After Birth is not a memoir, but the author's second novel got its impetus from her own experience as a new mother moving to a new town. It is set to be published in February.

GUILDERLAND — Major General Harold J. Greene, who was shot and killed in Afghanistan on Tuesday, was, from a young age, someone who could command a crowd.

His father, Harold F. Greene, recalled to The Enterprise the days in the hospital just after his son’s birth, 55 years ago.

GUILDERLAND — Douglas C. Lawton, a dedicated firefighter and a loving man of few words, died on Wednesday, July 23, 2014, with his loving family by his side, after a valiant three-year battle with colon cancer. He was 57.

Mr. Lawton was born on April 26, 1957, to Charlotte M. Lawton and the late Donald “K” Lawton.

“It’s a neighborhood icon," said Berry Ahearn, who has for 30 years walked to the store to shop. "It’s always been there. I can’t imagine life without it.”

GUILDERLAND — Dr. Milford Becker, veterinarian, put in writing, before his death, that he wanted his land preserved. Now, seven years after he died, his wish is coming true.

GUILDERLAND — After four years of meetings and discussions, the Zoning Review Committee has submitted to the town board a document containing proposed changes to the zoning code.

ALTAMONT — Dorothy D. Barker, a strong-willed woman who loved her family, died on Monday, July 14, 2014. She was 98.

Mrs. Barker was born on Nov. 15, 1915, in Amsterdam, to the late Fred and Bessie (née Cline) Dopp.

GUILDERLAND — David E. Sherry, a man whose compassion knew no bounds, died on Friday, July 11, 2014, after injuries sustained from a motorcycle accident. He was 57.

Mr. Sherry was born in San Antonio, Texas, the son of Edmond A. Sherry and Carol Ganley.

Upon impact with the tractor trailer, Tyler Pascuzzi's Volkswagon split into two pieces, and the two passengers, Cody J. Veverka, 23, of South Cairo, and Alicia M. Tamboia, 24, of Wingdale, were ejected from the vehicle. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

GUILDERLAND — Julie White, a McKownville resident, was killed on July 9 when her car hit a guide rail on Interstate 87 on the Crossgates Mall ramp.

White, 41, was a registered nurse who loved cats and volunteered at animal shelters (see obituary pages.)