NEKG - 2002 Obituaries

, of Bethlehem, beloved wife of Kenneth, passed peacefully from this world surrounded by her family, Monday, Feb. 4, 2002. Frances was born a daughter to James and Mae (Foley) Conway on Dec. 2, 1926, in New York City, N.Y. She was a lifelong resident of Bethlehem, who imparted her spirit and love to all who knew her. Frances was very active in her community, serving on the school board and as a den mother for a number of years. She had worked as a telephone operator and retired after 30 years as a dispatcher for the town of Bethlehem, continuing to write for the Littleton Courier as their Bethlehem correspondent until her health no longer permitted. Frances is survived by her husband of 50 years, Kenneth Clark of Bethlehem; three sons, Bing Clark of Bethlehem, Kevin Clark and Robert Clark, both of Littleton; one daughter, Terri Plante of Hampstead, N.H.; and 12 grandchildren. The family will receive friends and relatives on Wednesday, Feb. 6, at the Pillsbury Funeral Home, 101 Union St., Littleton, from 7-8:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Thursday, Feb. 7, at 10 a.m., at St. Rose of Lima Church with the Rev. Chase as celebrant. Burial will be held in the spring in the Maple Street Cemetery in Bethlehem. The family requests that donations in lieu of flowers be made to the Bethlehem Rescue Squad in her memory.

88, of Route 18 in Waterford, died late Friday evening, Feb. 1, 2002, at a hospital in Ocala, Fla. He was born in Levis, Quebec, Canada, Jan. 16, 1914. He was predeceased by his father, Onesime, in 1920, by his mother, Rose Hebelle (Lambert), in 1973, and by his stepfather, Leon Doyon, in 1979. On June 1, 2001, he and his wife Marie Louise (Pelletier) celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. Always by his side, Marie was a constant companion, supporter and co-worker. Tony's family moved to Waterford from Levis, Quebec, in October of 1932 and purchased the White Birch Farm from the Ide family. Retiring in 1980, he was extremely proud of his farm. The source of even greater joy was their five children, their families, and his wonderful, large extended family. He was a communicant of St. John the Evangelist Church, a fourth degree Knight of Columbus at Sheridan Chapter 421, and a member of St. Johnsbury BPOE 1343. Tony took up the game of golf later in life and enjoyed playing at the St. Johnsbury Country Club. He is survived by five children, Irene Fauteux and husband Aldei of Manchester, N.H., Irena Boudreau of Richford, Vt., Claire Hevey and husband Roger of Ocala, Fla., Ernie Begin and wife Vivi of Waterford, Annette Keach and husband Mike of Waterford; 16 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two sisters, Ursule Hevey of Tallahassee, Fla., and Theresa Prescott and husband Dick of Wolcott, Conn.; a brother, Paul Begin of Nashua, N.H.; a step-sister-in-law, Simone Doyon of Northfield Falls, Vt.; and many, many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by five brothers, Onesime, Joseph, Edward, Louis-Phillipe and Pierre Begin; five sisters, Marie Faucher, Josephine Rodrigue, Marie-Jane Gingue, Bernadette Goulet, and Anna Caron; five step-brothers, Davila, Raoul, Camille, Omer and Lionel Doyon; two step-sisters, Leda Begin and Adrienne Veilleux; three sons-in-law, Ronald Boudreau, Gerard Plourde and Ed Heath; a brother-in-law, Eugene Hevey; and a sister-in-law, Theresa Begin. A funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Johnsbury, Saturday, Feb. 9, at 11 a.m., at St. John the Evangelist Church, with the Rev. Justin Baker, celebrant. Fourth degree honors will be bestowed outside the church prior to and after the Mass. Burial will be in May at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held at the funeral home Friday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. Visiting hours will be concluded with an evening prayer service to which members of the Knights of Columbus are encouraged to attend. Those wishing to send a memorial contribution are asked to consider the Good Shepherd School, P.O. Box 384, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 74, of East Charleston, Vt., died Sunday, Feb. 3, 2002, at the Portsmouth Regional Hospital in Portsmouth, N.H. He was born Oct. 6, 1927, in Corinth, a son of Joseph and Florence (Parker) Donahue. He was married to Norma Waring, Dec. 31, 1996, in Lyndon. He attended school in Corinth and Montpelier and was enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps at age 16 until they discovered his age. He later enlisted with the U.S. Navy and served with the Sea-Bee's in the Pacific Theatre from 1944 until 1946. After the war he used his G.I. Bill benefits to learn to fly and obtained his pilot's license. He worked at St. Johnsbury Trucking in Barre for 13 years. He then worked for several trucking companies including Ned Pettingill, DeCato Brothers, Rousse Trucking and operated his own truck for a time before going to work for Evans Motor Fuels in 1974 where he worked until retiring in 1993. After retiring he continued to work part-time for Evans. Mr. McGranaghan enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing and watching the birds at his home birdfeeders. He also enjoyed refinishing furniture and was a beginner painter, having recently completed a Bob Ross painting course. He was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2571 and the Sea-Bee's Island X-1 White River, and was a past member of the American Legion Post 26, all in White River Junction. He was predeceased by a son, Joseph McGranaghan; and two brothers, Douglas Joseph and Clifton Leslie McGranaghan. He is survived by his wife of East Charleston; two sons, Steve of Montpelier and Dana of Enfield, N.H.; two daughters, Lori Dunn of Quechee and Lisa Potwin of Woodstock; two stepdaughters, Meredith Gebhardt of Lyndonville and Terry Bolduc of West Canaan, N.H.; three stepsons, Erik Waring of Kirby, Jason Waring of Sheffield, and John Dauphinais of Florida; 16 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; a sister, Nona Flanders of White River Junction; a brother, Lee McGranaghan of East Bethany, N.Y.; and several nieces and nephews. Friends may call at Knight Funeral Home in White River Junction, Saturday, Feb. 9, from 1 to 3 p.m. A funeral service will follow at 3 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be at a later date in the Cutter Cemetery in Montpelier. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 485, Williston, VT 05495.

, 87, of Porter Lane, Barton, passed away in Newport, Monday, Feb. 4, 2002. She was born in Mansfield, Mass., June 21, 1914, the daughter of Robert and Nellie (Heatu) Jackson. Gertrude was a 1933 graduate of Forsythe Dental School in Boston, Mass. She worked in Framingham, Mass., as a hygienist until 1952 when she moved to Barton with her husband. Gertrude was a member of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Newport, the Vermont State Hygienist Society, the American Legion Auxiliary Barton Post 76, and the Community Circle. On Aug. 13, 1940, Gertrude married Cortland A. Ruggles, who predeceased her in 1984. She is survived by her sons, William Ruggles, and John C. Ruggles and wife Dorothy, all of Barton; grandchildren, Shannon Vinton and husband Jacob of Milford, Mass., Jonathan Ruggles and wife Wendy of Colchester, Lyndsay Ruggles of Barton and Laura Ruggles of Barton; and great-grandchildren Nicholas Tristan Vinton, Adam Jonathan Vinton and Delaney Katherine Ruggles. She will be missed by her loving friends, Lillian Conley and Betsy Curtis. She was predeceased by her brother, Robert Jackson, and her sister, Edyth Cole. Friends may call at the Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Barton, Wednesday, Feb. 6, from 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral services will be held Thursday, Feb. 7, at 2 p.m., at the Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Barton, with the Rev. Michael Caldwell officiating. Interment will take place Friday, Feb. 8, at the Rural Cemetery in Southborough, Mass. Should friends desire, contributions in Gertrude's memory may be made to the Orleans-Essex VNA & Hospice Inc., 46 Lakemont Road, Newport, VT 05855, or to ALS Research, Dept. of Neurology, Given C 219, Burlington, VT 05401, in care of Dr. Tandon.

, died Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2002, at Wake Robin in Shelburne, Vt., after a very long, productive and happy life. He was born in West Newton, Mass., Sept. 18, 1900. Although Vermont residents, his parents, Frances Coleman Holden and Arthur John Holden Sr., were living in Massachusetts for a short period at that time for business reasons. John graduated from Westminster School and Harvard College. He started college aiming at a career in engineering, but after a summer pushing wheelbarrows of dirt at a construction site he decided he didn't want to spend his life tearing apart the earth, and soon chose education as his career. His first two teaching posts were at the Manual Training High School in Louisville, Ky., and Roxbury Latin School in Massachusetts. A job with the Vermont Commission on Country Life brought John back to Vermont, and led to teaching jobs at Maple Corner in Calais, and then at East Montpelier's Morse School. In 1933, during his years at the Morse School, John married Polly Bullard of Elmira, N.Y. They bought a house in East Montpelier which has remained the center of their family life ever since. The strong roots they put down in Washington County continue to enrich the life of the family. After work on a doctorate in education at Columbia University Teachers' College, John became the superintendent of schools in Danville. His territory included numerous rural one-room schools. Winter visits were on some roads which had been plowed, and others on which the snow had been compacted by horses dragging a door-like plate of boards over it. A big shovel and a substantial jack were part of John's standard equipment. After six years in Danville, John taught at Middlebury College and then did community outreach for Geneseo State College (now SUNY Geneseo) in Geneseo, N.Y. In 1949 he became commissioner of education for the state of Vermont, a job he held until his retirement in 1965. During this time he served a term as chairman of the national organization of Chief State School Officers. In 1958, while in this position, he was a member of a group of educators who were the American half of the first cultural exchange between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Not ready to take it easy after retirement, John, with Polly, went to Newton, Mass., to work for the Education Development Center. This was an organization dedicated to helping public schools improve the quality of the education they provide. Then, on an interim basis, in 1970-71, John served as president of Lyndon State College in Lyndonville. Moving back to East Montpelier, John had the time to pursue research in environmental issues, long an interest of his. For several years he gave a course titled "Man and the Environment in Vermont History" at Johnson State College. It focused on the work of George Perkins Marsh, a Vermonter who was one of the earliest American environmentalists. John was the first chairman of Vermont's District Five Environmental Commission, and also served on the board of the Vermont Natural Resources Council. He actively supported a number of national organizations that work on environmental issues. A community leader, John was a dedicated church-goer, hiker, skier, actor, singer, wood-splitter and formidable Scrabble opponent with a strong love of ice cream. At age 75 John took up a new career in the theater. He played lead roles in many productions of the Plainfield Little Theater and the Unadilla Theater. He thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity this gave him to make many friendships in the younger generations. John also sang in the Barre Choraleers and the choir of the Adamant Methodist Church. John loved the outdoors. In warm weather he hiked, and in the winter he skied. He was one of Vermont's very early skiers, using the slopes of Mt. Anthony in Bennington when he was a boy, and the Toll Road on Mt. Mansfield later. With no lifts, a day's skiing on Mt. Mansfield consisted of spending the morning walking up to the summit and then, after lunch, skiing down. He enjoyed hiking in Europe as a young man; at one point he climbed the Matterhorn two days in a row. John spent his 80th birthday on a 10-day hiking trip in the Alps. John was predeceased by his sisters, Persis Sibley Holden and Frances Holden Lamb, and his brothers, Waldo Coleman Holden and Richard Stedman Holden. John leaves his wife, Polly; his four children and three children-in-law, Sarah "Sally" and John Thompson of Milton, Ontario, Canada, Coleman "Spike" Holden and Janet MacLeod of East Montpelier, Bonnie and Walter Carter of Newton Center, Mass., and Martha Holden of East Montpelier; four grandchildren and a grandchild-in-law, Norman Carter, Loring Holden, Catherine Carter, and Jessica Holden Sherwood and Jesse Sherwood. He is also remembered with great affection by his sister-in-law, Mrs. Richard (Mathew) Holden; 12 nieces and nephews, their spouses and children. The family is very appreciative of the support provided to John by the staff on the Skilled Nursing Unit at Wake Robin, and the special help given to him by Bill Nedde, Barbara Jordan, Kristen Borquist and Liz Fukushima. All these people created a friendly and caring atmosphere for John's last years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Vermont Natural Resources Council, 9 Bailey Ave., Montpelier, VT 05602. A funeral service will take place Saturday, Feb. 9, at 3 p.m., at the Adamant Methodist Church in Adamant, Vt. Following the ceremony, a reception will be held at the Capital Plaza (formerly the Montpelier Tavern) in Montpelier. Friends who cannot attend the funeral are cordially invited to come to the reception.

78, died Saturday, Feb. 9, 2002, at his home in Woodstock, Vt. He was born Aug. 2, 1923, in Woodstock, the son of Elmer Bumps and Mildred (Hathorn) Bumps. Mr. Bumps was educated in the Woodstock schools. He married Mary Lewis, Feb. 4, 1943; Mrs. Bumps died Sept. 2, 1986. Mr. Bumps farmed in Woodstock and Pomfret. He also spent time logging in the area. Bumpy was best known as a longtime school bus driver for the Woodstock schools. His major interest was owning pulling ponies. He was a member of the Mid State Draft Pony Association, the Northeast Kingdom Draft Pony Association, and the New England Draft Pony Association. He is survived by two sons, Harvey N. Bumps of Woodstock, Harry S. Bumps of Woodstock; four grandchildren, Jennifer Bumps of Rutland, Rebecca Bailey of Littleton, Mass., Lindsay Bumps of Woodstock, and Ethan Bumps of Woodstock; a great-grandson, George Bailey of Littleton, Mass.; a sister, Nancy Gannon of Derby Line; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a sister, Elizabeth Foster; and two brothers, Raymond and Roger Bumps. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Feb. 13, at 1 p.m., at the Silver Lake Chapel in Barnard, Vt. Burial will be in the Riverside Cemetery in Woodstock at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours. Friends who wish may make donations to a local animal shelter or to a charity of their choice.

, 94, longtime resident of West Cottage Street in St. Johnsbury, died Sunday morning, Feb. 10, 2002, at the Canterbury Inn, where she had resided for the past three years. She was born in St. Johnsbury, April 27, 1907, one of six daughters born to Charles and Nancy (McCaig) Wheaton. She graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy in 1925. Her husband, Louis N. Smythe, predeceased her Oct. 14, 1986. Up until her health failed, Ruby was an active member at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church and served on the altar guild. Both she and her husband fulfilled many essential duties by working on anything and everything that needed doing in the church. She was a longtime bookkeeper for the St. Johnsbury Gas Company. She is survived by two sisters, Charlotte Wheaton of Laguna Woods, Calif., and Helen Desrochers of St. Johnsbury; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by three sisters, Marion Miller in 1975, Doris Moore in 1979, and Martha Gallagher in 1997. Funeral services will be announced in late May or early June and will be held at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in St. Johnsbury. Burial will follow at Passumpsic Cemetery. There will be no visiting hours. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Canterbury Inn, 46 Cherry St., St. Johnsbury, VT 05819, where she received such special care.

, 49, of Route 3, North Stratford, died peacefully, Saturday, Feb. 9, 2002, at her residence, surrounded by her family. Born October 6, 1952, in West Stewartstown, N.H., a daughter of Francis G. and Mary L. (Washburn) Chapple, she was a lifelong resident of the Columbia-North Stratford area. She was a graduate of Stratford High School, Class of 1971. She was employed by Wausau Papers, Groveton, where she had worked for the past 19 years as a machine operator and spare foreman. Sue was a member of the Stratford Nighthawks snowmobile club. She loved her flowers, bowling, snowmobiling, spending time with her family and friends, and was a great cook. She is survived by her mother, Mary L. Chapple of Columbia; her husband of eight years, Curt J. Jewell of North Stratford; one son, Vincent (Terry) Frizzell of North Stratford; one daughter, Valerie (Shayne) Carr of Lancaster; two stepsons, Jarred Jewell and Chad Jewell, both of Groveton; five grandchildren; two sisters, Nancy Chapple and Mary Simpson, both of Columbia; four brothers, Walter Chapple and George Chapple, both of Columbia, James Chapple of North Stratford and Conrad Chapple of Columbia; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her father, Francis G. Chapple. Calling hours will be held today from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. in the Main-Armstrong Funeral Home, 59 State St., Groveton. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, Feb. 12, at the First Baptist Church, Main Street, North Stratford, with the Rev. Lawrence Clough, pastor, officiating. Spring burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery, North Stratford. Memorial contributions may be made in Sue's name to Weeks Home Health, in care of Marlene May, 278 Main St., Lancaster, NH 03584.

, 96, of Lyndonville, died Sunday, Feb. 10, 2002, at the Pines Rehabilitation and Health Center in Lyndonville. Nancy was born Jan. 19, 1906, in London, England, the eldest daughter of Thomas George Murray and Annie (Hollis) Murray. She emigrated with her parents and siblings to Albert Mines, Quebec, in 1909. She married Herman Dewing of Huntingville, Quebec, in 1924. He was stricken with Parkinson's Disease in 1927. Nancy faithfully cared for Herman in their home for many years. Mr. Dewing passed away in 1958. Following her husband's death, Nancy moved to New York City, N.Y., and was employed by Dr. and Mrs. Herbert Wilcox as family housekeeper. Mrs. Dewing was also active in the church choir at Christ Church in Riverdale, N.Y. Upon her retirement in 1981, Nancy moved to the home of Hollis William and Marion Murray in Johnson, Vt. She moved to Woodside House in Danville in 1993 and lived there for seven years. As Nancy became more frail, she moved to the Pines Rehabilitation and Health Center in October 2000. Survivors include a sister-in-law, Marion F. Murray of St. Johnsbury; a special niece, Barbara Murray Stowell and husband John of St. Johnsbury; a special grand-nephew, Kenneth J. Stowell Jr. and wife Mary of Johnston, R.I.; a special grand-nephew, Michael D. Stowell and wife Christina of Hardwick; several nieces and nephews in Canada; and several grand-nieces, grand-nephews, great-grand-nieces and great-grand-nephews in the U.S. and Canada. Nancy was predeceased by her parents; her husband; an infant son; sisters Louise Tobin, Emily Merrill and Frances Pearl Guay; and brothers Thomas Murray and Hollis William Murray. There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held Thursday, Feb. 14, at 1 p.m., at the Sayles Funeral Home, 525 Summer St., St. Johnsbury, with the Rev. Buddy Pipes officiating. Burial will take place at a later date at the Malvern Cemetery in Lennoxville, Quebec. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Association, 338 River St., Montpelier, VT 05602; or to the National Parkinson Foundation, 1501 NW 9th Ave., Miami, FL 33136.

, 79, of Brownington, passed away in Newport, Friday, Feb. 8, 2002. He was born in Amsterdam, N.Y., Jan. 25, 1923, the son of Frank and Rachael (Gianuzzi) DeGennaro. Louis served in the Merchant Marines in the mid-1940s. He taught mathematics in Great Neck, N.Y., for many years, retiring in 1978. He then taught at Lake Region Union High School for two years. After retiring he and his wife ran Aftermath Antiques and displayed in group shops in Vermont and New Hampshire. He was always interested in politics and held several positions in Brownington, as well as serving as the chairman of the democratic party in Orleans County for one year. He and his wife enjoyed going to auctions and shopping for antiques when they traveled. Louis married the former Ruth Frank in 1952; she survives him. He is also survived by his daughter, Amy Haskell and husband Peter of Milton; his son, Roger DeGennaro of New York City, N.Y.; his sister, Adeline Budihas and husband Theodore of Washington; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, James DeFeo. Friends may call at the Converse-Rushford Funeral Home in Newport, Monday, Feb. 11, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. A time of remembrance of Louis' life will be held Monday evening at 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Services will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family. Should friends desire, contributions in Louis' memory may be made to the American Heart Association, Vermont Affiliate Inc., P.O. Box 485, Williston, VT 05495.

, 79, of 25 Lewis Lane, Littleton, passed away Saturday, Feb. 9, 2002, at the Littleton Regional Hospital after a short illness. She was a native of Albany, N.Y., born Sept. 19, 1922, a daughter of Maurice and Ethel (Locke) Santy. Maude moved to the North Country as a young girl and graduated from Littleton High School. Maude was the widow of the late John J. Finn, who passed away in August 1996. They had been married for over 50 years. She was an active homemaker who enjoyed her home life, and the family cottage on Maidstone Lake in Vermont. She took great pride in her two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Surviving family members include her daughter, Patricia Clark and husband Brigham; granddaughter, Terri Fillion and husband Stan and their children, Samantha, Heather, Rachel and Kevin; grandson, Christopher Clark; a sister, Pauline Perkins; nieces and nephews; and two sisters-in-law, Elizabeth Santy and Dorothy Cushing. In addition to her husband, two brothers, Roger and Robert Santy, predeceased her. Visitation will be held at the Pillsbury Funeral Home, Wednesday, Feb. 13, from 1 to 2 p.m., with funeral services at 2 p.m. The Rev. Thomas Golden will officiate. Interment and committal rites will follow in the Glenwood Cemetery of Littleton. Those desiring may make donations in lieu of flowers to the Littleton Area Hospice, Mt. Eustis Road, Littleton, NH 03561.

, 50, of West Lebanon, N.H., died Wednesday morning, Feb. 13, 2002, at her home following a long illness. She was born in Newport, Vt., June 4, 1951, a daughter of Alansford J. and Alene Marie (Roy) Judd Jr. She attended schools in St. Johnsbury and was a graduate of St. Johnsbury Academy. She enjoyed skiing, was a ski patroller and a state award-winning track star. In 1972 she graduated from Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital School of Nursing and became a nurse, practicing at Symmes Hospital in Arlington, Mass., Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury, and was an operating room nurse at Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital since 1978. She loved gardening, the Antique Flea Market, biking and camping, and her two puppies, "Molly" and "Maggie." Her favorite place was her camp on Lake Seymour in Morgan, Vt. Survivors include her husband, Michael D. Logren of West Lebanon, whom she married Dec. 8, 1979; her father, Alansford J. Judd Jr. of St. Johnsbury Center; two daughters, Jennifer J. Logren and Kathleen "Kate" Logren, both of West Lebanon; two sisters, Patricia Russell and husband David of St. Johnsbury, and Cathy Judd-Stein and husband Jeffrey of Winchester, Mass.; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. A memorial service will be held Sunday afternoon, Feb. 17, at 2 p.m., in the Ricker Funeral Home, 56 School St., Lebanon. The Rev. Joseph Scearbo will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of the Upper Valley, 325 Mount Support Road, Lebanon, NH 03766, or to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 2680, North Canton, OH 44720.

, 85, of Guildhall, died Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2002, at Weeks Medical Center in Lancaster. Mr. McAllister was born in North Troy, Nov. 7, 1916, the son of Cleon and Irene (Morgan) McAllister. Mr. McAllister attended school in Derby and was a graduate of Groveton High School. During World War II he served in the European Theater with the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marines. He was a former employee of James River Corp. (Groveton Paper). He had a love for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, sledding, snowshoeing, swimming and taking long drives around the countryside. Family members include a son, Douglas McAllister of St. Johnsbury; a daughter, Phyllis Hackett of St. Johnsbury; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Julia Arlene (Arsenault) McAllister; two brothers, Albert McAllister Sr. and Douglas McAllister; and a sister, Marion Dorr. Visiting hours will be held Sunday afternoon and evening, Feb. 17, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Bailey Funeral Home in Lancaster. A funeral service will be held Monday morning at 10 a.m. at the Guildhall Community Church. The Rev. Gerry Piper of Gilman will officiate. Burial with military honors will be held in the spring at the Ridgwell Cemetery, Guildhall.

, 84, of the Bethlehem Road, Littleton, the loving wife of George E. McAvoy, died Tuesday, Feb. 12, at Morrison's Nursing Home in Whitefield. Rita was born June 9, 1917, in Lewiston, Maine, a daughter of Gideon and Marie (Lambert) Cloutier. She grew up in and attended schools in the Lewiston area, graduated from Lewiston High School. She married George E. McAvoy July 5, 1948 in Kittery, Maine. She was well known in Littleton for her volunteer activities. She received a commemorative medallion for her service as a member of the National Defense Executive Reserve. McAvoy served as a commissioner of the Assay Commission of the United States Mint, appointed by President Richard Nixon, and as a member of the Natural Resources Award Committee of the Department of Defense, appointed by President Nixon and reappointed by President Gerald Ford. Locally she served 10 years as a trustee of the Littleton Hospital, had been president of the Women's Auxiliary of the Littleton Hospital, and was the first female director of a bank in the North Country, serving for 10 years with the Peoples Bank of Littleton. She served eight years as a representative of the General Court from Littleton. She was appointed by Gov. Meldrim Thomson to serve on the New Hampshire Probation Commission. She was honored as Woman of the Year by the Littleton Colonial Club in 1972 and tribute was paid to her for her accomplishments by the Republican Women's Club in 1974. Her volunteer efforts included being president of most of the local and state women's clubs. Family members include her husband of 54 years, George E. McAvoy; a son, Richard N. Dixon of Lake Placid, N.Y.; a daughter, Suzanne M. Hopgood and husband Frank Lord of Hartford, Conn.; four grandchildren, Linda Labarge, David and William Dixon and Cheryl McAfee; three great-grandchildren, Lindsay Labarge, and Katie and Ryan McAfee; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by four brothers and four sisters. The family will receive friends and relatives at the Pillsbury Funeral Home, 101 Union St., Littleton, this evening, Thursday, Feb. 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be held Friday, Feb. 15, at 11 a.m., in the Littleton Baptist Church, with the Rev. Timothy Cronan, pastor, officiating. Interment and committal rites will follow in the Glenwood Cemetery of Littleton. Donations in her memory are encouraged to be directed to either the Littleton Garden Club, in care of Trish Hey, 10 Dalton Road, Dalton, NH 03598, or the VFW Veteran's Memorial Bridge Project, in care of VFW Post 816, Littleton, NH 03561.

, 80, a long-time resident of Lancaster, died Thursday morning, Feb. 14, 2002, at Weeks Medical Center, Lancaster, from complications of a stroke. Mrs. Dorr was born in Quincy, Mass., July 6, 1921, the daughter of Leo and Josephine (Mascari) Purpora. She was a graduate of North Quincy High School and attended business school in Boston, Mass. She moved to Lancaster in 1946 where her husband, Eddie, owned Hicks Restaurant in downtown Lancaster. In 1958 the Dorr family established the Four Dorrs dairy bar on Route 2 in Lancaster. The business prospered and grew to include a successful restaurant, lounge and motel. Eleanor's presence in the dining room made all guests feel welcome and regular patrons were greeted by name with a friendly chat. She was a Communicant of All Saints Church. Mrs. Dorr was also a volunteer at Weeks Medical Center, a member of the Tabernacle Society and the Daughters of Isabella. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Edward "Eddie" T. Dorr, of Lancaster; two sons, Edward "Ted" T. Dorr Jr. and partner Karin of Lancaster, and Robert R. Dorr and wife Gail of Anchorage, Alaska; 10 grandchildren, Brett, Tyler, Keith, Eddie, Josh, Jake, Elizabeth, Stephanie, Robert Maxwell and Kate; four great-grandchildren, Krasila, Brandun, Zachary, and Annabelle; and several nieces and nephews. Visiting hours will be held Saturday, Feb. 16, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Bailey Funeral Home, Lancaster. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Monday afternoon, Feb. 18, at 1 p.m., at All Saints Church, Lancaster. Burial will be in the spring at Hillside Cemetery, Jefferson. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made in her memory to Volunteer Services, Weeks Medical Center, 173 Middle Street, Lancaster, NH 03584.

, 87, of Gilman, died at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury, Thursday afternoon, Feb. 14, 2002. He was born in East Concord, April 17, 1914, the son of Harry and Susie (Briggs) Fisher. He was predeceased by his wife, Pauline (John) Fisher, after 54 years of marriage. In the 1950s, Carl worked in St. Johnsbury for Gage Auto Sales and followed the company as it moved to St. Albans, where he worked until retirement. He later worked at B & B Auto Salvage in Georgia. He moved back to the East Concord/Gilman area in 1988. He was a member of the Eagles Lodge in Littleton and the Moose Lodge in St. Johnsbury. He is survived by his lady friend and constant companion, Emma Lefrancois of Gilman; one son, Alton Fisher and wife Jenny of Newport, N.H.; one daughter, Marilyn Fairbanks and husband Robert of St. Albans Bay; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two sisters, Margurite Scales and husband Elwell of Gilman, and Eula Ranney of Kirby; and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a son, Wayne, in 1966; a sister, Verl Colby in 1996; a brother, Renford "Pop" Fisher in 1999; and a half-brother, Ralph Briggs. Funeral services will be held Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Gilman United Methodist Church with the pastor, the Rev. Gerry Piper, officiating. Visiting hours will precede the funeral at the church, from 1:30 p.m. to the start of the service. Burial will be at a later date at St. Albans Bay Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to either the East Concord United Methodist Church, in care of Gerry Piper, P.O. Box 115, Gilman, VT 05904, or to the Gilman Senior Center, in care of Cheri Mire, P.O. Box 38, Gilman, VT 05904.

, 95, of Walden, died peacefully Friday, Feb. 15, 2002, at her residence. She was born April 18, 1906, in Newport, the daughter of Erwin E. and Rose (Phillips) Batchelder. She attended Charleston public schools. On March 16, 1929, she married Ray Leon Carr in Orleans. She was a domestic in the Lyndonville area for several years. Later she was employed by the Batten Potato Co., working on the produce line. Iva was a member of the South Walden Methodist Church. She enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting and plastic canvas work. Survivors include two sons, Rodney Carr of Lumberport, W.Va., and Erwin Carr of Walden; two daughters, Mrs. Ida Stone of Sheffield, and Mrs. Grace Tyler of Bernardston, Mass.; 22 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her husband Ray in 1983; a son Leon Carr in 1975; and a daughter Lenna Walbridge in 1983. There will be no visiting hours. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 19, at 1 p.m., at the Northern Vermont Funeral Home, 60 Elm St., Hardwick. Spring burial will be in the family lot in the Fairview Cemetery in Hardwick. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the Walden Fast Squad, in care of Randy Hannett, 237 Upper Harrington Hill, West Danville, VT 05873.

, 68, of South Albany, died at his home, Friday, Feb. 15, 2002, following a year-long battle with cancer. He was born on the family farm in South Albany, June 25, 1933, the son of Harry and Helen (Urie) Rowell. He attended grade school in South Albany, graduated from Craftsbury Academy in 1952, received a bachelor of science degree from the University of Vermont in 1956, and his master's degree in agriculture from Cornell University in 1959. On Aug. 24, 1959, he married Ruth Gaboriault of Glover. They bought the family farm, where they lived for the past 42 years. In 1965, Hollis went into partnership with his brother, Marvin (who married Georgette Gaboriault, sister of Ruth), and they farmed together for 35 years, raising both sets of children almost as one family. While farming with brother Marvin, he also worked as a business manager at Cutler Academy in Craftsbury, then business manager for the Orleans Central Supervisory Union. In 1970 he and Marvin joined brothers Morris and Wilbur in Rowell Brothers Farm Equipment dealership where he worked until the last two months of his illness. He served the town of Albany as a justice of the peace, as a selectman, and on the school board. He was an active member of the United Presbyterian Church in East Craftsbury throughout his life. He first became an elder in 1970, and held other offices and duties. He sang in the choir for most of his 68 years. Hollis was predeceased by his first son, Steven, in 1964, at age 31/2 of meningitis. He leaves his wife, Ruth, of South Albany; two sons, Thomas Rowell and Keith Rowell, both of South Albany; a daughter, Pamela Farrell and her husband Thomas of Holliston, Mass.; four brothers, George and his wife Alta of Saxtons River, Vt., Marvin and his wife Georgette of South Albany, Morris and his wife Mary Anthony of East Craftsbury, and Wilbur of Craftsbury; three sisters, Louise Kinsey and husband Fred of South Albany, Eunice Kinsey and husband Robert of Craftsbury, and Harriett Grenier and husband Charles of Waterbury. He also leaves a soon-to-be-born grandchild and dozens of nieces, nephews and their families, all of whom deeply mourn his passing. A memorial service will be held Monday, Feb. 18, at 2 p.m., at the United Presbyterian Church in East Craftsbury, with the Rev. Jeff Kellam, officiating. Final interment will be in the East Craftsbury Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to East Craftsbury Presbyterian Church, 1097 Ketcham Hill Road, Craftsbury, VT 05826.

, 79, of Littleton, N.H., passed away Saturday, Feb. 16, 2002, at the Lafayette Center in Franconia on the 25th anniversary of her father's death. Millie was born in Landaff, Sept. 3, 1922, a daughter to Albert G. and Grace (Olcott) Santy. She lived in Lyman and then moved to Littleton from 1945-1962, when she moved to Salem, N.H., where she resided until 1982. Thereafter she returned to Littleton, but was a "Snow-Bird," wintering in Tucson, Ariz., for 20 years. She was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church of Littleton. She enjoyed ceramics, walking and bingo. Millie was predeceased by her husband of 44 years, Armand R. Pageau, who passed away in 1977. Surviving family includes two sons by her first marriage to Gerad Arthur Blodgett, Gerard Albert Blodgett and his wife Linda of San Antonio, Texas, and Everett Arthur Blodgett and his wife Virginia of Reading, Mass.; and a stepson, Roger W. Pageau and his wife Thelma of Northboro, Mass. She was a proud grandmother and great-grandmother. She leaves eight grandchildren, Shane, Hilary, Carrie Ann, Daniel, Kerstin and Mark Blodgett, and Amy and Gail Pageau; five great-grandchildren, Savannah and Maximillian Blodgett, Jacob, Michael and Noah Shugart. The family will receive friends Monday, Feb. 18, from 6:30-8 p.m., at the Pillsbury Funeral Home, 101 Union St., Littleton, N.H. Funeral services will be Tuesday, Feb. 19, at 11 a.m., at the Littleton First United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Joseph Beardsley officiating. Interment will be in the Glenwood Cemetery. The family suggests donations be made in Millie's memory to the Littleton First United Methodist Church, Littleton, N.H. 03561.

, 74, of 61 Morgan Circle in St. Johnsbury, died Saturday, Feb. 16, 2002, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center after complications following heart surgery. She was born in Franklin, N.H., Feb. 3, 1928, the daughter of Romeo and Marion (Cate) Gagne. She was raised in a Baptist home and graduated from Franklin High School in 1945. She received a bachelor of arts degree from the University of New Hampshire in 1949 and was a former librarian. Corinne was very active in the General Federation of Womens' Club of Vermont, serving as president of the Danville club, 1986-1988; Northeast District director, 1994-1996; Vermont GFWC president, 1996-1998; and president of the St. Johnsbury club, 1998-2000. She also volunteered her time as this area's Project Angel Tree coordinator. She is survived by her husband, Vincent Messina, originally from Watertown, Mass.; five children, Anne Thompson and husband Larry of Hampstead, N.H., Kenneth Thornton and wife Gail of Andover, Mass., Richard Thornton and wife Anita of Medfield, Mass., Bruce Thornton of Lexington, Mass., James Thornton and wife Nicole of St. Johnsbury; Vince's children, Marianne Messina of San Jose, Calif., Terese Patterson and husband Chuck of Framingham, Mass., Vincent Paul Messina and Jodee Messina, both of Nashville, Tenn.; 13 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; two brothers, Richard Gagne of Pepperell, Mass., and Kenneth Gagne of Boxford, Mass.; and nieces and nephews. Corinne was very active at St. Andrew's Church for a number of years, but as the thought of serious surgery faced her, she found herself returning to her Baptist roots. Visiting hours will be held at the Union Baptist Church, Route 5 south, St. Johnsbury, Tuesday, Feb. 19, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Feb. 20, at 2 p.m., at the Union Baptist Church. Burial will be in May at the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the Vermont Heart Association, P.O. Box 485, Williston, VT 05495.

, 91, formerly of Main Street, St. Johnsbury, died Sunday afternoon Feb. 17, 2002, at the Country Village Health Care Center, Lancaster, where she has been a resident since 1999. Cora was born in Lunenburg, Vt., Oct. 28, 1910, the daughter of Perley G. and Ruth Emily (Swett) Silsby. She attended schools in Lunenburg and after graduation went into training at Morrison Hospital, Whitefield, and became a nurse. She also attended Concord State for special psychiatric training and was employed at the Brattleboro Retreat for seven years. She then worked at the Burbank Hospital in Fitchburg, Mass., in Medical Surgical for 10 years. Returning to Brattleboro in 1950 she worked 37 additional years there until retiring due to health. In 1987 she took up residence in St. Johnsbury. Family members include a sister-in-law Karlene D. Silsby of Lunenburg; two nieces; one nephew; four great-nieces; and four great-nephews. She was predeceased by a brother Harry W. Silsby, and two sisters, Doris T. Silsby and Iva C. Powers. There are no calling hours. A graveside service will be held in the spring at Riverside Cemetery in South Lunenburg.

, 74, a longtime Lyndonville resident, passed away Sunday, Jan. 20, at the Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital in St. Johnsbury. George was born June 8, 1927, the son of George Gordon and Mildred Melvina (Heartz) Cameron. He was a machinist for many years at Vermont Tap & Die Company in Lyndonville. George served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He married Barbara Ann Cleary April 3, 1948. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His family was very special to him, and he especially enjoyed his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. George had a fondness for automobiles and was quite knowledgeable, especially as a mechanic. George is survived by his wife, Barbara A. Cameron of Lyndonville; five children, Paula J. Edmunds and husband Allyn of Lyndon Center, Richard G. Cameron and wife Jane of St. Johnsbury, Suzy A. North and husband Randy of Cabot, Judith M. Duford and husband Michael of West Jordan, Utah, and Brenda Lacroix and husband Louis of St. Johnsbury; 15 grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; a sister, Shirley Crane of Tulsa, Okla.; a brother, William E. Cameron and wife Sharon of Biddeford, Maine; a sister-in-law, Beverly Cleary Paris and husband Lanny of Lyndon Center; and numerous loving nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. A celebration of life will be held Friday, Feb. 1, at 1 p.m., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located on Route 5 in Lyndon. There will be no public calling hours. Burial will be this spring in the Lyndon Center Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to Lyndon Rescue Inc., P.O. Box 401, Lyndonville, VT 05851.

, 81, of Elm Street, Lancaster, died Feb. 18, 2002, at Weeks Medical Center in Lancaster. Dr. Quay was born Nov. 26, 1920, in Tanta, Egypt, the son of James K. and Ida (Eaton) Quay. He resided in Egypt until coming to the United States to attend Deerfield Academy, Princeton University and Cornell Medical School. Through medical school and for two years following he served in the Army Medical Corps. After various residency programs, including one at the Mary Hitchcock Hospital in Hanover, N.H., he settled in Lancaster with his family in 1959 as the staff surgeon at Weeks Memorial Hospital, a post he held from 1959 to 1985. Locally he served three terms on the White Mountains Regional School Board, performed with the Colonel Town Players, and sang with the North of the Notches Ecumenical Choir. His varied interests included skiing, hiking, hunting, fishing and traveling. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Charlotte (Dunn) Quay of Lancaster; four children and their families, Mr. and Mrs. James Quay of Amherst, N.H., Mrs. Cynthia Tashjian of Hopkinton, Mass., Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Quay of Lancaster, Dr. Anthony Quay and Dr. Cecelia deLaVallee of Santa Fe, N.M.; and 12 grandchildren. There are no visiting hours. A memorial service will be held Thursday afternoon, Feb. 21, at 2 p.m., at the Lancaster Congregational United Church of Christ. The Rev. David Pendleton, pastor, will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Dr. Robert M. Quay to the Weeks Medical Center Memorial Fund, 173 Middle Street, Lancaster, NH 03584.

, 94, of 680 Bayley Hazen Road, Peacham, died Feb. 14, 2002, at his residence. Harry Hunter Jamieson was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., the oldest of four children of Henry Docker Jamieson and Mary Blanche Hunter, both immigrants from Belfast, Ireland, at the turn of the century. Harry was raised in Sea Cliff, Long Island, N.Y., where he attended Sea Cliff School and later graduated from Marquand High School in Brooklyn, and Brown University in Rhode Island, Class of 1929. In Sea Cliff, Harry met Barbara Donaldson, whom he married Nov. 6, 1937, in St. Luke's Church in Sea Cliff. They celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary last fall in Peacham. Together they have two children, seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren on the way. They also have 12 nieces and nephews who are an important part of their loving family. Harry worked as an engineering draftsman for Republic Aviation Corporation during World War II and the Korean Conflict, and for Nassau County Public Works Department until his retirement in 1967, when he and his wife moved to Vermont, where they had often vacationed, hiked and camped. They have lived in their home in Peacham for the last 35 years. In Sea Cliff, Harry was very active in St. Luke's Church, where he taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, and was a vestryman. He worked as an air raid warden, was a village trustee and a Republican Committeeman. In Peacham, Harry sang in the choir and was a collector at the Peacham Congregational Church. He was active in the Peacham men's club, was a lister, on the water board, and volunteered to do taxes for seniors. A loving, devoted husband, father, grandfather, neighbor and citizen, Harry was quiet, a man of few words, unassuming, steady and reliable. He also had a dry and delightful sense of humor and a fun-loving and playful side. He liked music, dogs and the out-of-doors. He was often seen walking in Sea Cliff or on Vermont country roads. He enjoyed swimming at the Sea Cliff Pavilion and Harvey's Lake. He played a good game of bridge and chess and belonged to a Vermont cribbage club. He delighted in family gatherings and parties. He was in the movie "The Spitfire Grill," filmed in Peacham. Harry is survived by his wife, Barbara Jamieson; his sister, Jean Steward; his son, Dennis Jamieson; his daughter, Mary Barnes; his grandchildren, George Durand, Madeline Roberts, Douglas Jamieson, Dennis Jamieson Jr., Cecilia Jamieson, Nathan Barnes and Cora Barnes; as well as in-laws, great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces. He often said he considered the Emelianoff/Van Vorsts to be part of his extended family. Harry will be sorely missed by his loving family and friends and by the communities in which he played such an active, vital and responsible part. There will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Feb. 23, at 11 a.m., in the Peacham Congregational Church. The Rev. Rebecca Werner Maccini will officiate.

, 47, of Espous, N.Y., died Saturday, Feb. 2, 2002, at home. She was born in Lyndonville, Nov. 20, 1954, the daughter of Evelyn (Paquin) Wright and Duane Hartwell. She was predeceased by her companion of many years, Charles VanSteenburg, two years ago; and a sister, Cheryl Ann, on Dec. 11, 1957. Survivors include her parents, Duane and his wife Mary Hartwell of Salt Point, N.Y., and Evelyn and her husband Dan Wright of Sheffield; a brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Donna Hartwell of Lyndon; a sister and brother-in-law, Maryann and Glen Friend of Lyndonville; a sister, Christine Watkins of Grafton, W.Va.; a sister, Denise Lurvey of Mesa, Ariz.; a brother Mitch Hartwell of St. Albans; a brother and sister-in-law Lionel and Diana Hartwell of South Carolina; a brother, Jared Hartwell of Stanfordville, N.Y.; a sister and brother-in-law, Toni and Scott LaPoint of Sheffield; a step-sister, Bridgit Murphy of Milan, N.Y.; a step-brother, Jon Wright of Stanfordville, N.Y.; and aunts, uncle, and several nieces and nephews. Graveside services will take place in the spring. Interment will be in the Stanford Cemetery in Stanfordville, N.Y.

, 86, of Montpelier, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2002, at the Woodridge Nursing Home in Berlin, Vt. She was born April 27, 1915, in Wheelock, the daughter of the late Clayton and Vera (Ball) Smith. During her lifetime she worked as a pastry chef at the Montpelier Tavern and as a custodian at Vermont College. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting. She was predeceased by her husband, Percy Davis, and a grandson, Wayne Huntington. She is survived by her children, Alice Nelson of East Haven, James Davis of Montpelier, Elizabeth and husband David Haywood of Plainfield, Charlotte Davis and companion Donald Tucker of Burlington, Clayton "Butch" and wife Tammy Davis of Montpelier, Larry and wife Georgiann Davis of Portland, Ore., Raymond "Lee" and wife Bonnie Davis of East Barre; 17 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; a sister, Elsie Nutting of Lyndonville; two sisters-in-law, Bertha Chester of Lyndonville and Patricia Davis of Woodsville; and several nieces and nephews. Visiting hours will be held at Woods-Trefren & Pearsons Funeral Home in Lyndonville, Saturday afternoon from 2-4 p.m. Funeral services will be held at the Lyndonville United Methodist Church, Sunday, Feb. 24, at 1:30 p.m., with the Rev. Barbara Dwyer officiating. Burial will be in the Lyndon Center Cemetery later in the spring. Those who wish may send contributions in her memory to the Activities Fund, Woodridge Nursing Home, Box 550, Barre, VT 05641. She enjoyed these activities at the nursing home and they were very beneficial to her.

, 53, of Lyndon, died Thursday, Feb. 21, 2002, at North Country Hospital in Newport. She was born in Newport, Feb. 26, 1948, the daughter of Edward M. and Eleanor J. (Cilley) Quinn. Donna was raised in Island Pond and was a graduate of Brighton High School, Class of 1966. Donna worked as director of human resources for Northern Counties Health Care Inc. in St. Johnsbury for many years, retiring in 1995 due to health reasons. An avid reader, she also enjoyed going to the beach, gardening, playing cards, doing crafts and spending time with her family. Survivors include her husband, Kenneth E. Nutting of Lyndon; her son, Ryan R. Little of Lyndon and Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y.; two sisters, Kay Hopkins of West Burke, and Pat Little and her husband Stewart of Irasburg; her special niece, Cindy White; five special nephews, Dale Newland, Jason Little, Jordan and Jared White, and Jacob Little; her mother-in-law, Thelma Nutting of Lyndonville; three sisters-in-law, Linda and husband Ron Carlisle of Houston, Texas, Barbara and husband Ed Olcott of St. Johnsbury, and Rhonda Boivin of Lyndon; two brothers-in-law, Robert and wife Shirley Nutting of Lyndonville, and J. Irish McGill of Florida; and many other nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Feb. 23, at 11 a.m., at the Lyndonville First Congregational Church with the Rev. Donald Vincent officiating. Burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery in Island Pond in the spring. There will be no visiting hours. In lieu of flowers, donations made in Donna's memory may be directed to Caledonia Home Health Inc., in care of Marcia Eliot "For Hospice," P.O. Box 383, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 92, of Sutton, passed away at the Pines Rehabilitation and Health Center in Lyndonville, Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2002. She was born Nov. 1, 1909, the daughter of the late William and Lillie (Dexter) Grant. She was predeceased by her husband, Richard S. Webster, in 2001, and a son, Freeman Drew, in 1972. She worked as a seamstress at the former Nate's Clothing Store in St. Johnsbury for 20 years, and worked for the next 20 years in home health care. She retired in 1979, and after that played the piano at social functions at the Darling Inn and area nursing homes. She is survived by her daughters, Ernestine and husband Clyde Carter of East Haven, and Lillie Gunn of Chesterfield, Va.; 13 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Services will be held in late June. Burial will be in the Lyndon Center Cemetery. Those who wish may send contributions in her memory to either the Darling Inn Senior Meal Site, P.O. Box 81, Lyndonville, VT 05851; Caledonia Home Health Care Agency, P.O. Box 383, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819; or the Lyndon Rescue Inc., P.O. Box 401, Lyndonville, VT 05851.

, 85, of Milton, Vt., and Hartford, Conn., died Sunday, Feb. 24, 2002, at the Birchwood Terrace Health Care in Burlington. Leslie was born in Berlin, Conn., June 4, 1916, the son of Carlos and Margery (Sugenhime) Bailey. Mr. Bailey served in the U.S. Army in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He had worked as an employment counselor for the state of Connecticut. On March 30, 1946, he married Esther Penfield LeGeyt. Leslie is survived by his daughter, Genie Soboslai and husband John of Milton; his grandchildren, Beth Soboslai of Milton and Jason Soboslai of Missouri; two sisters, Joan O'Brien and husband Carol of Sutton, Quebec, Canada, and Mae Conley and husband Norman of Sutton, Vt.; a sister-in-law, Gladys Zimmerman of Glastonbury, Conn.; and many nieces and nephews. Leslie was predeceased by his wife Esther in February 1997; his parents; his step-father, Claude Bengston; and a brother, Robert Bengston. A funeral service will be held Thursday, Feb. 28, at 2 p.m., in the Minor Funeral Home in Milton. Burial will be in the Zion Hill Cemetery in Hartford, Conn., in the spring. Contributions in Leslie's memory may be made to the American Lung Association, Vermont Affiliate, 30 Farrell St., South Burlington, VT 05403-9987; or to the National Glaucoma Research, 15825 Shady Grove Road, Suite 140, Rockville, MD 20850.

, 86, of Forest Lake, Whitefield, N.H., and Sarasota, Fla., died Monday, Feb. 18, 2002, at Doctors Hospital in Sarasota, after a brief illness. He was born in Haverhill, N.H., June 4, 1915, the son of Frank and Corrine (Weston) Astle. Fred attended Whitefield public schools. He graduated from Lawrence Academy, Groton, Mass., and the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business. At the university, Fred was president of Phi Delta Theta Fraternity. After graduating from college in 1937, he returned to Whitefield to take over his father's business, which was then in the Odd Fellows Building. When the Stoughton Block burned he purchased the land and built the Astle Block, which housed a hardware store, furniture store, movie theater and funeral home. Fred was a prominent businessman in the Whitefield community until his retirement in 1975. Frederick was a lifelong member of the Community Baptist Church, holding many positions. He was a past member of the Masons; a longtime member of the Whitefield Chamber of Commerce, holding many offices; a devoted member of the Whitefield Historical Society; chairman of the board of the Whitefield Savings Bank and Trust; member of the board of Indian Head Bank North; and president of the Whitefield Industrial Development Corporation. As president of the Industrial Development Corp. he was instrumental in bringing Manchester Knitted Fashions to Whitefield, and in erecting the first speculative industrial building in the state, now owned by Brown Street Furniture. He was predeceased by his first wife, Helena (Kier) Astle, in 1987, and his second wife, Marcella (Finley) Astle, in 2001. The family includes his son, Alan Astle of Whitefield; his daughter, Carlee Noecker of Concord, Mass. and Sarasota, Fla.; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held in June, with a notice to appear at a later date regarding date and time. Burial will be private in the Grove Hill Cemetery in Lisbon, N.H.

, 96, of Gilman, died Monday, Feb. 25, 2002, at Canterbury Inn in St. Johnsbury. She was born in Leeds, Quebec, Canada, Dec. 24, 1905, the daughter of Robert and Harriet (Wilkens) McElravy. Mrs. Simons was a member of the Gilman United Methodist Church. She had several jobs in the area; most of her time was spent raising the family and helping run the family farm. Survivors include four sons, Robert and wife Pauline Simons of Westmoreland, N.H., Hubert and wife Marjorie of Milford, N.H., Albert Simons of Manchester, N.H., and Earl and wife Brenda Simons of Brownington; two daughters, Lorraine Thomas of St. Johnsbury, and Janet McLane of Millerton, N.Y.; one brother, Kenneth and wife Yvette McElravy of Grandby, Quebec, Canada; one sister, Doris Wright of Kingston, Ontario, Canada; 17 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, James W. Simons, Dec. 28, 1985; a son, Osborne, and a daughter, Muriel. Funeral services will be held at the Gilman United Methodist Church, Friday at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Gerry Piper officiating. Spring burial will be in Welcome O. Brown Cemetery in Barton. Friends are invited to meet the family at Sayles Funeral Home, Thursday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Contributions in her memory may be made to either the Gilman United Methodist Church, in care of the Rev. Gerry Piper, P.O. Box 115, Gilman, VT 05904; or the Canterbury Inn, 46 Cherry St., St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 68, of Lyndon, died Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2002 at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehabilitation Center. Charles was born April 14, 1933, the son of Charles C. and Edith (Sefton) Willey. He worked many years in the cedar fence business and most recently enjoyed his work at Lyndon Woodworking. He enjoyed all local sporting events, gardening and especially his grandchildren. Charles is survived by four children, Karen Colby and husband Rodney of Lyndon Center, Charles C. Willey III of Winter Garden, Fla., Pamela Allen and husband Bruce of East Barnet, and Brian Willey and wife Stacey of Lyndonville; seven grandchildren, Nathan Colby, Jacob Colby, Jessica Allen, Melissa Davio, Heather Davio, Gabrielle Willey and Cordell Willey; two sisters, Alice Taylor and husband Waldo of Lyndonville, and Clara Johnson and husband Richard of Sutton; a cousin, Arlene Jenkins of Barton; and nieces and nephews. He was recently preceded in death by a cousin, Rena Jenkins. The family will greet friends during calling hours Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Guibord Funeral Home, located on the corner of Main and Center streets in Lyndonville. Interment will be in May at the Lyndon Center Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to either the Lyndonville Youth Baseball/Softball, P.O. Box 1146, Lyndonville, VT 05851, or to the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehabilitation Center, Activities Fund, 1248 Hospital Drive, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 63, of Vergennes, Vt., died in Sun City, Ariz., Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2002. He was born in St. Johnsbury, Aug. 9, 1938, the son of Roberta (Petrie) and Kenneth Perkins of Danville. He received his education in the Danville schools, graduating as salutatorian of the class of 1956. With scholarships and hard work he graduated from the University of Vermont in 1961 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He served two years in the U.S. Army, stationed in Texarkana, Texas. In 1962 he married Harriet Johnston of St. Johnsbury. Returning to New England, he worked for a short time as quality control engineer for Universal in New Britain, Conn., and also for Ensign Bickford Co. in Simsbury, Conn. Longing for his native Vermont and because of his love of fishing and hunting, he took employment with Simmonds Precision in Vergennes, where he remained until taking early retirement at 55. Restless for something to do and with a great interest in the stock market, he went to work part time for Edward Jones in Middlebury until ill health forced him to give it up. He was an active member of the Lake Champlain Walleye Association, serving as president and treasurer at different intervals. Dwayne is survived by his wife Harriet; a daughter, Nancy Charron and husband Michael of Vergennes; a son, Brent Perkins of Addison, Vt.; two grandchildren, Kyle and Kayla Charron; a brother, Robert of Ferrisburgh; his mother Roberta of Danville; two brothers-in-law and their families, Allan Johnston of Alaska and Douglas Johnston of North Carolina; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. A memorial service will be held at a later date at the Vergennes Congregational Church with burial in the Danville Green Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Vergennes Congregational Church or a charity of one's choice.

, 70, of 122 Davenella Drive, East Ryegate, died Monday, Feb. 25, 2002, at Cottage Hospital in Woodsville. She was born July 7, 1931, in Lowell, Mass., the daughter of Arthur and Eglentine (Champagne) Gagnon. On July 4, 1949, she married Paul Lipp. Mrs. Lipp was a cafeteria assistant for the school lunch program in the Tewksbury, Mass. school system. Following retirement she and her husband moved to East Ryegate in 1987. She was a communicant of St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, Woodsville, a former member of the Sunshine Bowling League in Woodsville, and danced with the Connecticut Valley Square Dancers. Surviving relatives include her husband of 52 years, Paul Lipp of East Ryegate; a daughter, Ann Marie Lipp of Bradford; two sons, Paul A. Lipp of Malden, Mass., and Gary W. Lipp of East Ryegate; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Theresa Page of Tarpon Springs, Fla.; a brother, Roger Gagnon of Merrimack, N.H.; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Calling hours will be held Thursday, Feb. 28 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Ricker Funeral Home, Birch Street, Woodsville, N.H. A prayer service will be held at 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Friday, March 1 at 11 a.m. in the St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, 15 Pine St., Woodsville, N.H. Father Daniel Sinibaldi will officiate. Burial will be in the Blue Mountain Cemetery, Ryegate Corner, Vt., when the cemetery reopens in the spring.

81, of St. Johnsbury, died Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2002 at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital. He was born in Canaan, Vt., Feb. 8, 1921, the son of Edgar Edward and Mildred (Rowell) Bunnell Jr. Mr. Bunnell was well-known in the area for his logging and construction business, which he ran for 45 years. He served his country during World War II as a corporal in the U.S. Army; locally he was a life member of the VFW. On June 23, 1985, he married Juanita (McDade) Bunnell, who survives him in St. Johnsbury. Other survivors include two sons, David and wife Susan Bunnell and Sheldon Bunnell, all of St. Johnsbury; a daughter, Diane and husband Albert Achilles Jr. of Danville; two step-daughters, Kimberly Bartlett of East Haven and Cherylanne Bailey of St. Johnsbury; two brothers, Bill and wife Mona Bunnell of Monroe, N.H., and Sherwood "Sherdie" Bunnell of McIndoe Falls; a sister, June "Betty" Mitchell of Concord; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his first wife, Delia (Legendre) Bunnell, in 1975; and by several brothers and sisters. A gathering of friends will be held Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Sayles Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, May 4, at 1 p.m., with full military honors. Contributions in his memory may be sent to the American Cancer Society, Vermont Chapter, 11 Loomis St., Montpelier, VT 05602-3021.

72, died Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2002, at his home in Lyndon. He was born Dec. 21, 1929, in Sutton, the son of Archie R. and Lucille (Barker) Gray. He was a graduate of Lyndon Institute, Class of 1948. Fred worked as a machinist at Fairbanks Scales company in St. Johnsbury for 39 years, retiring in 1991. He loved horses and horse pulling and worked with teamster and close friend Bill Magill at horse pulling events throughout the Northeast for many years. He enjoyed spending many autumn nights raccoon hunting with his friends. He also enjoyed spending many Saturday nights dancing. Survivors include his wife, Clara (Washburn) Gray of Lyndon; his stepchildren, whom he thought of as his own, Don Gardner and wife Wanita of East Burke, Robert Gardner Jr. and wife Brigida of Lyndonville, and Julia Berry and husband Howard of Lyndon; two grandsons, Levi and Adam Gardner of Lyndonville; a brother, Dale Gray and wife Jeanette of Lyndon; three sisters, Norma Stevens of Alabama, Ruberta King of Lyndon, and Freda Bumps and husband Hector of Connecticut; a sister-in-law, Carol Washburn of Niagara Falls, N.Y.; a special friend, Joyce Lefaivre of Lyndon; and nieces, nephews, and all his many friends. He was predeceased by a granddaughter, Lori Garcia, in 1996; a brother, Wayne Gray; and his sister, Judy Damon. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 2, at 11 a.m., at the funeral home with the Rev. Donald Vincent officiating. Friends may call on the family one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Woodmont Cemetery in East Burke in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations made in Fred's memory may be directed to Caledonia Home Health Inc. marked for Hospice, P.O. Box 383, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.