Otego - Ferrissa M. Sheldon, 75, passed away January 13, 2023, surrounded by members of her family at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown after a lengthy illness.

She was born in Cobleskill, the daughter of Ferris and Florence (Conover) Nader.

Ferrissa was proud to be in the first class that graduated from the "new" Oneonta High School on East Street. She then attended secretarial school in Albany.

She began her career at SUNY Oneonta before taking time off to raise her daughters.  She then worked at the Harris Memorial Library, Otego, before becoming a secretary at the Unatego Central School for 30 years. Here she became a mentor and "mom" to many students.

When her daughters were young, Ferrissa was a Daisy and Girl Scout leader. She was a voracious reader who was proud to read over 50 books per year, along with countless magazines and newspapers. A talented knitter, crocheter, and needleworker, she made dozens of wall hangings, blankets, sweaters, and hats for her family, and donated many of her creations to those in need.

Ferrissa enjoyed campfires and cookouts with her children and their friends at "the farm," and watching the variety of wildlife that frequented her yard. She was also a devoted fan of the New York Rangers and Las Vegas Raiders.

She is survived by her significant other of 25 years, Robert Miller; her daughters, Joan-Marie and Eric Seidel, Erin Sheldon and Allan Barnes, and Sarah Hughs; grandchildren Sophia, Elias, Finley, and Hudson; her sister, Joan and Harold Taylor, and several nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her beloved dog Dozer and her three cats, Charlie, Tink, and Little Bit.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brother, Bruce Snyder; son-in-law, Jamie Hughs; and her dear friend, Ally.

A gathering to celebrate her life will be held at the Otego American Legion, Willow Street, on Sunday, July 2, 2023 from 12 PM-2 PM with light fare and drinks provided. We look forward to hearing and sharing stories with you to honor our mom.

In lieu of flowers, please consider reading to a young child, feeding the birds, or taking in a stray animal. If you wish to donate in her memory, please consider the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Western Central New York or to your local library or animal shelter.

Thank you to the caring nursing staff on the third floor at Basset Medical Center; Dr. Patel, Dr. Yashi, and especially Dr. Knight for their compassionate care; and finally, the nursing staff at the cancer clinic in Oneonta who she looked forward to seeing each week. You are all so very appreciated.

Ferrissa fought a long and courageous battle. As her son-in-law liked to say, "Never count her out; she's one tough bird." That she was.

Online condolences may be made to www.lhpfuneralhome.com