Write a commentCharlotte A. Sereno, age 86, of Minetto, New York, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026, after bravely battling pneumonia.
She also courageously fought dementia over the last several years. She was born on September 3, 1939, in Oswego, New York, to Arthur and Helen (Vanderhaden) Cooley. Charlotte lived in Minetto, New York, where her roots and her heart always remained.
Charlotte devoted much of her life to caring for others. She worked for Oswego County BOCES as a Teacher’s Assistant and later served as a substitute Teacher’s Assistant and Job Coach at CITI BOCES. Her work reflected her patience, compassion, and deep belief in helping people reach their potential.
A woman of strong faith and service, Charlotte was an active and devoted member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Minetto, where she served on the Parish Council and participated in Unity Acres. Her faith guided her life and her generosity toward others. Charlotte was also deeply involved in the Oswego County Elks Lodge #271, where she proudly served as Exalted Ruler in 2016. She was a Past President of the Women’s Auxiliary in 2001 and 2004. Her commitment to charity work and community service left a lasting impact on many.
Those who knew Charlotte will remember her for her kindness, her love of bingo and casino slot machines, and her legendary generosity—she would truly give you the shirt off her back, along with food from her purse if you needed it. She had a big heart, a helping hand always ready, and a joyful spirit that brought people together.
In addition to her parents, Charlotte was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Louis J. Sereno, Sr., her eldest son, Louis J. Sereno, Jr., and her sister, Carolyn Sturgis.
She is survived by her four children: Timothy A. Sereno, Michael J. (Karen) Sereno, Richard C. (Vanessa) Sereno, and Lisa A. (Troy) Tiller and daughter-in-law Shelly Sereno. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren Eric, Angela, Joseph, Shannon, Chelsea, Elisa, Tyler, Stacey, Jessica, Jacob, Chase, Tate, and Brandon; her great-grandchildren: Taylor, Hunter, Hayden, Kyle, Ashley, Desirea, Debner, Jalicia, Jayla, Baylee, Caleb, Colton, Cooper, Alex, Phelan, Natalie, Walker, and Ean; and her great-great-grandchildren: Milo, Amias, Ava, Alyana, Ryker, Chris, Andrew and Payton.
Charlotte’s life was one of love, faith, service, and generosity. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her. Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 4-6 pm, at Nelson Funeral Home. A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held at Noon on Friday, February 6th at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Minetto. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oswego County Meals on Wheels. https://www.oco.org/services/nutrition/. Burial will be held in the spring in Minetto Cemetery. Arrangements are under the caring guidance of Nelson Funeral Home.
