Christine C. Kelliher, of Farmington, NY, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY.
Born in Sierra Vista, Arizona, Christine was the beloved daughter of the late Joy M. (Spurling) Grunden and Bruce Bunker, and stepdaughter of the late Charles A. L. Grunden.
Christine graduated from Waynesboro High School with the Class of 1989 and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of Maryland Baltimore County. She proudly served her country in the United States Air Force for nearly 20 years, retiring after a distinguished career. During her service, she was stationed in remarkable locations including Ramstein, Germany, the National Security Agency, and concluded her career at the Pentagon.
Christine was a woman of remarkable strength and resilience—truly a fighter in every sense. She was known for her kind and loving heart, her unwavering dedication, and the way she gave her whole self to everything she did. Her greatest joy was found in spending time with her family, whom she loved deeply. She also found peace and creativity in quilting, a hobby she cherished.
She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Sarah Otero, and son-in-law, CJ Otero; her treasured grandchildren, Aiden-Michael, Mason-James, and Emma-Jane; and her niece, Laura Wallace, along with Laura’s husband, AJ Wallace, and their son, Kandon Wallace.
In addition to her parents, Christine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert F. Kelliher.
A Celebration of Christine’s life will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Miller-Bowersox Funeral Home, 521 S. Washington St., Greencastle, PA. A private burial will take place in Vermont at a later date.
Christine’s strength, love, and devotion to her family and country will never be forgotten. She leaves behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and unwavering determination that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
