, 84, of Westmore, died on January 14, 2017 at Maple Lane Nursing Home in Newport in the loving arms of family members. His passing followed several years of declining health at home under the loving care of his devoted wife, Irene (Austin) Badger. Mr. Badger was born in Framingham, Massachusetts, the second son of Joseph and Nellie (Ripley) Badger. Sadly, his mother died when he was a toddler. The Badger boys became wards of the state and were placed in foster homes, but with twice-weekly contact with their father until his death when Mr. Badger was fourteen. Two of Mr. Badger’s foster families — the Holmes and Willard families — loved him dearly and considered him their own. Marian Willard came to serve as the “mom” he so desperately wanted and ties with the ensuing generations remain strong to this day. Mr. Badger attended the Farm and Trades School on Thompson’s Island, in Boston, and he was an enthusiastic participant in many of the sports programs offered by the school. His academic grades were passing, but the As were in conduct, effort, and athletics. Thus began a lifelong involvement with sports — as a player, a die hard fan, a coach, a ref, a mentor, and a supporter. Mr. Badger left school to join the Navy where he proudly served from 1951 to 1955 during the Korean War. During these years, Mr. Badger and his first wife became proud parents of their first child when a daughter came in to the world Badger-style at Chelsea Naval Hospital during hurricane Carol. After the Navy, Mr. Badger was employed at Texas Instruments for several years. In 1966, he and his wife moved their young family of five children to Canaan to begin a successful venture as dairy farmers. In the early seventies they sold the farm, but remained in Canaan. During this time, Mr. Badger was divorced and began employment as a janitor and maintenance man at the Canaan schools that his children attended. He continued to coach and ref, and was a staunch supporter of his own children’s athletic endeavors including his youngest daughter’s prowess in gymnastics — new sport for the Badger family. He was just as passionate about the children’s academic successes and was so proud that all five went on to acquiring degrees in their chosen fields. In 1979, Mr. Badger left Canaan and moved to Orleans and then to Westmore with his wife, Irene. He worked one year at Butterfield’s, then worked as custodian at Barton Academy and Graded School until his retirement in 1994. Before and after retirement, he always had many jobs on the side such as window washing and floor refurnishing for area schools and businesses, employment by the town of Westmore as a transfer station attendant, caretaker for several Willoughby lake properties, and the list could go on. In any endeavor, no matter how menial, he took each responsibility very seriously. However, Mr. Badger played as hard as he worked. In later years, he played the small local golf courses, enjoyed kayaking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and tobogganing with his neighbors. He was always a hunter and fisherman, and over the years had skidoos, and a motorcycle and boats. On the quieter side, he enjoyed camping, especially at the state parks and Cathedral Pines Campground in Eustis, Maine. He organized Fourth of July camping events for family and friends at the family’s Westmore property for several years. He was an avid cribbage player and enjoyed chess and other strategy games. He liked easy listening music, Katherine Hepburn movies, and in recent years found classical music very soothing. His greatest joy was time spent with family and friends and at the sports events, music recitals, and milestones of his grandchildren. Survivors include his wife, Irene (Austin) Badger; his five children: Deborah Badger, John W. Badger Jr., Dianne Badger, Stephen Badger, and Jacqueline Powers; his grandchildren: John W. Badger III, Megan, Jared, Jeffrey, and Jonathan Badger, and Samantha Powers; and his great-grandson, Owen. He is also survived by his ex-wife and the mother of his children, Mildred Badger; his brothers- and sister-in-law: Alice Badger, Eugene and Anita Austin, George and Gail Ruggles, and David and Carol Brisson; and by several nieces and nephews, cousins, and very close friends of all ages. Also grieving his loss is his much loved dog, Lucky Lady. Mr. Badger was predeceased by his parents; by his older brother, Joe; by his foster parents and several foster siblings including a very special sister, Ruth. A memorial service was held on January 17, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home on Elm Street in Barton. Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Vermont Chapter, 300 Cornerstone Drive, Suite 128, Williston, Vermont 05495, or to the Barton and/?or Orleans American Legions, or to a charity of one’s choos   

, 20, of Derby Line, died at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center on January 18, 2017, surrounded by family. Mr. Forcier was born on June 28, 1996, in Newport. He had a love for animals, especially his cat Bailey. His favorite pastime was to hang out with friends and listen to his music. He had a heart of gold and would help anyone who needed him. He enjoyed life, but with his passing, has given the gift of life to four other people with his gift or organ donation. Mr. Forcier left behind his mother, Karen Bullis; his father Dylan Mobbs; brother Kyle Forcier and his girlfriend, Mariah Flynn; his sister Blake Leighton and her boyfriend, Brett Falconer; grandmother Marlene Bullis; and great-grandmother Thelma Willis. He also leaves half brothers and sisters Dustin Brow, Owen Mobbs, Madison Locke, and Hannah Mobbs; aunts and uncles Roy and Rhonda Bullis, Roxanne and Christopher Couture Sr.; his cousins Leanne Perras and her husband, Kris, Samantha Bullis, and Christopher Couture Jr.; niece Hannah Forcier; and nephews Caden Wells and Brayden Wells. Mr. Forcier was predeceased by his grandfather Joseph Bullis in 2012; and his cousin Lindsey Couture in 2013. Instead of flowers, any donation to Mr. Forcier’s final expenses would be appreciated, and can be sent to his mom, Karen Bullis, P.O. Box 83, Derby, Vermont 05829.  

, 75, of Brownington died on the evening of January 26, 2017 in Newport. She was born on September 12, 1941 in Orleans. She was the daughter of the late Charles and Josephine (Thompson) Chase. She attended schools in Orleans and graduated from Orleans High School in 1959. She married Norman Herman on October 31, 1959. She worked at the Brownington Central School for 32 years in the cafeteria. She enjoyed going to bingo, knitting, and spending time with family. She is survived by her husband, Norman Herman, of Brownington; her children: Sheryl McCoy and her husband, Steven, of Sebring, Florida, Jean Messier and her companion, Jeffrey Ferrin, of Newport Center, and Michael Herman and his wife, Penny, of Brownington. She is also survived by eight grandchildren: Paul, Ashley, Jessica, Scott, Tracy, Amy, Chasity, and Jason; and by eleven great-grandchildren; her siblings: Robert Chase and his wife, Edith, of Long Island, New York, Larry Chase and his companion, Beverly White, of Brownington, and Phyllis Kennison of Brownington. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Wendell Herman and his wife, Nancy; and by her sisters-in-law: Frances Fletcher, Barbara Wright and her husband, Ross, of Barton, and Betty Blair. She was also survived by her sister-in-law Linda Herman who died on January 27, 2017. She was predeceased by her parents; her brother Richard Chase; an infant son, Donald; her son-in-law Michael Messier; and her brothers-in-law: Roger Fletcher, Allan Herman, and Melvin “Stub” Kennison. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1, at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home located at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport. Friends may call at the funeral home from noon up until the hour of the funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to the Orleans Ambulance Service: c/?o Dot Collier, Treasurer, 1327 Dry Pond Road, Glover, Vermont 05839   

, 62, of Orleans, died in Westmore on the morning of January 26, 2017, as a result of an ice-fishing accident on Willoughby Lake. He was born July 30, 1954, the first of six children born to George and Anne (Raboin) LeBlanc. The family lived in Lowell and Westfield, and he graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1973. Mr. LeBlanc spent the first part of his working years helping his father on the family dairy farm. He also spent two separate stints working at Ethan Allen in Orleans and two at Tivoly in Derby Line. He retired from Tivoly in August. Mr. LeBlanc took his time finding the right partner to share his life with, and in September 2006, he married Susan “Sue” Dawley LeBlanc, who survives him. Mrs. LeBlanc brought many gifts to their life together including; a stepdaughter, Tina Bearce and her husband, Justin, of Bradford; and a stepson, Keith Richardson and his wife, Amanda, of Concord, New Hampshire. Mr. LeBlanc was known as a kind and loving guy, and his family meant the world to him. He was an avid fisherman, enjoyed walking in the woods, working in his blueberry and raspberry gardens, and spending time on the Dawley family farm in Mt. Holly. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his parents, George and Anne LeBlanc of Orleans; his sister Polly Duquette and brother-in-law, Paul, of Newport Center, his sister Linda LaPlume and brother-in-law, Cyril, of Derby, his sister Rita LaPlume and brother-in-law, Guy, of Milton, his brother Rene LeBlanc and sister-in-law, Lori, of Irasburg, and his sister Amy Turner and brother-in-law, Mike, of Bolton. He will be missed by his many nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles. Mr. LeBlanc also leaves five grandchildren who will miss the Lego building, train set ups, bike rides, watching movies, and long walks. Dylan, Sam, and Jack Bearce, along with Oscar and Ella Richardson were the joys of his life. A Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, February 4, at 11 a.m., at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Orleans with the Reverend Timothy Naples officiating. A reception will follow at the Orleans Municipal Building, all are welcome.  

, 102, of Irasburg, formerly of McLean, New York, died on January 23, 2017, at the Bel-Aire Center in Newport. Mrs. Mosher was born in McLean on July 20, 1914, the daughter of Frank G. and Cora L. Trapp, and raised on the family farm, a place she remembered vividly and fondly for the rest of her life. During her high school years, the family spent summers on the farm and the rest of the year in Syracuse, where she met Howard Mosher, her future husband, in an English class at Onondaga Valley Academy. After graduation in 1932, she and Mr. Mosher spent four years at Syracuse University, where she graduated with Phi Beta Kappa honors and a major in French. Following a year’s work as a secretary at Cornell University, Helen married Howard at the family home in McLean in August, 1937. Until Mr. Mosher’s retirement from a career in teaching and school administration in the mid-1970s, the couple lived in six different communities in upstate New York. Their longest residence was in the central New York village of Cato, where their two sons went to high school. Bringing her life full circle, Mr. and Mrs. Mosher spent their retirement years at the family home in McLean. Two years after her husband’s death in 1996, Mrs. Mosher moved to Irasburg, where she was cared for by her older son, Howard Frank, and his wife, Phillis. A woman with a great heart, Mrs. Mosher loved God, her family, and the many friends she made wherever she lived. Her gift for attentive listening made everyone she knew feel important and valued. Approaching each day with gratitude and pleasure, she delighted in conversation, books, and nature. Never forgetting her rural roots, she knew exactly what Robert Frost meant by “the need of being versed in country things.” Along with many friends made late in her life, Mrs. Mosher leaves behind these family members, all deeply grateful to have known and loved her: two sons, Howard Frank Mosher and Terence Mosher; their wives, Phillis Mosher and Judith Mosher; a grandson, Jacob Mosher; a granddaughter, Annie Williamson and her husband, John; and two great-grandchildren, Frank James Williamson and True Williamson.  

, age 74, of Irasburg, died on January 29, 2017. He was born in Kingston, New York, on June 2, 1942, the son of Howard H. and Helen Emily Trapp Mosher. Mr. Mosher lived most of his adult life in Irasburg. In 1964 he married the love of his life, Phillis Mosher, graduated from Syracuse University, and moved to the Northeast Kingdom. They had two children, Jake and Annie. Mr. Mosher received his master’s degree from the University of Vermont in 1968. (One clear fall morning in 1995 Mr. Mosher drove to the university on business. As he got out of his car, a high-ranking member of the college community there to welcome him said, “Good morning, Mr. Mosher. Welcome to civilization.” Mr. Mosher canceled his business, got in his car and drove home to Irasburg, where he promptly wrote to the university repudiating and rejecting, for all time to come, his master’s degree from that stately seat of learning and civilization. He then nailed the [now defunct] diploma to the side of his barn and blasted it with .06 bird shot from his 16 gauge partridge gun.) Mr. Mosher worked as a teacher at the former Orleans High School (a trial by fire if there ever was one), and at Lake Region Union High School. He also worked for a number of years as a social worker with needy teenagers (through the infamous Orleans County Council of Social Agencies, under the restrained and sedate guidance of Thomas J. “Tom the Outlaw” Hahn, with whom Mr. Mosher would later fish nearly every trout brook in the state of Montana.) As part of his lengthy apprenticeship to writing about the Northeast Kingdom, Mr. Mosher worked for several months as a “helper” to the Kingdom horse logger and former whiskey runner and moonshiner, Jake Blodgett, for whom the Moshers would later name their son Jake. About 1975, Mr. Mosher turned to full-time writing. He published his first book Disappearances, two years later. (Disappearances did not meet with universal acclaim. One prominent reviewer editorialized: “Vermont Writer Should Disappear.” After nailing the offending review to the side of his barn and following standard procedures, Mr. Mosher scouted up Jake Blodgett and took off the rest of the day to go brook-trout fishing.) Over the course of his career, Mr. Mosher published 12 novels, two memoirs, and countless essays and book reviews. In addition, his last work of fiction, Points North, will be published posthumously in the winter of 2018. He never suggested that a writer “disappear.” Mr. Mosher is survived by his wife, Phillis; his son, Jake; his daughter, Annie, and son-in-law, John Williamson; his grandson and granddaughter, Frank James and True Williamson; and his brother and sister-in-law, Terry and Judy Mosher. At the request of Mr. Mosher, there will be no visiting hours. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. on June 2, at the Irasburg United Church and is open to the public. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Joshua House, Inc., P.O. Box 156, Irasburg, Vermont 05845. Submitted by Phillis Mosher. Written by the deceased, Howard Frank Mosher.  

, 76, of Jay, died on January 23, 2017 in Newport. He was born on July 24, 1940 in Burlington, to the late Arthur G. Provost Sr. and Dorothy (Sherman) Provost. On January 19, 1963, he married Linda Lyon who survives him. Mr. Provost was a Chief Petty Officer E-8 in the United States Navy for 25 years. Among his many hobbies he enjoyed sailing, reading, running, swimming, canoeing, camping, and playing tennis. He held memberships with the American Legion Post #28 of North Troy, and the Fleet Reserve Association. He is survived by his wife, Linda Provost of Jay; by his children: Scott William Provost and his wife, Carolyn, of Bozrah, Connecticut, David Alan Provost and his wife, Alicia, of Redmond, Oregon, and Kimberly Ann Lindner of Newport Center. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Loreli, Donna, Paul, Katie, Connor, Lindsey, and Quinn Provost, Drew Lindner, Kyler Baker, and Reyanna Coombe; and by his sisters-in-law: Cathy of Vermont, and Sandy Shepard and her husband, Larry, of Williston; and by his nieces: Gigi, Angela, and Kristy. He was predeceased by his son Christopher Paul Provost; and his brother Gary Provost, both in 2001. Funeral services were held on January 27 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Orleans-Essex V.N.A. and Hospice, Inc, 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.   

- The village of Derby Line has lost its unofficial mayor, and the world has lost a great community spirit. Joseph “Joe” Queenin, 93, died in Newport on January 2, 2017, with his family, whom he cherished, giving comfort at his side. Mr. Queenin is survived by his beloved son, John, and his wife, Penny; and two grandsons: Joseph J. and Bob J. Queenin, both of Derby Line. He was predeceased by his great-grandchild Caidence Queenin in June, 2010. Mr. Queenin was born on June 1, 1923 to Francis and Mary (Fitzpatrick) Queenin, He grew up in Woburn, Massachusetts with the blood of the Boston Red Sox and Boston Bruins running through his veins. He was a diehard fan of the teams until his passing, and without a doubt he has now reconnected with Bev, his wife of 65 years, in Heaven, and they are in search of some of the Boston greats who passed before them. A child of the Great Depression, Mr. Queenin had a far from perfect childhood. As a teenager he was orphaned, but his only sibling, Hugh, nine years his senior, stepped in for their parents. In February 1941, Hugh, then a reserve Army officer, joined the U.S. Border Patrol and was assigned to the Derby Line border station. The two brothers settled in Derby Line. Mr. Queenin attended his junior year at Derby Academy, but he transferred to Newport High School in his senior year. Unlike Derby Academy, Newport had a football team which he joined. He graduated from Newport High School in 1942. As with most people of his generation, Mr. Queenin remembered exactly where he was when he heard the news that Japanese forces had bombed the Pacific Fleet anchored at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, which launched the United States into an already raging World War II. He was standing on Newport’s Main Street in front of what was then the Royal Restaurant. Angered by the attack, he enlisted in the Marine Corps shortly after graduation. He was followed into full-time military service by Hugh, who served as an officer. Following basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina, Mr. Queenin shipped out to the Pacific. He saw action on the island of Bougainville, followed by some of the bloodiest fighting of the war on the island of Okinawa. Upon discharge from the military in December, 1945, he returned to Derby Line and reconnected with a young woman he met in Derby Line before the war, and had corresponded with during the war years. Her name was Beverly Piatti. On May 24, 1946, she became Beverly Queenin. They shared 65 years of marriage before Mrs. Queenin’s death on September 19, 2011. The love of his family, friends, and neighbors helped him survive the loss, but he never stopped missing Bev, the love of his life. He credited Mrs. Queenin for making him the man he was. For a time, the couple owned a newsstand in Derby Line. Mr. Queenin worked at the the U.S. Postal Service until his retirement in 1984. He had a lifelong love of sports, a love he brought to Vermont. For many years he was a well-known baseball and basketball coach. He also served as a basketball referee. Mrs. Queenin was also fanatical when it came to sports. The couple passed their love of sports onto their son John, and their grandsons Joe and Bob. Mr. Queenin also volunteered for the North Country Union High School hockey teams, including manning the penalty box during home games. He also spearheaded the Toys for Kids program in Orleans County, a program that helped provide underprivileged children with gifts for Christmas. In addition, he volunteered at North Country Hospital for many years. His good works were not overlooked. He was honored several times, including in 2013, being named Northeast Kingdom Senior of the Year by the Area Agency on Aging. He was also named WCAX’s Super Senior in 2014. In addition, he was a frequent guest on the Vermont Voice radio show, and the Northeast Kingdom Voice television show. Proud of his military service, Mr. Queenin was a frequent guest in area schools. He shared his memories of World War II, not to brag, but in hopes that the students would not only learn about World War II, but also understand the horrors of war. In 2012, he traveled to California to celebrate the two hundred thirty-seventh birthday of the Marine Corps, staying aboard the Queen Mary. Then in 2014 he went on a dream trip to the World War II Memorial in Washington D.C. He was active until the very end, always concerned for others before himself. Friends may call on Thursday, February 2, from 10 a.m. until noon and from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, Newport. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 3, with the Reverend Fred Barker and Scott Wheeler officiating. Spring interment will take place at Derby Line Cemetery with full military honors and escort by Patriot Guard Riders. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Pope Memorial Frontier Memorial Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 95, of Derby, died on December 24, 2016 in Newport, after a long and happy life and a short illness. She was born on August 11, 1921 in Orleans, to Lucien Joel and Grace Alfreda (Brown) Whitehill. She attended school in Morgan schools, graduated from Derby Academy in 1939 and Lyndon Normal School in 1942. She taught school in Irasburg, Holland, and Barre, and was a substitute teacher for many years. She was a Derby resident for most of her life and was dedicated to the community. She served as a trustee at the Dailey Memorial Library for over 50 years, where she was also librarian for several years. She was an active member of the former Newport Women’s Club, Home Dem, and the Retired Teachers Association. Family was the center of her universe and her smile was always brightest when she was around them. She provided a wonderful home for her children and she was proud of the adults they grew into. She enjoyed getting together with her siblings to share good times and fond memories. She enjoyed cooking, making crafts, gardening, painting, crosswords, and reading. She embraced technology and stayed in touch with her family and friends through social media. She was actively engaged in politics and liked to keep up with current events. She was a whiz at playing word games with her family and friends, and her competitive streak would show. On April 17, 1946, she married Rudolph Julian Burroughs in Derby Line. Mr. Burroughs predeceased her in 1998. She is survived by her children: Shirley Martineau of Colchester, Nancy Boucher and her husband, Irving, of Essex, Janet Fortin and her husband, Conrad, of Derby, Cathy Day and her husband, Terrance, of Waterville, Martha Friend and her husband, Robert, of Bristol, and Stephen Burroughs of Clayton, North Carolina. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and their families; 21 great-grandchildren; and by her siblings: David Whitehill, Kenneth Whitehill, Anita Plummer, Norma Lemeiux, Barbara Whitehill; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister-in-law, Carly Whitehill; brothers-in-law Conrad Lemeiux and Reginald Plummer; a son-in-law, Leo Martineau; and her nephew, Michael Plummer. A private interment will be held in the spring. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Dailey Memorial Library, 101 Junior High Drive, Derby, Vermont 05829.  

, 61, died unexpectedly of a heart attack on January 15, 2017, at Mercy Hospital in Portland, Maine, surrounded by her family. Ms. Thompson was bright, funny, and caring. She loved reading, music (she had a beautiful singing voice), gardening and shopping. Family was very important to her. Uncles, aunts, and cousins took care of her and she in turn took care of them. Betty Robinson and family were very dear friends to Ms. Thompson and a big part of her life. She was predeceased by her mother, Evelyn Thompson; her grandparents; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and by her cat, Kitcat. She is survived by many cousins and friends; and her beloved cat, Taz. A graveside service will be held at the Brownington Center Cemetery at a date to be determined. Memorial donations in her name can be made to: Jones Memorial Library, 1 Water Street, Orleans, Vermont 05860, or House of Hope, Inc., 812 Merrimack Street, Lowell, Massachusetts 01854, or at info@houseofhopelowell.org.

, 79, died peacefully in her sleep, in her own home in Glover on January 7, 2017. She was born in Florence, Massachusetts, on August 5, 1937, to Cassie and Horace “Earl” Fay. She was a homemaker and raised seven children. She is survived by six children and their families: Clifton and Pat Bennett of Cornish, New Hampshire, Steve and Christine Shatney of Greensboro, Carolyn Bennett of Brownington, Cathleen Sargent and Paul Tumulty of Orange, Crystal Bennett-Bancroft and Ronnie Bancroft of Bolton, and Cassandra Cabrera of South Burlington; by a daughter-in-law, Stella Bennett of Irasburg; and by an abundance of both grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Two brothers also survive her: Earl Fay and his wife, Nancy, of Massachusetts, and Carl Fay of Virginia. She is also survived by a multitude of extended family, including her sister-in-law Grace Brooks of Connecticut; and many of her family. She was predeceased by her husband, Calvin Bennett Jr.; and her son, Calvin Bennett III; as well as several siblings. Mrs. Bennett, “Le” to those who knew her well, loved to cook for a crowd — her own family, with friends and neighbors as well. Her favorite pastimes included traveling in her camper to bluegrass festivals and meeting many new friends there, traveling in Maine and walking the Marginal Way on the beach, crocheting and sewing, reading Debbie Macomber novels, and talking on the phone, but she especially loved spending time with her family, friends, and neighbors — the bigger the crowd, the better. She has enriched many lives with her ever-ready sense of humor, love of music and games, and caring contributions of gifts, advice, and a shoulder to lean on. There are no words to express how sorely she will be missed, but she will forever live on in the many hearts she has touched. Service arrangements will be held in the spring at the family’s convenience. Further notifications will be made accordingly.

, 68, of Barton, died at his home on January 14, 2017. He was born on August 16, 1948, in Barton. He was the son of the late Grosvenor “Bud” and Lucille (Crandall) Drown. Mr. Drown was a member of the Vermont National Guard. He loved his dog Buddy, and enjoyed taking him along for rides. He also enjoyed horses and playing scratch tickets. He is survived by his sister Bonnie Bousquet and her husband, Azarias “Lou”; and by his nieces and nephews: Jason Larocque and his wife, Roxanne, of Burke, Jodi Morley and her husband, John, and their two daughters: Taylor and Brooke, of Orleans, Joshua Drown and his wife, Alice, and their two children: Avery and Amelia of Orleans, Erin McGee and her friend, Steve, and their three children: Isaiah, Zeke, and Zoe of Enosburg, and Deveney Wolfe and her husband, Mike, and their two children: Benny and Paulina of Ohio. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Brent Drown. A graveside service will be held at the Welcome O. Brown Cemetery in the spring. Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Drown’s memory to the Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.  

, 97, of Orleans, died on January 14, 2017, in Newport. He was born on October 31, 1919, the son of Alex and Dorilla (Fortier) LeBlanc. On October 9, 1942, he married Gertrude Choiniere. They had six children. He worked for the Nassikas Cheese Factory in Barton and Ethan Allen Manufacturing in Orleans. For many years he ran a garage sale at his home. He is survived by his children: Carmen Lamarche of Irasburg, Norman LeBlanc and his wife, Ronda, of Orleans, and Paulette Riendeau of Albany; daughters-in-law: Roberta LeBlanc of Meriden, Connecticut, and Irene LeBlanc of Orleans; by grandchildren: Pierre, Marc, and Andre Lamarche, Raymond, John, and Renee Hamel, Travis and Amber LeBlanc, and David, Daniel, and Jeremy Riendeau; by 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter. Mr. LeBlanc was predeceased by his wife, Gertrude, in 1992; by sons: Theodore and Allen; and daughter Joanne; by his sons-in-law: Claude Lamarche and Bernard Riendeau; his grandsons: Bernard Riendeau Jr. and Doug LeBlanc; also by his parents; and his brothers: Dominic and Roland LeBlanc. There will be no visiting hours. A graveside service will be held at St. Theresa’s Cemetery in Barton in the spring at the convenience of the family.  

, 87, of Newport Center, died on January 10, 2017. She was born on October 30, 1929, in Orleans. She was the daughter of Carroll and Bessie (Elsemore) Green. She attended Lyndon State College where she earned her bachelor’s degree, and later taught at the Newport Center graded school for many years. Mrs. Moulton loved traveling around the U.S. with family and friends. She thoroughly enjoyed her time with her children, grandchildren, and her many friends. She enjoyed spending her birthdays with her special friends at the East Side Restaurant. She was a member of the Retired Teachers Association and the National Alliance on Mental Illness. She is survived by her daughters: Joanne Hammond and her husband, Leonard, Susan Moulton, and Janice Moulton, all of Newport Center; her grandchildren: Michael Marquis and his companion, Pam, Amy Marquis, Jody Marquis and her companion, Steve Davis, Jason Marquis and his wife, Melanie, Matthew Hammond and his wife, Karen, and Karen Chitambar and her husband, Ted. She is also survived by 16 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; by a special sister-in-law, Geraldine Green; and by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Norman Moulton; a son, David Moulton; her two brothers, Naaman and Floyd Green; by her son-in-law Denis Marquis; and by two half brothers, Earl and Olin Green. A funeral service was held on January 17 at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport with the Reverend Kelly Deslauries officiating. Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Moulton’s name to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, 1250 Hylan Boulevard, Suite 4B, Staten Island, New York 10305, or to the Newport Healthcare Center Activities Program, 148 Prouty Drive, Newport, Vermont 05855, or to a charity of one’s choice.    

, 71, of Charleston, beloved husband of Linere (Zupan) Silloway, died at his home on January 10, 2017. He was born on June 16, 1945, in St. Johnsbury. He was the son of Lyle and Pauline (Brown) Silloway. He married Linere Zupan on March 21, 1970, and together they enjoyed the good life on Echo Lake. Mr. Silloway enjoyed hunting and fishing. He is survived by his wife, Linere Silloway; their two children: Rhonda Wooldridge and her husband, Timothy, of Wausau, Wisconsin, and Craig Silloway and his wife, Kristin, of Tampa, Florida; his seven grandchildren: Jack, Jordan, and Christopher Wooldridge, Connor and Bailey Cunningham, and Derek Silloway and Gabrielle Lambert. He is also survived by his brother David Silloway of St. Johnsbury. He is predeceased by his brothers Fred and Peter Silloway. Memorial contributions may be made in Mr. Silloway’s memory to the Orleans-Essex County VNA and Hospice, Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 64, of Shelton, Connecticut, died on December 31, 2016, with her family by her side, at Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center in Shelton. Ms. Bennetta was born on September 24, 1952, in Newport, to the late Merrill “Manny” and Rachel (McNamara) Thompson of Glover. She graduated from Lake Region Union High School in 1971 and worked at Bogner Ski Wear in Newport before moving to Connecticut. She had a distinguished career in the health care industry. She worked at several area facilities including Masonicare Hospice. Prior to her retirement in January of 2016, she was an RN and nursing supervisor at Bishop Wicke Health and Rehabilitation Center for many years. Still working at the facility per-diem until recently, she felt the staff was her second family. Ms. Bennetta had many interests, quilting being her favorite pastime. If you were fortunate to receive one of her quilts as a gift, you knew it came with much love and hours of dedication. Ms. Bennetta was a loving wife, mother, sister, and grandmother. She is survived by her husband: Joseph Bennetta of Shelton, a retired Teamster union official at Local 191; daughter Judith Richard and her husband, Jeff, of Oxford Connecticut; sister Rebecca Twombly of Shelton; and grandsons Benjamin and Brian Richard of Oxford. These two boys were the light of her life. She is also survived by nephew Chad Twombly and his family, of Oxford; by several stepchildren and grandchildren; and by her Dad’s beloved dog Rio. Services were held on January 4 at Riverview Funeral Home, in Shelton. Spring interment will be held at a date to be announced in Pleasantview Cemetery in Orleans. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that contributions be sent to United Methodist Homes, 580 Long Hill Avenue, Shelton, Connecticut 06484, in memory of Jacki Bennetta.  

, 79, of Barton and Summerfield, Florida, died on January 2, 2017, at his daughter’s home in Sutton, surrounded by his family. Mr. Diette was born in West Glover on June 22, 1937, son to the late Arthur Felix and Maria (Sheltra) Diette. He was raised and educated in West Glover, joined the Air Force at the age of 17 and was stationed in Texas at Amarillo Air Force Base. On May 20, 1961, he married the former Elizabeth E. Sicard and they shared 55 years together. Mr. Diette worked as a plumber. The Diettes made their home in Barton and wintered in Florida for many years. Mr. Diette was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Barton. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing cards, and was almost always the winner at horseshoes. He so very much loved visiting with family and friends. Mr. Diette is survived by his beloved wife, Betsy Diette; his five children: Kathy Devereaux and her husband, Chris, of Sutton, Peter Diette and his wife, Teresa, of Barton, Kevin Diette and his wife, Jennifer, of Richford, Tracy Dupuis and her husband, Richard, of Groveton, New Hampshire, and Jeffrey Diette and his wife, Stephanie, of Brighton, Colorado; a sister: Antoinette “Peanut” Makrianis of Holyoke, Massachusetts; nine grandchildren: Brandi, Matthew, Joel, Kevin Jr., Corey, Carlie, Kaitlyn, Lauren, and Erin; and seven great-grandchildren: Jacob, Joshua, Meghan, Gabriel, Madison, Briahna, and Ella; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by seven siblings: Paul Diette, Cecile Hebert, Yvonne Urie, Pauline Gilfillan, Irene Renault, Rachel Coburn, and Janet Currier. A private graveside service will be held in the spring at the Vermont Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center.

, 74, of Holland died on January 2, 2017. Mr. Dowland would have preferred to start this with one of his bad jokes. He loved making the people around him laugh, even if it ended with a shocked, “Oh Winston.” He was one of those people who loved family and country, and the legacy of his love and service is long and impressive. Born on June 20, 1942, in Derby Line to Bernard and Gertrude (Sanborn) Dowland, he was one of seven children. In 1958, he joined the Navy and began his lifelong service to, and pride in, this great country. Mr. Dowland served during the Cuban missile crisis on the ship enforcing the missile blockade. He did five tours in Vietnam and served on the submarine base in Pearl Harbor. In 1978, he retired from the Navy with an honorable discharge as a chief petty officer, having been awarded many medals for his service. He entered the reserves for another ten years, for a total of 30 years of service in the Navy. In civilian life he worked for several companies and opened his own successful welding business, where he created and sold the pattern for his dumpster and quad track designs. However, he never stopped serving his country, his state, or his town. He was a member of the VFW Post #798, the Newport Elks #2155, and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter #22, where he was instrumental in getting transportation vans for local veterans needing rides to the VA hospital in White River Junction. He also served the DAV as commander, chaplin, treasurer, adjutant, and service officer. His volunteerism spanned over 20 years. He also served with the Enlisted Association of the National Guard, and the State Department of the Vermont DAV, serving as commander, and then as treasurer. He served the great state of Vermont as a state representative from 2004 to 2006, and he served his hometown of Holland on the select board for many years. But for all of the service he gave his country, state, and town, it was his family that gave him the most enjoyment. He married his loving wife, Heather (Dawber), in 1992, and for over 24 years they spent every day together, working, serving, and spending time with family. Mr. Dowland loved taking his nieces and nephews on trips around the United States, and because he loved history, they learned history. He loved big family get-togethers, with lots of laughter and children running around. In the past few years he enjoyed helping to care for his great-nieces and -nephews, Kennedy Atwood, and Madison, Anora, and Theodore Montminy. He and Madison had a special relationship, and she loved spending time at “Unky’s” house. Mr. Dowland enjoyed raising beef cattle. He enjoyed talking Nascar with Lenny and Brian, and was a big Dale Jarrett fan. He was a history buff, but kept current on new technologies through various periodicals. He enjoyed his daily paper, and talking politics with anyone who would listen. He enjoyed telling those politically incorrect jokes, and getting a reaction. He loved seeing the snow on the trees after a storm. He lived with integrity, and a fierce respect for this country, and he had a huge heart for those he loved. Mr. Dowland was one of the good guys, and he leaves behind a huge family and a multitude of friends that know it, and will miss him. He is survived by his wife, Heather Dowland of Holland; by his children: Lisa King, and her husband, Lenny, Lori Groleau and her husband, Pierre, and David Dowland and his wife, Lara; by his grandchildren: Melissa King, Daniel and Patrick Groleau, and Quinn Dowland; by his brothers and sisters: Vickie Tear, George Dowland, Philip Dowland and his wife, Rosie, Eddie Dowland, and his wife, Doreen, and Rocky Dowland; by his brothers- and sisters-in-law: Sherry and Brian Montminy and Stacy and Wade Wright; and by his very special nieces and nephews: Brian and Christie Montminy, Ashley Montminy, Justin St. Pierre, Addie and Tanner Atwood, Wade and Amber Wright, and Scott Dowland; and by many other nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his great-nieces and great-nephews, who held such a special spot in his heart. He was predeceased by his sister Louise Simino and her husband, Rollin; by his brother Bernie Dowland; and his brother-in-law Brian Tear. The family is sure that Mr. Dowland would have loved to end with one of his jokes too, but they are sure that anyone who knew him could remember one he told. Those who knew and loved him know how he impacted people’s lives, and want to honor him through service to others. Visiting hours will be held on Friday, January 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home located at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport. A graveside service will be held in the spring. The family is asking that, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the DAV Chapter #22, P.O. Box 735, Derby, Vermont 05829, or to Felines and Friends Foundation, P.O. Box 1316, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 82, died peacefully on January 2, 2017, surrounded by his devoted wife and children. Mr. Monty was born in Northfield on June 29, 1934, to Charles and Valeda (Bedard) Monty. He grew up in Washington, Vermont. He graduated with the Class of 1952 from Spaulding High School in Barre. On April 16, 1955, he married the love of his life, Anita (Cano), who survives him. Mr. Monty is also survived by his four children: Susan Poczobut and her husband, Skip, David and his wife, Cristy, Edward and his wife, Robin, and Alan and his wife, Lauren. He was particularly proud of his grandchildren: Michael Poczobut, and his wife Sandra, David Poczobut, Kathryn and Allison Monty, Andy and Rob Marcotte, Nicole Caron, and her husband, Kyle, Luke Caron, Emily and Heather Monty, and Jacqueline, Paige, Alexis, and Anthony Monty. There was always a youthful spark from him when he interacted with his three great-grandchildren: Alexander, Emilia, and Jackson Poczobut. He is survived by several nieces, nephews, and other extended family, including a special sister-in-law, Therese Monty. Mr. Monty is survived by one sister, Lise Leary. He was predeceased by his parents; by five siblings and their spouses; and by all of Mrs. Monty’s sisters and spouses. Mr. Monty began his full-time career with Montgomery Ward in Barre, retiring after 35 years. Although Montgomery Ward dominated his life from 9 to 5, his passion for square dancing consumed his after-work hours. Growing up, Mr. Monty would sing as he milked cows on the family farm. Discovering a talent for music early on, he attended local barn dances where he began his square dance calling career. It was at one of these dances that he met his future wife. In early years, Mr. Monty taught square dancing to students of all ages in almost every town in Washington County. For many years, square dance class was mandatory in the physical education programs in Montpelier. Each school year would culminate with festivals at both the Barre Auditorium and Plumley Armory at Norwich. In later years, he traveled throughout the state teaching adults to dance. He taught his last class in December. The friendships that Mr. and Mrs. Monty forged with all the people they met throughout the many years were cherished by both of them. In 1976, Vermont Life featured Mr. Monty in an article titled “King of the Callers.” For many years, Mr. Monty, accompanied by dancers, was a guest on the WCAX show “Across The Fence.” He was honored as one of WCAX’s Super Seniors in 2015. He also attended auctioneer school and presided over many local auctions.   His accomplishments were also profiled on “Chronicle,” a Boston news program. Although not formally trained, Mr. Monty had a gift for building and design. He never wasted a square inch of space in his designs. His rudimentary scratching on a sheet of graph paper, along with keen negotiation and management skills, resulted in the successful completion of many building projects, including homes for himself and all his children. He designed the Granite Hills Credit Union building in Barre and served as the general contractor for a large infrastructure project at St. Monica Parish. His last unfinished project was for a new parish rectory. Mr. Monty was a spiritual man and was a lifelong member of St. Monica Parish in Barre, serving on the building and grounds and finance committees. For many years he and his sons served together as ushers at Mass. He continued to serve as an usher every Saturday evening. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Monica Parish on Monday, January 9, at 11 a.m. To honor Mr. Monty’s legacy and help bring his final dream full circle, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Monica Parish Rectory Fund, 79 Summer Street, Barre, Vermont 05641.

, 23, of Island Pond died suddenly on January 1, 2017, in Island Pond. He was born on August 17, 1993, in Newport to Kim (Hackett) Moore and the late Mark O’Gorman. Mr. O’Gorman graduated from North Country Union High School with the class of 2011 and attended Johnson State College. He was a construction worker, a handyman, and did some catering work. He enjoyed snowboarding, hiking, traveling, and loved the outdoors. He loved playing football on the North Country football team. He was an avid Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots fan, and enjoyed spending time with his buddies. He is survived by his mother, Kim Moore, and stepfather, Robert Moore, of Brownington; by his siblings: Michael O’Gorman of California, Dalton Moore, Michael Moore, and Michelle Moore, all of Brownington; by his girlfriend, Alexa Williams, of Johnson; by his paternal grandmother Muriel O’Gorman of Island Pond; maternal grandparents Anthony and Shirley Hackett of Oxford, Maine; and stepgrandparents Michael and Lesley Moore of Brownington; by his aunts and uncles: Alson and Kathy Kinney of Island Pond, Timmy and Becky Hackett of Goose Creek, South Carolina, Anthony and Cheryl Hackett of Brownington, Valerie Hackett of Bryant Pond, Maine, Carol and Raymond Santaw of Island Pond, Christine Forgues and her fiancé, Chris Briggs, of St. Johnsbury, Billie Jo and Gordon Tice of Derby, and Candy Baraw of Craftsbury; and by numerous cousins. He was predeceased by his father, Mark O’Gorman on May 7, 2007; and by his cousin Taini Kinney on June 8, 2004. Calling hours were on January 10. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 11, at 2 p.m. at the Curtis-Britch-Converse-Rushford Funeral Home, at 4670 Darling Hill Road in Newport, with the Reverend Timothy Ingalls and the Reverend Judy Castonguay co-officiating. Spring interment will be at Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond. Should friends desire, contributions can be made at www.gofundme.com/?help-with-quincys-funeral.  

Marie I. Sexton, 68, beloved wife of Stephen Roberts of Newport, died at her home on January 6, 2017. She was born on November 30, 1948, in Iowa City, Iowa, to the late Rhoem and Francis (Schatz) Sexton. She proudly served her country during the Vietnam era from 1967 to 1969 in the Marine Corps. She married Stephen Roberts in May of 1968. Ms. Sexton worked mostly as an LPN, working in several area nursing homes. She also became a licensed journeyman plumber and worked with her husband. She enjoyed fishing and hunting, and was a member of the American Legion Post #21. She is survived by her husband, Stephen Roberts; and their children: Stephen C. Roberts and his wife, Noreen, of Newport Center, Carl Roberts and his wife, Cara, of Newport, Charlie Roberts and his wife, April O’Brien, of Newport Center; by six grandchildren: Eli, Hanna, Sam, Max, Charlotte, and Isaac; by two brothers: Marty Sexton of San Jose, California, and Charles Sexton of Campbell, California; her sister Laura Sexton of Truckee, California; and by a niece and nephew. She was predeceased by her parents and by a grandson, Dustin, in 2012. Memorial contributions may be made in Ms. Sexton’s memory to the American Legion Handicap Access Project, American Legion Post #21, P.O. Box 304, Newport, Vermont 05855.  

- On December 17, 2016 Florence Emma Stowell, 81, conceded the battle she so courageously fought with ALS, indeed surpassing the medical community’s expectation by over a year. Mrs. Stowell was born in Newark on January 8, 1935, to Harold and Gladys (Donaldson) Cutting. After graduation in 1953 from Lyndon Institute she was united in marriage to Clayton Stowell. They were blessed to be able to celebrate their sixty-third anniversary in August of 2016. She is survived by her husband; and by three children: Michael Stowell and his wife, Joyce, of Shelburne, David Stowell and his wife, Anne, of South Wheelock, and Diane LaBounty and her husband, Dennis, of Lyndon. She is survived by eight grandchildren; and she was blessed to live long enough to meet her first great-granddaughter Brynlee. She is also survived by a brother, Donald Cutting of Irasburg; and a sister, Mary Corbett of Middlebury. She was predeceased by her parents; and a sister Barbara Lawson of Irasburg. Florence’s wishes were to be cremated and held until she can be placed together with the love of her life in the Lyndon Center cemetery. The family is, however, comforted in knowing that we have an angel watching over us that is able to walk and talk and do all the things that ALS so cruelly took away from her.

, 90, of Newport died peacefully on January 6, 2017, surrounded by her family. She was born in Burlington on November 15, 1926, a daughter of Victor Noel Beaupre and Aurora Elizabeth Landry Beaupre. She graduated from Burlington High School and moved to Gleasondale, Massachusetts, in 1944 to live with her aunts. There she married Everett Miller in 1947, and they had a son together named Martin Miller. In 1955 she and her husband moved to Newport to live with her brother- and sister-in-law. In 1957 she married Donald Thayer and had two sons, Robert and Charles. In Gleasondale, Mrs. Thayer trained to be a telephone operator. In Newport, she continued her occupation as a telephone operator and, while her sons attended school, she became a cook at Lakeview Elementary School. Later she worked as administrator to her husband’s business, Don’s Heating Service. The family enjoyed watching Mr. Thayer race boats and attending car races. Mrs. Thayer was an avid reader. She loved doing crossword puzzles and enjoyed animals, especially cats. She was known for her beautiful smile and great sense of humor. She loved to tease and had a very positive outlook on life. She was never judgmental and had a giving heart. For most of her life, she lived on Bay Street and Lake Road in Newport. She was a resident at the Bel-Aire Center in Newport for the past several years. Mrs. Thayer was predeceased by her husband, Don Thayer; by her brother P.C. “Bope” Beaupre; and sister-in-law Elizabeth Beaupre. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Dorothy Morey of Troy; by her sons: Martin Miller and his wife, June, of Berlin, Massachusetts, Robert “Oscar” Thayer and his wife, Tina, of Derby, Charles Thayer and his wife, Leslie, of Hamilton, New Jersey; by grandchildren: Faye Miller Benoit and her husband, Joseph, of Worcester, Massachusetts, Katelyn Thayer and her fiancé, Robert Kennedy, of Dracut, Massachusetts, Evan Thayer and his girlfriend, Chelsea Duggan, of Colchester; and by several nieces and nephews. There will be no calling hours. The family will announce a graveside service to take place in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Frontier Animal Shelter, 502 Strawberry Acres Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.

, 91, known to all as Bob, died peacefully on January 6, 2017, at the Craftsbury Community Care Center in the presence of his loving family. Mr. Twiss was born on March 4, 1925, in Craftsbury to Alden and Grace (Seaver) Twiss. He attended the local schools and graduated from Craftsbury Academy in 1942. A varsity star athlete in basketball and baseball, he also actively participated in a variety of school activities. He served three years in the U.S. Army as a military policeman. That assignment took him to England, France, and the Philippines, until he was honorably discharged as a staff sergeant in 1946. Mr. Twiss attended the University of Vermont, lettering in varsity basketball and baseball, and graduating with a bachelor of arts degree in 1950 and master of arts degree in 1956. He was a teacher and coach at Craftsbury Academy, principal in North Troy, Newport, and Stowe, and superintendent of schools in Vergennes and Randolph. He later served as superintendent of schools for the Nauset Regional School District and Harwich School District, both on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. In his retirement he enjoyed watching sporting events, playing bridge, and being involved in community activities. Mr. Twiss served as president of the Craftsbury Academy Trustees, deacon of the United Church of Craftsbury, president of the Craftsbury Community Care Center, director of the Northeast Area Agency on Aging, and president of the Vermont Superintendents’ Association, just to name a few. The town of Craftsbury dedicated its 2016 annual report to him, a significant honor that acknowledged his many worthy contributions to community life and affirmed the high regard and deep respect held for him by the citizens of his hometown. He is survived by two children: Deborah Dickovick of Burlington and R. Jeffrey Twiss and his wife, Sarah, of Reading, Massachusetts; four grandchildren: J. Tyler Dickovick and his wife, Alessandra, Kathryn (Dickovick) Lambert and her husband, Adam, Cameron Twiss, and Lindsay Twiss; four great-grandchildren: Carolina and Gabriela Dickovick, and Steele and William Lambert. He is also survived by his sisters: Joyce Duff and Alice McEdward and her husband, Bob; and his brother Carl Twiss and his wife, Judy. Mr. Twiss was predeceased by his stepdaughter Sharon Sumner; his first wife, Caroline (Cameron) Twiss; his son-in-law Colonel J. Gary Dickovick; and his second wife, Joan (McQuiston) Twiss. He was a staunch community member wherever he put down roots; however his heart always belonged to his beloved hometown of Craftsbury. Memorial gifts honoring Mr. Twiss may be directed to the Craftsbury Community Care Center, 1784 East Craftsbury Road, Craftsbury, Vermont 05826, or Craftsbury Academy, P.O. Box 73, Craftsbury Common, Vermont 05827. A funeral service will be held at the Craftsbury Academy Gymnasium in Craftsbury Common on Sunday, January 15, at 2 p.m.  

, 27, of Newport, died on December 22, 2016, at his home. He was born on July 8, 1989, in St. Albans to Debbie Chamberland and John Szarek. Mr. Chamberland received his GED and his high school diploma. He loved rap music and even some country. He loved being with his family and friends, helping other people, and making people laugh as he had a great sense of humor. He especially enjoyed razzing his family as he loved the Yankees while the rest of the family are diehard Red Sox fans. He enjoyed movies, working on his computer, phone, and all electronics. He enjoyed playing cards especially poker. He loved animals especially his cat Tabby as he would play fetch with her, and he enjoyed his dog Stax. He is survived by his mother, Debbie Chamberland, of Brownington. He is also survived by his nine-year-old daughter; and by his longtime best friend and love of his adult life, Ashley Geoffroy; and his “brothers”: Mitch, Dillon, Rene, Jeff, Brian and Robbie. He is also survived by his uncle and aunt, Eric and Crystal Carter of Newport; his uncle James Chamberland of Orleans; by his aunt Darline Chamberland; and by cousins: Sabrina Clark of Burlington, Ronnie Boutin Jr., Sabrina Carter, and Kaylee Boutin of Newport; and by many true friends, old and new. He was predeceased by his uncle Steve Chamberland; and his “brother” Dan Wing. A celebration of his life was held at New Hope Bible Church in Brownington Center, on December 31, with Pastor Dan Prue Jr. officiating.    

, 36, died in his home in Barton on December 26, 2016, after a long struggle with brain cancer. Mr. Hudson was born June 10, 1980, at George Air Force Base in California. He graduated from Crowley High School in Crowley, Texas, in 1999. Mr. Hudson served five years in the U.S. Army as a counter intelligence agent. He was a disabled veteran who served combat tours in both Kosovo and Afghanistan, and was a longtime Mensa member. Mr. Hudson was an avid gamer, a loyal friend, a loving husband, and a devoted son. He is survived by his wife, Felicia (Welton) Hudson, of Barton; his mother Deborah Crane-Foote and step-father Kenneth Foote, both of Barton; his father William C. Hudson of Fort Worth, Texas; his grandmother Grace Crane of Troy; and his step-brother Brian Foote of Brooklyn, New York. Services will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Derby Line, on Friday, January 13, at 3 p.m., with the Reverend Susan Lynn Johns officiating. A potluck reception will follow the service in the fellowship hall. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, those who wish are encouraged to donate to the charity that speaks most to their heart.  

, 62, of Holland, died on December 19, 2016, at his home. He was born on September 5, 1954, in Newport to Bruce and Dorcus (Percy) Jones. On November 4, 1972, he married Laurette Turgeon, who survives him. He is survived by his wife, Laurette Jones, of Holland; by his son Christopher Jones and his wife, Jami, of Hyde Park; by eight grandchildren; by his parents, Bruce and Dorcas Jones, of Derby; his brother Brian Jones and his wife, Lynda, of Derby; by his in-laws: Norman and Mary Turgeon of Newport; his brother-in-law Dennis Turgeon and his wife, Rachel, of Balston Spa, New York; sisters-in-law: Joann Barrup and her husband, Brad, of Newport, and Linda Turgeon-Meunier of Jay. Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in his memory may be made to the Pope Frontier Memorial Animal Society, 522 Strawberry Acres, Newport, Vermont 05855.  

, 84, of Lowell died on the morning of December 21, 2016. She was born on August 13, 1932, in Glover to the late Archie and Marie Ann (Grenier) Perron. She married John Kennison on April 1, 1953, and together they enjoyed hunting, fishing, bingo, gambling, family gatherings, and Perron family reunions. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary American Legion Post #21, and the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Alfred Pepin Post. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Gary and his wife, Cindy, of Lowell, Terry and his wife, Brenda, of Rochester, New York, and Linda McAllister and her husband, Gary, of Lowell. She is also survived by nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; by her sister Maria Dickie; and her brother-in-law Reginald Sanford. She was predeceased by her husband, John Kennison, who died in 2011; by her brothers Robert, John, George, and Armand Perron; and by her sisters Rita Gagnon and Joyce Sanford. Services will be announced at a later date in the spring. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mary E. Wright Halo Foundation, 1071 Upper Quarry Road, Newport, Vermont 05855.    

, 85, of Lyndon Center, died peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on November 16, 2016, following a lengthy period of declining health. She was born in Lyndon on December 9, 1930, the daughter of Edward L. and Emma E. (Dana) Cleary. Mrs. Paris was a lifelong resident of Lyndon. She attended Lyndon Corner Elementary School and graduated from Lyndon Institute in 1949. On March 2, 1956, she married Lanny R. Paris, with whom she shared 60 cherished years. They had two children, Gary and Rhonda. Mrs. Paris was a homemaker, but worked in the Lyndon Corner Elementary School hot lunch program while her children attended school there. Later, she worked at the Colonnade Inn and at Bag Balm. From her childhood, she spent every summer at the family’s camps at Shadow Lake in Glover. She truly enjoyed entertaining friends and family, and preparing meals to share with all who visited. Mrs. Paris loved anything to do with the lake: fishing, boating, waterskiing, or just floating in the water. She also enjoyed playing many lawn games with her family. She was a loving daughter, wife, mother, sister and aunt. Mrs. Paris is survived by her husband, Lanny; her daughter Rhonda Paris; her son Gary Paris and his companion, Shawna Wilkerson, all of Lyndon Center; by her sisters-in-law Sally Baillargeon, and Jean Conn; and by several special and close nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; her husband’s parents: Dorothy S. King and Murray F. Paris; her sister Barbara Cleary Cameron; and brother-in-law George Gordon Cameron Jr. At the request of Mrs. Paris, there will be no visiting hours. A 2017 private summer burial with family and friends will be held at the Lyndon Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations made in her memory may be directed to Caledonia Home Health and Hospice, 161 Sherman Drive, St. Johnsbury, Vermont 05819, or to the Upright Steeple Society, P.O. Box 224, Lyndon, Vermont 05849.  

, 95, died on Christmas Day at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital, in St. Johnsbury. She was born in Glover on January 24, 1921, a daughter of Adelbert C. and Sadie W. Leland. She graduated from Barton Academy and then went on to Vermont Junior College for secretarial studies. Mrs. Sherburne worked for National Life for a year before returning home to Glover to marry Dr. Roy Sherburne on December 20, 1941. They shared 54 years together before he died in 1995. She moved to Bridgton, Maine, where Dr. Sherburne opened his family osteopathic medical practice. In 1949, they returned to St. Johnsbury where she assisted her husband in his medical practice on Eastern Avenue for many years. Mrs. Sherburne was a member of the North Congregational Church, the Eastern Star and the Arlington Home Dem Group. She enjoyed traveling, shopping, and spending time with her family. She is survived by her children: Dale Sherburne and his wife, Judy, and Dawn Lowrey and her husband, Russell; four grandchildren: Nathan Lowrey, Betsy Rice and her husband, Shawn, James Sherburne and his wife, Elizabeth, and John Sherburne and his wife, Sandra; nine great-grandchildren: Jake, Julia, Nicholas, Eric, Sarah, Andrew, Sam, Anna, and Max; and her sister-in-law Anna Leland. She was predeceased by her parents; husband; brothers: Dr. George Leland and Donald Leland; and by sister Marilyn Morgan and her loving companion, John Marsh. At the convenience of the family, a spring committal and burial will be held at Westlook Cemetery in Glover.  

, 90, of Barre died on December 20, 2016, at the Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin. Born in Saint Roch d’Orford, Quebec, on August 30, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Louise (Berard) Lafontaine. She was raised in Rock Forest, Quebec, where she attended schools. On July 20, 1953, she married Marcel Sicard at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport. She was a homemaker during the time her children were growing up. She lived in Beebe Plains and was employed at Bogner’s in Newport from 1973 to 1984. Upon her retirement in 1984, she moved to Newport. After her husband died, she made her home with her daughter Jeannette Therrien in Barre. Among her interests were quilting, knitting, word search, traveling to Florida and Arizona, and spending precious time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a member of St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport, and St. Monica Catholic Church of Barre. Survivors include her daughters: Jeannette Therrien and her husband, Gilles, of Barre Town, Diane McDowell and her husband, Bob, of Peoria, Arizona, Susan McGough and her husband, Tim, of Scottsdale, Arizona, Cecile Griswold and her husband, Marc, of New River, Arizona. She is also survived by her sisters, Jeanne Darc Audet of St. Jean, Quebec, Marthe Lafontaine of St. Pie, Quebec; by brother, Jacques Lafontaine of St. Hubert, Quebec; as well as by eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents and husband, she was predeceased by one brother, Gerard Lafontaine; and one sister, Rita Provincial. A Mass and a celebration of her life will be held at a later date to be announced.