Audrey Tyrell, 86, formerly of Van Dorn Corners, Ithaca died at her home, surrounded by family, July 15, 2015.
Audrey was born in Binghamton, NY in 1928. She was a graduate of North High, the beloved wife of John V Tyrell, and a secretary for Endicott Johnson prior to the birth of her first child. The young trio moved to Ithaca in 1959, where John renovated the home that Audrey reigned over for 56 years.She was predeceased by her husband, parents Irene and Leon Hickok, and brothers Don and Bobby Hickok. She is survived by brother Raymond Hickok and sister Doris Trotter; daughters Karen Gell, Kathy Tyrell and Kelly Tyrell; honorary son-in-law James Denucci, grandchildren Adrian Gell, Holly Gell, John C Burkleo and fiance Jamie Arreguin, Michael Burkleo and wife Janelle, Robert A Burkleo and wife Kayla; honorary grand daughter Wren Lynch-Martinson; great grandchildren Robert M Burkleo, Vanessa E.S. Burkleo, John E Burkleo, Liam John Gould-Burkleo, and honorary great grand daughter Lillee Gould.
Audrey was a greatly loved wife and mother with an infectious laugh and a devilish sense of humor. Her early joys came from marriage and family, country music, singing in the kitchen, pinochle, bridge, gardening, biographies and classic musicals. She was an accomplished yodeller, a great cook, and a formidable garage sale negotiator - no one could turn down that face. In later years she retained an ongoing love of babies, Shirley Temple, Antiques Road Show and all things white and sparkling, including her treasured cat, Fluffy Flocati. She is dearly missed. The family extends its thanks to Dr. Maura McCauley and staff for their wonderful care and support, and to Foodnet Meals on Wheels for making it possible for her to live at home until her death.
Callers will be received at her home on July 29, between 2 and 4 pm. Her ashes will be placed beside her husband's at Frear Memorial on July 30, at 11 a m. The family requests donations be made to Foodnet Meals on Wheels @ 800 S Plain St, Ithaca, NY 14850(607) 273-5297 in lieu of flowers
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