Cornelius Novelli

Born in Dunkirk, NY, in 1930 to Gillis and Rose Novelli, “Buddy” remained close to his parents, his sister Eleanor, and a large extended family throughout his life. Neil spent most of his adult life in Syracuse, NY, moving to Ithaca, NY, several years ago to be nearer children and receive care for advancing Alzheimer's.

Neil, with his wife of many years Jean Bishop, raised eight children, and had many grand- and great-grandchildren who he treasured visiting and mentoring in the arts of fishing, carpentry, music, writing, and tucking into a good book (always with a cup of tea in hand). Touch football games with most players on both teams all having the same last name were standard holiday events for several decades.

Neil and his later-in-life partner Kathy Forrest shared many interests, and her children and grandchildren also became part of his life.

Neil found his life's calling in teaching. Even before earning his Ph.D. at the University of Notre Dame, Neil began, at age 28, what would be a 47-year tenure teaching English at Le Moyne College. He retired as Professor Emeritus of English in 2005 at age 75 (then couldn't resist staying for another two years as adjunct faculty). A dynamic and beloved professor, his favorite subjects included poetry, theater, and especially Shakespeare. Neil's commitment to all his students and their educational experiences naturally extended to activities like producing student performances for the entire college and wider community, as well as traveling with students to professional theater festivals in Stratford, Ontario, and elsewhere.

An interview for the "Le Moyne College Archive News" captures what teaching meant to Neil. Asked what the most positive thing was about being part of the Le Moyne community, Neil responded, "Having the chance to work with students, to share learning with them both ways. Teachers discover more than they teach…that has just been the greatest thing at Le Moyne." As for how he wanted to be remembered for his time at Le Moyne? "As a teacher," he said. "That will do."

Neil was also a long-time theater and music reviewer for the Syracuse Post Standard and Syracuse.com, a job he relished well into his 80s. He thrived on attending performances at Syracuse Stage, Redhouse, and other venues, then racing home to write and file his reviews. Neil's knowledge of and appreciation for the work that goes into a production was evident—whether he was reviewing a performance of Macbeth or Mary Poppins.

And all his life Neil participated with skill and infectious enthusiasm in various community theater performances—writing, directing, and acting—and with pit orchestras and local bands, playing folk, country, klezmer, and early jazz. His main instruments were banjo and cornet, but he was ever happy to scuffle along on any instrument within reach.

Neil’s practiced talent and sincere interest in all these endeavors—as well as his wit and penchant for storytelling—gained him friends across a wide spectrum of the community, friendships he valued and respected, always trying to make real time for them. And the same held especially true for his children and grandchildren, who could always depend on Neil as an amiable dinner companion, house guest, editor, grammar consultant, or bandmate.

Neil’s final years were rich with family, compassionate caregivers, and friends, as he traveled along the treacherous path of Alzheimer’s. They made sure that every day offered something to make life interesting, spark a story, or create moments of joy, caring for Neil as the vibrant individual he was.

In memory of Neil Novelli, take in a Shakespeare performance or donate to your favorite library. A private gathering will be planned for later this summer.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Bangs Funeral Home, Ithaca, NY. Online condolences may be made to Neil’s family at www.bangsfuneralhome.com.