Carolyn Mae Silsby MONTPELIER - Carolyn Mae Silsby, 84, passed away peacefully on Oct. 3, 2018, at The Gary Residence. Born in St. Johnsbury on Oct. 9, 1933, she was the daughter of the late John and Mae Silsby. Carolyn graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy in 1951 and UVM in 1955. Carolyn taught math for four years at Newport High School before obtaining a master�s degree from the University of Wisconsin. Carolyn returned to her Vermont roots and settled in Montpelier where she taught biology and math at Montpelier High School from 1964 to 1996. In 1987, Carolyn received the National Presidential Award for Excellence in Science and Math. In 1988, Carolyn traveled to China as a delegate of the Citizens Ambassador Program, sharing in a scientific and professional exchange. Carolyn had the distinction of being named Vermont Teacher of the Year. Carolyn loved each and every student she had. Scores of her former students continued to keep in contact with Carolyn through the years, and she enjoyed hearing updates of her students' children and grandchildren. The Montpelier Rotary Club named her Distinguished Citizen of the Year in 2010. Carolyn enjoyed many activities that immersed her in nature. She enjoyed volunteering at the North Branch Nature Center. Carolyn dabbled in acting and later ushered at the Lost Nation Theater. She played violin and baritone horn for the Capital City Band and Orchestra. She was active with the Unitarian Universalist Church in Montpelier. Carolyn was predeceased by her sister, Janet Silsby Dunham. She is survived by her brother-in-law, Wallace C. Dunham, of Madbury, New Hampshire; three nieces Susan and her husband, Lawrence Smolinsky, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Cynthia and her husband, Donald Dyer, of Falmouth, Massachusetts, Carol Anne and her husband, Raymond Vaicunas, of Randolph, New Jersey; and four great-nieces and -nephews Rachael and Luke Vaicunas, Nathan and Alyssa Dyer. A memorial service will be held in the spring. Carolyn's family would like to give special thanks to the staff at The Gary Residence for their exceptional loving care. Cards of condolences for her family can be sent to The Gary Residence. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either The Gary Residence Activities Department, 149 Main St., Montpelier, VT 05602; or The Capital City Band, 45 Dover St., Montpelier, VT 05602.