Kerry Earl Brace

Kerry Earl Brace, age 52 of Freeville, NY passed away Friday, January 21, 2022 at Cayuga Medical Center due to complications from Covid.

Born August 12, 1969 in Waterloo, NY as the son of the late Terrell and Betty Kay Stevens Brace. Kerry grew up in the Ovid/Sheldrake area and attended South Seneca Central School. Kerry owned and operated his own contracting company for many years. He was also a well-known figure in the local bar and restaurant business and bartender extraordinaire. He had previously been part owner of The Lighthouse at Kidder’s Landing and most recently opened and operated The Corner Pub at Rogues Harbor in Lansing. Kerry loved Cayuga Lake and riding motorcycle. He was a member of Wise Guys dart team and the Interlaken Sportsman’s Club.

Kerry is survived by his partner of 25 years, Kathy Leonardo of Freeville, NY; brother, Kyle (Jackie) Brace of Knoxville, TN; recently discovered sister, Debbi Schindler Eig of Silver Spring, MD; nieces, Kaylee (Sam) Wagnon of Knoxville, TN and Rachel Eig of Silver Spring, MD; daughters, Nicole Leonardo and Lisa Leonardo; numerous grandchildren; brothers and sisters in law, James (Linda Thayer) Myers and Doug (Debbie) Myers; friend and brother by choice, Tony Podufalski; many other nieces, nephews, cousins, all his numerous friends and rescued bird, Jeffrey. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his nephew, Grant Brace of Knoxville, TN.

Family and friends are invited to call from 4-6 pm with a service to follow at 6 pm on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at Bangs Funeral Home, 209 W. Green St., Ithaca, NY. Private burial will be at Calvary Cemetery, Ithaca. In lieu of flowers, because of his love of animals, memorials may be made to any SPCA or animal shelter. 

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