Alan Littell ’53, former director of Alfred University News Bureau, passes away at 95

At the time of his passing, Alan was serving as curator and bibliographer of the Openhym Collection of Modern British Literature and Social History at Alfred University’s Herrick Memorial Library.

Full Obituary for Alan Littell

Alan earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Alfred University in 1953 and in 1966 earned a master's degree in British history from Columbia University. For more than 40 years writing as a freelancer, he reported on travel for publications ranging from The New York Times and Travel & Leisure Magazine to The Athens (Greece) News. He contributed articles on voyaging and nautical history to Ocean Navigator, a national yachting publication. In Western New York his work appeared regularly in The Buffalo News, The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle and The Olean Times Herald, and for 10 years he served as travel editor of The Hornell Sunday Spectator. In addition to his travel reporting, Alan wrote essays and opinion columns for the Olean and Hornell newspapers as well as for his hometown weekly, The Alfred Sun.

In addition to his work as a travel writer, Alan also published several books, including “The Absentminded Stargazer,” a collection of 18 essays on people associated with Alfred University that he penned during his 18-year tenure (1968-86) as the university’s public information officer.

Alan was the brother of Alfred University alumnus and best-selling spy novelist Robert Littell ’56 (B.A., English).

In lieu of flowers, Alan’s family suggests making a donation to the Hart Comfort House. A memorial service will be held in the spring. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Cremation, 296 Main Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.