passed away peacefully on Dec. 6, 2008, at his home in Lyndonville surrounded by his caring family. During his year-long, courageous battle with esophageal cancer he was given loving care by his three guardian angels, Vicki, Linda and Krystal and all the wonderful nurses and doctors of the Norris Cotton Cancer Center. He was 52. Chris was born in St. Johnsbury, Vt., on Sept. 17, 1956, the son of Frederick Lyle and Dorothy (Bailey) Allard. He grew up in Lyndonville and attended Lyndon Center Campus school and graduated from Lyndon Institute in 1974. At LI he participated in the work coop program and became interested in precision machining and became skilled in all areas of the field throughout his work life. Chris lived in the Lyndonville area most of his life except for a brief time when he lived and worked in Las Vegas, Nev. Chris was a hard worker, dedicating many hours to his employment. In recent years he worked at Vermont Aerospace and was a valued employee serving as a purchasing agent. Chris was an avid motorcycle and car enthusiast. He enjoyed riding with his friends throughout New England, across the country and to the races at Laconia. He also enjoyed fishing, music, and traveling. In the past couple of years with the help of his close friend and brother-in-law, Randy Stoddard, Chris was able to fulfill his dream of designing, building, and then moving into his own new home. Chris was predeceased by his parents and grandparents. He leaves behind his sister Vikki Stoddard and her husband Randy of Lyndonville, brother Fred Allard Jr. and his wife Melanie of Lyndon, his brother Keith Allard of East Burke, and his five nieces and four nephews Lisa, Shanna, Ashley, Danny, Sherry, Freddy III, Tim, Damon and Morgan. There will be a small private service for the family. Friends and loved ones will gather for a celebration of Chris's life; the time and place of this celebration will be provided at a later date. Special thanks to the many friends who supported and cared for Chris during his illness. Memorial contributions should be directed to Norris Cotton Cancer Center - North, 1080 Hospital Drive, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819 or the Caledonia Home Health & Hospice, 161 Sherman Drive, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 57, of Waterford, Vt., passed away at home after a courageous battle with cancer on Dec. 5, 2008, with many family and friends by his side. He was born in Lancaster, N.H., on Jan. 15, 1951, the oldest of three children born to William and Patricia Sullivan of Gilman, Vt. Tim attended Concord High School and graduated in the class of 1969. Tim and wife, Jo-Ann Hall Sullivan, celebrated their 39th wedding anniversary on Dec. 6, 2008. After marrying and living for a short time in Burlington, Vt., they relocated to Littleton, N.H., where he worked for the town and served on the Littleton Fire Department for 15 years. He served as captain for several of those years. In 1985, they moved across the river to purchase one of the family autoparts stores which is now known as Sullivans Auto Supply located in Lyndonville, Vt. Tim was an avid athlete playing on many local softball and basketball teams, one of the most memorable teams being the state championship Blackmount Equipment team. He also held the highest batting average and homerun record in the Littleton, N.H., modified softball league for many years. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, hunting, snowmobiling, spending time at his camp in Victory, Vt., and most of all enjoying his family and friends. Tim liked traveling and playing his guitar. He is also a loyal NASCAR, Red Sox, Patriots, and Celtics fan. He is survived by wife Jo-Ann of Waterford, Vt. (1299 Slate Ledge Road, Waterford, VT 05819), daugther Tammi Sullivan Cady and husband David of Lyndon Center, Vt. (PO Box 119, Lyndon Center, VT 05850), son Troy Sullivan and wife Katie of York, Pa. (51 Royal Court at Waterford, York, PA 17402), four grandchildren, Jordan Cady, Jacob Cady, Sierra Sullivan and Brogan Sullivan, his step-grandson Aaron Cady of Lyndonville, Vt. (PO Box 119, Lyndon Center, VT 05850) his parents William and Patricia Sullivan of Gilman, Vt. (PO Box 176, Gilman, VT 05904), a sister Gayle Sullivan McDonald and husband Steve of North Danville, Vt. (213 Ski Tow Road, St. Johnsbury, VT), a brother William "Sully" Sullivan and wife Liz of North Hampton, N.H. (Hampton Vision Center, 28E Depot Square, Hampton, NH 03842), brother-in-law John Hall and wife Jo-Anna of West Danville, Vt., brother-in-law William "Boe" Hall and wife Kathy of Waterford, Vt., sister-in-law Kathy Hall Cloutier and husband Dave of St. Johnsbury, Vt. (117 Spring Creek Road, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819), sister-in-law Jean Hall Wheeler and husband Paul of St. Johnsbury, Vt. (73 Depot Hill Road, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819), nieces, nephews, and many other family and friends. He is predeceased by his father and mother-in-law, William Frank Hall and Margaret Dussault Hall. Friends and family are planning their team "Sullycat" for this spring's St. Johnsbury Relay for Life. Memorial contributions, payable to the "American Cancer Society" and marked for "Team Sullycat," could be directed to Michael Lumbra at 3666 Severance Hill Road, Lyndonville VT 05851.

, 86, of Scott Highway, Groton, died Dec. 8, 2008, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, N.H. He was born in Barnet, Dec. 11, 1921, a son of Kenneth Norman and Jane (Heath) Murray. Norman grew up on his family's farm and married Marion E. Hatley on Aug. 18, 1942, a day prior to leaving for his enlistment in the U.S. Army. While in the Army he was trained as an MP in England before serving in the Battle of the Bulge and along the border of France and Germany. He was awarded the Purple Heart in 1943. Norman had worked at area dairy farms before being employed for 29 years as a boiler and maintenance operator for the Department of State Buildings in Montpelier, retiring in 1994. He enjoyed baseball, especially listening to the Baltimore Orioles and Boston Red Sox on the radio. He also enjoyed old movies and television shows. He was predeceased by his wife of 51 years, Marion E. (Hatley) Murray on May 28, 1994, two daughters, and four sisters Annie, Jessie, Hazel, Roberta, and a brother Kenneth. Survivors include four daughters, Norma Murphy of South Ryegate, Laurel Goodwin of Woodsville, N.H., Judy Thrasher of Monument Beach, Mass., and Jane Tuite of Littleton, N.H.; two sons William B. Murray of Danville, and James D. Murray of East Ryegate; many grandchildren; several great- and great-great- grandchildren; two sisters Margaret Strobridge of West Barnet, and Christie Hersey of Groton; two brothers Robert F. and Donald M. Murray, both of East Ryegate; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Calling hours will be on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2008, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Ricker Funeral Home, 1 Birch Street, Woodsville, NH. The funeral service will be on Friday, Dec. 12, at 11 a.m., at the Groton United Methodist Church with Pastor Candace Ricker officiating. Spring burial will be in the Monroe Village Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army, 545 North Main Street, Barre, VT 05641; or to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, PO Box 1947, Marine Corps Base, Quantico, VA 22134; or the a local food shelf in your community.

, 69, a life-long resident of Danville, died Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2008, in New Castle, Del. Jerry, as he was known to everyone, was born in Lisbon, N.H., on June 11, 1939, to Arlene Della (Fulford) Peck and Everett Walter Peck. He grew up in Danville in the family home on Hill Street, played baseball, loved to hunt and fish, and spent countless hours at camp on Cole's Pond. He was a great swimmer and loved the water. He enlisted in the US Navy after graduating from Danville High School in 1957. He was a sonarman and spent duties in Japan, the Phillipines, Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, and the Caribbean. Following his military service he returned to Danville in 1967 with his first wife Carla and daughter Lori. He worked in the Danville General Store which was the family business. Jerry had a phenomenal singing voice and loved music of all kinds. He sang in the choirs of the Danville Methodist Church and the North Danville Baptist Church for years. He sang at weddings, funerals and was part of a country band, The Sunset Ramblers. Jerry married his second wife, Debbie, in 1973. They bought the old Joyce place in North Danville in 1978 and lived there for almost 30 years. They raised their sons David, Jeremy and Sam in that special close knit community. Jerry enjoyed doing things with his children. He coached baseball and was a 4-H leader. For several summers they were a host family for the Fresh Air Fund. He was a member of the Danville United Methodist Church, North Danville Community Club, Washburn Lodge, No. 92, F.&A.M. Jerry worked at St. Johnsbury Academy in the maintenance department and later worked for many years as a correctional officer at the St. Johnsbury facility. In 2004, Jerry had an answer to a prayer when he got to meet his daughter Shanon, whom he had never had the opportunity to know. At Thanksgiving in 2005, all of his grown children were together for the first time. It was one of his happiest days. He loved being a grandfather and always said that all those grandchildren were living proof that he must have done something right to have been so blessed. Jerry was well liked. He had an outgoing and fun loving personality with an incredibly kind heart. He will be so missed. Jerry is survived by his wife Debbie; his daughters Lori Ann (Peck) Fleurie and Shanon Hunt; sons David Peck, Jeremy Peck and Samuel Peck; sons-in-law Timothy Fleurie and Glen Rivera; Daughters-in-law Rebecca Peck, Nicole Peck and Cara Gorman; grandchildren are: Carla Ann Womble, Tim, Josh, Phylicia Fleurie, Gabrielle Lea Potts, and Megan Gail Potts; Anthony James Peck and Sara Sofia Peck, Natalie Winona Peck and Trevor Edward Peck; Aidan Jerold Peck; and Nicholas Glen Rivera and Benjamen Aidan Rivera; mother-in-law Janet Bird; sister-in-law Darcia Bird and brother-in-law, Dale Bird; nieces, Sonya Bird Downing, Jenna Bird Heinrich, Jill Bird; and loving friends Pat and Charlie Cushman. Jerry was predeceased by his parents, Everett and Arlene and his younger brother Walter Ai Peck. And his beloved canine friends, Maggie, Jasper and Betsy. A memorial service for Jerry will be held at the Danville United Methodist Church, Saturday, Dec. 13, at 11 a.m. A gathering of family, friends and community to follow at the Moose Lodge in St. Johnsbury from noon to 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Danville Rescue Squad, Box 255, Danville, VT 05828

will be held on Sunday, Dec. 14, from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Breslin Center, Main Street, Lyndonville. Chris' pastor, Pastor Paul Powers, will pay tribute to Chris' life and spiritual beliefs. Pastor Paul was a great comfort to Chris throughout his courageous battle with cancer.

, 98, Lisbon, N.H., passed away on Dec. 5, 2008, peacefully at her home in Lisbon with family at her side. She was born in Rumford, Maine, on Aug. 2, 1910, a daughter to Randall H. and Lalia (Farnum) Sessions. Marion had over 46 years of involvement and was a past president of Friends and Council Women's Club as well as the Northern District Director, she was a charter member and first president of the Northern New Hampshire Teachers Association. She was active in the Lisbon Shared Ministry various church functions over the years. She sat on the Lisbon Public Library Board for several years. She loved to create oil paintings which brought her much enjoyment, and was known for her craftsmanship in hand quilting. She is survived by her daughter; Paula B. Hapgood of Lisbon, two grandchildren Liby Ashlock of Shreveport, La., Byron Hapgood of Benton, La.; four great-grandchildren Jake Hapgood, Haleigh Ashlock, Elizabeth Hapgood and Aaron Hapgood; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 65 years Paul C. Boy March 21, 2003; one brother; and one sister. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, Dec. 12, at 1 p.m., in the Lisbon Shared Ministry White Church, Main Street, Lisbon with the Rev. Lyn O. Winter officiating. Interment will be in the Grovehill Cemetery at a later date. Family suggests in Lieu of flowers contributions be made in memory of Marion to the Lisbon Library handicapped access fund or the Lisbon Fast Squad.

, 82, of West Main Street, Lunenburg, died Monday Dec. 8, 2008, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon. Mrs. Boulay was born in Lunenburg on Oct. 4, 1926, the daughter of Walter and Lila (Ramsdell) Colby. Helen was a lifetime resident of Lunenburg and her first job was with Bell Telephone as an operator. She also worked for various shoe shops in Littleton and Lancaster and was a long time employee and retiree at Pac 2000 in Lancaster. She was a Justice of the Peace and served on the Board of Civil Authorities in Lunenburg. Memberships include the Polar Bears Snowmobile Club and the Weeks VFW Auxiliary in Lancaster. She also enjoyed bingo and cribbage and in her younger days was an avid hunter. Family members include two sons, Edward H. Boulay and his wife Marie of Lunenburg, and William M. Boulay and his wife Sonya of Lunenburg; a daughter, Lila M. Jones and her husband Carl of Fairfax; five grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a brother Wendell Colby and his wife Phyllis of Virginia. Her husband Henry E. Boulay predeceased her. At Helen's request there are no visiting hours. A memorial mass will be celebrated Saturday morning Dec. 13, at 11 a.m. at St. Leo's Church in Lunenburg. Rev. Raymond Ball of Lancaster will officiate. Burial will be in the spring in the Riverside Cemetery, Lunenburg. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made in her memory to Calvin Noble, PO Box 126, Granby, VT 05840-0126, to assist him and his family during his recovery.

, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2008, at he St. Johnsbury Health & Rehab. Center. She was born in Newport in 1915, one of six children to Benjamin and Marjory Pomeroy. She graduated from Newport High School and Lyndon Normal School. During those years she taught dancing with her two sisters. She taught school in Lyndonville and St. Johnsbury and married Robert Sherrer of Lyndonville. In 1950 they moved to Miami, Fla., where she taught in the Miami Dade County School System for many years. During those years she earned her Master's Degree in Education from the University of Vermont. She later became a supervisor of student teachers at the University of Miami. Upon retirement she moved back to St. Johnsbury where she lived over 20 years at the Brightlook Apartments. Josie was a member of the North Congregational Church, UCC, member of the United Workers of that Church, past President of the St. Johnsbury Women's Club, honorary member of Delta Kappa Gamma and member of the Seed and Weed Garden Club of St. Johnsbury. She was also a member of the Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital Auxiliary for a few years. Josie was predeceased by her husband, Robert, brother, Paul, and sister, Mildred. She is survived by a brother, Robert of Derby; sister, Louise Devereaux of Lyndonville; sister, Frances Parker of Tavares, Fla.; many nieces and nephews; and two very special friends, Barbara Norris Allen of Delaware, and Mannie Laverde of St. Johnsbury. A graveside service will be held this next summer after which a memorial celebrating her life will be held. The time and place will be announced at a later date.

, 83, Woodsville, N.H., died on Dec. 10, 2008, at the Cottage Hospital in Woodsville. Marion was born in Meredith, N.H., Aug. 29, 1925, the daughter of John and Eva (Roberts) Randall. She graduated from Meredith High School in 1943 and from Plymouth College in 1947. Marion attended the University of New Hampshire Graduate School in Library Science, also Boston University and the University of Vermont. Marion married Norman H. Mullen on Nov. 18, 1949. She taught at the Meredith High School for a few years and later was an English teacher at Lisbon Regional School. She was also a substitute teacher in Berlin, N.H. Marion was an English teacher and Librarian at Woodsville High School, during her time at WHS she started the Audio Visual Department. Marion was an accomplished pianist; she accompanied numerous school musicals, graduations, and clubs. She was a Communicant of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Woodsville. Marion was a member of the Women of St. Joseph's, National Audubon Society, North Country Chorus, Delta Kappa Gamma Society, and the Woodsville Progressive Club. She spent many evenings with her friends counting Night Hawks in the local area. After Norman and Marion retired, they wintered the past 20 years in Florida, 15 of those years were spent in Englewood. While in Florida she was a member of the Red Hat Society and also enjoyed playing golf. Survivors include her husband of 59 years, Norman H. Mullen of Woodsville; two daughters, Cynthia Curran and husband Dennis of Sleepy Hollow, N.Y., and Sheila Mullen and husband Rick Carr of Exeter, N.H.; one son, Michael Mullen and wife Gail of Miami, Fla.; seven grandchildren, Christopher, Melissa, and Timothy Curran, Mairead Carr, and Casey, Kelly, and Chelsea Mullen; two sisters, Jean Kierstead of Westford, Mass., and Eleanor Colby of Groton, Mass.; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Calling hours will be on Sunday, Dec. 14, from 3 to 5 p.m., at the Ricker Funeral Home, 1 Birch Street, Woodsville, NH. A mass of Christian burial will be on Monday, Dec. 15, 11 a.m., at the St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 15 Pine Street, Woodsville, NH, with Father Daniel J. Sinabaldi officiating. Burial will be in the St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either, St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 21 Pine Street, Woodsville, NH 03785, Cottage Hospital, P.O. Box 2001, Woodsville, NH 03785 or the Alzheimer's Association, One Bedford Farms Road, Suite 105, Bedford, NH 03110.

of St. Johnsbury passed away Friday, Dec. 12, 2008, at the St. Johnsbury Health & Rehab Center at the age of 73. She was born in Coventry on June 22, 1935, the daughter of Charles and Iola (Elliot) Jacobs. At an early age the family moved to Derby where Shirley attended schools. She graduated from Derby Academy in 1953 and then moved to St. Johnsbury Center. In 1955 she married Courtland "Joe" Goss and they had two daughters. Shirley was very active in the First Congregational Church of St. Johnsbury Center where she served a few years as deaconess. She also was superintendent of Sunday school, a teacher there, and played the organ for several years. She was treasurer of the church for several years as well. Shirley also was charter member of the Country Corner Squares, enjoyed camping, music, cross-stitching, knitting, and other crafts. She was a Hospice volunteer, and did other volunteer work for several years, and then spent much of her time with her grandchildren whom she adored. She worked at Ralston Purina until its closing, 10 years at Prudential Insurance, and 10 plus years at Crawford & Co. insurance adjustors. She leaves her husband of 53 years, Courtland, of St. Johnsbury (950 Breezy Hill Rd. 05819); two daughters, Melodie Ann Hays and husband Larry of Cocoa, Fla., and Marilee Jaye Young and husband Michael of Concord; 11 grandchildren, Ryne, Patric(CQ), Kayla, Heather, Amy, Abigail, Krista, Rebecca, Brody, Nicole, Lauren; also two step-children Mariah and Holden Hays of both Cocoa; two sisters Betty Jean Foster and husband Robert of Cocoa, Carol Ann Mossey of St. Johnsbury; and a sister-n-law Mary Jacobs, as well as loving brothers and sisters-in-law; nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by one brother Eldon Jacobs, and a close brother-in-law Leo Mossey. Services will be held at the First Congregational Church in St. Johnsbury Center Sunday, Dec. 14, at 12:30 p.m. The pastor, the Rev. William Cotte, will officiate with John Sleeper assisting. There will be no visiting hours. Memorial contributions could be made in Shirley's memory to First Congregational Church, St. Johnsbury Center VT 05863.

of St. Johnsbury passed away at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital Saturday, Dec. 13, 2008, at the age of 83. He was born in Magog, Quebec, on Feb. 1, 1925, the son of Ovila and Dometilde (Theriault) Leroux. His mother died when he was four; his father remarried Laura Lecours and together they raised their family of 13 children. Donald retired as a blacksmith at Fairbanks after 37 years with the company. He also had his own business as a farrier, shoeing working horses as well as show and race horses throughout New England. His father, also a farrier and blacksmith, conferred his love of horses on to Donald. Donald was musically talented and played multiple instruments. He was a past member of both Sheridan Chapter #421 of the Knights of Columbus and the Elks BPOE #1343. He is survived by his wife of 60 years Raymonde (Poulin) Leroux of St. Johnsbury (411 Concord Ave., 05819); three children: Diane Lewis and husband Steve of St. Johnsbury, Roger Leroux and wife Diane of Waterford, Steven Leroux and wife Dawn of Passumpsic; six grandchildren: Shane and Danielle, Seth and Thomas, Josh and Jadelyn; three great-grandchildren: Aidan, Maren and Amelia; a brother Laurent Leroux and wife Rita of Sherbrooke; a half-sister Bernadette Roy and husband Jules of Stanstead; two step-sisters: Lise Cote and husband Albert of Sherbrooke, and Angele Brault of Sherbrooke; several brothers and sisters-in-law; several nieces, nephews and their families. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 11 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church. Committal services will be held at the church with burial in the spring at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held prior to the Mass on Tuesday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Anyone wishing to call on the family is welcome. Memorial contributions, made payable to Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital and marked for "Norris Cotton Cancer Center North," may be directed to Norris Cotton Cancer Center North, Attention Jim Flynn, PO Box 905, St. Johnsbury VT 05819.

, 79, of Collinsville, Conn., husband of Clarice (Gilbert) Pelow for 54 years, died Friday, Dec. 12, 2008. Born in Danville, Vt., son of the late Frank and Margaret (Morrison) Pelow, he lived in the St. Johnsbury area many years moving to Collinsville 43 years ago. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps. Mr. Pelow was employed 31 years by Hartford Hospital and after retirement, 14 years at Stop and Shop in Unionville, Conn. A strong family man, he volunteered with his son's activities as a little league coach and with Boy Scout Troop #177 in Collinsville. After retirement, he became an avid fan and supporter of all his grandchildren's activities. Growing up on a Vermont farm he learned to love the outdoors and became an avid fisherman all over the United States, even taking a special trip to Alaska. Camping and traveling with his wife Clarice were favorite retirement activities. Besides his wife he leaves two sons Tony and his wife Lynn Pelow of Unionville and Evan and his wife Laurie Pelow of Torrington; five grandchildren Emilye, Scott, Kurt, Matthew, and Samantha Pelow; two sisters, Anna Hawkes of Unionville and Gloria Quatrini and her husband Francis of St. Johnsbury, Vt.; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by three brothers Donald, Jack, and Milton Pelow. Services will be held in Vermont in the spring. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Town of Canton Fire & EMS PO Box 168, Collinsville, CT 06022.

, 92, of Danville, died peacefully at her home Monday morning, Dec. 15, 2008. She was born Sept. 4, 1916, in Danville, the daughter of Martin and Agnes (Smith) MacDonald. In 1934 she graduated from Phillips Academy in Danville. Following high school, she traveled to Miami, Fla., where she worked at a bank for a few years. She then returned to Danville and found employment at the Caledonia National Bank. During the 1940s and 1950s she worked at French and Bean Wholesale Groceries in St. Johnsbury. Martha then worked as an administrative assistant for the USDA in Danville, where she retired in the mid 1960s. On April 19, 1953, she married Dr. Joel R. "Bob" Dole. A loving and generous person who loved her home, her community, and animals, Martha enjoyed entertaining and was loved by everyone who knew her. She enjoyed attending harness races with her husband Bob. She was known for her passion in saving her Oak Tree, endangered by U.S. Route 2 in Danville, as well as her keen since of humor. Martha was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Dr. "Bob" Dole in 1995; and her sister, Harriet Rogers in 2004. Survivors include her nephew, Jay Rogers and his wife Maureen of Vergennes, Vt., and their children Heather and Robert; several relatives including, Diane Langmaid, Alice Hafner, Janet Wakefield, and Katherine Beattie and their families; and her wonderful care givers who enabled Martha to stay at home these last several months. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, Dec. 20, at 11 a.m. at the Danville Congregational Church (where she was a member) with The Rev. Douglas Carter officiating. Spring burial will be in Danville Green Cemetery. There will be no visiting hours. Donations made in Martha Dole's memory may be directed to Caledonia Home Health Inc., 161 Sherman Drive, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819.

, 63, of Medway, Mass., died unexpectedly Sunday, Dec. 14, 2008, at Milford Regional Medical Center. She was the wife of Michael D. Handy for 44 years. Born in Lancaster, N.H., on May 7, 1945, she was a daughter of the late Lawrence and Frieda (Davis) Timson. Betty was a resident of Medway for the past 12.5 years and formerly resided in Dillon, Colo., Van Nuys, Calif., and in Marshfield, Mass., from 1968-1978. She grew up in East Concord and graduated from Concord High School. Before becoming disabled, Betty was a marketing administrator at Rohm & Haas in Marlboro for several years. She had previously worked for many years as director of operations for Keystone Symposia, formerly UCLA Symposia. Betty was a member of the Rosalie Rebekah Lodge in Dillon, Colo. She was a tremendous country singer and performed on her own and with bands in local lounges. A very giving person, Betty opened her home on many occasions for post-doctorates' unable to make it home for the holidays. She was an avid shopper and loved spending time with her grandchildren. Besides her husband, she is survived by two sons, Mark Handy and his wife Cathy of St. Johnsbury, and Richard Handy and his wife Ann of Medway; two brothers, Harry Hanley of Wells River, and Edward Timson of Lunenburg; two sisters, Marie Paradis of Greenville, N.C., and Neva Macie of Lunenburg; and her grandson, Christopher Handy of Medway. She was the grandmother of the late Alex Handy who died in 2006. Betty is also survived by her mother-in-law Marion Handy of Austin, Texas; two brother-in-laws Netcy Handy of Detroit, Mich., and Jeff Handy of Gainesville, Fla.; two sister-in-laws, Linda Sparks of Manchester, N.H., and Andi Handy of Austin, Texas; and several nieces and nephews. She was a sister of the late Bobby Hanley and daughter-in-law of the late Sam Handy. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral on Thursday, Dec. 18, in Medway at 11 a.m. followed by a funeral Mass at St. Joseph's Church, 151 Village St. in Medway at noon. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Betty's memory to Project Alex, 11 Lee Lane, Medway, MA 02053

passed away on Dec. 9, 2008, in Laconia, N.H. He was born in Littleton, N.H., on July 18, 1960, to William and Carol Nichols. Upon his graduation from Littleton High School he set out to fulfill his dreams of living in the frontier of Alaska. Pursuing his passion for the outdoors he expressed his love of nature through photography of the Alaskan wilderness. He spent two years in Denver, Co., where he obtained his camera repair technician certification. Returning to Alaska, he established his own camera repair business, doing work for the Alaskan State Police and Fish and Game Department. He developed his own recipe for smoking Alaskan king salmon and was contracted by Camp Denali in Denali National Park to supply them with his products. In 2000, wishing to be closer to family, he moved back to New Hampshire and purchased a home in Laconia. With the advent of digital photography he redirected his technical skills to specialized electronic technologies and held the position of Electronic Field Service Engineer with four worldwide firms from 2000 to 2008. Most recently he was employed as a dispatcher for the New Hampshire Department of Transportation at their emergency response center in Concord. Tod was very outgoing and loving, befriending people from all walks of life with empathy and acceptance. He had a great zest for life. Our lives will never be the same, for having known him, and for having lost him. He is survived by his father, William S. Nichols Sr.; and his stepmother Y. Anne-Marie Nichols, of Littleton, N.H.; his sister Ann E. Nichols, of Gilford, N.H.; and his niece Kimberly A. Tuite of Dalton, N.H. His mother, Carol R. Nichols, predeceased him, in 1985. A memorial service will be held at All Saints' Episcopal Church in Littleton on Thursday Dec. 18, 2008, at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to All Saints' Episcopal Church, 35 School Street, Littleton, N.H. 03561, in memory of Tod Nichols.

, age 82, of St. Johnsbury, passed away Monday, Dec. 15, 2008, at the Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital following a brief illness. Agnes was born July 22, 1922, in Peacham to William and Ella (Rock) Payette. She attended school throughout Caledonia County. She married Donald C. Dickerman May 19, 1948, in Lyndonville. Agnes enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, taking care of them when they were young. In her later years children, grandchildren and other family members and friends helped to take care of Agnes. She also enjoyed crocheting, gardening, and feeding the ducks behind the Center Tower. She and Donald were active members of the St. Johnsbury Center Congregational Church. Agnes is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Donald of St. Johnsbury; her children, Ella Kelsey and husband Donald of Waterford, Eva Emery and husband John of Lyndonville, and Donald (Spike) Dickerman of Ascutney; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Allison Roberts and husband Chad of South Wheelock and their children Hannah and Jack, Karen Wright and husband Keith Winters of Phoenix, Ariz., Jason Emery and wife Jamie of St. Johnsbury and their daughter Emily, Jacob Emery and wife Tory of Corinth; several brothers and sisters, William (Bud) Payette, Albert Payette, Reginald Payette, Dennis Payette, Catherine (Cappy) Mitchell, June Mitchell, Donna Dubray; brother-in-law, Gerald and Lillian Dickerman. A. funeral service will be held at the Pearsons Funeral Home Thursday, Dec. 18, 10 a.m., with the Rev. William Cotte, officiating. There will be no public calling hours. Interment will be in the Spring at the St. Johnsbury Center Cemetery.

, 35, native of St. Johnsbury, Vt., currently of Spencerport, N.Y., passed away suddenly on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2008. Born in St. Johnsbury, on June 18, 1973, Paul was the son of Ann Martin and the late Donald E. Martin. He attended St. Johnsbury Academy and graduated with the class of 1991. In 1997, Paul graduated from R.I.T. with a degree in electrical engineering. He was currently employed at MKS Instruments as an electrical engineer. Paul was a licensed Ham radio operator and was proud to carry on the call numbers WA1NVP that were also his dad's. He was also an active member of the ARRL (American Radio Relay League), the national association for Amateur Radio. In addition to his hobbies Paul enjoyed traveling for work to many places all over the world, but he especially loved taking his wife and daughter this past summer to Disney World. On July 26, 2003, he married Amanda Finch at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Hamilton, N.Y. After the wedding Paul and Amanda moved to San Jose, Calif., where their family grew when they were blessed with the birth of their daughter Chloe Ann Martin on June 2, 2006. Shortly after the birth of Chloe they moved back to Spencerport to be closer to their families. Besides his beloved wife Amanda and cherished daughter Chloe, Paul is survived by his mother Ann Martin of Greece, N.Y.; his sister Linda Roberts of Rutland, Vt.; nephews Charles and Robert Neumann; his father and mother-in-law James and Diane Finch of Hamilton, N.Y.; as well as his sister-in-law Rebecca and her husband Mark McFarland of Clayville, N.Y. He was predeceased by his father Donald M. Martin June 10, 2007. Funeral arrangements will be handled by Walker Brother Co. Funeral Home at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Chloe Martin Education Fund, in his memory.

passed away on Dec. 1, 2008, at The Pines in Lyndonville at the age of 86. She was born on June 2, 1922, in Sutton, the second child of Archie R. and Lucile (Barker) Gray. She attended graded school in Sutton and graduated from Lyndon Institute in 1940. After graduation, she moved to Boston and worked there during World War II doing factory work and child care. She returned to Vermont after the War, and married Everett L. King in West Burke on Feb. 22, 1946. Berta (or Bertie) was primarily a homemaker and mother. She was an excellent cook and seamstress. She knit innumerable hats, mittens, and sweaters for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Every birth in the extended family was met with hand-knit baby blankets and sweater sets. Her family was her pride and joy. Her grandchildren's favorite memories of Nana are her teaching them to cook, knit, and bird watch. She was a Cub Scout den mother and a 4-H leader teaching cooking and sewing. She served as Sunday School teacher and superintendent and in various church offices in the area. She worked briefly as a hot lunch cook at the Lyndon Corner School and baby sitting for area children. She was a long-time member of the Lyndonville United Methodist Church and the West Burke Grange. Bertie was predeceased by her parents; her husband Everett in 1995; her brothers Wayne, Fred and Dale Gray; her sisters Rosa Gray and Judy Damon; and her son Stanley in 1952. She is survived by her daughter Patricia; husband Doug Richmond of Underhill; son Don King of Concord; her grandchildren: Shelley (King) and Royce Masten and son Dalton of St. Johnsbury, Denise King and children Alyssa, Alex and Andrew of Lowell, Mike King and Angel Emerson and children Micah, Matheu, Emma and Ella, Dawn Marie King and children Bryan and Brendan of Springfield, Tim Richmond of Grand Isle, and Kate (Richmond) and P.J. Huggins and son Isaac of Mooers, N.Y. She also leaves two sisters, Norma Stevens of Oakman, Ala., and Alfreda Bumps and her husband Hector of West Haven, Conn.; three sisters-in-law, Clara Gray and Jeanette Gray, both of Lyndonville, and Charlotte King of Springfield; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends and neighbors. The Pines was Ruberta's home for the last four years of her life, and she and her family appreciate the love and care she received from the staff there. Ruberta's funeral was held on Dec. 4 at the Lyndonville United Methodist Church with Rev. Barbara Dwyer officiating. Pallbearers were grandson Tim Richmond, nephews Bruce Bumps and Arnie Parot, and family friend John Emery. Burial will be in the spring at the family plot at Hillside Cemetery in West Burke.

, 79, of Whitefield, N.H., passed away on Monday, Dec. 15, 2008, at the Littleton Regional Hospital. Rudy was born in Franconia, N.H., on May 24, 1929, the son of Waldo and Florence (Shufelt) Nelson. He attended Franconia schools, graduating from Dow Academy in 1947. Rudy was an accomplished skier, ultimately serving on Ski Patrol, while stationed in Germany with the US Army. Following his military service, he was Postmaster in Merrow, Conn., for 25 years, retiring to New Hampshire in the early 1980s. In retirement, he especially enjoyed fly and saltwater fishing and vegetable gardening. Rudy is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marion (MacGlafin); his daughter Susan and her husband John Motycka of Coventry, Conn.; his sons Eric and his wife Caren, of Willington, Conn., and Dana and his wife Lori of Ashford, Conn.; three grandsons, Aaron, Caleb and Jared, all of Connecticut; one granddaughter, Claire, also of Connecticut; a sister, Barbara, and her husband Anthony Bilodeau of Allenstown, N.H.; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and two sisters, Eleanor Martin and Carol Fleming. A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Rudy's name to the Littleton Regional Hospital Charitable Foundation to support Nursing Education, 600 St. Johnsbury Road, Littleton, N.H., 03561.