Mollie C. Greder-Staley, 73, of Dunkirk passed away Friday evening, April 18, 2025 at Mercy Hospital in Buffalo, following a brief illness. She was born in Dunkirk on May 15, 1951, wife of the late Robert Staley and daughter of the late Edward J. Greder, Jr. and Catherine (Miller) Greder.
Mollie resided in Dunkirk most of her life. She married her husband, Robert "Bob" Staley on December 27, 1980, and they became parents to two sons, Edward and Jonathan, whom she loved unconditionally. She was a loving wife and mother, and also a cherished friend to many.
Mollie was a highly educated and independent woman whose academic journey began in the Dunkirk Public Schools, where she cultivated a lifelong passion for education. She went on to earn both a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree from Fredonia State College, then embarking on a career as a secondary English teacher. Her commitment to learning led her to change careers. She earned a Bachelor of Science in nursing from D'Youville College, an experience she loved, and went on to serve as the Assistant Director of Nursing at the (former) Chautauqua County Home, leaving a lasting impact on many families and residents.
Retiring in 2008, Mollie then devoted herself to her family, community, and friends. Known for her nurturing spirit, her compassion touched countless lives.
Mollie's vibrant personality shone through her many interests. Outside of spending time with her two cherished sons, Mollie avidly enjoyed reading, cooking, baking, photography, playing instruments and singing, hitting the golf course, and ballroom dancing. She found joy in volunteering and dedicated her time to St. Columban's community hosting dancing lessons.
A proud member of several organizations, Mollie was involved with the Women of the Moose, the American Legion Post 59 Auxiliary, the Lakewood Rod and Gun Club, the Chautauqua County Corvette Club and Shorewood Country Club, to name a few. She was also a practicing member within the Lily Dale community, where she found spiritual guidance.
Mollie is survived by her sons, Jonathan and Edward (Sara) Staley; grandson, Caden Staley; her brother, Kenyon Shultz of Ecuador; her sister, Marie Andreas of California; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Edward and John; her sister, Yvonne; her sister, Dr. Colette Greder, C.P.; her beloved late husband, Robert J. Staley; and her beloved fiancé, John A. Smagner.
Mollie's legacy of love, service, and joy will forever be remembered by her family and friends. Her light will continue to shine.
Relatives and friends are welcome to attend calling hours on Wednesday, April 23 from 5:00-8:00 PM at the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home, 736 Central Avenue in Dunkirk. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, April 24 at 10:00 AM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Roman Catholic Church. Interment will be held in St. Mary's Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice that you feel Mollie would appreciate.
