Staff Report / April 19, 2026
A fundraising campaign has been launched to support a Penn Yan-area family following the unexpected death of their mother, according to a recent post on GoFundMe.
The fundraiser, organized by Jackie Trombley, aims to assist the Callaway family after the sudden passing of Bonnie Callaway on April 13, which also marked her daughter Elissa’s birthday.
According to the campaign, the loss comes during what had been a period of significant milestones for the family. Elissa and her fiancé Jared are expecting a baby, due April 20, while another daughter, Caitlin, recently purchased a home with her fiancé, and their son Ernie also recently became a homeowner.
The tragedy follows an earlier loss for the family, as their father died three years ago from pancreatic cancer. Despite that hardship, the family had continued moving forward together, the fundraiser states.
Bonnie Callaway is remembered in the campaign as a devoted mother, wife, sister, and friend who was eagerly anticipating becoming a grandmother.
Organizers say the funds raised will be used to cover funeral expenses and other financial burdens associated with the unexpected loss. The campaign notes that while the family would not typically ask for help, support from the community is now critical.
As of this week, hundreds of donations have already been made, reflecting an outpouring of support for the family during what organizers describe as an “unimaginable” time.
Community members are encouraged to contribute or share the fundraiser to help the Callaway family navigate the difficult months ahead.
