their biggest supporter for all of their sports teams and he gave the loudest applause (and laughter) when attending their theater plays and performances.

He was a part of many groups, and he will be remembered by these friends as someone who was of service to many in their time of need. He was a 'doer' and a 'helper' and as one recently shared he was a 'true example' for others.

Attilio 'Til' Oliva is survived by his beloved wife Joann (Iannibelli), and their three children : Michael Oliva ( Kristin) of Pearl River, NY, Cristina Kraemer (Tom) of Greenburgh, and Marisa Imhof( Nick) of Brewster; his cherished grandchildren: Christopher ( 14), Nicholas (12), Anthony (12), Emilia Faith (8), Lucas ( 5) and Thomas (4). He was also a bonus grandpa to Salvatore, Olivia and Julia.

Attilio is also survived by his four siblings: Tina Ackerly of Connecticut, Celia Mazziotti of Pennsylvania, Cathy( Bob) of San Diego, and Carmine (Stefanie) of New Rochelle; his mother-in law Gloria Iannibelli, and brother in law John Iannibelli Jr., both of West Harrison, along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

He is predeceased by his parents, Orazio and Rosa, who he has now reunited with in heaven. He is also predeceased by a sister named Connie whom he never met and looks forward to meeting in heaven.

A loving husband, father, grandfather and friend- it brought Attilio great happiness when he knew those that he loved were happy.

He will be dearly missed.

He loved flowers, so those are welcomed, but in lieu of them if you prefer to make a donation in his name you can do so to Salesian Missions, Our Lady of Sorrows School, or a charity of your choice.

06/04/2026

05/29/2026

I regret to inform you of the passing of Harold Esannason.

Harold Honorably and Proudly served in the United States Army.

His love of local history and skiiing was second to none.

Please join the Trustees, Administrator and I,
and keep the Esannason family in your prayers.

Thank you to Ballard Durand for handling the services.

Sincerely,
Robert Williams
Mayor
Village of Elmsford

Wake:

Sunday May 31, 2026 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Ballard Durand Funeral Home
72 East Main Street
Elmsford, N.Y. 10523
914-592-6300

Obituary:

Harold A. Esannason was born in Harlem, New York, on October 4, 1938, to William A. Esannason and Mary Rebecca Leonard Esannason, shortly before the onset of World War II. The second son in the family, Harold and his brother Donald attended New York City public schools, where Harold's artistic talent emerged at an early age. Recognized for his exceptional ability in fine arts, he received a scholarship as a young student to study painting at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. A gifted graphic designer as well, Harold later attended college to further develop his artistic and design skills, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on both the art world and the African American community.

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Harold was drafted into the United States Army. Before completing basic training, he was selected to serve as a classified illustrator for the United States Army War College, a distinction that reflected his extraordinary artistic abilities. Following his military service, he worked as an illustrator for the New York City Department of Health. During this same period, he exhibited and sold his paintings in galleries throughout Harlem and Brooklyn, as well as in well-known African American restaurants and cultural establishments.

Harold later became Graphic Director for the New York City Human Resources Administration under Mayor John Lindsay. During this time, he designed and built his family home in Westchester County after relocating from the Bronx. In addition to his professional work, he dedicated himself to community-based artistic and publishing projects, redesigning publications for numerous local organizations and initiatives. He also became actively involved with ACBAW (Association of Community Based Artists of Westchester), an arts organization in Mount Vernon.

Harold's life took a dramatic turn following a ski weekend trip with a social group from Brooklyn. Seeing a unique opportunity, he left his position with New York City in the early 1970s to establish what would become the largest African American ski tour company in the world: Black International Leisure. As the organization grew in popularity among skiers of all backgrounds, the company was renamed International Leisure Ltd. to reflect its broader, inclusive mission of bringing people together through travel and winter sports.

Through International Leisure, Harold introduced thousands of people to skiing by organizing Ski & Music Festivals at renowned French ski resorts such as Avoriaz and La Plagne. He later expanded the experience to the world-famous resort of St. Moritz in the Swiss Alps, long known as a destination for international celebrities and affluent travelers. He also brought the festival experience to Quebec, Canada, transforming Mount Ste-Anne into a vibrant Ski & Music Festival destination. These events allowed countless East Coast skiers to experience the culture and excitement of international ski travel closer to home. Under Harold's leadership, International Leisure earned a distinguished reputation for providing first-class ski vacations at premier destinations around the globe.

In the mid-1980s, Harold returned to graphic design and publishing, producing dynamic publications for organizations, churches, and businesses throughout Westchester County. In 1992, he collaborated with his close friend and acclaimed artist Vinnie Bagwell on a proposal submitted to the Yonkers branch of the NAACP to create a publication documenting the history of African Americans in Yonkers, New York. Together, they co-wrote and Harold designed and published the acclaimed work A Study of African American Life in Yonkers From the Turn of the Century. The publication became highly sought after, with requests from individuals and libraries across the country.

In 1994, Harold was invited to help produce a book highlighting the lives and contributions of African Americans in White Plains, New York. He co-wrote, designed, and published the coffee-table book On the Streets Where We Lived, which reached audiences across racial and cultural lines and achieved national recognition. The New York Public Library acquired several copies for its permanent collection.

Harold later continued this important historical work through another major publication, Our Roots Run Deep, a pictorial coffee-table book chronicling African American life throughout the Town of Greenburgh, New York. Produced in collaboration with community organizations, the book documented the rich history, contributions, and enduring legacy of Black residents across the villages of Greenburgh, while also highlighting many notable African American celebrities and public figures who called the area home.

Harold A. Esannason leaves behind a remarkable legacy of artistry, entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, and community leadership. He is survived by his longtime companion, Judith Shaw; his sons, Marc and Carlo Esannason; and his daughters, Stacy McCallister and Alexia Esannason. He is also survived by his grandsons Gerald Esannason Jr., Tyree and Najee McCallister, Quincy and Cameron Montrose; his granddaughters Ebony Esannason, Tamika Esannason, Tatiana McCallister, Amira-Yeman Esannason, and Alisa Esannason; his nephew Donald P. Esannason; his niece Susan Esannason; and many beloved relatives and lifelong friends.

05/26/2026

I regret to inform you of the passing of Garrett "Garry" Cronin.

Garry was the former owner of Minute Man Press in Elmsford.

He was a very active parishioner of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church
in Elmsford, doing so many things to help the Church.

Garry loved helping anyone, he totally enjoyed giving back to the community.

One of his favorite sayings was, "I sleep in Greenburgh, but my heart is in Elmsford."

The Elmsford Community thanks Garry for all that he did to make things better in Elmsford.

We will miss him.

Thank you to Ballard Durand Funeral Home for handling his services.

Sincerely,
Robert Williams
Mayor
Village of Elmsford

Wake:

Thursday May 28, 2026 3:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Ballard Durand Funeral Home
72 East Main Street
Elmsford, N.Y. 10522
914-+592-6300

Funeral Mass:

Friday May 29, 2026 11:00 A.M.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church
59 East Main Street
Elmsford, N.Y. 10523
914-592-6789

Interment:

Friday May 29, 2026 Following Mass
Mount Calvary Cemetery
575 Hillside Avenue
White Plains, N.Y. 10603 (Greenburgh)
914-949-0671

Obituary:

It is with profound gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Garrett Joseph Cronin, who left this world surrounded by members of his family at his home on May 16, 2026, just one month shy of his 89th birthday. Born on June 15, 1937, in the vibrant city of New York, Garry, as he was affectionately known, was a beloved husband, father, godfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His love for both his family and chosen family was evident in the way he lived his life and impossible to miss. He regularly checked in on family and friends, asking how various people were during the day and wanting to know what everyone was up to at all times.

Garry was a man who cherished his faith and his family above all else. Born to Anne (Gunnoud) and John Cronin, he grew up with a strong sense of family values and community spirit. He was predeceased by his loving parents, his brothers John and James, and their wives, Marie and Dorothy, his wife's parents, Anna (Loughlin) and Frank Fitzgerald, and brothers-in-law Frank and Kevin, along with their wives, MaryAnne and Carol, as well as many aunts, uncles, and other family members.

Garry is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Jacqueline. Their story began in the heart of New York City, where they were united in marriage at Holy Trinity Church in October of 1960. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with perseverance, laughter, and a legacy that will endure for generations. Garry and Jackie were blessed with children through birth and marriage: Jacqueline, Gerard, Thomas, Christine, Alice, Anne, Henry, Garrett, Jennifer, and Laura, who were the pride and joy of his life.

His legacy continues with the blessings of his grandchildren: Francis, Michelle, Lauren, Brian, Hayden, Mary, Jacqueline, Paige, Reagan, Corinne, Gerard, Jesse, Riley, James, Rory, and Nicole, and cherished great-grandchildren: Sarah, Charlotte, Madeline, Jacqueline, Quinn, and Juliet - and he was eagerly awaiting the birth of another great-grandchild this summer! He also leaves behind his brother Jeremiah and his wife Mary, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

Garry's journey in education began at Holy Trinity Grammar School on West 83rd Street in Manhattan, before he attended and graduated from Rice High School in Harlem. He also attended Iona College (not yet a university!) for two years and took many courses in graphic arts as an adult. A dedicated and hardworking individual, he found his professional calling in the field of specialized packaging, where he made significant contributions in the cosmetic and liquor industries throughout his career.

Garry's life was marked by his unwavering faith and service to the community. An active member of many religious and community organizations, he always had time to lend a helping hand or provide an encouraging word to others. He faithfully attended Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Elmsford, NY since the early 1960s, participating in many aspects of parish life. In recent years, he enjoyed sitting in the back of church engaging with other parishioners as they arrived or left each Sunday. Garry proudly declared he had been in every gym in the Archdiocese of New York with CYO (Catholic Youth Organization) as a player or basketball coach. He served on their Board of Directors and was a passionate fundraiser for them, believing in their programs and mission. He loved meeting former youth he had coached, always proud of their achievements, and honored to still be called Coach.

In addition to the CYO Board, Garry sat on the Board for the Knights of St. Patrick, was active in the Holy Name Society, participated annually in the Cardinal's Appeal (and any other church functions), and was the official printer of the NYC St. Patrick's Day Parade Journal. Garry was involved with the Westchester Coalition for the Hungry and Homeless and proud to be a long-standing member of the Knights of Columbus. He attained status as a Grand Knight, attended council meetings in many parishes and recruited others to join, and started the Our Lady of Guadalupe Council in Elmsford. The Knights of Columbus had recently donated more than forty wheelchairs to Cabrini of Westchester in his honor.

Garry received many honors over the years, too numerous to name here. For example, he was recognized in his home parish through the With Your Spirit Award from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church for his dedication to his faith, he was the recipient of the Cardinal Cooke Award for exceptional service to others, and accepted as a Knight of Malta for demonstrating commitment to charity, community service, and humanitarian efforts. Garry was awarded the Thomas J. Cuite Memorial Award from the Irish American Heritage and Cultural Committee in recognition of his contributions to the Irish community in New York and celebrated as the Man of the Year by the Ancient Order of Hibernians for promoting Irish culture and charity. In 1986, he was even recognized by Westchester County with Garrett J. Cronin Day back on February 7th for his service to others.

Garry was interested in knowing about people. He asked almost everyone where they were born and loved to chat about their neighborhoods or countries of origin. Garry was a loyal friend to many and was known to assist others when in need. He enjoyed many close friendships as he and Jackie spent time with other couples they encountered in the neighborhood, workplace, and through their volunteerism. Garry had many close friends, including Ed and Bill Wootten, who spent Saturday mornings in the diner for more years than we can count.

Garry traveled extensively in his work life and through his commitment to faith based programs for adults and children. His passing occurred on the Feast of St. Brendan the Navigator, patron saint of travelers, which seems appropriate! Garry traveled to many countries including Brazil, China, England, Ireland, Italy, Nigeria and throughout Latin America, as well as most states and Puerto Rico, one of his favorite places. Garry was a lover of all things New York and he knew the streets of Manhattan and beyond from top to bottom. Garry was also a proud Irish-American, happily serving as an aide to the Grand Marshal in the New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade in 2002. He maintained relationships with his cousins and other relatives in Cork and traveled there with members of his family several times. Having traveled and driven to more places than most, he was recently enjoying being a passenger in the car, noting things he had missed over the years. Although a city boy through and through, he had a strong love for trees and observed and commented on them frequently during car rides or while looking out the window while relaxing at home.

Born on the Feast of Saint Germaine of Pibrac, patron saint of the sick and people with disabilities, Garry faced many health challenges beginning in the 1960s with optimism and determination. Having lived with Type 1 Diabetes for nearly 60 years, and facing a below the knee amputation four years ago this month, he was grateful for the care he received from his family and medical team. It was often said in the family that he was like a cat with nine lives, but had used eleven of them already. This would make him laugh without fail.

His hobbies reflected his zest for life; he was an avid sports fan, especially of Big East college basketball (Go St. John's!) and New York Yankees baseball, passions he shared with many of his family and friends. Some of his fondest memories were going to Yankee games, first with his uncle when he was ten years old and later with his grandchildren, watching March Madness basketball games at Madison Square Garden with friends, and hosting Kentucky Derby parties. He equally loved all kinds of games and enjoyed playing cards with his wife and neighbors (Mr. and Mrs. Woody!) for many years. He and Jackie still regularly played games such as Scrabble and he was recently obsessed with the Game Show Network, especially enjoying games where he learned new things.

A "foodie" before it was a concept, Garry was a voracious snacker, and there was no end to the hot tea and cheddar cheese he would consume. At each interaction with his doctors and nurses - whether at home, in their offices, at rehab, or in the hospital - he would ask them if they recommended having a double bacon cheeseburger. While he could not find anyone who would recommend that, he would occasionally indulge in that particular selection as a treat. He could be ready in five minutes if one of his friends wanted to grab lunch and so appreciated the many trips to the Eldorado Diner and Carmine's Deli with a number of his friends. Despite taking great care of himself as a diabetic, he enjoyed food immensely and would always say that his favorite meal was his next one.

To those who knew him, Garry was a man of warmth and wisdom, with many catchphrases. Garry was known to say "Get the piece of paper," "How long have you been in the business?" and "Are you a real doctor?" frequently. His favorite expression, "I love life," encapsulated the joy and positivity he carried with him, even during difficult times.

Garry will be profoundly missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. As we gather to celebrate his life, we take comfort in knowing that his legacy of love, kindness, and resilience will live on in the hearts of all those he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations of time or resources be made in Garry's memory, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping others to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church (Elmsford, NY), Cabrini of Westchester (Dobbs Ferry, NY), any CYO program, or a charity of your choice.

May he rest in eternal peace, enveloped in the love of those who have gone before him and forever cherished by those who remain.