Thanks for the tip about contacting the Erie County NY Library.
FYI
I received this reply from
askus@buffalolib.orgThank you for using AskUs. We can check our local newspapers for five days after the date of death when the exact date (month day year) is known. We charge $15 for each name searched and will send the bill with the copies. If this is agreeable to you, please send us your postal address and we will proceed.