Brett Jason Abbey, age 44 of Corning, New York passed away peacefully on March 22nd at Bampa's House, Comfort Care Home in Corning, NY surrounded by family following a long but valiant battle with cancer. He was born on July 29, 1979 in Corning, New York, the son of Denise Maxa and David Abbey.

Brett graduated from East High School, the class of 1997 and was most recently employed as a Reconditioning/Detail Specialist with Elm Chevrolet in Elmira, NY.

Brett's cancer diagnosis in June 2022 led him and his family on a very unexpected, unpredictable roller coaster journey that unfortunately became a prime focus and priority. Despite the statistics, Brett fought this diagnosis with unwavering bravery, courage and quiet grace, always accepting whatever treatment or new protocol was recommended. Brett was always supported by his faithful entourage which fondly became known as "Brett's Crew" for all appointments, meetings and follow-ups.

Brett had an amazing green thumb, which admittedly did not come from his Mother! His home was filled with thriving green plants to which he lovingly attended to each and every week. In fact, he took extra pride in being able to rescue some of his Mom's plants which clearly needed his special touch.

Without question, music was Brett's first love and clearly in his blood. His Father started his career in radio as a disc jockey in Corning so records of all genres were always playing at home and his Mother's family was comprised of singers and musical instrument players. While certainly grateful for the music that surrounded him, Brett was never impressed by his family's rendition of "happy birthday" that unfortunately spared no one!

Brett is lovingly survived by his mother and step-father: Denise and Rick Maxa of Corning, NY; his long-time girlfriend: Reina Campbell of Syracuse, NY; uncles: (Funcle) Dirk Sears of Lindley, NY, Dennis (Marilyn) Abbey of Painted Post; aunt: Diane (Richard) Johnson of Lindley, NY; cousins: Jessica (Alex) Gillis of PA, Rachel (Rodney) LaDieu of Corning, NY; Tammy, Todd and Jason Johnson also of Corning, NY.

He was predeceased by his father David Abbey, maternal grandparents Walter and Shirley Sears and paternal grandparents, Pauline and Herbert Abbey.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Friday, March 29th at 4:00 pm at Phillips Funeral Home, 17 W. Pulteney Street, Corning, NY with Rev. Troy Preston officiating.

Donations in Brett’s name may be sent to: Bampa's House, 170 E. First Street, Corning, NY 14830.

Brett's family remains ever grateful for the loving care and comfort provided by Bampa's House and the team of CareFirst NY, as well as his neuro-oncology team at Wilmot Cancer Center.