Paul W. Harris Funeral Home & Pets at Peace

Losing a cherished pet is never easy, but providing them with a dignified farewell is our utmost priority at Pets at Peace by Harris Funeral Home. We are honored to have been entrusted with such a special companion.

For compassionate and professional pet cremation services, contact us:

📞 Phone: (585) 544-2041
📧 Email: [email protected]

Let us help you give your beloved pet the love and respect they deserve.

We are delighted to highlight David Failing, our dedicated Funeral Service Assistant & Greeter at Harris Funeral Home!

Dave lives in Irondequoit and is a proud graduate of West Irondequoit High School. After an impressive 39-year career at Dupont, Dave retired and joined our team, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a warm, welcoming presence.

Dave is happily married to Tracy, and together they have two sons, a daughter, and three wonderful grandchildren. When he's not at the funeral home, Dave enjoys indulging in his passions, which include:

Hockey
Detailing Automobiles
Sports Car Racing
Slot Car Racing
Spending Quality Time with Family

Dave’s friendly demeanor and attention to detail make him an invaluable member of the Harris Funeral Home team. He goes above and beyond to ensure that every family feels supported and cared for during their time with us.

Join us in celebrating Dave and his commitment to excellence and compassion!

In 2009, Rick Harris Jr. lost his beloved Great Dane mix, Jessie. Devastated by the loss, he wanted to care for Jessie with the same love and respect he offered her in life - just as it would be for any one of their human family members.

As a concerned pet owner, Rick Harris Jr. felt he needed more information about the pet cremation process. Due to his background in funeral service, he knew the right questions to ask at the Vet Hospital. These questions consisted of:

Who will pick our dogs up for cremation?
When will our dogs be picked up?
What type of identification was in place to guarantee we would we receive only our pets' cremated remains?
How long would it take to receive our pets' cremated remains back?

To his surprise, the pet loss care available within Monroe County was very poor, unprofessional, and insensitive to his needs.

Something needed to be done!

Later that year, applying the same values of integrity, compassionate care & professionalism his grandfather used to form Paul W. Harris Funeral Home Inc. in 1946, Pets at Peace by Harris Funeral Home was founded and is still currently owned and operated by Rick Harris Jr.

Pets at Peace has become the most trusted pet cremation provider in Monroe County and surrounding areas.

For more information about our services at Pets at Peace, please contact us at:

📞 Phone: (585) 544-2041
📧 Email: [email protected]

https://harrisfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/4871/Gary-Smith/obituary.html -start

Obituary of Gary W. Smith | Paul W. Harris Funeral Home Webster- (a.k.a. Gary the Happy Pirate) was called Home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on July 12, 2024 due to complications from Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), a rare neurodegenerative disease. Born April 9, 1960 in Clarkson, N.Y. Gary was well-known in the Rochester community and beyon...

At Harris Funeral Home, we understand the importance of planning ahead. Our pre-need services provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones, ensuring that your wishes are honored and relieving your family of financial and emotional burdens during a difficult time.

Why Consider Pre-Need Planning?

Peace of Mind: Know that your arrangements are taken care of exactly as you wish.

Financial Planning: Lock in today's prices and alleviate future financial burdens on your family.

Personalization: Customize every detail of your service to reflect your unique life and personality.

Family Focus: Allow your family to focus on celebrating your life rather than making stressful decisions.

Thinking About Switching Funeral Homes?

If you’ve already made pre-need arrangements with another funeral home but are considering a change, we can help. Switching your pre-need arrangements to Harris Funeral Home is a straightforward process. We are here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition.

How to Get Started:

Consultation: Contact us to schedule a consultation where we’ll discuss your wishes and options.

Review & Plan: We’ll review any existing arrangements and help you transfer them if needed.

Documentation: We handle all necessary paperwork to ensure your plans are updated and secured.

Peace of Mind: Rest easy knowing your pre-need plans are in trusted hands.

Contact Us:
Phone: (585) 544-2041
Email: [email protected]

Take the first step towards peace of mind today. Our compassionate and experienced team is here to support you through every decision. At Harris Funeral Home, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of care and respect for you and your loved ones.

Everyone, meet Sheryl Sanders, our dedicated Head Administrative Assistant at Harris Funeral Home!

Sheryl grew up in the Browncroft area of Rochester and is a proud graduate of East High School. With over 30 years of office experience, primarily as a legal secretary, Sheryl brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team.

Sheryl and her husband, David, have been happily married since 1994. Together, they enjoy gardening, traveling, and spending quality time with their three grandchildren and their adorable Shi-Chi, Abbey.

Sheryl’s commitment to excellence and her warm, friendly demeanor make her an invaluable part of our family at Harris Funeral Home. We are grateful for her hard work and dedication.

Join us in celebrating Sheryl and all she does to make our team stronger!

Today, we come together to celebrate the freedom, unity, and spirit that make our nation great. May your day be filled with joy, laughter, and memorable moments with family and friends.

As we commemorate this special day, let's remember the values of liberty and justice that our country was founded upon. Enjoy the festivities, the parades, the fireworks, and the time spent with loved ones.

From all of us at Harris Funeral Home, we wish you a safe and happy 4th of July!

The Town of Irondequoit's Annual 4th of July Festival is back and better than ever with the return of the beloved 2-day event! Join us for an action-packed celebration starting today, July 3rd and 4th, filled with fun, excitement, and community spirit.

Festival Highlights:

Beverage Garden
Craft Fair
Parade
Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Street Dance
Ice Cream Eating Contest
Fireworks on July 4th
Location: Town Hall

Parking Information:
Here at Harris Funeral Home, we'll be offering parking for $5 per car. All proceeds will benefit the Sunset House, supporting our local community.

Don't miss out on this incredible celebration! Gather your family and friends and join us for two days of festivities, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. We can't wait to celebrate with you!

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and community spirit at the Town of Irondequoit Street Dance! Join us and the town of Irondequoit on Wednesday, July 3rd, from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM as we groove to the infectious tunes of the popular band Atlas.

Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, July 3rd
Time: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Street Closure: Titus Avenue from Portland Ave. to Kings Hwy will be closed for dancing fun.
Location: Town Hall (opposite corner of the funeral home)!

Harris Funeral Home is proud to support community events and are looking forward to a fun evening. See you on July 3rd!

After the loss of a loved one, questions about Social Security benefits may arise. At Harris Funeral Home, we handle the filing of a statement of death with the Social Security Administration on your family’s behalf, eliminating the need for a certified copy of the death certificate for this filing.

Eligibility for Benefits:

Widows, widowers, and divorced spouses aged 60 or older (50 if disabled)
Unmarried children up to 18 (or 19 if full-time students)
Disabled children before age 22
Dependent parents aged 62 or older
Lump-Sum Death Payment: A one-time payment of $255 is made in addition to monthly benefits.

Applying for Benefits:

Benefits vary; apply at any Social Security office or by phone.
Call 1-800-772-1213 toll-free, 24/7.
Schedule an appointment or file by phone between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
For more info, visit socialsecurity.gov.

🎉 Happy Birthday, Anthony Fantigrossi! 🎉

Join us in celebrating the birthday of our exceptional team member, Anthony Fantigrossi! 🎂🎈

As our Pet Care Specialist and Maintenance Director, Anthony brings dedication, passion, and a caring touch to everything he does. His commitment to ensuring the well-being of our furry friends and maintaining our facilities is truly commendable.

Anthony, may your special day be filled with joy, laughter, and all the things that bring you happiness. Thank you for being an invaluable part of our team!

Losing a loved one is an incredibly challenging experience, and navigating the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Here are some steps to guide you through this difficult time:

Take Care of Yourself: It's essential to prioritize your own well-being during this period of grief. Remember to eat nourishing meals, get plenty of rest, and lean on your support network for emotional support.

Notify Close Family and Friends: Inform close family members and friends about the passing of your loved one. Sharing the news can provide comfort and allow loved ones to offer their support.

Contact a Funeral Home: Reach out to a reputable funeral home to make arrangements for your loved one's final services. Funeral directors can provide guidance and support as you plan a meaningful tribute.

Gather Important Documents: Collect important documents, such as the deceased's will, insurance policies, and any other legal paperwork. These documents will be necessary for handling the estate and making burial or cremation arrangements.

Seek Legal Assistance: While not mandatory, consulting with a lawyer can help navigate the legal aspects of your loved one's passing. A lawyer can assist with estate matters, including probate, will ex*****on, and asset distribution.

Lean on Support: Don't hesitate to lean on friends, family, or support groups for emotional support during this challenging time. Surrounding yourself with loved ones can provide comfort and strength as you grieve.

Take One Day at a Time: Grieving is a process that takes time, so be patient with yourself. Allow yourself to feel and express your emotions, and remember that healing happens gradually.

Remember, you don't have to go through this alone. Our team at Harris Funeral Home is here to provide compassionate support and guidance every step of the way.

Learn more about what to do when a loved one passes on our website: https://buff.ly/4cpEZaI

At Harris Funeral Home, we assist families in obtaining Veterans' Benefits, Social Security, and Life Insurance Benefits for their loved ones. Here’s a quick guide to VA burial allowances:

VA Burial Allowances:

Service-Related Death: Up to $2,000 toward burial expenses. Transport costs may be covered if buried in a VA national cemetery.
Non-service-Related Death: Up to $700 for burial and funeral expenses, plus a $700 plot-interment allowance.
Eligibility: Veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, U.S. Armed Forces members who die on active duty, and their spouses/dependent children.

How to Apply:

Provide a copy of the Veteran's honorable discharge (DD-214).
We’ll contact the VA and complete the necessary forms.
For more info, visit our VA Burial Benefits page.

https://buff.ly/45q0aqR

We are delighted to shine this week’s spotlight on Philip F. Profetta, one of our wonderful Licensed Funeral Directors at Paul W. Harris Funeral Home.

Philip, a long-time resident of Webster, NY, has been a cornerstone in our community for many years. He graduated from McQuaid Jesuit High School in 1959 and the Simmons School of Mortuary Science in 1962. With 46 years of experience as a New York State Licensed Funeral Director, Philip brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to our team.

Philip is the proud son of the late Philip Profetta Sr. and Josephine (Sue) Profetta. In February 1964, he married Nancy Stone, and together they have two wonderful children, Philip Michael Profetta and Jennine Marie (Profetta) Proietti, and three cherished grandchildren, Anthony, Alyssa, and Zachary Proietti. Philip has been a valued member of the Paul W. Harris Funeral Home family since October 2010.

Philip is an active member of Webster Bible Church, where he has served on the Deacon Board, as Sunday School Supervisor, and as a choir member. His commitment to community service extends to his roles on the Board of West Webster Cemetery and as a lifetime member of the Penfield-Perinton Kiwanis Club.

We are incredibly fortunate to have Philip's dedication, experience, and heart as part of our team.

At Paul W. Harris Funeral Home, we understand the importance of choosing the right products to honor your loved ones. That's why we offer a comprehensive selection on our website for you to browse at your convenience.

Discover our range of high-quality items, including:

🔹 Burial Vaults
🔹 Caskets
🔹 Cremation Containers/Caskets
🔹 Cremation Urns
🔹 Urn Burial Vaults

Each product is crafted with care and attention to detail, ensuring a dignified tribute to your loved ones. Visit our website to explore our offerings and find the perfect options that meet your needs and preferences.

🔗 https://buff.ly/3RunIVE

Today we’re celebrating the incredible fathers who have shaped our lives with love, wisdom, and unwavering support. Whether they are with us in person or in spirit, their legacies live on through the values they instilled and the memories we cherish.

As we take a moment to reflect, let's honor the lessons they've taught us, the sacrifices they've made, and the unconditional love they've given. To all the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who have made a difference, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation.

May this day be filled with fond memories, joy, and the warmth of family.

Happy Father's Day from all of us at Harris Funeral Home. 🌹

Meet John Choffin, one of our dedicated and compassionate Licensed Funeral Directors at Paul W. Harris Funeral Home.

John grew up in Geneva, NY, and graduated from Geneva High School in 1988. He pursued his passion for helping others and graduated from the Simmons Institute of Mortuary Science in 2001. John is also a Licensed Funeral Director in Florida, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to our team.

John is a family man, happily married to his wife, Sadie. They have five wonderful children: Michael, Rachel, Jonah, Sofia, and DJ. They are also proud grandparents to their granddaughter, Elena.

When he's not at work, John enjoys spending his free time hunting and taking long rides on his Harley. His love for the open road and the great outdoors is a testament to his adventurous spirit.

We're incredibly fortunate to have John as part of our team, where his commitment to serving families with care and compassion truly shines.

Since 1946, many families have placed their trust in Paul W. Harris Funeral Home. Today, we are dedicated to serving the entire family, including our cherished animal companions. As animal lovers ourselves, we understand how pets become important family members, bringing immeasurable happiness, love, and joy into our lives.

Losing such an adored friend can be devastating. As the ONLY educated, trained, and Licensed Funeral Professionals in Monroe County, we truly understand the overwhelming sorrow that comes with the death of a loved one, especially a beloved pet.

That's why we are proud to be the first to offer pet families private pet cremations and customized pet funeral services, helping you say goodbye to your pet in a loving and dignified manner. We also offer a beautiful selection of pet urns, memorial products, and grief support materials to help you through this difficult time.

Because pets leave paw prints on our hearts, we are here to help honor their memory with the same care and respect we provide for all family members.

It's okay to grieve. It's okay to mourn the loss of someone who has touched your heart deeply.

The pain that comes with a loved one's death may never completely go away, but having a community to help you get through this tough time can mean a lot. Or if you're not yet comfortable talking to others about what you feel, you can try writing them down.

Grieving may seem like a never-ending process, but this painful moment will also come to pass. Know that you're never truly alone and that we are here to support you in your grief. ♡

🏡🌟 Introducing the Harris Family Center 🌟🏡

Discover the first-of-its-kind Harris Family Center—a haven designed and built to offer our families an array of comforting amenities during their time of need:

A home-like atmosphere for funeral or memorial receptions.

Choice to have calling hours with food and beverage—unique to our area.

Private retreat between visitation hours.

Private location for a memorial service with refreshments.

Complimentary continental breakfast before the funeral service.

Availability for hosting Bridal Showers or Baby Showers.

Conveniently located adjacent to our funeral home, the Harris Family Center accommodates 60-70 people, featuring a spacious gathering room, full kitchen, hostess, flat screen TV, and surround sound. Plus, during warmer weather, a tent can be added to accommodate more guests.

Our complete concierge services relieve you of planning burdens during a difficult time, ensuring your family and friends are treated with hospitality. Always included are three-hour facility use, hostess assistance, beverage service, and tableware.

Whether for funeral receptions or calling hours, our facility offers a unique gathering space compliant with NYS regulations. Families can personalize gatherings with wine and cheese or favorite dishes.

Call us today or visit https://buff.ly/4aT2gR4 for more info!

🌟 Employee Spotlight: David Shaw, Licensed Funeral Director 🌟

Everyone, meet David Shaw, our dedicated Licensed Funeral Director and assistant manager, whose compassion and professionalism uplift our community during times of need.

David's journey into funeral service began after graduating from Gouverneur High School in 1980, followed by his completion of studies at Simmons School of Mortuary Science in 1988. Since earning his New York State Funeral Director's license in 1989, David has brought comfort and solace to countless families in their most challenging moments.

Beyond his role in New York, David also holds a Funeral Director's License in Pennsylvania, showcasing his commitment to serving communities far and wide with dignity and care.

Family is at the center of David's life, sharing a beautiful journey with his wife Tina since 1983. Together, they cherish their two daughters, Elizabeth and Rebekah, and delight in the joy brought by their three precious grandchildren: Elsie Jo, Gideon David, and Thaddeus Roy.

Let's extend our heartfelt appreciation to David Shaw for his unwavering commitment to our community, his dedication to excellence, and the compassion he brings to every family he serves.

🚨 Don't Leave Your Family in the Dark!

Ever heard stories of families caught off guard when a loved one passes away? It's more common than you think! Without proper planning, important questions arise:

❓ How will the funeral be paid for?

❓ Who has the legal authority to make decisions?

The answer? A WILL. It's not just a piece of paper; it's peace of mind for your family during tough times. By having your ducks in a row, you ensure:

💰 Financial security for funeral expenses.

👥 Clarity on who's in charge and can legally make decisions.

Don't wait until it's too late! Take control of your future and protect your loved ones. ✍️

🌟 Employee Spotlight: Natasha Krasz, Licensed Funeral Director and Care Center Manager 🌟

Get ready to meet another amazing member of our team, Natasha Krasz! 🎉 Hailing from Webster, NY, Natasha's journey to becoming our Licensed Funeral Director and Care Center Manager is as unique and vibrant as she is.

After graduating from R.L. Thomas High School in 1989, Natasha took a leap into the world of Optical Engineering Technology, earning her degree in 1992 and starting her career at Xerox Corporation in Webster. But life had unexpected twists in store for her, and an unexpected lay-off in 2001 led Natasha down a new path — one filled with compassion and service.

Embracing the call to support others during their most challenging times, Natasha pursued a career in funeral service, obtaining her license in 2003. Since then, she's been an invaluable member of our team, bringing warmth, empathy, and professionalism to every family she serves.

When she's not busy guiding families through difficult times, Natasha's all about embracing life's joyful moments! You'll often find her soaking in the sounds of live music at concerts, or simply enjoying quality time with her family and friends. Whether it's rocking out to her favorite bands or sharing laughs over a cup of coffee, Natasha knows how to make every moment count.

On this solemn day, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Today, we stand in gratitude for their courage, their valor, and their selflessness.

At Harris Funeral Home, we pay tribute to the fallen heroes who gave their all to protect our liberties. Let us honor their memory not just with words, but with actions that uphold the values they fought to defend: liberty, justice, and equality for all.

Today, and every day, we remember.

We just had our landscaping done earlier this week and are excited to show you this transformation at Harris Funeral Home. Swipe to see the amazing before and after photos!

We couldn’t have achieved this without the help of some fantastic local businesses:

🌼 Special thank you to Genrich's Garden Center for providing all the stunning flowers that have added a burst of color and life to our grounds.

🌿 A big shoutout to the crew at Ted Collins for their hard work in planting each and every flower with care and precision.

🪵 Thank you to Amans Farm & Market for supplying the rich, high-quality mulch that ties everything together beautifully.

🌱 And thank you to Chris DioGiovani for meticulously laying down the mulch, ensuring a flawless finish to our landscaping project.

We are deeply grateful to these dedicated partners for their contributions! Thank you!

We understand that losing a pet can be a heartbreaking and unexpected experience, often leaving you feeling stressed and overwhelmed, especially when it comes to making cremation decisions.

That's why we've created our Pre-Planning Portal—to provide you with peace of mind and help you prepare for the unforeseen day. Our user-friendly portal guides you through selecting the cremation type that best suits your pet, as well as choosing an urn and memorial items to honor their memory.

With our pre-planning portal, you have the flexibility to make decisions at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home. Plus, you can even pre-pay for your selections, alleviating any financial burdens during a difficult time.

Let us help you navigate this journey with care and compassion. Visit our Pre-Planning Portal today and take the first step towards ensuring your beloved pet receives the dignified farewell they deserve.

https://buff.ly/4bbLaik

👨‍🚒👮‍♂️🚑 Honoring Our First Responders: First Responders Program 🚑👮‍♀️👨‍🚒

Commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of our First Responders is a duty we hold dear. That's why we're proud to introduce our First Responders Program, designed to provide families of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency medical personnel who have died in the line of duty with a tribute worthy of their valor.

At no charge to the family, we've partnered with our local burial vault company to donate a customized Wilbert Stainless Steel Triune burial vault—a symbol of strength and honor befitting our fallen heroes.

For families choosing cremation, we offer a choice of 4 urns, along with a Stainless Steel Urn Vault, ensuring their loved one's final resting place is protected with dignity and respect.

Let's raise a toast (but keep it classy!) to David Shaw, our dapper and dedicated Licensed Funeral Director at Harris Funeral Home, as he adds another candle to his cake!

David's professionalism and compassion guide families through difficult times with grace and understanding. Here's to you, David, may your birthday be as comforting and dignified as your service to others!