Alma J. Avery

Alma J. Avery, 96, a former resident of Willing Helper’s in Johnstown, passed away on Thursday September 9, 2021 at River Ridge Living Center, Amsterdam. She was born in Gloversville on February 25, 1925 a daughter of Morris and Dorothy Ashton Brown and was a 1943 graduate of Gloversville High School. Alma was a lifelong area resident. She was employed at the former Loblaw’s in Gloversville. After her marriage to Robert Avery, Alma assisted in the operation of Avery’s Inn in Arietta until its closure in 1981. She later enjoyed volunteering at Nathan Littauer Hospital. In 1996, Alma and her daughter attended a creative writing class, and this was the beginning of her poetry career. She authored over five hundred poems and was published in four books and received numerous awards for her poetry. Alma married Robert Avery on March 4, 1967. Sadly, he died in 2005. In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased a brother, Frank VanSkiver; a sister, Rella Ward; and three stepchildren, Lyman, Bart, and Connie Avery. Survivors include four children, James (Helene) Oathout of Broadalbin, John (Sally) Oathout of Mayfield, David (Betsy) Oathout of Canada Lake, and Darla (Bradford) Dake of Sullivan’s Island, SC; three step-children, John and Gary Avery, and Gail Holmes; a sister, Rebecca (George) Voght of Gloversville; five grandchildren, Lisa (Tony) Johnson, Michael (Donna) Oathout, Michele (Dave) TenEyck, James (Crystal) Oathout, and David (Kayla Lee) Ontko; ten great-grandchildren, Brandon, David, Katie, Cameron, Joseph, Luke, Logan, Matthew, Skye, and Jacob; a great-great-granddaughter, Colbie; several step-grandchildren and -great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 10 am – noon at the Robert M. Halgas Funeral Home, Inc. 111 County Highway 106 (Corner of Route 29 & Black Street), Johnstown followed by a funeral service at noon at the funeral home with Rev. Bonnie Orth, officiating. Burial will be in Johnstown Cemetery. In accordance with current recommendations, facial coverings and social distancing are required. Memorial contributions may be made to Willing Helper’s, in care of the funeral home.

Alma J. Avery

February 25, 1925 - September 9, 2021

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Alma J. Avery

February 25, 1925 - September 9, 2021

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

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