Obituary of Nettie McCormick

Nan "Nettie" Yale McCormick left this world on Valentine's Day—a fitting day for a woman who liked to make a statement. And like Valentine's Day, Nan embodied love, happiness, glamour and chocolate. Oh, did she love chocolate. From the day of her birth on November, 28th, 1926, until the very end, Nan made an impact on the people around her. She was known for her ability to rock an outfit and strut like nobody's business, but she will be best remembered for her warm, inviting smile, her kind heart and her ability to make others feel good about themselves. Nan accomplished many great goals in her life, but one of her proudest achievements was her women's clothing store, Leonard's, which she owned and operated on Main Street in Cortland for 31 years. She enjoyed waiting on her customers—many who would become lifelong friends—and she deeply loved the women she worked with. Even at the end, she spoke of her happy memories of the store and the people she met. She was an entrepreneur during a time when women were rarely encouraged to be one, and she greatly inspired many of the men and women who knew her. She is survived by her loving daughter, Brenda Modery of Cortland, NY, granddaughter, Lauren Modery, of Austin, Texas, nieces Sharon Fiacco of Endicott, NY and Sheila Gangemi of Syracuse, NY, several extended family members and close friends. She is predeceased by her parents, Sophie and Herman Tufty, her sister Katie Getman, and her brother Harry Gransky. She will be missed beyond what words can convey. Calling hours are at 12 to 1pm on Tuesday, February 20th, 2018, at Wright-Beard Funeral Home. Memorial service will follow. Nan adored animals, and donations can be made in her name at Cortland Community SPCA. To offer online condolences please visit www.wright-beard.com