Obituary for Eunice M. Travis

Born: January 26, 1943

Passed: January 19, 2026

With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of our mother Eunice M. Travis. To us the best mother in the world. She was hard-working, talented, and raised 4 children on her own while working numerous jobs. She was a woman whose love for life was only matched by her deep love of animals. Eunice passed away peacefully with her daughters by her side in Buffalo, NY and has been brought back home to Lake Placid to Rest in Peace.

Eunice is survived by her daughters Eunice M. Graham (Micheal Graham) of Schenectady, NY and Jackie M. Mahoney of Eden, NY. Her grandchildren, Joseph P. Lawrence, Desiree Pelkey (Thomas Sharlow), Mike Pelky, Aspen M. Graham (Dave Days) and her great grandchildren, Mercedes Smith, Justic Smith, Heaven-Leigh Preston. Her brothers Wayne Hough and Wendell McCasland (Steve). Her beloved cats Binky and Itzy.

She was proceeded in death by her husband Randal (Pal) Travis, her daughter Penny R. (Purple) Pelky, her son Burton H. (Bird) Smith and her brother James McCasland.

Eunice was born on January 26, 1943, and was raised by her grandparents Wendell and Tunis Benedict of Lake Placid. She grew up in Lake Placid and worked at the Majestic, Elm Tree Inn (Keene, NY), she was the proud owner of the City Dump Lounge, which was known for its homemade food and bringing people together. She even created her own company called Unicones and sold her hand painted checkerboards, candle sticks, napkin rings, etc. to the Adirondack Store and Gallery. She ended her working career at Newmans News where she welcomed and greeted locals and tourist with a smile and a story. The woman could talk about anything!

Known for her unmatched work ethic, she approached every task with determination, pride and Integrity. Whether on the job, at home or helping a friend, she gave her very best. Her talents were many, skilled hands, a creative mind, and a natural ability to fix, build, create and inspire. If something was broken, she could fix it, if clothes needed mending, she could mend them, if you needed a ditch dug, she would help you dig it. If something needed doing, she stepped forward without hesitation.

She loved her two camps on Augar Lake in Keeseville, NY where she would go on her days off. She would work all day and then invite all the neighbors over for dinner. She loved cooking and catching up with friends. But beyond her accomplishments, it was her heart that set her apart. An avid animal lover, she found joy and comfort in the companionship of her pets and wildlife alike. All the neighborhood dogs would be at her door for their treats daily and when she worked at Newman News every dog knew to stop in for their treats.

Eunice (mom) will be remembered for her strength, her generosity and quite acts of kindness. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the lessons she taught and the love she gave. Mom will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

The M. B. Clark, Inc., Funeral Home in Lake Placid, NY is in charge of arrangements. Please visit www.mbclarkfuneralhome.com to share a memory, upload a photograph or leave condolences for her family to cherish.

Burial will be in the North Elba Cemetery in Lake Placid, NY in spring.