Obituary of Kenneth C. Motts

Kenneth C. Motts, 90, of Oakfield, passed away peacefully on Saturday (September 2, 2017) at the New York State Veteran's Home in Batavia. Ken was born December 24, 1926 in Silver Springs, a son of the late Louis and Edith (Gill) Motts and raised by his grandmother Katherine Gill in Wyoming, NY, who was the inspiration and champion for his musical talents. Ken served honorably in the United States Army, stationed in Germany, and was a proud graduate of Wyoming Central School, Houghton College and Breadloaf School of English in Middlebury, VT. Ken taught English at Letchworth Central, Endwell Central and finished his 35-year career at Oakfield-Alabama Central School, where he was known as a fashion icon and shared his passion for literature and the arts with generations of admiring students. He was a member of Saint Padre Pio Parish in Oakfield. To know Ken, was to love Ken. His intellect, sharp wit and command of the English language combined with his sense of humor endeared Ken to most. He shared his musical talents generously by playing the organ for hundreds of religious services, weddings, funerals and various community events. He was a Hospice volunteer, supported the local library and performed with the Batavia Players, The Genesee Symphony and The Barbershop Chorus. After moving to The Manor House in 2011, at the age of 84, Ken performed a piano concert every Saturday night for friends and residents. Survivors include his sister-in-law, Thelma Dumbleton of Canandaigua; cousin, dear friend and loyal caretaker, Janet (late John) Paine of Batavia; cousin, Lawrence Alexander of Ft. Erie, Ontario; adoring and dedicated cousin, Linda Paine Hughes of Batavia; two loving goddaughters, Sandra Fenton Baubie and Abigail English Neely; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and a multitude of friends. Ken is predeceased by his beloved wife Jeane B. Motts, brother, Louis Motts Jr., sister-in-law, Lois Motts and his treasured feline children Maude, Flossie, George and Barnaby. Ken's family would like to thank the caring staff of The Manor House, LeRoy Village Green Nursing Home and the New York State Veteran's Home for the compassionate and respectful care provided Ken during his final days. There are no prior calling hours. Ken's Memorial Mass will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday at Saint Padre Pio Parish, St. Cecilia's Site, 56 Maple Avenue, Oakfield. Private burial with full military honors will be in Elmwood Cemetery, Silver Springs. Memorials may be made to the New York State Veteran's Home, attention Activities Fund, 220 Richmond Ave., Batavia, NY 14020.