Bob Graney, 73, formerly of "The Valley" died Tuesday in Tampa, FL where he had resided since 2007 after moving there to be closer to his daughter, Kathy. He was an English teacher and administrator for 40 years. He taught at Chit-tenago, LeRoy, and LaFayette School Districts and was also Dean of Students at LaFayette High School. After retiring from LaFayette in 1989, he taught at Morrisville, LeMoyne and Onondaga Community College. In 1992, he came out of retirement to serve as Principal of St. James School, serving there until 1996. Bob is survived by his wife, Shirley; three children, Kathy (Stu) Wasserman, Timothy (Corine) Graney and Debbie (fiance, Josh Collins) Graney; five grandchildren, Jessica, Leah, Benjamin, Garrett and Tanner; his wife's daughters, Paula (Neil) Bush and Lynn (Jim) Porter; and his dog, JJ. His first wife, Beatrice, died in 1995. Mr. Graney was a US Army veteran. He served for over 15 years as a literacy volunteer. He was a member of Person-to-Person Citizen Advocacy and The American Legion. He volunteered at Camp High Hopes, a camp for young boys with hemophilia and was involved with the Valley Little League for many years. He volunteered at shelters for the homeless and food pantries. He also enjoyed tutoring immigrants and helping them earn their US citizenship. He always believed in giving something back. Calling hours are Friday, 4 to 7 p.m. at Ballweg & Lunsford Funeral Home, 4612 S. Salina Street, Syracuse. Funeral service will be Saturday, 10 a.m. in St. James Church, 4845 S. Salina Street, Syracuse. Burial will be in Onondaga Valley Cemetery. Contributions in Bob's memory may be made to the Columbian Presbyterian Church, PO Box 270, LaFayette, NY 13084.

Published in the Syracuse Post Standard on Feb. 14, 2008