Donald F. "Don" Collins
....show , 82, formerly of Eames Street, Groveton, N.H., died peacefully at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehab Center Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010, after a lengthy illness. Born May 10, 1927, in Colebrook, N.H., a son of Walace and Nellie (Parker) Collins, he resided most of his life in the St. Johnsbury, Middlesex and Rochester, Vt., areas. He moved to Groveton in 1992 and lived there until he moved into the rehab center a few years ago. Don was a Veteran of the U.S. Army serving during the Korean Conflict. He was a member of the Groveton United Methodist Church and the American Legion, Post #28, North Troy, Vt. Don was an avid hunter and fisherman. He attended Groveton High School. Before retiring he was employed by Welch Roofing as a roofer. He is survived by one sister Janice Bettis of California; one step-son Darwin Dingman of North Troy, Vt.; a few grandchildren and a few great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Hazel (Westover) Collins on Nov. 24, 1992; a sister Everdean Wheeler, and a brother Alvo Collins. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010, at the Armstrong-Charron Funeral Home in Groveton from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the funeral service following at 1 p.m. with Pastor Aaron Cox of the Groveton United Methodist Church officiating. Burial with military honors will be in the spring in the Northumberland Cemetery.
Wilhelmina 'Billie' Beer
....show , former resident of School Street in St. Johnsbury, passed away Monday, Dec. 28, 2009, at the age of 86. She had resided at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehab Center for the past few years. She was born in St. Johnsbury on June 18, 1923, the daughter of William and Irene (Merchant) Hubbard. She grew up in North Danville and graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy. She was predeceased by her husband, Donald D. Beer, on April 18, 2007. Wilhelmina was well known as a longtime Avon representative. For years she also worked in the kitchen at the old St. Johnsbury Hospital. She was a member of the North Congregational Church. She is survived by her son Dennis Beer and wife Brenda of Auburn, N.H. (P.O. Box 124, 03032); daughter-in-law Lolly Beer of Chaplain, Conn.; three grandchildren: Paula, Eric, and Michael; two great-grandchildren Daniel and Hannah; nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a son William in 2005. In May memorial services will be held at the Ladies Parlour at the North Congregational Church Saturday, May 29, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Massey Cemetery in North Danville. The Rev. Jay Sprout will officiate. Memorial contributions could be directed to North Congregational Church, 1325 Main St., St. Johnsbury VT 05819.
Doria 'Dot' Duperron Grady
....show , formerly of St. Johnsbury, died in Bradenton, Fla., Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010, at the age of 90. She was born on July 11, 1919, in St. Johnsbury, Vt., to Isaac and Adeline Duperron. Dot was predeceased by her husband Allen and daughter Barbara Milo. Until her husband's death in 1997, she had been a lifelong resident of St. Johnsbury and longtime member of the South Congregational Church where she participated in many of the church activities and assisted with the children's choir. Since 1999 she resided in Bradenton. She is survived by her son, Robert Grady and wife Penny of Bristol, Vt.; her daughter Carole Sicard and husband Michael of Bradenton, Fla.; son-in-law Gene Milo of South Burlington, Vt.; sisters Doris Winchester and husband Donald of St. Johnsbury Center, Vt., Rita Blankenhorn of Orlando, Fla., Lorraine Charron and husband Richard of Lyndonville, Vt. In addition she is survived by nine grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held in St. Johnsbury Saturday, Jan. 9, at 11 a.m. at the South Congregational Church. The Rev. William Schutter will officiate. Burial will be in the springtime at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Family will receive friends at the funeral home Friday afternoon from 2-4 p.m. Memorial contributions could be directed to either: Tidewell Hospice, 3355 26th St. West, Bradenton, FL 34205; or to South Congregational Church, 1052 Main St., St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.
Helen Byers Johnson
....show , age 99, a longtime resident of St. Johnsbury, passed away on Nov. 22, 2009, at the Green Mountain Nursing Home in Colchester, Vt. She was born in Newbury, Vt., on June 3, 1910, the daughter of Clarence G. and Mabel Hatch Byers. She attended schools in Wells River before transferring to St. Johnsbury Academy, class of 1928. She was employed by Franklin Hovey, DDS as a dental assistant until her marriage to Bernard Clark Johnson of St. Johnsbury following his graduation from Middlebury College in 1932. The couple was married for 52 years, and together were active supporters of the St. Johnsbury school system, South Congregational Church, St. Johnsbury Academy, the Boy Scouts of America, and numerous other civic organizations. Helen was an avid bridge player. She was a member of South Church for 80 years and a lifelong member of Eastern Star. She was a Cub Scout den mother and, together with her husband, organized the first Cub Scout Gold & Blue Banquet. Above all else, she was a committed homemaker, and her home was always open to young people. She was predeceased by a daughter, Joann Helen Dittman. Survivors include a daughter, Virginia McMains and husband James of Genesee, Idaho; a son, Richard Clark Johnson and wife Mona of Harrisonburg, Va.; three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010, at 1 p.m. at Sayles Funeral Home. Her current pastor, the Rev. David O'Brien from the First Baptist Church of Burlington, will officiate at the service. Burial will be in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery with her husband and daughter. Contributions in her memory may be directed to South Congregational Church, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819, or St. Johnsbury Academy, 1000 Main St., P.O. Box 906, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.
William Donald Mayer Jr.
....show , 83, of Glover Road, Groton, died Saturday night, Jan. 2, 2010, at the Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin. Born Oct. 22, 1926, in Flushing, N.Y., he was the son of William D. and Barbara (Zimmer) Mayer Sr. and was a graduate of Flushing High School in 1944 and later attended the City College of New York. In 1950 he was married to Patricia Guidal and they made their home in Paramus, N.J. She died in 2000. In 2002, he married Dorothy McCready, making their home in Wilmington, Del. For 39 years, he was employed by the New York Telephone Company, retiring as a Division Plant Supervisor in 1986. He loved his family, golfing, playing bridge and his camp on Lake Champlain. A veteran of United States Navy service during World War II. He was recalled to active duty during the Korean War. Survivors include two daughters, Nancy Chiang and her husband Wai of Riveredge, N.J., and Patricia Pratt and her husband Prentis of Groton; six grandchildren: Laura, Arthur and Olivia Chiang and Emily, Elias and Benjamin Pratt. Also surviving are two brothers: Robert and Charles Mayer and a sister, Joan Mayer and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents. His life will be celebrated by family members at his camp on Lake Champlain at a later date. There are no calling hours. Memorial contributions may be made to Smith House Health Care Center, 39 Farrell Road, Willsboro, NY 12996.
Henry Peter McDonald
....show , 78, of West Simsbury, Conn., formerly of Littleton, N.H., passed away Friday, Jan. 1, 2010. Born in Newton, Mass., he grew up in Newton Highlands and lived most of his life in Littleton, N.H. Henry was a graduate of Newton High School in 1950 and served in the U.S. Air Force in the Korean War. A long time businessman, he owned and operated McDonald's Store, The Sewing Basket, and North Country Snax, all in Littleton, N.H. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus in Littleton, N.H. He leaves two daughters, Kelly Lyman and her husband Ed of West Simsbury, Conn., Kathy Ostler and her husband Kevin of Park City, Utah; two sons, John McDonald of Littleton, N.H., and Stephen McDonnell and his wife Nicky of Alexandria, Va; and seven grandchildren. He also leaves three sisters, Margaret Dooley of Canton, Mass., Nancy Flynn and her husband Jim of Worcester, Mass., and Rosalie Killion and her husband Joseph of Falmouth, Mass.; and a brother, John "Jesse" McDonald and his wife Ethlyn of Prospect, Ky. He was predeceased by a sister, Mary Lakeman. A Graveside Service, with military honors, will be held Thursday, Jan. 7, 11 a.m., at St. Joseph's Cemetery in West Roxbury, Mass. A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, Jan. 8, 11 a.m., at St. Rose of Lima Church in Littleton, N.H. His family will receive friends following the mass in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer's Assoc., 279 New Britain Road, Suite 5, Kensington, CT 06037.
Barbara A. Olcott
....show , 60, of East St. Johnsbury, died peacefully Sunday evening, Jan. 3, 2010, at NVRH in St. Johnsbury following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born Aug. 17, 1949, in Lyndon, the daughter of Ronald and Thelma (Robinson) Nutting. Barbara attended Mt. Hunger School, the Campus School, and then Lyndon Institute, graduating in 1968. On June 14, 1968, she married Henry Olcott Jr. Barbara was a stay-at-home mom raising her children. Once they went to school she worked for Metz Electronics in Lyndon for three years, then Fairbanks Scales for one year, then she worked for the Lyndon Town School in the kitchen for three years, and finally for Lyndon Institute in the kitchen for 12 years, cooking and, as Barb put it, "feeding my kids," retiring in 2008 due to her illness. During the spring and summer months, Barb could be found working in her flower and vegetable gardens, or mowing their 4-acre lawn. Other favorite pastimes include four-wheeling with Henry, Keith and Ben, feeding, watching and photographing wild birds and nature, watching the fall foliage each year, knitting, crossword puzzles, her annual cookout with family and friends, going shopping with Stacy, and out to eat with family. A loving grandmother, Barbara always put other people's needs before hers, even until the very end. She was always willing to lend an ear or a hand to whomever needed help. She will be very sadly missed but never forgotten by those who knew and loved her. Survivors include her husband of 41 years, Henry Olcott Jr. of East St. Johnsbury; their daughter, Stacy Hopkins and husband Gregory and their son Benjamin of Lyndon; their son Keith Olcott and Brenda of East St. Johnsbury; six grandchildren, Nicole, Tiffany, Timothy, Jason, Brian, and Benjamin, who was very special to Grammy; her mother, Thelma Nutting of Lyndon; two brothers, Kenneth Nutting of Lyndon, and Robert Nutting and wife Shirley of Lyndon; two sisters, Linda Carlisle of Hempstead, Texas, and Rhonda Boivin Kenny and husband Douglas of Portsmouth, R.I.; her in-laws, Sharon and Allen Briggs of Waterford, and James Houston of Cabot; five aunts, Evelyn Campbell of Lyndonville, Emma Drown of Lunenburg, and Doris Leach and husband Delmer of Lyndon, Carol Robinson of Passumpsic, and Dorothy Blackadar of West Danville; nieces and nephews; and special friends, David and Louise Buck of St. Johnsbury. She was predeceased by her father; her sister and her husband, Florence and Irish McGill; two brothers-in-law, Joseph Boivin and Ronald Carlisle; and two sisters-in-law, Donna Nutting and Madeline Houston. Funeral services will be held Thursday Jan. 7 at 11 a.m. at Lyndon Bible Church, located on Brown Farm Road, with the Rev. Joel Battaglia officiating. Spring burial will be in Grove Cemetery in East St. Johnsbury. Friends may call on the family Wednesday evening from 6 to 8 at Guibord Funeral Home. Donations made in her memory could be directed to the American Cancer Society, 55 Day Lane, Williston, VT 05495.
Marion Mildred "Nana" Pratt
....show , 86, of Derby, passed away on Jan. 2, 2010, in Barton. She was born July 29, 1923, in Island Pond a daughter of Dale and Ethel (Douglass ) Morse. On Oct. 1, 1943, she married Howard Stephen Pratt, who predeceased her in 1985. Mrs. Pratt worked at the American Maple Products for many years and Vermont Beef Jerky for 11 years until she retired at the age of 82. She is survived by two daughters, Cheryl Labounty and her husband Raymond of Derby, and Lynda Davidson of Derby; a grandson, Stephen Erwin-Davidson and his wife Lisa of Derby; great-grandchildren Stephen Davidson of Derby and Michael Davidson of Orange, Mass., Karina Miller and James Miller of Derby; a special little friend Kaelin LaPlante; and four nephews. She was predeceased by two sisters, Beverly Appleby and Ruby Davis. Mrs. Pratt loved watching the birds at her birdfeeders and all her flowers bloom. Burial will take place in the spring at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in her memory may be made to the Alzheimers Association of NH and VT, 172 North Main St., Barre, VT 05641-4124, or to the Northeast Kingdom Community Action Inc., P.O. Box 346, Newport, VT 05855.
Edwin Roscoe Renfrew
....show , 89, died Jan. 1, 2010, in New Port Richey, Fla. Ed was born on Nov. 24, 1920, in St. Johnsbury, Vt., to Roscoe and Reita (Donaghy) Renfrew. He was the youngest of six children, Mamie, Margaret, Clinton, Maybell and Isabell. On Nov. 10, 1965, he married the love of his life, Virginia Day Bedard. He attended St. Johnsbury schools and graduated from St. Johnsbury Trade School in 1939. As a young man Ed was employed with his siblings at his father's store, R.A. Renfrew's Store, at the corner of Portland Street and Concord Avenue. After graduating he joined the Marine Corps and served during World War II. After discharge from the Marines he worked for New England Telephone Company, retiring from there. Ed was a member of the IBEW, the Elks Club, the Moose Club and a lifetime member of the VFW. During his childhood he lived on Clayton Street; during his bachelor years he rented an apartment from Allen Lyster on Portland Street next to the Wee Hoose; during his married life he lived on Caledonia Street; and then during retirement years Ed and Virginia lived in New Port Richey, Fla. Throughout his entire life he enjoyed time spent at his camp on Miles Pond, where he water-skied, canoed and relaxed. His favorite hobby was puttering - an art he mastered. Ed is remembered for his love of his family, his love of Miles Pond, his love of milk and cookies, his naps, his Moxie, his great laugh and sense of humor. He was a man of few words. Ed was the classic Vermont Yankee and embodied the essential Yankee qualities: independence; an ironic dislike of pomp and pretense; a stubborn refusal to complain; and the ability to find humor in everyday occurrences, both good and bad (often at his own expense). He had a gentle Will Rogers-like humor about him that lifted the spirits of everyone he met. He was "Uncle Ed" to friends as well as family. He truly enjoyed and appreciated life. He was universally loved by all. He was a generous and loving man, kind, humorous, and loyal to his friends and family throughout his long life. Ed was a great son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. Ed is survived by his stepsons Douglas (Nancy) Bedard and Stephen (Nancy) Bedard; grandson Douglas Bedard; great-grandsons Cody and Zachary Bedard; sister Maybell Peck; brothers-in-law Donald (Janet) Day and Leo (Jean) Beaulieu; and nieces and nephews from Vermont to Mexico. He was predeceased by his wife in 2000, stepson David Bedard, niece Rieta DiSpirito, his parents and his siblings Mamie Maniatty, Margaret Blake, Clinton Renfrew, and Isabell Sours. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Jan. 6, in New Port Richey, Fla. Interment will be in St. Johnsbury at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions can be directed to The Good Shepherd School, P.O. Box 384, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.
Bruce "Macky" G. Rivers
....show , 57, of Island Pond, passed away in Newport on Jan. 1, 2010, after a long illness. He was born on May 25, 1952, in Newport a son of Edward and Ethel (Samson) Rivers. Bruce enjoyed hunting and fishing and spending time at the family camp. He was a marine, and proud of it, and served during the Vietnam War. He was a member and past commander of both the Island Pond American Legion Post 80 and Newport Alfred Pepin Post 798. Macky was a triplet and is survived by his mother; his brothers Maynard Rivers and wife Pam of East Brighton, Robert Rivers and wife Rita of Island Pond, Gary Rivers and wife Sheryl of New Hampshire, and a sister Lorraine Verge and husband Ed Verge of Island Pond; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother Steve in 2000, and by niece Tracy Glasson in 1980. His father, Edward Rivers, died Jan. 2, 2010. Funeral services for Bruce and his father Edward will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday Jan. 6, 2010, at the First Congregational Church in Island Pond with the Rev. Alan Magoon officiating. Friends may call at the church on Wednesday Jan. 6, 2010, from 1 p.m. until the hour of the funeral. Spring interment will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond with full military honors. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Lyndon Rescue, in care of Alan Magoon, Island Pond, VT 05846.
Edward Eugene Rivers
....show , of Island Pond passed away Jan. 2, 2010, in Newport. Edward was born in Island Pond on April 25, 1922, a son of Coral and Grace (Birch) Rivers. He was a veteran of World War 11, having served in France and Germany with the 100th Division. Eddie worked for the Canadian National Railroad for 42 years, first at the former round house, then on the section where he retired as foreman in 1982. As a hobby, Eddie started snowplowing, which turned into a business. A big winter snow storm couldn't come too early for Ed, as he enjoyed plowing. Eddie always had a big garden, which he shared with family, friends and neighbors. During the summer he would cut wood and sell it in the winter. He liked to keep busy. He built several trailers, which he sold to people in New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Connecticut. He also enjoyed fishing. Mr. Rivers held memberships with the American Legion Post 80 of Island Pond and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 798. He is survived by his wife, Ethel (Samson) Rivers of Island Pond; a daughter Lorraine Verge and husband Ed of Island Pond; by his sons, Maynard Rivers and wife Pamela of East Brighton, Gary Rivers and wife Sheryl of New Hampshire, and Robert Rivers and wife Rita of Island Pond; by a sister, Thora Samson and husband Gordon of Newport; by a brother, Gordon Rivers of Derby; nine grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and an aunt, Sylvia Taylor. He is also survived by close friends Dick Melcher and neighbor and friend Jim Hinton. He was predeceased by a son, Bruce on Jan. 1, 2010, and by a son Steve in 2000, a sister Lillian, and a granddaughter Tracy Glasson. Funeral services for Edward and his son Bruce will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday Jan. 6, 2010, at the First Congregational Church in Island Pond with the Rev. Alan Magoon officiating. Friends may call at the Church on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2010, from 1 p.m. until the hour of the funeral. Spring interment will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond with full military honors. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Lyndon Rescue, in care of Alan Magoon, Island Pond, VT 05846.
Barbara McKay Smith
....show , lifetime civic leader, volunteer and independent newspaper-woman, died at home late Sunday following a brief illness. Born Jan. 17, 1919, in Rahway, N.J., to James and Jeanie (Mckay) Smith, Barbara came to St. Johnsbury after marrying longtime Caledonian-Record owner/publisher Gordon Smith in 1939. Gordon predeceased Barbara in 2001 following 62 years of marriage. Smith was involved with countless local organizations and causes. She was active in The Caledonian-Record throughout her life and served on its board of directors, most recently as its president. Smith is survived by her sons, Michael and wife Pat McPeak, and Mark and wife Rosie Chaloux; grandchildren Carolyn Mckay (Smith) Waller and husband Jim, Victoria Ross (Smith) Baldi and husband Greg, Todd McKay Smith and wife Katy and Devon Alexandra Smith. She also leaves six great-grandchildren, Zachary, Paxton and Ryder Smith, Anna Waller, and Tucker and Taylor Baldi. At the request of Barbara, there will be neither calling hours nor services. She asked that any donations be made to either Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital, c/o Jim Flynn, P.O. Box 905, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819, or the SAD-SAC Fund, P.O. Box 8, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819. A fundraiser, to raise money for NVRH will be held in her name this summer at her Joe's Pond properties.
Henry Peter McDonald
....show , 78, of West Simsbury, Conn., formerly of Littleton, N.H., passed away Friday, Jan. 1, 2010. Born in Newton, Mass., he grew up in Newton Highlands and lived most of his life in Littleton. Henry was a graduate of Newton High School in 1950 and served in the U.S. Air Force in the Korean War. A long time businessman, he owned and operated McDonald's Store, The Sewing Basket, and North Country Snax, all in Littleton. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus in Littleton. He leaves two daughters, Kelly Lyman and her husband Ed of West Simsbury, Conn., Kathy Ostler and her husband Kevin of Park City, Utah; two sons, John McDonald of Littleton and Stephen McDonnell and his wife Nicky of Alexandria, Va; and seven grandchildren; three sisters, Margaret Dooley of Canton, Mass., Nancy Flynn and husband Jim of Worcester, Mass., and Rosalie Killion and husband Joseph of Falmouth, Mass.; and a brother, John "Jesse" McDonald and wife Ethlyn of Prospect, Ky. He was predeceased by a sister, Mary Lakeman. A graveside service, with military honors, will be held Thursday, Jan. 7, 11 a.m., at St. Joseph's Cemetery in West Roxbury, Mass. A memorial Mass will be held on Friday, Jan. 8, 11 a.m., at St. Rose of Lima Church in Littleton, N.H. His family will receive friends following the mass in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association, 279 New Britain Road, Suite 5, Kensington, CT 06037.
Russell Smith
....show , age 90, died Sunday, Jan. 3, 2010, at Hospice of Citrus County Care Unit at Citrus Memorial Hospital in Inverness, Fla. Mr. Smith was born on Oct. 18, 1919, in Pittsfield, Mass., the seventh child of eight of Walter and Lottie (Berry) Smith. He graduated from Lyndon Institute, Lyndonville, Vt., in 1938 and Lyndon Teacher's College, Lyndonville in 1954 and University of Connecticut Graduate School in Storrs, Conn., in 1957. He served in education in Vermont and Connecticut for 39 years, retiring as the original principal from Doolittle School in Cheshire, Conn., in 1980. He enjoyed playing golf and living between Danville, Vt., and Inverness, Fla., in his retirement. His survivors include his wife of 68 years, Marjorie (Bonett) Smith, two daughters, Pamela and husband Gene Blasavage of Naugatuck, Conn., and Katheryne and husband David Shugdinis of Beacon Falls, Conn.; son Bruce Smith of Broomfield, Colo.; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Stephen Smith, and a great-grandson, Kevin Whiskeyman. The family requests donations to Hospice of Citrus County, P.O. Box 641270, Beverly Hills, FL 34464 in lieu of flowers.
Marion Lumbra Reed
....show , a longtime Summer Street resident in St. Johnsbury, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday Jan. 6, 2010, at the age of 91. She was the widow of Carlyle Reed. Services will be held Sunday, Jan. 10, at 2 p.m. at Danville Congregational Church. There will be no visiting hours. Memorial contributions may be contributed to any of the following: St. Johnsbury Band, The Gene McDonough Scholarship Fund, or marked for Hospice at Caledonia Home Health.
Richard Blake Hackett
....show , age 60, passed away Saturday, Jan. 2, 2010. Born in Greenwich, Conn., Blake lived most of his life in the Upper Valley of Vermont but also spent many years in St. Petersburg, Fla. Blake was born on July 20, 1949, the third child of five of Kieran and Lucille Hackett. He graduated from Dobbs Ferry High School in 1966. After receiving training to be a licensed nurse in the U.S. Army, Blake went on to work for the Veterans Association, Brookside Nursing Home and Temporary Nurses Inc. Blake also worked for the Log House Building Company and Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Company and continued to support their mission statement for many years. His hobbies included craftsmanship, woodworking, sailing, literature, collection of decorative prints and natural sculpture. He enjoyed spending time walking and biking outdoors. He is survived by his three children, first-born Logan Hackett and second-born Casey Hackett from marriage to Kerry Kemnitzer in October of 1977, and third-born Emily Hackett from marriage to Martina Livoncova in July 2000. He was preceded in death by a brother, Kieran J. Hackett III.
"Casey" Cassidy
....show of St. Johnsbury passed away at home Jan. 4, 2010, at the age of 62. She was born in St. Johnsbury on March 6, 1947, one of four children born to Raymond and Lila (Sherburne) Cassidy. Maureen graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy in 1966 and was previously married to Leonard Marcotte. Casey was a longtime school bus driver for the St. Johnsbury School district. She was last employed at Burke Mountain and also cleaned houses. She was elected second constable for the town of St. Johnsbury, 1979 to 1999, and was the town's dog officer from 1987 to 1999. She planted the beautiful, beautiful gardens for Bag Balm in Lyndonville and herself had some outstanding flowers gardens. Casey was able to travel extensively, enjoyed reading, and loved animals of all kinds. But what was central to Casey was that she was not afraid to tell you exactly what she thought and said it the way it was. Her family writes she was a very special person who would do anything for you. She will be greatly missed. She was predeceased by her father, Raymond G. Cassidy, on Oct. 2, 1977; her mother Lila Sherburne Cassidy on Nov. 11, 1987; a sister, Maj. Virginia Walsh on Jan. 31, 1970; and several aunts and uncles. She is survived by two brothers, Raymond S. Cassidy and wife Mary (Hagan) Cassidy of Hinesburg, and Martin H. Cassidy and wife Claudette (Paquin) Cassidy of Lyndonville; nephew Timothy Cassidy and wife Toni of Jericho; a niece Kathleen Cassidy of St. Albans. A celebration of her life will be observed in St. Johnsbury this Sunday, Jan. 10 at 2 p.m. at North Congregational Church, 1325 Main St. across from the Fairbanks Museum. The Rev. William Cotte will officiate. There will be no visiting hours. Memorial contributions could be directed to SAD-SAC, care of The Caledonian-Record, P.O. Box 8, St. Johnsbury VT 05819.
Harry J. Hanley
....show , 70, of Wells River, Vt., passed in peace from this earthly world to the heavenly realms where he is greeted by his beloved "Sal" on Jan. 5, 2010, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family. Harry was born in Waldoboro, Maine, to Hartley Joseph Hanley and Freida Davis. He grew up in Littleton, N.H., and graduated from Littleton High School in 1957. After brief service in the U.S. Army, he returned home to Littleton and married Sarah Jane Young, also from Littleton. They began a long and adventurous life, traveling coast to coast with his large family. Harry and "Sal" raised five children and lost one baby. In their younger years, they moved from Vermont to California, to Texas, to Oklahoma before finally returning home to New England in 1983, where they settled down in Wells River, Vt., at Goose Hill. He spent his life creating beautiful homes for people and was noted to be one of the area's master craftsmen. Harry will be remembered as a strong presence in his family and community. An Irishman through and through, he had strong opinions, which he didn't mind sharing; he was a poet, a musician and a hopeless romantic and loved a good joke! He was an exceptional cook at holiday gatherings; especially Christmas dinners will be sorely missed. He loved his family more than anything else and will be missed by those who are left waiting to join him and Sal one day. Throughout his life he made deep and lasting friendships from California to New England, and he thought of and spoke of these dear friends every day of his life. He always said there was nothing more important than family and friends. We love you Dad; we'll miss you, Poppy, and as we raise our glass to our Clan Chief we say "Slainte." Harry is survived by his son Karl Hanley of North Haverhill, N.H.; four daughters, Heidi Smith of Charlestown, N.H., Kris Macomber of Woodsville, N.H., Kari Hanley of Seabrook, N.H., Katie Hanley of Wells River, Vt.; 10 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; a brother, Ed Timson of Lunenburg, Vt.; three sisters, Neva Macey of Lunenburg, Marie Pardise of Greenville, S.C., and Diana Bora of Florida. Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010, 2-4 p.m. at Ross Funeral Home, Littleton Chapel. A celebration of life will be held on Monday, Jan. 11, 2010, 12:30 p.m., at Ross Funeral Home, Littleton Chapel. The family requests donations in Harry's memory be made to the American Cancer Society, 2 Commerce Drive, Suite 110, Bedford, NH 03110, or DHMC Palliative Care, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, One Medical Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756.
John Wyman Young
....show , 54, of East Haven and Cabot, Vt., passed away at Fletcher Allen Hospital in Burlington, Vt., on Jan. 5, 2010, after battling a long illness. He is predeceased by his father, Maurice W. Young, his mother, Paula J. (Ruggles) Young, and his son and best friend Gabriel Young. John leaves behind, his beloved daughter, Amanda A. Young and her partner Adam Harris of East Haven; his soul mate, Patricia Younce and her five children who John loved as his own, Chris, Ben, Mary, Rachel and Erik, all of Cabot; three brothers, Douglas Young and partner Deborah Goodwin, Bruce Young and wife Barbara, and Rodney Young, all of East Haven; his many cherished nieces and nephews, Chris Tina, Lillian, Lisa, Andrew and Jasmine Young, and Daniel Lowell. John also had special relationships with his ex-in-laws, Nancy Mitchell, Rodney "Buzzy" Chayer, Angela Young, Rhonda Chayer, Norma Chayer, Phyllis Robinson and Theresa Young. John will be remembered and missed by all. John was passionate for hunting, fishing, hiking and especially the time he spent with his son Gabe, tinkering on vehicles. John was gifted in many artistic endeavors, such as woodworking, poetry, qi gong, yoga and reiki. John was also a board member at the Integrative Therapy Institute in St. Johnsbury, and was a vital participant of its healing community, primarily working with children with special needs and their families. Family and friends are all invited to participate in a celebration of John's life at the Community building in East Haven, Vt., at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010, with a pot luck reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fresenius Dialysis Center (attention Kathy Rexford), 1080 Hospital Drive, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.
Marion L. Reed
....show , longtime Summer St. resident of St. Johnsbury, passed away at home Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2010, with her loving family at her side. She was born May 26, 1918, in St. Johnsbury to Herbert James Lumbra and Vera (Cole) Lumbra. Her husband, Carlyle M. Reed, passed away on July 16, 2003, after 64 years of marriage. Their youngest child Robert passed away Dec. 14, 1976. She was also predeceased by four brothers, Bruce, Robert, Paul and Calvin Lumbra, and by a sister, Donna Whitcomb. Marion had a love of music; she played the piano and sang in the North Church choir for many years. She was very active in the North Church's United Workers group. She enjoyed all sports and especially watching the Boston Red Sox; she was thrilled to see them win two world championships. Marion enjoyed working outside in her vegetable and flower gardens, and she had a gift for drawing and water-color painting. She also enjoyed bird-watching and taking rides looking for wildlife. For over 30 years she and Carlyle spent their winters in St. Petersburg, Fla. But her greatest love always was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; in fact, Sharon and Brad grew up in the same house. She is survived by her only remaining sibling, her sister Barbara Schmidt and husband Robert of San Diego, Calif.; her two children, Richard Reed and wife Patricia of St. Johnsbury, Barbara Truex and husband Thomas of Wallingford, Vt.; three grandchildren who called her their "Nan," Betsy Brown and husband Chris of Monkton, Vt., Sharon Alger and husband Jay of St. Johnsbury, Bradley Reed and wife Linda of St. Johnsbury; two great-grandchildren, Alyssa Alger and Alison Brown; four step-grandchildren, Linda's children Michael and Katie, and Tom's children Sam and Jacqui; and Jacqui's two children, Nathaniel and Seth; two sisters-in-law, Theresa Lumbra and Frances Lumbra, both of St. Johnsbury; brother-in-law David Whitcomb of Lyndonville; Carlyle's brother Paul Reed and wife Marjorie of Lyndonville; several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held in Danville this Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010, at 2 p.m. at Danville Congregational Church. The pastor, the Rev. Douglas Carter, will officiate, assisted by the Rev. Robert Sargent. Burial will be at a later date at the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in St. Johnsbury. There will be no visiting hours. Memorial contributions could be directed to any of the three following organizations: St. Johnsbury Band, attention Scott Labun, P.O. Box 243, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819; The Gene McDonough Scholarship Fund, care of Mark Harpin at St. Johnsbury Fire Department, 1187 Main St., Ste. 3, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819; or Caledonia Home Health Care (marked for "Hospice"), 161 Sherman Drive, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.
Jeanne C. Wade
....show , 97, of Island Pond, ended her earthly journey on Jan. 5, 2010, in Glover, Vt. She was born Nov. 23, 1912, in East Hereford, Quebec, the seventh of 13 children of George and Victoria (Pariseau) Bissonette. On Oct. 31, 1936, she married Nelson Wade. Mrs. Wade was a senior citizen aide who helped seniors through the Area Agency on Aging. She was the first Vista worker in Island Pond. Among her hobbies she enjoyed traveling, quilting, sewing, knitting and making many different items for the family, specializing in wool socks. She also enjoyed working in the garden with Nelson, and helped set up the meal site in Island Pond. She and Nelson were great family people and enjoyed family gatherings, hosting several Bissonnette family reunions. She is survived by her children, Ann West and husband Paul of Durham, N.H., Lucinda Hill and husband Spencer of Huntington, Vt., and William Wade and wife Kay of Hiltons, Va.; by her grandchildren, Deborah Stacey of Maine, Steven and Sandy West of New York, Kelly Hill and Maria Duryea of Vermont, Scott and Donna Wade of Virginia, Stacey and Arjay Sarmiento of New York, and Kimberly and Michael Drew of West Burke; and by 10 great-grandchildren, Julie and Amanda Drew, Nichole and Jordan Stacey, Lexy Wade, Robby, Katie and Michael West, Becket and Helen Hill; and by one great-great-granddaughter, Nevaeh Stacey; sisters-in-law Louise Bissonnette of Beecher Falls, Vt., Shirley Wade Davis of Arundel, Maine, and Marilyn Wade of Island Pond; one sister, Elizabeth Adams of Berlin, N.H.; and by many nieces and nephews. In 2009, there were 457 known Bissonnette descendants. She was predeceased by her husband, Nelson Wade; four brothers, Albert, Edward, Alphonse and Louis; and seven sisters, Rose, Bernadette, Yvonne, Gabrielle, Alice, Beatrice and Therese. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010, at St. James Fellowship Hall in Island Pond with the Rev. Frank Connor officiating. Friends may call at the fellowship hall on Saturday, Jan. 9 from 10 a.m. until the hour of the funeral. Spring interment will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond on May 28, 2010, at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to St. James Catholic Church or to the Island Pond Health Center, Island Pond, VT 05846.
Jean M. Emerson
....show , 70, of Rooney Road, Dalton, N.H., passed away Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, surrounded by her family. Services are pending at this time.
Eleanor Somers Steele Laakso
....show , 90, formerly of Ascutney, died Saturday, Jan. 9, 2010, at the Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center. She was born Dec. 7, 1919, in St. Johnsbury, Vt., the daughter of Edward A. and Etta Belle (Parker) Somers. She graduated as Salutatorian from Peacham Academy in Peacham, Vt., in 1937. She was married to Herbert C. Steele of West Barnet, Vt., on Nov. 13, 1938, (he predeceased her May 28, 1972). They moved to Ascutney where they raised six children. They were also foster parents for Vermont Children's Aid. She cooked for the Ascutney School Hot Lunch Program and later worked as ward clerk and cook for the Windsor Hospital. She also worked at Furman's Department Store in Springfield. She was married to Frank I. Laakso of Ludlow, Vt., June 19, 1982. They enjoyed spending winters at their home in Mt. Dora, Fla. She has been a resident at the Mt. Ascutney Skilled Nursing Facility for the past five years. Mrs. Laakso enjoyed quilting, especially making them for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was lovingly called "Woompie" by her Dad and "Gam" by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her husbands and leaves behind her six children: Nancy S. Spaulding and her husband Rodney of Ascutney; Janice S. Brown and her husband Tom of Plymouth, Vt; Barbara S. Porter and her husband Bob of Chichester, N.H.; Susan S. Devost and her husband Mark of Grantham, N.H.; Herbert C. "Chip" Steele Jr. and his wife Patricia of Weathersfield, Vt.; Richard E. "Rick" Steele and his wife Penny of Springfield; as well as 15 beloved grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and her only brother Edward R. "Tim" Somers and his wife Ann of Danville, Vt.; and nieces and nephews. Friends may call at the Knight Funeral Home in Windsor, Vt., Wednesday, Jan. 13, from 1-2 p.m. A celebration of her life will follow at 2 p.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Constance Moser officiating. A private burial will be held in the spring in the Ascutneyville Cemetery in Ascutney, Vt. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mt. Ascutney Hospital Skilled Nursing Facility, 289 County Road, Windsor, VT 05089.
Marian Gertrude Fallaw
....show , 86, of 156 Pearl Street, St. Johnsbury, Vt., died Jan. 7, 2010 at The Pines in Lyndonville, Vt. She was born in Elizabeth, N.J., June 2, 1923, the daughter of Arthur T. and Helen E. (Thomas) Cross. Marian attended Trinity Grade School in Westfield, N.J., and graduated from Union High School, Union, N.J. She trained at Colt Memorial Hospital in Newark, N.J. She served as a sergeant with the U.S. Army as a nurse. She served from March 1945 until her discharge in June 1946. She worked as a pediatric nurse for many years in New Jersey, retiring in 1979. For many years she lived in Lady Lake, Fla., and moved to Vermont in 1995. She was a communicant of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Woodsville, N.H. Marian was a member of the American Legion Post #30 in Lyndonville, Vt. Marian was married to Frontis T. Fallaw who predeceased her on April 1, 1994. Survivors include two daughters, Annemarie Aiken of Sheffield, Vt., and Lisa E. Arnold of Port Orange, Fla.; two sons, Frontis A. Fallaw of Beachwood, N.J., and Michael T. Fallaw of S. Wheelock, Vt.; seven grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; a brother, Charles R. Cross of Apache Jct, Ariz.; several nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be on Friday, Jan. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m., at the Ricker Funeral Home, 1 Birch St., Woodsville, N.H. A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, Jan. 16, at 11 a.m., at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 15 Pine St., Woodsville, N.H., with Father Jeffrey Statz officiating. Burial with military honors will be in the Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Fla., on Jan. 20, 2010, at 1 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 21 Pine St., Woodsville, NH 03785.
Raymond Douglas
....show , age 91, of Lyndonville, passed away very peacefully Monday, Jan. 11, 2010, at The Pines assisted living facility. He was born in St. Johnsbury on May 23, 1918, the son of Victor and Catherine (Radford) Douglas. He graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy with the Class of 1936. After marrying Virginia Porter of West Burke on Jan. 22, 1942, he served in the U.S. Army in the Southeast Pacific during World War II. Virginia predeceased him on Valentine's Day, 1995. Ray loved people. He followed local sports very closely; it seemed he had his own parking space near the LI alumni office overlooking the football field. He knew every back road there was in the Kingdom. He had a love for the outdoors, whether hunting, gardening or simply sitting in his lawn chair in front of his garage looking down the valley. Ray worked at Tap & Die for over 30 years; he valued an education and worked hard to send both his boys to the University of Vermont. Along the way he also worked at a bakery, a general store, the East Haven radar base, and Danville High School; he took pride that he never missed a paycheck. He is survived by two sons, James R. Douglas and Ms. DJ Shaw of Spring Hill, Tenn., and Steven F. Douglas and wife Susan of Longmeadow, Mass.; three grandchildren, Jennifer Feliz, Tracey Manwaring and Christine Dreidel; seven great-grandchildren; an aunt, Marion Radford of St. Johnsbury; three sisters, Kay Warrell and husband Ralph of St. Johnsbury, Marion Parsons of Dover, N.H., and Madeline Easter of St. Johnsbury; a sister-in-law, Pat Douglas of St. Johnsbury; brother-in-law Robert Porter and wife Rita of Townsend, Mass.; nieces and nephews; close friends and neighbors. Besides his wife, Virginia, he was predeceased by his two brothers, Fred and Robert Douglas. Public graveside services will be held Saturday, May 22 at 11 a.m. at Hillside Cemetery in West Burke with Mr. John Sleeper officiating. Visiting hours will be held at Guibord Funeral Home, Wednesday evening, Jan. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. Memorial contributions, marked for the "Resident Activities Fund," may be sent to The Pines Rehabilitation and Health Center, 601 Red Village Road, Lyndonville, VT 05851. His family wishes to convey their sincere appreciation for the loving care their Dad received during his stay at The Pines assisted living facility.
Elizabeth "Libby" Eastman
....show , age 79, of Soldotna, Alaska, passed away on Jan. 5, 2010, at her daughter's winter home in Florida with her loving family at her side. She was born on May 24, 1930, in Conway, N.H., the daughter of James E. Smith and Delema Grandchamp Smith. She was predeceased by two sisters, Barbara Robinson of Conway, N.H., and Marjorie Parent of Hartford, Conn., and one brother, Ralph Smith of Camarillo, Calif. Libby Eastman was an active hunter (moose, brown bear, caribou, elk, deer), fisherman (salmon, halibut) and hiker (many multi-day hikes, including the 33-mile Chilkoot Pass between the U.S. and Canada at the age of 67 with a 40-pound backpack). She and her husband built over a dozen log and frame houses throughout their retirement years, including the last two in 2004. She canned and gave away hundreds of pounds of red salmon they caught at their home on the Kenai River in Alaska. She traveled to Germany, England and Scotland on different occasions. She worked for Head Start in the 1960s and for many years at Citizens Bank in St. Johnsbury, Vt. For the past 20 years, they made their retirement home in Soldotna, Alaska. Prior to that, she lived in the towns of Kirby, Passumpsic, Sharon and Jamaica, Vt., Southington, Conn., and East Conway, N.H. Mrs. Eastman suffered from IPF (idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis), a degenerative lung disease. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Norman Eastman of Soldotna; four children (Gordon Eastman of Reading, Vt., Loren Eastman of Warrenton, Va., David Eastman of Lyndon, Vt., and Joyce E. Rogers of West Danville, Vt); nine grandchildren; one great-grandchild; many nieces and nephews; numerous friends; three siblings, Jeannie Labroke of St. Johnsbury, James Smith of Conway, and Shirley Pierce of Manchester, Conn. A memorial service is planned in Vermont in June 2010. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked donations be made in her name to the charity of your choice.
Waldo Petterson
....show passed away after a lingering illness at his home at 441 Old Bradley Road in St. Johnsbury, Jan. 9, 2010 at the age of 83. He was born May 3, 1926, to Waldo Petterson and Olga Lundberg. He grew up in Manchester, N.H., and went to Central High School where he was a violinist in the orchestra. Waldo was known to most people as "Wally" or "Pete." He entered the U.S. Navy in 1944 in World War II and was a signal man on merchant ships in the Pacific. They transported troops as far as the Philippines. After being discharged from the Navy, Wally attended Plymouth State College and graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1950. Pete, as he was known in the business world, worked more than 30 years in Vermont as an insurance adjuster for General Adjustment Bureau. He was well known for his quick smile, sense of humor and honesty. He made many lasting friends during those years. He is survived by his wife, Lorraine of over 50 years; son Mark; two dear grandchildren, Haley Clark of Lyndonville and Elizah Clark, who is in the U.S. Air Force in California; his sister, Beverly Bishop and husband Robert Bishop; brothers- and sisters-in-law in New Hampshire. Wally had many hobbies and pastimes. He loved skiing, which brought him to Vermont. He also enjoyed traveling, gardening and helping to build his home 35 years ago. In season, he enjoyed playing tennis with his friends. Not enough words can be expressed for the gratitude we have for Caledonia Home Health Care and Hospice during the past six months. They were so helpful and supportive. Those who would like to contribute in Wally's memory can do so by making a donation to SAD-SAC, in care of The Caledonian-Record, P.O. Box 8, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819, in memory of his German shepherd, Beau.
Nellie L. (Simpson) Burelle
....show , 89, of South Hadley, Mass., died Tuesday morning, Jan. 12, 2010, at Mount St. Vincent Nursing Home in Holyoke, Mass. Born in Sheffield, Vt., on May 13, 1920, and raised in Sheffield, she was the daughter of the late William and Sadie (Libbey) Simpson. Nellie previously worked at the Spaulding Company in Chicopee, Mass. She had been a member of the United Congregational Church in Holyoke. Nellie was the wife of the late Anatole Burelle, and she was also pre-deceased by her seven siblings. Nellie is survived by a daughter, Pamela Rodzen of South Hadley; a son, Keith Burelle of Granby; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Calling Hours for Nellie will be on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ryder Funeral Home, 33 Lamb St., South Hadley. A funeral service will follow in the funeral home at 7 p.m., officiated by the Revs. Charles and Roberta Morkin from U.C.C, Holyoke. Burial will take place in the spring in the family plot at the Sutton Village Cemetery in Sutton, Vt. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Nellie's memory to either the Council On Aging, 45 Dayton St., South Hadley, MA 01075, or to the Shriners' Hospital, 516 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104-2396 would be appreciated.
Teresa Viola Smith
....show of Victory, Vt., passed away on Jan. 8, 2010, at the Stuart F. Meyer Hospice House in Palm Coast, Fla., after a brief illness. Terry and her husband owned and operated the Mayflower Greenhouses and Plant Shops in West Alton, N.H., and Lochmere, N.H., and The Country Lilac in West Alton, N.H., for 32 years before retiring to Victory in 2001. Terry enjoyed traveling and the outdoor life of camping, boating and fishing. She was a very talented artist and won many awards in the art of china painting. Terry enjoyed cooking and especially loved to prepare gourmet dinners for her family and friends. Terry's dog Lucy Belle was never far from her side. Terry is survived by her husband of 50 years, Douglas H. Smith; son Thomas Zuppe and wife Dianne, of North Troy, Vt.; daughter Donna Prindle of Tilton, N.H.; grandsons Christopher Prindle and wife Anne of Poughkeepsie, N.Y., and Sean Prindle and wife Janet of Northfield, N.H.; great-granddaughters Mary Mullens Prindle of Poughkeepsie and Amelia Teresa Prindle of Northfield.
Roger D. Church Sr.
....show of St. Johnsbury, passed away Jan. 12, 2009, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, at the age of 59. He was born in St. Johnsbury, Vt., on Oct. 4, 1950, the son of Robert and Caroline (Fenoff) Church. Roger graduated from St. Johnsbury Trade School in the Class of 1969; there he learned to be an auto body repair man and mechanic, which kept him self-employed. Roger was an honorable man who loved spending time with his family, especially going yard saling with his sister Brenda. He liked to hunt, fish and "make junk work." He was a very dedicated member of the St. Johnsbury Moose Club and had many friends who loved and adored him. He will be missed by many. Roger is survived by his daughter, Autumn Church-Bursey and her husband Jeff of Stockbridge; a son, Roger D. Church, Jr. of Georgia; his mother Caroline F. Church of St. Johnsbury; two sisters, Brenda Cormier and husband Larry of Danville; Judy Powell and husband Jack of Sheffield; three grandchildren, Tyler Church-Morcombe, Gage Church-Bursey and Cole Church; a sister in law, Sylvia Church; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Robert Church in 1995, and his brother David on May 6, 2009. Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Roger's memory may be made to Chad's Children Hospital, c/o DHMC, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03766.
Robert Anthony Warner
....show , 72, East Ryegate, Vt., died on Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, N.H. He was born in Newport, R.I., Aug. 5, 1937, the son of John E. and Arline (Anthony) Warner. Bob graduated from Rogers High School in Newport, then attended the Rhode Island School of Design, where he graduated as a draftsman, working in Rhode Island, California, Arizona and Vermont. Upon moving to Ryegate in 1962, he worked as a dairy farmer and retired from this profession. Bob will be remembered maintaining the grounds of Warner's Campground and bartending at Phil's Drive-In. Bob had a passion for sailing and being on the ocean. He loved fishing, reading, music, dogs and "good" ice cream. He was a past board member of the Area Agency on Aging for Northeastern Vermont in St. Johnsbury, Vt. He was predeceased by his parents, John E. and Arline (Anthony) Warner; and a brother, John Peter Warner. Survivors include four daughters, Shellie Samuels and husband Derrick Sr. of Barnet, Vt., Jessie Davidson and husband Michael of Barnet, Tracy Warner and fiancé Willis "Buddy" Hall of East Ryegate, and Bobbi Warner Somers and husband Brian of Barnet; grandchildren Derrick Samuels Jr. and wife Rebekah and their children Derrick III and Shanice, Theodore Samuels, Courtney Samuels, Travis Samuels, Logan Samuels, Andrew Davidson and wife Michelle, Riley Davidson and friend Matt Rutchick, Patrick Long, Anthony Whitcomb, and Brian Somers; two sisters, Diane Keenan and husband Francis of Orlando, Fla., and Janet Warner-Ashley and Brad of Oconomowoc, Wisc.; a brother, the Rev. Thomas M. Warner and wife Nancy of Grafton, N.H.; a lifetime companion, Jan Warner of East Ryegate; one uncle, George M. Copeland of Portsmouth, R.I.; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Calling hours will be on Monday, Jan. 18, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Ricker Funeral Home, 1 Birch St., Woodsville, N.H. A celebration of his life will be held in Portsmouth, R.I., later in the summer. Burial will be at the St. Mary's Episcopal Cemetery in Portsmouth. Memorial contributions may be made to the Area Agency on Aging for Northeastern Vermont, Attn: Ken Gordon, 481 Summer St. Suite 101, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819, or Caledonia Animal Rescue Inc., P.O. Box 4054, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.
Beverly Perkins Balch
....show , 83, of Baptist Hill Road, Lunenburg, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Thursday, Dec. 31, 2009, at Weeks Medical Center, Lancaster, N.H. Beverly was born in Lunenburg on Nov. 26, 1926, the daughter of Howard and Eulelia (Bryant) Perkins. She was the loving wife of Gardner H. Balch Sr., who predeceased her in 2006. She was the loving mother of six children, Gardner H. Balch Jr. of Lunenburg, Sharon E. Thurston of Guildhall, Stephen M. Balch of Hinsdale, Howard C. Balch of Winston-Salem, N.C., Lee D. Balch of Lunenburg, and Dianthe G. Charron of Tampa, Fla.; 11 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Winonna Wood of Winchendon, Mass. A granddaughter, Desiree Balch, also predeceased her. At Beverly's request there are no visiting hours. Services will be held at the convenience of the family.
Rebecca Ann Bjornstad
....show , age 67, of Cedarville, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 12 ,2010. Rebecca was born Nov. 2, 1942, in Barton, Vt., the daughter of the late Francis and Lavinia (LaFoe) Leonard. She was a teacher for 37 years, retiring in 2008 from the East Dayton Christian School. Rebecca was a member of the Grace Baptist Church, Cedarville, and was the author of the soon-to-be-published book, "Thomas Jefferson: The Freedom of A Nation." Survivors include her husband of 43 years, James; daughters Christine Lynn (Dr. Charles) Henderson, York, Pa., and Karen Ann (Mark) Peterson, Gainesville, Va.; grandchildren Anna Rose Henderson, Benjamin Franklin Henderson, Charlotte Marie Henderson, William James Henderson and Ryan Thomas Peterson. A gathering of family and friends will be held from 6-8 p.m., Friday Jan. 15, 2010, in Grace Baptist Church (Moffat Hall), 109 North Main St., Cedarville, where services will be conducted at 8 p.m. with Pastor Craig Miller officiating. Private burial will be held at the convenience of the family in North Cemetery.
Jeannette M. Gray
....show , 85, of Lyndonville, died peacefully at her home with her family by her side, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010. She was born June 9, 1924, in Westmore, the last surviving child of Fred and Weltha (Yurann) Stevens. On June 29, 1946, she married Dale F. Gray. Jeannette began her working career as a waitress working at Willies Restaurant in Lyndonville for a few years. She then worked at the Darling Inn Nursing Home as a licensed nurses aide for many years. Then she worked for Lyndon Institute as a cook for several years, and then for Pine Knoll Nursing Home as an LNA for over 10 years. Quilting, cooking, canning, taking care of her houseplants and gardens, making crafts and sharing her knowledge with others brought her much pleasure. A loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, her family was her first priority. Survivors include her four children, Clint Gray and wife Mary of Sutton, Weltha "Beth" Townsend and husband Robert of Lyndonville, Constance "Connie" Charron of East Burke, and Susan Friend and husband Randy of Sutton; 13 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; two sisters in-law, Norma Stevens of Oakman, Ala., and Clara Gray of Lyndon; a brother in-law, Hector Bumps of West Haven, Conn.; many nieces and nephews; and a special caregiver, Debra Sanville of West Burke. She was predeceased by her parents; her husband of 62 years, Dale Gray; her seven brothers, Harland, John, Hiram, Milard, Wallace, Charles and Keith Stevens; and her two sisters, Mildred Balentine and Weltha Morse. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Jan. 19 at 11 a.m. at Sutton Freewill Baptist Church with the Rev. David Colwell officiating. Spring burial will be in Sutton Village Cemetery. Friends may call on the family Monday evening from 6-8 at the Guibord Funeral Home. Donations made in her memory may be directed to the Sutton Freewill Baptist Church, P.O. Box 65, Sutton, VT 05867.
Mark John Keller
....show , 47, of Bethlehem, left us after a lengthy illness Jan. 14, 2009, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. He was employed in the lumber and log cabin industry and a self employed carpenter. Mark was a very private person, a talented artist and wood sculptor. He is predeceased by his mother, Beverly Boothroyd. He is survived by his father, John C. Keller;, brother Douglas G. Keller; two sisters, Liset Merritt and Dawn Roby and their spouses; Mark's long-time companion, Cheryl Collins; and many close friends and extended family. The family has chosen to have a private service. The family requests that donations, in lieu of flowers, be made to the American Cancer Society.
Andrew J. Robinson
....show passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2010, at NVRH at the age of 61. He was born on July 26, 1948, in Concord, Vt., the second child of Clayton and Carol (Nutting) Robinson. He graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy in 1966. In 1997 he married Deanne Tripp while they were on vacation in Las Vegas, then they honeymooned in Hawaii. Andy started work at a young age on the family farm, working also in the sawmill and dance hall. While in high school he worked for St. Johnsbury Trucking at the Portland Street office; while living in Connecticut he worked at the Connecticut Silk Screen factory; later, he worked for Cabot Headwater Lumber Co. After his retirement from H.G. Woods in Bath, N.H., he started his own logging and sawing business. He was a logger at heart and was at home in the woods. Andy loved to read and play golf, was a New York Giants fan and an old-car enthusiast, but most of all he was proud of his children and grandchildren, with whom he just enjoyed spending time at home. Andy is survived by his wife, Deanne; his six children, Julie Robinson of Berwick, Pa., Andrew "AJ" Robinson and wife Misty of Bossier City, La., Jason Robinson and wife Theresa of West Danville, Todd Robinson and fiancée Rachel Green of North Danville, Darcie Nash and husband Louis of Passumpsic, Seth Robinson and wife Tiffany of Melbourne, Fla.; a stepson, Stephen Tripp and companion Trish Geoffory of Westmore; 16 grandchildren; his mother, Carol Robinson of Passumpsic; 11 brothers and sisters, Gloria Bullock and husband David of Marshville, N.C., Clayton Robinson and wife Theresa of Wilson, N.C., Brenda Ball and husband Richard of Passumpsic, Marcia Martel and husband Roger of Waterford, Thomas Robinson of Chester, Va., Earl Robinson and wife Mary of Peacham, Cynthia Robinson and husband Robert of Lyndonville, Dorothy Robinson and spouse Sandy Turman of Passumpsic, Stanley Robinson and wife Kathleen of Passumpsic, Russell Robinson and wife Lisa of Passumpsic, and Carol Robinson of Passumpsic; his mother-in-law Beverly Tripp of Lyndonville; sister-in-law Lois Tripp of Lyndonville; and brother-in-law Stephen Tripp of San Diego, Calif.; many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his father Clayton Robinson on Jan. 27, 2008, two sisters, Mary Robinson in 1975, Diane Graziose on Nov. 17, 2009, and brother-in-law Philip Graziose in 2003. Funeral services will be held at Union Baptist Church located on Route 5, south of St. Johnsbury, on Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, at 2 p.m. Pastor Paul Powers will officiate. Visiting hours will be held at Sayles Funeral Home tonight (Friday, Jan. 15) from 6 to 8 p.m. Burial will be at Danville Green Cemetery in the spring. Contributions in Andy's memory may be made to The American Cancer Society, 55 Day Lane, Williston, VT 05819.
Jeannette M. Gray
....show , 85, of Lyndonville, died peacefully at her home with her family by her side, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010. She was born June 9, 1924, in Westmore, the last surviving child of Fred and Weltha (Yurann) Stevens. On June 29, 1946, she married Dale F. Gray. Jeannette began her working career as a waitress working at Willies Restaurant in Lyndonville for a few years. She then worked at the Darling Inn Nursing Home as a licensed nurses aide for many years. Then she worked for Lyndon Institute as a cook for several years, and then for Pine Knoll Nursing Home as an LNA for over 10 years. Quilting, cooking, canning, taking care of her houseplants and gardens, making crafts and sharing her knowledge with others brought her much pleasure. A loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, her family was her first priority. Survivors include her four children, Clint Gray and wife Mary of Sutton, Weltha "Beth" Townsend and husband Robert of Lyndonville, Constance "Connie" Charron of East Burke, and Susan Friend and husband Randy of Sutton; 13 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; two sisters in-law, Norma Stevens of Oakman, Ala., and Clara Gray of Lyndon; a brother in-law, Hector Bumps of West Haven, Conn.; many nieces and nephews; and a special caregiver, Debra Sanville of West Burke. She was predeceased by her parents; her husband of 62 years, Dale Gray; her seven brothers, Harland, John, Hiram, Milard, Wallace, Charles and Keith Stevens; and her two sisters, Mildred Balentine and Weltha Morse. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Jan. 19 at 11 a.m. at Sutton Freewill Baptist Church with the Rev. David Colwell officiating. Spring burial will be in Sutton Village Cemetery. Friends may call on the family Monday evening from 6-8 at the Guibord Funeral Home. Donations made in her memory may be directed to the Sutton Freewill Baptist Church, P.O. Box 65, Sutton, VT 05867.
Ellen M. Sargent
....show , 52, of Wentworth Road, Lunenburg, Vt., died Friday morning, Jan. 15, 2010, at Weeks Medical Center, Lancaster, N.H. Ms. Sargent was born on May 16, 1957, in Haverhill, N.H., a daughter of Henry and Priscilla (Pike) Sargent. Ellen was a lifetime resident of Lunenburg. She had a true passion for all animals and was known for taking in and rescuing all that she could. She truly loved her family and valued the time she spent time with them. Family members include her companion of 34 years, Kenneth Sayles of Lunenburg; two brothers, David Sargent of St. Johnsbury, Vt., and Warren Sargent of Lunenburg; two sisters, Flora Sigouin of Lunenburg and Cathy Sleeper of North Anson, Maine; foster brother Richard LaPage of Lunenburg; her best friend Tina Rexford of Lancaster; and many nieces and nephews. Her parents and a brother, George Sargent, predeceased her. Visiting hours will be held Monday evening Jan. 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster. A funeral service will be held Tuesday afternoon at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. The Rev. James Michaels, pastor at Lancaster Assembly of God, will officiate. Burial will held in the spring in Riverside Cemetery, Lunenburg.
Leo Paul G. Sargent
....show , 38, died suddenly on Jan.y 15, 2010, in Newport. He was born Jan. 20, 1971, in Newport, a son of Betty Sargent and Robert Morse. Leo Paul was a self-employed auto mechanic. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, 4-wheeling, and almost any other outdoor sport. He also liked to work on cars. He is survived by his mother, Betty Shatney and her husband Edward of Lyndon; two children; a brother, Harry Sargent Jr. of Coventry; sisters Nancy Pray of Lyndonville, Angel Verge of West Burke, Tammy Verge of Newport, Teresa Bryant of Burlington, Rachel Allen and her husband Jerry of Barnet, Samantha Shatney of Lyndon, Kara Shatney and Brittney Shatney of Lyndon; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and many friends. He was predeceased by his adoptive parents, Harry and Ruth Sargent Sr. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2010, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, Newport. Spring interment in Newport Center Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Ronald Holland Dialysis Unit, North Country Hospital, Prouty Drive, Newport, VT 05855.
Raymond J. "Ray" Therrien Jr.
....show , of St. Johnsbury, died suddenly Monday morning, Jan. 18, 2010, at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury, at the age of 43. He was born in Bristol, Conn., on Oct. 26, 1966, the son of Raymond and Darlene (Austin) Therrien Sr. In 1982 Ray moved from Connecticut to Vermont. Ray worked for many years at NSA in St. Johnsbury as a supervisor. He later worked at the NEKCA Lincoln Center in St. Johnsbury as a family support worker and vocational coordinator, where he helped students from the Cornerstone School by teaching and mentoring through art. He loved boating, fishing, playing the guitar, and was a member of the NRA. Ray was a derma graphic artist for many years and he excelled at drawing, painting, and wood burning. His pet cats, dog, parrot, and fish brought him much pleasure. Survivors include his wife and soul mate, Faith (Carter) Therrien of St. Johnsbury; two sons, Rusty Perry of Sutton, and Jon-Michael Therrien of Sutton; three daughters, Amanda Johnson and companion John Calamaio and their son Anthony Ray who is due to be born in May, Desirae Sanville and husband David of Brownington, and Brittany Therrien of Sutton; two grandchildren; his father, Raymond Therrien Sr. of Florida; two brothers, Shawn Caron and companion Josephine of Rhode Island, and Todd Caron and wife Carrie of Virginia; his forever loving and loyal Dad, John Fuster of St. Johnsbury; and several cousins. He was predeceased by his mother Darlene Fuster in 2005. Following Ray's wishes, there will be no services. Donations made in his memory may be directed to Cornerstone School, Arts Department, 510 Portland St., St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.
Francis E. Moulton Jr.
....show , 75, of Lamb Avenue, Saugerties, N.Y., died Saturday, Jan. 16, 2010, at the Benedictine Hospital in Kingston after a brief illness. Born July 8, 1934, in West Burke, Vt., he was the son of the late Francis E. and Gertrude Bugbee Moulton Sr. A United States Army Veteran, he served during the Korean War in Berlin and was awarded the Army Occupation Medal. He was employed for over 20 years at Independent Cement Company, retiring in 1997. He later was employed at the Wiltwyck Golf Course as a greenskeeper. He was a lifetime member of the Saugerties Fish and Game Club. He was a member of the Veteran's of Foreign Wars Post 1386 in Kingston and a former member of Post 5034 in Saugerties. He was a member of the Saugerties American Legion Post 72 and the National Rifle Association. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and was fortunate to be able to kiss the Blarney Stone in Ireland twice. Survivors include his wife, the former Eleanor Derkowski Showers, with whom he recently celebrated his 45th wedding anniversary; two sons, John E. Moulton of Kingston and Francis B. Moulton of Saugerties; two dDaughters, Susan Talmadge of Edwardsville, Pa., and Tolicia Colbert of Greenbrier, Ark.; two sisters, Joyce Jones of Lyndonville, Vt., and Ginny Mumford of St. Johnsbury, Vt.; one brother, Lyndol Moulton of Hampton N.H., and sister-in-law Thelma Moulton; several grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a son, Ronald Moulton and a brother Lawrence Moulton. His funeral procession will form 10 a.m. Friday at the Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home, corner of John and Lafayette streets thence to St. Peter's RC Church in Kingston, where at 11 a.m. a Mass of Christian burial will be offered by the Rev. Mark Oliver, pastor. A service of remembrance will be held Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. at Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home. Family suggests donations in his memory be made to the American Cancer Society. Interment will be at the convenience of the family in the Hillside Cemetary, West Burke, Vt.
Marion Emlen Hepburn
....show , 93, died on Jan. 15, 2010, at the Lafayette Center, Franconia, NH. Born on Aug. 11, 1916, Marion was the daughter of the late Samuel and Marion Haines Emlen of Awbury, Germantown, Pa. Marion graduated from Agnes Irwin School, Wynnewood, Pa., and attended Wellesley College, Wellesley, Mass. She worked at the Miquon School and Shipley School, and volunteered at Radnor Friends Monthly Meeting before moving to Sugar Hill, N.H., with her husband in 1979. Marion was very active in Sugar Hill and Franconia, tutoring Cambodian refugees, fundraising for the North Country Chamber Players, singing in church, and serving on the planning board. Her greatest enjoyment was working in her garden, caring for her dogs, and weaving. Marion was predeceased by her husband, Charles J. Hepburn Jr., in 1987, and a son, Louis, in 2005. She is survived by three children, Andrew Hepburn of Salisbury, Md., Catharine H. Hodgson of Paxton, Mass., and Samuel Hepburn of Stockton Springs, Maine; seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Following cremation, her memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23 at The Church of the Epiphany, Lisbon, N.H. Committal will be private at Radnor Monthly Meeting, Radnor, Pa. Contributions in Marion's name can be made to the New Hampshire Food Bank, New Hampshire Public Radio, or The Church of the Epiphany.
Edward C. Sargent
....show , 63, of Newark, died suddenly at his home Wednesday evening Jan. 19, 2010. He was born Oct. 18, 1946, in Exeter, N.H., the son of Elmer and Evelyn (Coombes) Sargent. Edward worked as a chef at Muffy's Restaurant in Seabrook, N.H., for many years. In 1991 he moved to Vermont and worked in several area restaurants, including the Miss Lyndonville Dinner and the Willoughvale Restaurant. Family outings with his children and grandchildren throughout New England brought him much joy. He took great care with his rose bushes, and enjoyed playing cribbage and dominoes. Survivors include three sons, Edward Sargent Jr. and wife Beth of Barnstead, N.H., Christopher Sargent of Newark and his girlfriend Heidi Smith, and Bruce Sargent and his girlfriend Stephanie Mcleod of Sheffield; a daughter, Pauline Demers and husband Michael of Auburn, N.H.; seven grandchildren; his foster mother, Barbara Cheney of Raymond, N.H.; two sisters, Barbara Chase and Louise Sargent both of Columbia, S.C.; his close friend, Mark Warner of Newark, who was like a son to Edward; nieces; nephews; and his canine companion Pug-pug. Edward was predeceased by his mother and father. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 23 at 11 a.m. at Guibord Funeral Home with the Rev. Tim Pittman officiating. There will be no calling hours. Donations made in his memory may be directed to, Lyndon Area Senior Meal Site, 76 Depot St., Lyndonville, VT 05851.
Leonard Allen Lucas
....show , 71, of Newport passed away Jan. 19, 2010, in Newport following a long illness. He was born June 9, 1938, in Derby, a son of Kenneth and Rose (Conn) Lucas. On May 16, 1959, he married Cecile Wood who survives him. He was honorably discharged from the United States Navy in 1956. Leonard was employed as a machinist at Union Butterfield's in Derby Line, where he retired in 1989. He was a member of the Newport City zoning board for a number of years. He enjoyed working in his yard, displaying many outdoor Christmas lights, playing cards - especially hearts - being with his family, and driving and cleaning his truck. He is survived by his wife Cecile Lucas of Newport; three children, Terry Lucas and his wife Sue of Seattle, Wash., Sherry Walker and her husband Reinhard of Derby, and Judy Lucas and Michael Mead of Derby; seven grandchildren, Greg, and Rachel Lucas, Neil Walker, Amanda Leget, April, Ashley and Samantha Mead; five great-grandchildren, Dayana and Breyniah Leget, Caden Lucas Walker, Madison and Morgan Davio; three brothers, Albert Lucas and his wife Sylvia of Newport, Earl Lucas and his wife Jackie of Florida, and Percy Lucas and his wife Linda of Newport; and several nieces, nephews and uncles. He was predeceased by two sisters, Pearl Favreau and Shirley Lucas. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010, at Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, Newport, with the Rev. David Lisner officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home on Saturday, Jan. 23 from 10 a.m. until the hour of the funeral. Spring interment in Pine Grove Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Vermont Lung Association, 372 Hurricane Lane, Suite 101, Williston, VT 05495.
John "Archie" Austin Harney
....show passed away at his home in St. Johnsbury on Jan. 18, 2010, at the age of 81. John was born in Lockport, N.Y., on Oct. 25, 1928, the son of Francis and Florence (Austin) Harney. Following graduation from high school he joined the United States Marine Corps and served in World War II with the occupation forces in China and Japan. After serving his country, John divided his professional life between sales and management of Ford Farm Equipment, John Deere Equipment and chief of police in Raymond and Twin Mountain, N.H. At the time of his death, he was employed with Harvest Equipment of Newport. John enjoyed football, hockey and the wildlife that surrounded his home. He was predeceased by his partner in life, Nancy Barber of St. Johnsbury, whose family he shared, and two brothers, Charles Harney and Michael Harney, and a sister, Mary Alden. John is survived by his son, John Harney, Jr. of Lexington, Va.; Nancy's three children, Glenn Barber and wife Peggy of Waterford, JoAnn Craffey of Spring Grove, Ill., Sharon Fillion and husband Michael of Washington, Maine; two sisters, Pam Bassett and husband Bill of Greensboro, Ga., Shelia Linscott and husband Eric of Newark, Del.; five brothers, Francis Harney of Tilton, N.H., Peter Harney and wife Becky of Raymond, N.H., Robert Harney and wife Donna of Columbus, Ohio, Edward Harney of Lydonville, N.Y., James Harney and wife Sue of Macedon, N.Y.; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and their families. There will be no visiting hours or services. Contributions in John's memory may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 485, Williston, VT 05495.
Everett Bruce Bailey Sr.
....show , 80, of Lancaster Road, Groveton, N.H., died peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010, at Morrison Nursing Home in Whitefield, N.H., after a courageous battle with cancer. Born Dec. 25, 1929, in Derby, Vt., a son of Walter and Marjorie (Phillips) Bailey, he was a graduate of North Troy High School, class of 1948. He was a resident of Lancaster for several years before moving to Groveton in 1974. Everett was a member of the Orleans Mason Lodge 55 in Barton, Vt., for 55-plus years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snow-machining, ice fishing, four-wheeling, cars, Mack trucks, boating and construction. He worked as a mechanic from 1967 to 1980 and used to build and own stock cars. He was a member of Winlock Camp and he loved cats. He was a heavy-equipment operator, owning and operating Everett Bailey Construction for many years. Everett is survived by his wife of 49 years, Avis M. (Barber) Bailey of Groveton; two sons, Everett Bailey Jr. and wife Diane of West Winfield, N.Y.; and David Bailey of Burlington, Vt.; three step sons, Jack Barber and wife Marie of Orange Park, Fla.; Wayne Leno of Maryland, and John Leno and wife Kathy of Dalton, N.H.; daughter-in-law Lori Bailey of Groveton; brother Phillip Bailey and wife Corrine of Glover, Vt.; sister Marjorie Anderson of Culpeper, Va.; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents; one son, Alan Bailey; one daughter, Betty Bailey; and one brother, Clair Bailey. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Armstrong-Charron Funeral Home in Groveton. Funeral services will be held on Monday, Jan. 25, 2010, at the funeral home with Pastor Aaron Cox of Groveton United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be held in the spring in the Ridgewell Cemetery in Guildhall, Vt. In lieu of flowers, memorial donation may be made to either Week's Hospice, 278 Main St., Lancaster, NH 03584,or to Norris Cotton Cancer Center, One Medical Way Drive, Lebanon, NH 03766.
Betty D. Moore
....show , age 85, of West Haven, Conn., formerly of Milford, beloved wife of the late Frank Roy Moore, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010, in Connecticut Hospice, Branford. Daughter of the late Frank and Rita Rash Louis, she was born on March 14, 1924, in St. Johnsbury, Vt. Betty was a graduate of St. Johnsbury Academy, Class of 1942. She was employed as a bookkeeper by the former Talon Zipper of Milford for 31 years. Betty was a lover of animals, a birdwatcher, and an avid sports fan, especially tennis, Red Sox, Giants, and UConn basketball. Survivors include her devoted daughters, Carol Bartimole of West Haven, Conn., and Dawn Mitchell of Cape Cod, Mass.; and a daughter-in-law, Carm Armino of West Haven; three cherished granddaughters, Terri Laughner of West Haven, Tina Dent and her husband Paul of Glen Allon, Va., and Jessica Rowan and her husband Bill of Guilford, Conn.; and six great-grandchildren, Danielle, Joey, Christina, Olivia, Emma, and Rachel. She was predeceased by grandson, Aaron Mitchell. A funeral service will be held on Monday, Jan. 25, 2010, at 10 a.m. in the First and Wesley United Methodist Church, 89 Center St., West Haven, followed by a committal in King's Highway Cemetery, Milford. Family and friends may call on Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. at Cody White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St. on the Green, Milford. Memorial contributions may be made to the ASPCA.
Richard Wales Mayo
....show , 80, of Fort Valley, Va., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010, after a brief illness. Mr. Mayo spent the first three years of his engineering career working with the Civil Engineer Corps (CEC), an affiliate of the U.S. Navy. He retired from Bell Laboratories/AT&T in 1991 after 33 years with them. He was proud of the several patents that he was granted while with Bell. Richard was an avid outdoorsman and explorer of the United States. He enjoyed trapping as a young man, was a life-long canoeist, an Eagle Scout and scout leader, and explored most of our national parks and monuments. Richard will be remembered for his active imagination, intense curiosity and undying adventurism; for example, he began blacksmithing at the age of 74. He taught many and will be missed by many. He is survived by four children, including Karen Sayles of St. Johnsbury, her husband Rodney and their three children, Bryan, Margaret and Bennett. He was blessed with a total of 22 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Monday, Jan. 25 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Bailey Funeral Home in Mendham, N.J. Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 26. at 1. p.m. at Hilltop Presbyterian Church in Mendham. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Fort Valley, Va.
David H. Whitcomb
....show , 69, of Lyndonville, died Thursday evening, Jan. 21, 2010, at Lebanon Center-Genesis Eldercare in Lebanon, N.H., with his family by his side. He was born Aug. 31, 1940, in Sheffield, the son of Merton and Doris (Miles) Whitcomb. David graduated from Lyndon Institute in 1958 and later that fall he joined the U.S. Army, serving in the Signal Corps while stationed in Fort Monmouth, N.J., and later in Germany. He was proud to serve his country. In 1962 he married Donna Pearl Cady. In 1966, David began a career as a machinist, working for Vermont Tap & Die Co., then Northeast Tool Co. (both located in Lyndonville), and in 2002 he retired from Hitchiner Manufacturing Co. in Littleton. While at Northeast Tool he served as treasurer of the Union Activities Club. An avid baseball fan, David loved the New York Yankees and hated the Boston Red Sox with equal enthusiasm. He played men's softball for many years in the area. Exploring the back roads of the Northeast Kingdom with his family, and feeding and watching wild birds brought him much pleasure. He loved his feline companions, Ebony and Harmony. Survivors include his son, Darryl Whitcomb and wife Nicki of St. Johnsbury (P.O. Box 1215, Lyndonville, VT 05851); his brother, Keith Whitcomb and wife Denise of Sheffield; two aunts, Dorothy Randall of Lyndonville, and Mabel Whitcomb of Sheffield; his brother-in-law, Clark Cady and wife Elsie of Lyndon; his sister in-law, Marylee Cady of St. Johnsbury; nieces; nephews; several cousins, including Marion Dane and Nancy Whittier with whom he was quite close; and his good friend Ed Richardson. He was predeceased by his parents, and his beloved wife, Donna Pearl Whitcomb, in 2001. Funeral services will be held Monday, Jan. 25 at 11 a.m. at Lyndon Bible Church, located on Brown Farm Road, with the Rev. Joel Battaglia officiating. Friends may call on the family Sunday afternoon, Jan. 24, from 2 to 4 at Guibord Funeral Home. Burial will be in Lyndon Center Cemetery on Friday, May 7, at 10 a.m. Donations made in David's memory may be directed to Lyndon Bible Church (Building Fund), P.O. Box 1, Lyndonville, VT 05851.
William Albert "Bill" White
....show , 60, of Fairground Road, Bradford, died on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H., following an accident at his home. He was born in Rutland, Vt., May 15, 1949, the son of William N. White and Martha (Metcalf) White Keith. Bill graduated from Wells River High School, Class of 1967. He was literally the last person to graduate from the high school before Blue Mountain Union School opened. After high school, Bill attended Norwich University in Northfield, Vt. He joined the U.S. Navy, serving during the Vietnam War from July 8, 1970, to Aug. 14, 1974. Bill married Shirley Folmar on March 30, 1974. They lived in Texas from the early 1970s before returning to Vermont in December 1995. Bill worked as a blowout specialist for Neil Adams Firefighters in Houston, Texas, and spent time in Kuwait following Desert Storm extinguishing oil well fires. In this profession he was able to travel to many parts of the world. Bill loved nature, watching wildlife, working in his vegetable and flower gardens, his cats, and music. He was predeceased by his father, William N. White on Aug. 26, 1992. Survivors including his wife of 35 years, Shirley (Folmar) White of Bradford; two sons, William Joseph "BJ" White and his wife Shelly of Bradford, and Nathan Albert White and partner Brittany Meeks of Warren, Vt.; his mother, Martha (Metcalf) White Keith and husband Edson of Wells River, Vt; a sister, Susan W. Brock and husband Alan of Wilder, Vt; two brothers, Garry R. White and wife Marilyn of Michigan, and Dean A. White and wife Marilyn of Bradford; several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles. Calling hours will be on Sunday, Jan. 24, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Ricker Funeral Home, 1 Birch St. Woodsville, N.H. A funeral service will be on Monday, Jan. 25, at 1 p.m. at the Congregational Church of Wells River UCC, 76 Main St. Wells River, Vt., with the Rev. Betty Ann Abild officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Department of Neurology, (Epilepsy or Traumatic Brain Injury Research), One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756.
Christina Marie LeDuc
....show , 25, of Campton, died Jan. 24, 2009, in Plymouth after injuries sustained in an automobile accident. She was formerly employed in the mortgage industry as a processor. Christina graduated from Plymouth State University with a degree in communications and also graduated from White Mountain Regional High School in 2002. She is survived by her father, David Joseph LeDuc of Natick, Mass., mother, Gabriele M. Leduc, and step-father, Mark Bonta of Littleton. Half-brothers Michael and Adam LeDuc of Natick, Mass., step-sister Angela Smith and step-brother Aaron Bonta both of Littleton. Grandparents: Richard E. of Levance, Maine, and Stella C. LeDuc of Gilman, Vt., and Margot Schneider of Wuerzburg, Germany. An uncle and aunt, Ken and Maureen Leduc, and cousin Nicole LeDuc, all of Boylston, Mass., and a host of friends. Christina was full of life and quoted "I love life no matter how much it sucks sometimes." She was a stylish motorcycle enthusiast blessed with an infectious smile. Also an avid animal lover, she was also a huge fan of the ocean which was one of the places she enjoyed wearing her flip-flops. She was a wonderful woman who will be missed by all! Calling hours will be held Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010, at Keller and Pillsbury Funeral Home from 6-8 p.m. The family has chosen to have a private service. The family requests that donations, in lieu of flowers, be made to the Laconia Humane Society.
Betty Jane Withers
....show , 76, of Newport Health Care & Rehabilitation Center, formerly of Wheelock, died Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010, in Newport. She was born June 9, 1933, in Glover, the daughter of the late Carroll and Christina (Gilman) Wright. She attended Glover public schools. On May 11, 1952, she married Wayland Wesley Withers in Greensboro. In her earlier years she was employed at a furniture Company in Barton. Following their marriage, she and her husband moved to Illinois before making their home in Wheelock. They purchased the family farm and lived there for more than 40 years. Betty was a member of the Hope Community Church in Walden and the American Legion Post 7 Auxiliary in Hardwick. She enjoyed dancing and flowers. Survivors include two sons, Michael Withers of St. Paul, Minn. and George Withers of Marshfield; two daughters, Beverly Withers of St. Johnsbury and Linda Moulton of Marshfield; four brothers, Hazen Wright of Coventry, Aldis Wright of Littleton, N.H., Milo Wright of Glover, and Mark Wright of West Glover; two sisters, Nancy LaRose of West Glover and Kay Friend of Bennington; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her husband, Wayland, in 1994, and four children, Rose LeBlanc, Brenda Montgomery, William Withers and Susan Withers. Memorial Service will be held on Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at 11 a.m. at Northern Vermont Funeral Home, 60 Elm St., Hardwick, with the Rev. Ernest Machia of the Hope Community Church in Walden officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the American Heart Association, New England Affiliate, 20 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701-4688.
Grace Ann Brown
....show , 72, of Sebring, Fla., passed away Friday, Jan. 22, 2010, in Sebring. She was born Feb. 2, 1937, to George A. and Madeline Esther (Bean) Lannaville in St. Johnsbury, Vt., and had been a resident of Sebring since 2000. She was a sales clerk and enjoyed RV-ing, crafts, playing cards and spending time with friends and family. She was a member of the Women's Auxiliary V.F.W. 4300 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. She is survived by her companion of 10 years, Russell Boufford; daughters Jeanne (Brian) Wortham, Woodstock, Ga., Linda (Rodney) Burnett, Paula Brown and Debbie Brown, all of Wyoming; a brother, Carl G. (Patricia) Lannaville, North Hatfield, Mass.; sisters Beverly White of Sebring, Fla., and H. Donna (Howard) Stone, Greenfield, Mass.; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and a son, Leonard Russell. There will be a gathering of family and friends from 1 until 3 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at the Sebring Moose Lodge. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home, Sebring, Fla.
D. Fayette "Fay" Weymouth
....show , 96, formerly of Leominster, Mass., and East Haven, Vt., died Monday, Jan. 25, 2010, at The Pines Rehabilitation and Health Center in Lyndon, Vt. He was born March 29, 1913, in Leominster, Mass., the last surviving child of Daniel and Lilla (Brown) Weymouth. On May 14, 1938, he married Dorothy Bachand. For 25 years Fay and his wife, Dorothy, operated D. F. Weymouth Express Trucking in Leominster, Mass. While Fay was on a fishing trip in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, he fell in love with the area. He and Dorothy moved to Vermont in 1967 and started Weymouth Auto Parts in Lyndonville. They operated this business for 35 years before turning it over to their son Ken. Fay appreciated nature and enjoyed fishing and gardening. Survivors include two sons, Donald Weymouth and wife Pamela of Medford, Mass., and Mark Weymouth and wife Cathy of Georgia, Vt.; a daughter, Patricia Paine and husband Edward of Bar Harbor, Maine; a daughter-in-law, JoAnne Weymouth of Lyndonville; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. D. Fayette "Fay" Weymouth, 96, formerly of Leominster, Mass., and East Haven, Vt., died Monday, Jan. 25, 2010, at The Pines Rehabilitation and Health Center in Lyndon, Vt. He was born March 29, 1913, in Leominster, Mass., the last surviving child of Daniel and Lilla (Brown) Weymouth. On May 14, 1938, he married Dorothy Bachand. For 25 years Fay and his wife, Dorothy, operated D. F. Weymouth Express Trucking in Leominster, Mass. While Fay was on a fishing trip in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, he fell in love with the area. He and Dorothy moved to Vermont in 1967 and started Weymouth Auto Parts in Lyndonville. They operated this business for 35 years before turning it over to their son Ken. Fay appreciated nature and enjoyed fishing and gardening. Survivors include two sons, Donald Weymouth and wife Pamela of Medford, Mass., and Mark Weymouth and wife Cathy of Georgia, Vt.; a daughter, Patricia Paine and husband Edward of Bar Harbor, Maine; a daughter-in-law, JoAnne Weymouth of Lyndonville; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
Allison Marie Myrick
....show of Groton, Mass., died Jan. 23 in a senseless act of violence. She was 19, and a graduate of Groton Dunstable Regional High School, where she played soccer and lacrosse, and won a journalism award for her work designing and editing the school yearbook. She had just begun her second semester at Fitchburg State College where she was studying journalism and graphic design. She was a smart, sweet, talented, funny, irreverent, courageous, outspoken, compassionate and gorgeous young woman. Alli loved visiting Martha's Vineyard to sail and ride the Flying Horses Carousel. She loved going to her uncle Cliff's dairy barn in Vermont, sometimes dancing in the feed bay and kissing the cows. She loved to ski straight downhill without turning, and rode the biggest roller-coasters she could find. She loved to express herself with creative things like dancing, drawing, design, and writing. She loved her pets and had a passion to save any forgotten or neglected animal. She put her energy into volunteering at MSPCA Nevins Farm, an animal shelter. She formed deep friendships instinctively, and remained unconditionally loyal to her friends. For some reason, she loved Cup 'O Noodles. Other than having Allison back, her family's fervent wish is that Allison's death will raise awareness about abusive relationships. "Please take this as an example that this can happen to anyone," her mother wrote in an eloquent statement shortly after her death. "If you are in a situation that is in any way abusive, no matter how small it may seem at first, please ask for help. You cannot fix this yourself, and no matter how many times your abuser says that he has changed, you cannot trust that." Her family suggests that those who want to honor Allison's life make donations in lieu of flowers. They have designated two organizations. One is Break the Cycle, a national organization which educates teens about dating violence and abusive relationships, and also advocates for progressive laws and policy changes. The group is currently working to improve laws in Massachusetts. You may give by phone at 310-286-3383 x805; by mail at Break the Cycle, 5777 West Century Blvd., Suite 1150, Los Angeles, CA 90045. Put Allison's name on the check. The other organization is the Curtis Vance Memorial Orchard, based in a peaceful Vermont orchard established in memory of an extended relative who died of ALS. This is an organization founded by members of Allison's extended family to raise money for ALS research. Her uncle Dennis is currently living with ALS (sometimes called Lou Gehrig's disease). She was passionate about raising money for the Orchard, and other ALS organizations. Checks can be mailed to the Curtis Vance Memorial Orchard, c/o Linda Vance, P.O. Box 186, Danville, VT 05828. All donations go directly to researchers who have treated or studied members of Alli's family. Again, put Allison's name on the check. Allison is survived by her mother, Susan (Sleeper) Myrick and her father Steve Myrick; her sister Rebecca Myrick; her grandfather Charlie Myrick, husband of the late Calista Myrick; her grandfather Norman Sleeper, husband of the late Marie Sleeper; the families of four uncles: Dennis, his wife Rosaleen, daughters Maura, Ashleigh, Aaron and Alexandra Myrick; John, his wife Karen and daughters Sarah, Emily and Elizabeth Myrick; Andrew, his wife Deonne, and children Olivia, Lily and Calvin Myrick; John, his wife Elaine, and children Kevin and Mathew Sleeper, Bonnie Stride and Eric Morrison; the family of one aunt, Cyndi, her husband Thomas, and children Tyler, and Victoria Briggs.
Virginia J. Florence
....show , 88, former longtime resident of Woodsville, N.H., died Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 26, 2010, at Coos County Nursing Hospital, West Stewartstown. Mrs. Florence was born in Exeter, N.H., on Sept. 3, 1921, the daughter of Willie Plummer and Mary Elizabeth (Taylor) Rollins. Family members include three sons, Ronald W. Florence of Lancaster, N.H., Barry Forest of Vista, Calif., Robert L. Florence of Berlin, NY; a daughter, Judy Tarr of Stephantown, N.Y.; and 12 grandchildren. A son, Kenneth Florence, predeceased her. There are no visiting hours. A graveside service will be held in the spring at the Horse Meadow Annex Cemetery in North Haverhill, N.H. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made in her memory to the American Cancer Society, NH Division Inc., Gail Singer Memorial Building, 360 Route 101 Unit 501, Bedford, NH 03102-6800.
Gerard W. Daigneault
....show , 87, of Tremont Street in St. Johnsbury, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2010, after a brief illness. He was born in Bury, Quebec, on Dec. 9, 1922, one of four children born to William and Josephine (Robitaille) Daigneault. After graduating from St. Johnsbury Academy, he married Judith Ellingwood; they were married for more than 64 years, and for years they owned and operated Reliance Electric. Gerard served in the U.S. Army during World War II and participated in the invasion of the European mainland, landing on Omaha Beach. He was a parishioner of St. John the Evangelist Church and was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Sheridan Chapter 421. He was also a member of the VFW Post 793, and American Legion Post 58. He is survived by his wife, Judy; two sons, Paul Daigneault and wife Judy of Passumpsic, and Robert Daigneault and wife Daryl of Amesbury Mass.; six grandchildren, Aaron, Nicole, John, Brad, Noelle and Beau; five great-grandchildren, Carly, Nadine, Daegan, Harmony, and Lyla; his brother Lionel Daigneault and wife Eleanor of St. Johnsbury; sister-in-law Rachael Daigneault of Florida; nieces and nephews, Lionel's children Albert, Suzanne, Theresa, Normand, Denise and Annette; Rejeanne's children Jamie, John, Sheila, Kathy (Pamela passed away); Adrian's children Billy, Madeline, Joanne, David and Tommy. He is also survived by Judy's brother, Eugene Ellingwood of St. Johnsbury and his two children Mark Ellingwood and wife Rena of Newark, and Linda Pollock and husband Bill of Bethel. He was predeceased by a brother, Adrian, a sister, Rejeanne Coughlin, and a great-grandchild Jacob Allen. A funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Johnsbury this Saturday, Jan. 30, 2010, at 11 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church. Fr. Dwight Baker will be the celebrant. Burial will be at a later date at the Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Friends and family will gather at the funeral home Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. Memorial contributions could be directed to the Good Shepherd Foundation, P.O. Box 146, St. Johnsbury VT 05819.
Clifford J. Choquette
....show , 59, of West Burke, Vt., passed away on Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010, at The Pines Rehabilitation and Health Center in Lyndon, Vt., following a brief illness. He was born June 18, 1950, in Morrisville, Vt., the son of Rolland and Frances (Condon) Choquette. He attended schools in Morrisville, Stannard and Greensboro. He worked at Dolgin's Auto Parts for several years and then began self-employment as a woodsman with his horses, Diamond and King, for many years until illness in recent years prevented him from doing what he loved. His favorite pastime was going around visiting his many friends and family enjoying a good meal and conversation with them. He was predeceased by his mother, Frances Choquette, on Oct. 11, 2001, and a brother, Michael, in 1949. Clifford is survived by three brothers and two sisters, including Ronald Choquette and wife Barbara of Lakeland, Fla.; Reginald Choquette and wife Bertha of Cordova, Tenn.; Ernest Choquette and wife Susan of East Liverpool, Ohio; Muriel Potter and husband Grover on Lyndonville, Vt.; and Rosanna Lester (his twin) and husband Robert of Northfield, Vt.; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. There will be no calling hours. Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Pearsons Funeral Home, Lyndonville, Vt. A summer graveside memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family at St. Teresa's Cemetary in Hyde Park, Vt.
Hildred A. Shaw
....show of St. Johnsbury passed away Thursday evening, Jan. 28, 2010, at the age of 93. She had resided
at the St. Johnsbury Health & Rehabilitation Center since 1999. She was born in Morrisville, Vt., on June 19, 1916; her parents were the late William and Jessie (Tatro) Shaw. She graduated from Lyndon Institute with the Class of 1934. Hildred walked to work every day to Dr. Howe's office where she assisted in the operation of his optometrist practice. She later worked for Dr. Richard Leven. She rented from Oliver and Lucienne Laperle at the head of Main Street in St. Johnsbury and had previously lived on Spring Street. She is survived by her niece, Patricia Drown and husband Ronald of North Concord (69 Beach Drive 05858). She will be buried in the family lot at Pleasant View Cemetery in Morrisville. A memorial contribution, marked for "Resident Activity Fund," could be directed to St. Johnsbury Health & Rehab Center, 1248 Hospital Drive, St. Johnsbury VT 05819.
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