Obituary of Arda W. Crane

Arda W. Crane, 89, of Lower Prospect St. Fonda, passed away peacefully Tuesday morning at the Edward L. Wilkinson Residential Health Care Facility where she was a patient since July. Born in Utica, NY on Feb. 3, 1920, she was the daughter of the late Harry C. and Reba Delavan Whittaker. Arda was a graduate of the Oneonta Normal Teacher's School in 1940. She then began her long career as a dedicated educator in the elementary level in West Winfield, Ravenna and lastly Fonda Fultonville Central Schools. Her faith was very central in her life, and she was a long time member of the Fonda Fultonville United Methodist Church as well as the United Methodist Women. Arda was very instrumental in the refurbishing and relocation of the Little Red Schoolhouse in Fonda and was a member of the Montgomery County Historical Society. She loved to stitch and knit, and donated her crafts to family, friends and church bazaars. Arda was a member of the Retired Teachers Association of Montgomery County. In 1943 she was united in marriage to Millard Crane who predeceased her in 1981. She also lost a brother, John Whittaker. She leaves her brother; Charles Brayton Whittaker of York, Pa., Nieces, nephews and cousins and a special friend; Etta Shea and her family. A service to celebrate her life will take place Saturday at 1:00 pm at the Jackson & Betz Funeral Home, 15 Main Street Fultonville. The Rev. Nancy Pullen officiating. Interment will follow in Maple Avenue Cemetery followed by a fellowship reception at the United Methodist Church in Fultonville. Calling hours are Friday from 2-4 & 5-7 pm at the funeral home. Contributions may be made in Arda's name to the United Methodist Women's group in care of the funeral home office.