BERKSHIRE / FRANKLIN – Shelby J. Wetherby
....show
, age 78, passed away Friday, December 25, 2015 with her family at her side at the home of her niece, Lori Thompson with whom she made her home during her illness.
She was born in St. Albans on July 23, 1937 the daughter of the late, George & Viola (Cross) Levick.
Shelby was a resident of Berkshire most of her life and was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Enosburg Falls. She worked as a clerk at Jewett’ store in Berkshire Center, cleaned houses with Lucille Lothian and worked in the Hot Lunch Program at the Franklin Elementary School. She loved playing Yatzee and enjoyed bowling in the Dairy Center leagues. She was also active in assisting Bernard with the Boy Scouts. Shelby was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and thoroughly loved the time spent with her family.
She is survived by her children, David Wetherby of Berkshire and Peter Wetherby of Richford; her daughter-in-law, Kathy Wetherby of Hyde Park; her grandchildren, Jason Wetherby and his wife Deidra, Heather Barton and her husband Robert, Dustin Wetherby and his girlfriend Chelsea Gilbert & Glen Wetherby; her great grandchildren, Scarlet, Isabella, Keelie, Kaelynn & Kylah; her sister, Carla Nichols of Cassville, MO; her brother-in-law, Cecil Wetherby and his wife Hilda of Highgate; several nieces and nephews including a very special niece Lori Thompson and her husband Lester “Tom” of Franklin. Besides her parents, Shelby was predeceased by her husband, Bernard Wetherby; daughter, Linda Wetherby; brother, Edwin “Pete” Levick and his wife Eleanor; and 2 sisters, Peggy Lontine & Edna Britch.
Visiting hours will be held Wednesday, December 30, 2015 from 6-8 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family in the St. Louis Cemetery in Highgate Center.
For those who wish, contributions in Shelby’s memory may be made to Franklin County Home Health Agency – Hospice Program, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478.
ENOSBURG FALLS / SHELDON – Janet (Montgomery) Wells
....show
, age 83, wife of Kenneth “Bud” Wells, passed away at her home on Monday, December 28, 2015 with her loving family at her side.
Janet was born September 8, 1932 in Fairfield the daughter of the late, Dell & Lela (Derosia) Montgomery.
Janet was a 1951 graduate of Enosburg Falls High School and always looked forward to attending her class reunions. Her working career started at Fonda’s in St. Albans for 10 years before taking a break to raise her family. She then worked at Softlite in Swanton for a few years before working at I.B.M. in Essex for 12 years retiring in 1996.
Janet loved to play BINGO at the Sheldon Casino and the Owls Club in St. Albans. She also enjoyed working in her vegetable, flower and “Rock” gardens, listening to country music, riding her bicycle on the Rail Trail everyday with Bud, dancing with Bud and following the Allard Brothers Band wherever they were playing, going to Sunday Breakfast’s with friends at the Country Pantry in Fairfax, and taking photo’s as well as creating many family photo albums. Family was very important to Janet and she cherished the time spent with them whether it was going to lunch with her sisters or helping take care of her grandchildren. Since May of this year Janet and Bud have made their home with their daughter Terri and her children which gave her the opportunity to be a significant part of their lives.
Janet is survived by her husband, Bud Wells of Enosburg Falls. Janet & Bud were married August 9, 1950. She is also survived by her children, Larry Wells of Enosburg Falls, Valerie Lehoullier and her husband Maurice of Swanton, Donna Reed and her husband George of Cumming, GA, Lauri Paradis of St. Albans, and Terri Wells of Enosburg Falls; her grandchildren, Travis, Elena, Tim, Tony, Pam, Jodi, Kylee, Cortney, Danielle, Alicia, Kenny, Erynne, Brandyn, Makenna & Cayla; numerous great grandchildren; her sister, Jackie McDonald of Franklin, NH; her in-laws, Corrine Wanzer of Enosburg Falls, Harold “Neil” Wells and his wife Jackie of Mallets Bay, and Philip Wells of Enosburg Falls; many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Janet was predeceased by her grandson, Ricky Reed; her brothers, Oakley, Wayne, Philip, Wendell, Alton, Merriman, Frederick and Robert Montgomery; her sisters, Beatha Ploof, Bernice Montgomery, Phyllis Robarge, Vera Emch, Ruth Randall and Betty Neveau; and her sister-in-law, Janice Montgomery.
Funeral services will be held Friday, January 1, 2016 at 3:00 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. Interment will be next spring in the Sheldon Village Cemetery.
A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home on Friday from 1:00 PM until the hour of the funeral.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Janet’s memory may be made to the Franklin County Home Health Agency, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478.
PROCTOR / RICHFORD – Pauline Juaire
....show
, age 63, passed away Friday December 25, 2015 at the Birchwood Terrace Nursing Home in Burlington.
She was born in Richford on June 12, 1952 the daughter of the late Theophile & Ruth (Rushford) Juaire.
Pauline attended the Brandon Training School and took part in the Rutland Community Access Program. She enjoyed listening to old time country music and going for car rides, especially in the Red Convertible. For the past 25 years, Pauline made her home with her sister, Theresa in Proctor.
She is survived by her siblings, Bernadette Hope and her husband Ken of Swanton, Joseph Juaire of Pawlett, Theresa Steady of Proctor, Noella Rock of Wells River, Gary Juaire and his wife Carol of Deland, FL, and Deb Hare of Ware, MA; many nieces and nephews including her special nieces, Stacey, Robin, Paulette, SueEllen & Cathy.
A time of visitation will be held Saturday, January 2, 2015 from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM with a prayer service being held at 2:00 PM at the funeral Home. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery in Richford.
For those who wish, contributions in Pauline’s memory may be made to the Special Olympics Vermont, 16 Gregory Drive, Suite 2, South Burlington, VT 05403-6015.
SHELDON – Dorothy E. Ovitt
....show
, age 87, passed away, Thursday evening December 24, 2015 at the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans surrounded by her family.
She was born June 8, 1928 in Franklin the daughter of the late Thomas & Della (Wright) Tatro.
Dorothy was a resident of Sheldon most of her life and worked out of her home as a seamstress for many years. She was involved in many activities including 8/40 meetings, and the American Legion Auxiliary Sheldon Post #88. She also looked forward to her outings with the “Birthday Girls”. She enjoyed visiting her friends that were camping and always arrived with the marshmallows to roast, shopping (Dollar Store & Christmas Tree Shops), going out to eat, spending time with her wonderful neighbors and most importantly she loved to visit with her family who affectionately called her Grandma Dort. In her younger years she enjoyed deep sea fishing in Maine.
She is survived by her husband Richard Ovitt of Sheldon. Dorothy & Richard were married on February 6, 1971. She is also survived by her children and their spouses, Brian & Cathy Danyow of Sheldon, Steven & Judy Danyow of Franklin and Karen & Richard Sweet of Sheldon; her grandchildren, Shirley Lunna her husband Deric of Sheldon and their children, Isaac, Isaiah, Callia, Bonni & Quentin, Sara Rutanhira her boyfriend Nick of Sheldon and their children, Nyasha, Storm & Echo, Jed Danyow his fiancé Amanda King of Rutland and their children, Adelynn & Cadence, Amanda Hart her boyfriend Jason Kennison of Franklin and their children, Theresa, Erika & Charles, Jessie Danyow his wife Arielle of Sheldon and their children, Devyen & Brittany, Luke Danyow his wife Jennifer of Sheldon and their children, Brian, Donovan & Timothy, Otis Danyow and his daughter Breanna of Sheldon, John Danyow of Franklin and Renee Danyow of Franklin; her brother, John Tatro of Sheldon; her brother-in-law, Wesley Ovitt and his wife Maxine of Sheldon; and her sister-in-law, Shirley King and her partner Mary Frye of North Carolina; many nieces and nephews; and her faithful pets, Dog, Midget and Cat, Patches. Besides her parents, Dorothy was predeceased by her sister, Margaret Hendrick.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls
Visiting hours will be held Tuesday from 7-9 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls
For those who wish, contributions in Dorothy’s memory may be made to Franklin County Humane Society, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478.
ENOSBURG FALLS – Beverly Sweeney
....show
, age 70, passed away Wednesday afternoon December 23, 2015 at the St. Albans Healthcare & Rehab Facility with her family at her side.
She was born September 12, 1945 in Burlington the daughter of the late Peter & Mary (Doody) Lawyea
Beverly had co-owned & operated Northeast Traders in St. Albans for several years where she sold crafts focusing on making Indian Jewelry which had special meaning from her Mohawk & Abnaki heritage. She also had a love of all animals. Beverly enjoyed the time spent and friendships that she made while attending Care Partners in St. Albans. Most of all she loved to spend time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Beverly was and extremely loving mother to all of her children, which she would have given the shirt off her back to help them anytime. She was also devoted and loving to her husband Robert, whom she was with for many years. Robert was a huge part of Beverly’s life, they meant the world to one another.
She is survived by her husband, Robert Sweeney Sr. of Enosburg Falls; her children; Step-Son, Brian Newell and his wife Pam, daughter, Beverly Baranik and her husband Jeff, son, Erwin Rockwell, daughter, Mary Rockwell and her fiancé Kevin Savoie, daughter, Patricia Severance, daughter, Angela Kulengosky and her husband Mark, step-son, Robert Sweeney Jr. and his wife Linda, daughter, Jeneen Therrien and husband Kyle, and son, Christopher Sweeney; her grandchildren, Gage, Chance, Mikie, Kenny, Lance, Tabitha, Katie, Justin, Michelle, Elizabeth, Kristin, Kirsten, Kayla, Dakota, AJ, Trinity & Damian; many great grandchildren; her grand-dogs, Max, Ozzie & Pixie; several nieces and nephews; and many friends at Care Partners and St. Albans Health & Rehab especially Gloria Churchill. Besides her parents, Beverly was predeceased by her step-father, Charles McEachern; and her siblings, Ernest, Erwin & Patricia.
In keeping with Beverly’s wishes, she will be cremated and there will be no memorial service or visiting hours.
For those who wish, contributions in Beverly’s memory may be made to Care Partners, 34 Franklin Park West, St. Albans, VT 05478.
BAKERSFIELD – Linda Lou Doane
....show
, age 62, passed on to her new life on December 23rd, 2015, at the UVM Medical Center in Burlington, VT, with her brother and sister-in-law, Tennyson and Joy, at her side.
Linda was born on November 8th, 1953, the eldest child of the late Holden and Laura Doane of Bakersfield.
Linda loved her family, enjoyed young children, was interested in medicine and fascinated with machines, tools, computers and technology. She was involved in all of these varied interests at different points in her life. She completed a B.A. in Nursing at University of Vermont in 1975, and worked caring for children during the summers to support herself. Linda began her nursing career in Florida, later completing her RN at Texas Women’s University in Dallas, and continued work as a nurse for several years.
Linda attended the State University of New York Polytechnic Institute in Utica, NY, completing a degree in computer programming. She used this combination of expertise to work for companies that wrote programs for medical applications in Albany, NY, and Dedham, MA, among others.
In later years, Linda wanted to be closer to family and moved back to Vermont. She worked at IBM in Burlington for over 10 years while living near her parents and brother and his family in Bakersfield. She cared very deeply for her family, including her nieces and nephews and their children and enjoyed being near them as they grew up. While in Bakersfield, she also became a member of the Bakersfield and Fairfield United Church and the Franklin United Church.
Linda cared for her father, Holden, for the last few years of his life—a truly loving and devoted daughter—bringing to bear much of the nursing expertise she had gained so many years before. In turn, she was blessed by, and so appreciative of the generous and kind care given to her in her illness by family and friends.
Linda is survived by three siblings—Martha Cooper and her husband Reid of Providence, RI; Tennyson Doane II and his wife Joy of Bakersfield, VT; and Perry Doane and his wife Rebekah of Decatur, IN—and their children and grandchildren: Tennyson Doane III, his wife Jennie and two daughters, Adaleigh and Brooke of Syracuse, NY; Matthew Cooper, his wife Jessie, and children Eleanore and Albert of Luoyang, China; Catherine Cooper of Vancouver, BC; Cameron Doane and his wife Emily of Woodbridge, VA; Caeyln Doane of Bakersfield, VT; and Holden and Rebekah Doane of Decatur, IN. She is also survived by her uncles and aunts: Harrison Doane of Bakersfield, Cartlon and Phyllis Doane of Canton, NY, Waynona Brown of Champaign, IL, and Patte Richards of Traverse City, MI; as well as numerous cousins including Marie Doane of Morrisville, VT who was especially attentive to Linda in her last months.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 6 at 11 AM at Bakersfield United Church. Visiting hours will be held January 5 from 4:00 - 7:00 pm at Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls, VT. Interment will take place this June in Maple Grove Cemetery in Bakersfield.
Gifts in Linda's name made be made to Franklin County Home Health, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478 who cared so faithfully for Linda and assured her last hours were as comfortable as possible, and to Heifer International (www.heifer.org), which Linda greatly supported.
BERKSHIRE – Huw Edwart Jones
....show
, age 74, died Wednesday morning, Dec. 16, 2015 at his home in Berkshire. He was born in Dolgelley, Wales, UK. on March 3, 1941, the son of the late John & Morfudd (Jones) Jones.
Huw left home at 15 to go to London as a carpenter's apprentice to the firm of Mayfield Limited, a joinery firm with a Royal Warrant "By Appointment to Her Majesty, the Queen", where he learned his trade as a master carpenter/joiner. He returned to Machynlleth, Wales where he owned his own construction business.
Huw was very Welsh proud. He loved to tell stories about being a member of the Welsh Republican Army, removing signs in English by the dark of night. He was one of the few members who was not rounded up and detained in gaol (to prevent any troublemaking) during the investiture of "Charlie" at Carenarvon Castle.
Huw came to the United States in 1978 by way of Painesville and Chardon, Ohio where he became known as the “Crazy Welsh Carpenter”. He worked as a self-employed furniture builder and carpenter. Huw was proud of his skill as a cabinetmaker and loved "wow"ing his customers with his modern designs and custom detailed craftsmanship.
Huw and family moved to Vermont in 1993. He worked at Wright & Morrissey as a laborer, carpenter and superintendent, working on many local projects including the renovation of Richford High School, of which he was most pleased to be a part. He also worked for Meach Cove Trust in Shelburne, where he was very happy to use his many talents as a part of the team there.
Huw loved his canine companions - from Whiskey, a corgi from his childhood to Bella who visited him in the hospital and nursing home and spent many hours at his bedside at home. In between he had Woofer (Woofer the Woof, the bad ass dog from the north country). Wink and Elmer, who shared his path. But his best buddy and inseparable companion was Guinness, the most awesome dog ever.
Huw's family would like to thank all of the many people who have helped them take such good care of Huw in the 12 years since his stroke, especially those from Franklin County Home Health, who have done everything they could possible imagine to make his life quality the best possible. They have all been very good at thinking out of the box for this client who was sometimes like a "square peg" who just didn't fit into the "round hole" of traditional care patterns!
He was the proud father of Alice Gwenno Dyfi and John Huw and loving partner of 35 years to Susan. He is also survived by his, daughter Petra Evans and family, brother Idris and family, both of Machynlleth, Wales.
“People are crazy and times are strange” – Bob Dylan
Through the gates of death we may view a better world –Welsh proverb
The family would welcome your stories about Jones and any photos of his work. Please respect the privacy of the folks who agree to share their photos to this page.
A celebration of Jones' life is planned for summer 2016.
In lieu of flowers or other donations, the family requests that you celebrate your friendship with Huw in a way that is special and meaningful to you. Suggestion include, but are not limited to:
Plant a tree,
Grow a beard,
Plane a board,
Build something,
Hug your kids,
Have a Guinness,
Pet a dog,
Eat potatoes,
Listen to some Bob Dylan or Cream,
Drive too fast (but not too fast),
Hug your kids again,
Take a walk in the woods,
Tell someone you are "Not often wrong and right again",
Watch some motorcycle races,
Curse a blue streak,
Surprise someone you love with a parakeet this Christmas,
Take the day off and take your family to:,
a balloon Festival,
the Fairbanks museum or,
the Montshire Museum or some other fun place.
RICHFORD – Bruce E. Dupra
....show
, age 71, passed away Saturday, December 12, 2015 at the St. Albans Health & Rehab Facility follow a long battle with cancer.
He was born in Fort Covington, NY on May 7, 1944 the son of the late Arthur & Marion (Slayton) Dupra.
Bruce was a carpenter by trade and in his later years he enjoyed carrying on his woodworking tradition by making wooden toys and ornaments.
He is survived by his truly devoted wife, Bonnie (Lumbra) Dupra of Richford. Bruce and Bonnie were married August 7, 1965. He is also survived by his son, Tony Dupra & Kathy Royea of Richford; and his daughter, Sonya Greeno & William Demag of St. Albans; his granddaughter, Alexis Dupra; Kathy’s children, Sonia & Katie Brassil; Sonia’s daughter, Mariah; many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Bruce was predeceased by 2 brothers & 2 sisters.
In keeping with Bruce’s wishes, he will be cremated and there will be no memorial service or visiting hours.
For those who wish, contributions in Bruce’s memory may be made to the Franklin County Home Health Agency – Hospice Program, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478.
ENOSBURG FALLS – Mary E. Bapp
....show
, age 62, passed away Thursday, December 10, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
She was born in St. Albans on April 14, 1953 the daughter of the late Harry & Mattie (Putnam) Lacross.
Mary’s working career started at Misty Mountain Sewing Factory and the Dairy Center. She then worked in Custodial Services as a supervisor at Smugglers Notch for 33 years retiring in 2013. Mary enjoyed bird watching especially Cardinals, gardening, crocheting, crafts, painting, and traveling to Maine & Florida. While in Florida she loved to watch the dolphins. Most of all Mary loved and cherished the time spent with her family, especially with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
She is survived by her fiancé, Robert Burns of Enosburg Falls; her children, Jeannette Hogle and her husband Scott of St. Albans, Chad Bapp and his wife Heather of Berkshire, and Rae Bapp and her boyfriend Josh Popple of St. Albans; Bobs children, Robert Burns and his wife Becky of Berkshire, Ricky Burns and his wife Lisa of Enosburg Falls, Robin White and her husband Kermit of Berkshire, and Rodney Burns and his wife Jennifer of Enosburg Falls; 24 grandchildren, Brendan, Sebastian, Chelsea, Caleb, Scott, Jaylynn, Peggy, Kyle, Rocky, Josh, Dustin, Hunter, Bethany, Destiney, Jesse, Dustin, Amie, Alyssa, Alex, Justin, Alec, Hannah, Sophie & Luke; 12 great grandchildren, Peyton, Ryland, Kellan, Carson, Logan, Ava, Blake, Aaliyah, Jayden, Quincy, Chloe & Miley; her brothers, Ivan Lacross of Suffield, CT and Cecil Lacross and his wife Frances of East Enosburgh; her sister, Marlene Williams of Franklin; many nieces and nephews; the father of her children, Ernest Bapp of Enosburg Falls; and her faithful companion, Lassie. Besides her parents, Mary was predeceased by her brothers, Reginald & Gardner Lacross; and her sister, Dorothy Gerrow.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 19, 2015 at 3:00 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home on Saturday from 2:00 PM until the hour of the funeral.
For those who wish, contributions in Mary’s memory may be made to the Franklin County Area Cancer Network, P.O. Box 1186, St. Albans, VT 05478.
ST. ALBANS – Bruce J. Gervais
....show
, age 69, was called home to the Lord Wednesday evening, December 9, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
He was born in Plattsburgh, NY on March 13, 1946 the son of the late Alphonse & Madeline (Brault) Gervais.
Bruce attended Holy Angels Parochial School for 8 years and graduated from BFA St. Albans in 1966. He worked at General Electric as a machinist and maintenance worker from 1970 to 2000 and then as a federal contractor for SCOT from 2001 to 2012.
Bruce was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to hunt and fish and was very good at it. He dressed and cooked all of his catch and was very generous with it. He enjoyed snowmobiling and making his own arrows. During a Boar hunt he was awarded a “one arrow” pin. Bruce was a member of the Swanton Shooting Range and was considered an expert marksmen with the gun and bow. His other interests included gardening, reloading & cooking.
He was a devoted husband and friend to his wife, Laura (Bouchard) Gervais of St. Albans. Bruce and Laura were married on August 13, 1977. Other family members include his brother, David Gervais his wife Janet of St. Albans his daughter Pamela Smith her fiancé Brad Spaulding and her children, Lyric & Anson; brother, Paul “Butch” Gervais (Deceased) his children Travis Gervais wife Susan and his son Luke, and Melissa Lanoue (Deceased); his brother-in-law, Marcel Bouchard his wife Martina of Walthourville, GA and their children, Bianca Pinkerton her husband Jason and their children Natalie & Joshua and Henry Bouchard; his sisters-in-law, Lucille Regan her husband Jerry of New Athens, IL, Teresa Curry her husband Jody of Fairfield and their daughter Savanna, and Rita Salls her husband Victor of St. Albans and their children, Kerry Salls, Corey Salls his wife Becka and their children Marcel & Nathaniel, and Patrick Routhier his friend Tammy Lumen and their daughter Neavah; his aunt, Theresa Gervais of Port Richey, FL; his cousin, Beth Reverri her husband Stephen of Hudson, FL and their children, Stephen Reverri Jr. his wife Erin, Bruce’s Godson, Brian Reverri his wife Erin and their son Kaden, and Kevin Reverri and his wife Laura.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 15, 2015 at 10:00 AM at Holy Angels Church, 241 Lake Street, St. Albans with Rev. Maurice Roy celebrating the Mass of Christian burial. Interment was held in St. George’s Cemetery, Academy St., Bakersfield on Tuesday the 15th at 1:00 PM.
Visiting hours were held Monday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
For those who wish, contributions in Bruce’s memory may be made to Amcare Ambulance Service, 256 South Main Street, St. Albans, VT 05478 or to the Jim Bashaw Catastrophic Illness Fund, c/o Northwestern Medical Center, 133 Fairfield St., St. Albans,VT 05478.
ENOSBURG FALLS – Dorothy E. Lawyer
....show
, age 87, passed away Tuesday evening December 8, 2015 at the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans with her loving family at her side.
She was born in Enosburgh on September 20, 1928 the daughter of the late Lyman & Ethel (Lawyer) Dudley.
Dorothy was employed at the sewing factories in Enosburg Falls and Richford and the Hockey Stick Factory in Richford. She enjoyed to read, doing crossword puzzles, watching the Lifetime channel as well as other T.V. shows, camping, playing darts, snowmobiling, baking and flowers. Most of all she loved to spend time with her grandchildren and their families.
She is survived by her children, Ronald Lawyer and his wife Joan of Swanton, Connie Curtis and her husband Earl of Alburgh, Donna Casavant and her husband Jim of Hardwick, Lyman Lawyer and his wife Karla of Enosburgh, Candice Combs and her husband Stephen of Richford, Michael Lawyer and his fiancé Kelli Peters of Richford, and twins, Jeffrey Lawyer and his wife Kim of Enosburg Falls, and Jacqueline Garrow and her husband Robert of Malone, NY; her Grandchildren, Tina Gilbeau, Terry Noyes her fiancé Eddie Paquette, John Marchessault and wife Gill, Tony Marchessault and wife Eva, Lisa Maskell and husband Dennis, Bobby Tanner and wife Roxanne, Lyman Lawyer Jr., Travis Lawyer and wife Elizabeth Pieciak, Stevie Combs Jr. and fiancé Amanda Mayhew, Casey Combs and significant other Phillip Kittell, Travis Lawyer and wife Destiny, Krista Brown, Kirsten Lawyer and fiancé Curtis Brown, Amber Lawyer and partner Ben Wright, Keshia Lawyer and partner Cody Sheltra, Jeffrey “J.J.” Lawyer and partner Alex Gover , Jeremy Brunton and wife Tonya, Shannon Labarge and husband Clarence, Alison Garrow and Christopher Garrow; and many Great Grandchildren and Great Great Grandchildren; step grandchildren, Tim Curtis and wife Rebekah, Amee Curtis and husband Tyler, Andrew Curtis, Stephanie Curtis, Nedah Warstler and husband Ben, Ben Peters, Amy Peters, Amanda Peters her partner Andrew Ouinette, Mary Grennan, Aspen Ladue & Gage Ladue; her Siblings, Donald Putnam and his wife Gretchen, Myron Dudley and his wife Esther all of Highgate, and Cathy Robarge and her husband Keith of Richford; many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Dorothy was predeceased by her grandchildren, Timothy Tanner & Cher Combs; step grandson, George Brassill; grandsons-in-law, Louis Gilbeau & Keith Noyes; her brother, Lynwood Dudley; and twin sisters, Margaret “Maggie” Rivers & Marjorie Wynn.
A graveside service was held Sunday, December 13, 2015 at 2:00 PM at the Hill West Cemetery, West Hill, Montgomery. There were no visiting hours.
For those who wish, contributions in Dorothy’s memory may be made to Northwestern Medical Center Palliative Care Program, 133 Fairfield, St., St. Albans, VT 05478.
Violet Ann (Carey) Godfrey
....show
, 81, passed away on December 7, 2015 at the Northwest Medical Center, located in St. Albans, Vermont.
She was born in Leverett, MA, February 18, 1934, the daughter of Vera (Wentworth) and Ralph Carey.
She attended school in Moores Corner and New Salem Academy. It was at New Salem Academy where she met her future husband of 65 years, Wallace E. Godfrey, Jr. They were married on March 18, 1950.
Violet leaves her brothers, Radcliffe and wife Gloria Carey, Smyrna, DE, Thomas and wife Becky Carey, New Salem, MA, Richard and wife Margaret Carey, Leverett, MA, and sister-in-laws, Hilda Carey Williams, Moores Corner, MA, Shirley Svetaka, New Salem, MA, Gloria Saben, Turners Falls, MA, Joyce Lawrence, St. Petersburg Beach, FL and Kathy Godfrey, New Salem, MA. Violet was predeceased by her parents and brother
Ralph (Sonny) Carey, mother and father-in-law Elsie and Wallace Godfrey, Sr. and brother-in-laws James Godfrey, Joseph Svetaka, and Harold Saben.
Violet leaves four children, Valerie and husband, Winton Goodrich, Berlin, VT, Peter and wife Ruth Godfrey, Montgomery Center, VT, Tami Godfrey, Stowe, VT, and Luke and wife Amy Godfrey, Montgomery Center, VT.
Everyone knew Violet to be a kind, generous, and hard working individual, who placed family at the center of her life. Violet loved children, especially her 10 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. Hilary and husband Adam Black (Ellie and Leah), Brasstown, NC, Garrett and wife Gina Goodrich (Violet and Brady), Bakersfield, CA, Julie and husband Robert Sweet (Grace), Swanton, VT, Keith and wife Kara Godfrey, Montgomery, VT, Tyler and wife Lisa Godfrey (Emmalyn and Brantley), Northfield, MA, Rose and husband Josh Webber (Savannah and Ava), Orleans, VT, Craig Godfrey, Montgomery Ctr., VT, Colleen Godfrey McHugh, Stowe, VT, Meaghan Godfrey McHugh, Stowe, VT and Ashely Godfrey McHugh, Stowe, VT. She thoroughly enjoyed watching family members perform in dance recitals and athletic competitions. Violet shared her sewing talents with children throughout the community while serving as a 4-H leader.
In addition to serving many years as a successful homemaker, Violet worked 13 years in environmental services for the University of Massachusetts Health Center. She thoroughly enjoyed the work and developed numerous friendships.
Over the years, Violet and “Wally” maintained homes in both North Leverett, MA and Montgomery Center, VT. Before moving permanently to Montgomery Center in 1990, following joint work retirements, the couple commuted every weekend to Vermont. For a decade, both worked in the woods to help the family establish a large-scale maple sugaring operation.
Violet enjoyed quilting, rug braiding, sewing, knitting, crocheting, chair caning, working in her flowers, and traveling. Camping with her family at Hermit Island, ME and the Outer Banks of NC also brought her great pleasure. She was also a big fan of country music, traveling to many Fanfare events.
Religious faith was very important to Violet. For many years, she was an active member of both the North Leverett Baptist Church, North Leverett, MA, where she taught Sunday School, and the Montgomery Community Baptist Church, Montgomery Center, VT.
Over the years, Violet and Wally traveled to every state in the U.S. and all Canadian provinces. Their journeys included Hawaii, Alaska, and many Caribbean locations. More recently, Violet never ceased to enjoy an afternoon ride on the backroads of northern Vermont.
Violet valiantly fought the ever-increasing challenges of Alzheimer’s Disease for nearly a decade. Along with family members, Sue Hunt, Home Health worker, known fondly as “Sunshine,” provided the necessary care that helped Violet to continue to live at home.
There will be no calling hours or funeral service. The family will hold a private graveside service at an undetermined date in the future.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Franklin County Home Health, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478, the Alzheimer’s Association of Vermont, 300 Cornerstone Dr, Williston, VT 05495 or the North Leverett Baptist Church, 70 North Leverett Rd., Leverett MA 01054.
BERKSHIRE – Richard J. Bessette
....show
, age 48, passed away on Thursday, December 3, 2015 at his home in Berkshire.
He was born in Burlington on April 9, 1967 to Maggie Miller; at the age of 16, he met Bob Hemingway who took him in and raised him as his own.
Ricky was lucky enough to stay at home and raise his children, he loved to take his children on boating and camping adventures and taught them all the mechanics of a car. He was a self-taught mechanic and loved to restore old automobiles.
He leaves behind his wife, Brenda Bessette, whom he married on July 10, 2005; his children, Anthony Bessette and his wife Jayma Lamonda, Gale Bessette, Elizabeth Paquette and her boyfriend Chris Lavee and Donna Paquette and her boyfriend Timmy LaCross; his grandchildren, Conner, Anthony, Bryson, Amelia and Kadence; his step-children, Carrie and Eric Savoy; siblings Carol LaRochelle, Leo Martin and Ernie, Junior and Eugene Bessette; Several close friends including, Mary and Dwight Martell and their son, Marshall, Chris Paquette, Neil Kinney and Stacey Olstrike. Ricky was predeceased by his mother Margaret Miller in 2015 and his brother, Philip Bessette in 2010.
A funeral service will be held Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 4:00 PM at Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Pastor Lyle Willey officiating.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday at the funeral home from 3:00 PM until the hour of the service.
For those who wish, contributions in Ricky’s memory may be made to Anthony Bessette.
BERKSHIRE – Brad Stuart Bosley
....show
son of Jeannette (Couture) Bosley and the late Stuart Bosley. Brad was born July 31, 1974 in St. Albans.
Brad was a 1993 graduate of Richford High School. He enjoyed trapping, hunting and watching Star Trek and Star Wars. Brad will be remembered as a person that was always willing to help others that were in need.
He is survived by his mother, Jeannette Bosley of Berkshire; his sister, Tammi Nichols, her husband Jim and their children, Skyler & Hunter of Georgia; his great aunt, Charlotte Ramsdell of Swanton; his aunts & uncles, Aline & Robert Baker of Montgomery, Dennis & Patricia Couture of Bethel, Timothy Bosley of Berkshire, Kathleen Martin of Fairfax, and Joy Bosley of Montgomery; many cousins; a special friend Patti-Ann Draper of St. Albans. Besides his father, Brad was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Gerard “Judd” & Marie Couture; his paternal grandparents, Ralph & Barbara Bosley; and his uncle, Stephen Bosley.
Funeral services was held Monday, December 14, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Luke Austin officiating. Interment followed in St. John the Baptist Cemetery.
A time of visitation was held at the funeral home on Monday December 14th from 9:00 AM until the hour of the funeral.
For those who wish, contributions in Brad’s memory may be made to Camp Ta Kum Ta, P.O. Box 459, South Hero, VT 05486.
ENOSBURG FALLS – Dolores Elsie Miller
....show
, age 88, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Monday, November 30, 2015 after a long period of ill health.
She was born in Sheldon on September 17, 1927 to the late Clement & Gladys (Ploof) Raymond.
Dolores graduated from Enosburg Falls High School, class of 1944, and briefly attended the Jeanne Mance School of Nursing in Burlington. She went to work for the New England Telephone and Telegraph Company; first in St. Johnsbury and later in St. Albans. Dolores spent most of her working years at the Franklin County Home Health Agency. After retirement she continued working part-time at the Enosburgh Public Library - the perfect position for a life-long reader.
Her many hobbies included working outside in her vegetable and flower gardens, sewing, knitting, crocheting and needlepoint. She enjoyed playing cribbage, at one time she was the secretary of the Enosburg Falls Womens Cribbage League.
Dolores leaves behind her two sons, Ross Miller of Enosburg Falls and Mark Miller and his wife Lorri of West Berkshire; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; her sisters, Jean Lund of St. Johnsbury and Linda MacDonald and her husband Stephen of Hampstead, NH and eight nieces & nephews. Besides her parents, Dolores was predeceased by her daughter and son-in-law, Laurel & James Matheson; her siblings, Muriel and Bruce Raymond; a brother-in-law, Russell Lund and a niece Jill (Lund) Harkins.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, December 3, 2015 at 11:00 AM at St. Anthonys Catholic Church, Mill St., Sheldon Springs with Fr. Karl Hahr officiating. Interment will follow in St. Anthonys Cemetery.
Visitation will be held on Thursday from 9:30-10:30 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
For those who wish, contributions in Dolores memory may be made to Cure Alzheimers Fund, 34 Washington St., Suite 200, Wellesley Hills, MA 02481 or the Enosburgh Public Library, P.O. Box 206, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.
FRANKLIN – Sally Lou Gates Hull
....show
, age 84, passed away Sunday, November 29, 2015 with her family at her side at her home in the Carriage House in Franklin.
She was born in Franklin on March 3, 1931 to the late Rodney & Mae (Fullington) Gates.
Born and raised on a farm in Franklin. Sally attended and graduated Franklin High School and attended the University of Vermont before marrying Carroll Hull and raising her family. Sally enjoyed the beauty of all things. She was raised around the arts as her mother and father were both musical. She would often reminisce about local folks gathering around in the living room playing music. She explored art in college and often wore jewelry that she created during those years. Sally was known to travel all over northern Vermont to attend a concert or theatrical event. As a mother she shared this love by bringing her children to all the classical musicals she could find and anything the singing Rainvilles were a part of. Being raised on the farm Sally enjoyed nature and all its creatures. Many winters as a family involved sliding through the woods, getting our Christmas tree on the Dunton Farm on Rice Hill; summers at Lake Carmi, birthday gatherings in the fall in Smugglers Notch. As a young woman she was an avid downhill skier and as she grew older always had a pair of cross country skies and snowshoes out for winter fun or bike on her car so she could enjoy the Stowe biking trail. Never loving the water for swimming it was a source of pride when she bought her own canoe which she took many friends out on.
She devoted much of her life to raising her children. She loved their friends and would always welcome extra kids into the house. The more the merrier. "Grammy" loved her grandchildren immensely and they adored her. She loved babysitting and cuddling, and when she was with them they would make her smile the biggest smile. She would faithfully and proudly attend graduations, plays, concerts and sport functions and her grandchildren were pleased to see her there. Some of her happiest moments were sitting back and watching her family all together.
Sally survived cancer twice in her life. After her second cancer in 1984 she elected to cure herself naturally with homeopathic means. She sought out some like minded individuals and they started Health Seekers of Vermont. This group brought in local and national speakers of homeopathy, hosted book reviews, visited those in need of guidance and paved the way for healing for countless persons. As her children, we are constantly amazed, as again and again people will stop us and tell us how much Mom meant to them or even saved their lives. To urge people to take their health in their hands and prevent disease before it starts became her mission. It is unknown who all her friends are and where as she made new ones every day in her travels.
The family wants to thank her wonderful caregivers in particular Jeanne Rainville and Joanne Young. There were many others who made her stay in Franklin possible along with Marie Hathaway who has been through many transitions for both our parents. You always treated Mom with a dignity and respect that she so deserved. We are forever grateful.
She is survived by her children, Melanie Hull of Richford, Kris Fullington and his wife Skye of Florida, Suzanne Hull-Parent and friend Christopher Casavant of Enosburg Falls, son Peter Hull and his wife Kim Graham of Colchester and Amanda St. Pierre and her husband Mark of Berkshire; grandchildren; Tonya and her husband Matt Butner, Scott and his wife Michelle Fullington, Beth and James Price, Michael Boomhower, Allison Parent, Padraic Parent, Adrea and her husband Adil Elomri, Joshua, Jenne and Mikayla Hull, Jordan & Connor Lamay, Tyler Graham and Meghan, Jamie & Bradley St. Pierre; three great-grandchildren; Alex, Zach and Devin Scott and a niece Donna Owelett. Besides her parents, Sally was predeceased by her husband Carroll, an infant brother Rodney Dow, Jr., a grandson, Nicholas Parent and a son-in-law, Mark Parent; a daughter-in-law, Bonnie Fullington and her brother-in-law and his wife, Merriman and Dorothy Hull, nephew Dennis Hull along with a dear friend Tim Hopkins.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2015 at 10:00 AM in the Franklin United Church, Main St., Franklin with Pastor Jason McConnell. Interment will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery and a light luncheon in the Franklin Church Basement.
There will be no visitation.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her name to the Carriage House (142 Homestead Drive, Franklin, VT 05457) to be used for activities for the residents.
FAIRFIELD – Michael Paradee
....show
, age 51, passed away on Thursday, November 26, 2015 at his home in Fairfield surrounded by his loving family.
He was born in Fairfield on March 1, 1964 to the late Frederick & Shelby (Glidden) Paradee.
Michael grew up in Fairfield and was a graduate of B.F.A. St. Albans class of 1982. He worked on the family farm until it sold and spent the last several years working at Fonda in St. Albans and Swan Valley Cheese in Swanton. Michael enjoyed fixing things for people and riding 4-wheelers. His friends and family were very important to him and he would do anything he could to help them out.
He is survived by his siblings, Mark Paradee and his wife Anne of Fairfield, Ann Sturgeon and her husband Edward of Enosburg, Roy Paradee and his wife Joy of Bakersfield and Joanne Minckler and her husband Steven of Sheldon; 6 nieces & nephews, Jennifer Langelier and her husband Josh, Christopher and Sherri Sturgeon, Allen Paradee and his wife Cecile and Sarah and Shelby Paradee; his aunts & uncles, Marilyn & Richard Almeida, Priscilla Johnson, Thomas & Ellen Paradee, Mary Jane & Richard Boudreau and Dora Paradee and several cousins and close friends. Besides his parents, Michael was predeceased by his godmother, Anita Paradee and her husband Billy; his aunt Linda Rockwell and uncle David Johnson.
Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, December 1, 2015 from 5-8 pm at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, December 2, 2015 at 11:00 AM at St. Patricks Catholic Church, Church Rd., Fairfield with Fr. William Giroux officiating. Interment will be held this spring in the Sheldon Village Cemetery.
For those who wish, contributions in Michaels memory may be made to the Jim Bashaw Cancer & Catastrophic Illness Fund, c/o Northwestern Medical Center, 133 Fairfield St., St. Albans, VT 05478.
EAST FAIRFIELD – David H. Chaplin
....show
, age 77, was born in Montgomery on September 4, 1938 to the late Henry & Beulah (Lumbra) Chaplin. He passed away on Tuesday, November 24, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
David spent most of his life in East Fairfield. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing and gardening. He also enjoyed searching for treasures with his metal detector and finding four-leaf clovers for which he had a special talent. Throughout his career he worked primarily as a heavy equipment mechanic. He worked for Youngs Construction, Phil Gerbode, and as a welder for his business called Bulls-Eye Welding. David was also a veteran of the United States Army. David, also known as Davey Chap by his friends, remember him as being very humble and noble. They also remember him as being self-assured and resourceful, as well as very generous with his time and knowledge, especially to those who wanted to know about living in Vermont. He would do anything for his family and friends without asking for anything in return. He was much loved and will be missed.
He is survived by his five children, Roberta Baker & her husband, William Jr. of Montgomery, Cindy Legault & Wade of Milton, David E. Chaplin of Fairfax, John Chaplin & Lynn and Richard Chaplin all of East Fairfield; his grandchildren, Ashley Cota of Burlington, Whitney Nelson & her husband, Thomas of Dexter, NY, Hazen Cota of Montgomery, David and Travis Chaplin and Brent Legault all of Milton, Desiree Baker & Kyle of Highgate Ctr., Elizabeth Cookingham of Fairfax, Chantel Chaplin of Burlington, David Williams of Bakersfield, Jordan Chaplin of East Fairfield and Dakota Rockwell of East Fairfield and his sister, Kayla Rockwell, several great-grandchildren; his siblings, Clarence Chaplin & his wife, Diane of Shelburne, Shirley Ryea of East Fairfield, Christine Tinker & her husband, Royce of Johnson and Ralph Chaplin & his wife, Kathy of Meriden, CT; step-siblings, Mildred Juckett of Waterville, Archie Gillilan of Fletcher and many other special people including, Tanya Johnson & family of Swanton and Martha Gillilan of Fletcher; his faithful companion, Zeus and several nieces & nephews. Besides his parents, David was predeceased by his wife, Kathleen Schnaubelt; Carol Ann (Hart) Savage, the mother of his children; his granddaughter, Jessica Chaplin and a step-brother, Raymond Gillilan.
Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2015 from 5-8 pm at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. There will be no public service. Interment will take place in St. Georges Cemetery in Bakersfield at the convenience of the family.
For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made in Davids memory to Franklin County Humane Society, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478, or to assist with funeral expense at Spears Funeral Home, P.O. Box 396, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.
ENOSBURG FALLS – Ruth Ileane (Monette) Ladue
....show
, age 101, passed away Wednesday, November 11, 2015 at the Franklin County Rehab Facility in St. Alban. Ruth was able to live in her own home up until four weeks ago with the help of her granddaughter, Marilyn LaRochelle, her great grandson Shayne LaRochelle and his girlfriend, Brittney.
She was born in Bakersfield on January 16, 1914 the daughter of the late Alfred & Amelia (Bombard) Monette.
Ruth was a resident of Enosburg Falls most of her life. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and the Enosburgh Historical Society. She was employed for many years as a housekeeper for Dr. & Mrs. Eppley as well as many other families in the community.
She attended Care Partners in St. Albans where she learned to dance at the age of 98. Along with dancing she also enjoyed playing cards. In her earlier years she became an excellent seamstress and also enjoyed knitting, crocheting and gardening
She is survived by her daughter, Ella Patterson of Enosburg Falls; 5 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Ruth was predeceased by her husband, Leslie G. Ladue; her sons, Burton & Howard Ladue; her daughters, Virginia & Laura Ladue; her sisters, Rose Ladue, Mary McKinney & Florence Cutting; and her brothers, Clarence, Leon, Carmi & Albert Monette.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held Monday at 11:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 222 Missisquoi Street, Enosburg Falls. Interment will follow in St. John the Baptist Cemetery.
Visiting hours will be held Sunday from 2-4 at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
For those who wish, contributions in Ruths memory may be made to St. John the Baptist Catholic, Church, P.O. Box 563, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450 or have a Mass said in her memory.
COLCHESTER – Gordon A. Flood
....show
, age 70, passed away Tuesday, November 10, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
He was born May 4, 1945 in Cambridge the son of the late Milton & Cora Belle (Fiske) Flood.
Gordon enjoyed watching NASCAR and rooting his favorite driver, Kevin Harvick and following the New York Yankees. He also enjoyed watching and feeding the birds, working in his gardens and taking care of the yard work. In his earlier years he enjoyed bowling.
He is survived by his wife, Beverly (Lesure) Flood of Colchester. Gordon & Beverly were married, June 18, 1966. He is also survived by his children, Glenn Flood and his wife Kelli of Fairfax, Robin Luter and her husband John Jr. of Colchester, and Tim Flood & Sara Tucker of Barre; 6 grandchildren, Bailey, Molly & Johnny Luter, and Brendan, Leah & Erica Flood; his sisters, Beverly Neddo and her husband Roger of Barre, Lorraine Flood of Montpelier, and Elizabeth Burnham of Putney; many nieces, nephews & cousins. Besides his parents, Gordon was predeceased by his brothers, Alfred, Robert, Floyd & Raymond Flood.
A graveside service will be held at the Binghamville Cemetery, School Road, Fletcher on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at 2:00 PM. There will be no visiting hours.
For those who wish, contributions in Gordons memory may be made to the Humane Society of ones choice.
LILBURN, GA / FAIRFIELD, VT – Roger George Trudell
....show
, age 70, was born on October 8, 1945 in St. Albans, VT to Richard Trudell and Helen Monty Trudell. He departed this life on Thursday, October 29, 2015 at Eastside Medical Center in Snellville, GA.
Upon graduating from St. Marys High School (St. Albans, VT) in 1963, Roger attended St. Michaels College (Colchester, VT). He joined the Air Force in (1965) where he received a National Defense Service Medal and Air Force Good Conduct Medal. In 1969, after being honorably discharged from service, he moved to northern California to pursue a career in computer engineering. He married Suzette Oligny, of Enosburg Fall, VT on June 18, 1970. Together they raised two beautiful daughters, Michaela and Talya, in southern California. He was very proud of the accomplishments and successes of his daughters.
Rogers heart was in Vermont. He loved the cool, clean and brisk air of a fall day and often spoke of time spent with his dad cutting wood in preparation for sugaring. Sugaring season was a special time, driving the horses through the snow with dray attached, collecting the sap from tree to tree. Roger loved math, science and physics. His thirst for knowledge led him to a career as a design engineer in computer hardware and software. He also had a light side as evidence in his love of cartoons, especially Daffy Duck and playing the keyboard.
Roger just returned from visiting and celebrating his 70th birthday with his family in Vermont. Many fond memories were made with his sister Carolyn Mitchell and brother Garry Trudell during this vacation. As Suzette and Carolyn made applesauce in the kitchen, they could hear the joking and laughter while Roger and Wayne, Carolyns husband, worked outside with winter preparations. Through the first flurries of approaching winter, Roger and Suzette along with Garry and his wife Eileen Howrigan Trudell, traveled familiar roads of northern Vermont, reminiscing of the past.
Time spent with his grandchildren was so special to Roger. He loved cuddling baby Rhett and the big hugs from toddler, Logan, commenting on how they were always smiling and so good natured.
A farewell to Rogers close friend, retired U.S. Army, Barney Roth of Chattanooga, Tennessee. He loved you Barney! Thanks for being there for him.
He is survived by his wife, Suzette Oligny Trudell; his children, Michaela Mummert and her husband Stewart of Atlanta, GA; Talya DiGirolamo and her husband Paul of Atlanta, GA; two Grandchildren Logan Nathaniel and Rhett Jamison Mummert; his sister Carolyn Mitchell and her husband Wayne of East Fairfield, VT; his brother Garry Trudell and his wife Eileen (Howrigan) of East Fairfield, VT; second cousin Roger Leo Trudell and his wife Sheila of Ooltewah, TN; and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents Richard Trudell and Helen Corrado of East Fairfield, VT, Roger was predeceased by his brother Michael Trudell of Georgia, VT and his Aunt and Uncle Lora and Maurice Monty of Richford, VT.
Memorial services and military honors will be held Saturday, November 7, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls, VT 05450 with Reverend Karl Hahr officiating. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family in St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Enosburg Falls.
For those who wish, contributions in Rogers memory may be made to St. John the Baptist Cemetery Association, C/O Donna Magnant, P.O. Box 575, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.
FAIRFIELD – Freda P. Burnor
....show
, age 101, passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2015 surrounded by her loving family at her daughters home in South Carolina.
She was born in Montgomery on June 8, 1914 to the late Ernest & Iva (Lumbra) Touchette.
Freda married Charles A. Burnor on July 30, 1938 in St. Albans and together they raised their four children on their family farm in Montgomery. She was an entrepreneur for Stanley Home Products from 1967 until the present. Managed three meal sites in the towns of Enosburg, Montgomery and Fairfield for Champlain Valley Agency on Aging. After retiring, from CVAA at age 82, she announced she had a job interview the next day with the United Way Foster Grandparent Program and this is where she spent the next 18 years helping teachers in pre-school and kindergarten classes in the Fairfield community where she became known as Gramma Freda.
She was instrumental in starting and continuing the senior meals and accompanying programs at the Fairfield Community Center. She continued to raise funds, attend planning meetings and pay bills until October 2014.
She became more active with her beloved St. Anthony/St. George Church after the passing of her husband Charlie. She loved being in choir and on the parish council as well as organizing fundraisers for the church. She was an avid quilter beginning at age 82 and donated many of them for the raffles.
She received many awards for her outstanding community service with the most recent one in 2011 from the Community National Bank.
Her heart and home were in Vermont filled with her favorite things. With her independence, ability to travel so late in life and knowing her home awaited her return, she was determined to be in the company of her family throughout the country to bond with her generations to follow. For years, her children let her know that they knew she loved what she was doing but when she was tired she was welcome to come and stay with them. Her response was always, Lets just see what next year brings. As the years went by her words held true and at the end of each subsequent year she announced, I signed up again. Retirement was not an easy choice for her but Gramma Freda left her most rewarding job at the age of 99. Shortly after retiring in May 2013, she announced that she would sell her car and give up her choice to drive. Even at the age of 99, she was still a great role model and made it easy for her children.
She is survived by her children, James Burnor and his wife Barbara of Hanahan, SC, Mary Walker and her husband Dale of Elk City, OK and Theresa Tessier and her husband Randy of Honea Path, SC; 14 Grandchildren, 30 Great Grandchildren, 8 Great Great Grandchildren, and 2 Great-great-great-grandchildren; her sisters, Mary Cole of Johnson and Myrtle Casali of Jamaica Plain, MA and several nieces & nephews. Besides her parents and her husband, Freda was predeceased by her son, Larry Burnor; her daughter, June Smith; her siblings, Charles, Francis, Eugene and Robert Touchette, Phyllis Peluso and Margaret Burnor and her step-father, Wallace Touchette.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, October 31, 2015 at 11:00 AM at St. Patricks Church, 116 Church Rd., Fairfield. Interment will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Bakersfield.
Visitation will be held on Friday from 5-8 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Anthony/St. George Catholic Church, P.O. Box 18, Fairfield, VT 05455, United Way - Foster Grandparent Program, P.O. Box 387, St. Albans, VT 05478, CVAA - Senior Meal Site Program, Development Department
76 Pearl Street, Suite 201, Essex Junction, VT 05452 and/or Fairfield Community Center, 124 School Street, East Fairfield, VT 05448.
FRANKLIN – Albert J. Desautels
....show
, age 79, passed away on Saturday, October 24, 2015 at his home in the Franklin Homestead.
Albert married Ginette Salois on June 18, 1960 and together they raised their 4 daughters in Richford. Albert was the kind of husband that would stop and pick wild flowers beside the road for Ginette and not need a reason. He worked for many years as a master carpenter and also became licensed as a master plumber. Albert was an engineer of sorts who, many times, would make what he needed to get a job done. Albert worked long hard days and cared very much for all of his customers. He was in every sense of the word a Craftsman and it showed in all of his work. He was proud of the work he did, but more so he was proud of his wife, Ginette, his 4 Daughters and the home they built together.
He retired at the age of 66 and began traveling around the United States and Canada. Albert and Ginette spent many hours on the road together; for the past 7 years, they would spend summers at Brookside Campground in Enosburgh and winters at their home in Lake Worth, FL. Alberts favorite hobbies included woodworking and playing cards, croquet and petanque, snowmobiling and bowling. Albert was very competitive but did not need to win. Ask anyone at The Campground that played Croquet with Him.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Ginette Desautels of Franklin; 4 daughters and their husbands, Joanne & Vincent Johnson of Franklin, Jayne & Peter Chevalier of St. Albans, Joyce & Chris Sicard and Julie & Richard Hoy all of Richford; 15 grandchildren, Collin, Jordan, Elly, Corey, Jerrica, Keilah, Craig, Kyle, Amanda, Christine, Andrea, Daniel, Robert, Shane and Ricky; 10 great grandchildren; his siblings and their spouses, Germaine & George Provost of St. Theodore, Que., Jacqueline & Gilles Favreau of Sutton, Que., Jean Noel & Noella Desautels and Gilles Desautels all of Richford and Laurent Desautels of Waco, TX.; a half-sister, Martha Chartier and her husband Bruce and a step-sister Theresa Desautels all of Agawam, MA; his siblings-in-law and their spouses, Claude & Loraine Salois of Hanover, PA, Michele & Peter St. Germain of Highgate Ctr., Andre & Jeanne Salois of Tolland, CT and Frances Salois of St. Albans and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Albert was predeceased by his siblings, Laurentia & Laurette Courtemanche, Lucienne Dion, Yvette LaRocque and Marcel, Andre, Leo, Germain & Florian Desautels and his father and mother-in-law, Lionel & Yvette (Rodrigue) Salois. Albert was also recently predeceased by sisters-in-law, Yolande Winn and Monique Desautels.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, October 30, 2015 at 11:00 AM at All Saints Catholic Church, Main St., Richford with Fr. Karl Hahr officiating. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 5-8 PM on Thursday, October 29, 2015 at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
For those who wish, contributions in Alberts memory may be made to Franklin County Home Health Association, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478.
JEFFERSONVILLE – Shirley Ada Sherrer
....show
, age 85, wife of the late Keith Sherrer, passed away Thursday, October 15, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
She was born January 26, 1930 in Sutton, Quebec, Canada to the late Cecil & Ruby (Prouty) Mandigo. Shirley was one of twelve children.
Shirley married Keith on November 18, 1949. In 1955 they moved to Vermont and eventually settled in Jeffersonville. She was a lady of many talents including sewing, canning, baking, house keeping and entertaining. For over 25 years she managed and kept several homes in the area for Florence Knoll Bassett and Perley Cummings. Shirley enjoyed traveling, but her family was the most important thing to her.
She is survived by three loving daughters, Jo-Ann Shoram of South Burlington, Norma Vogel and her husband Richard of Colchester and Susan Davis and her husband Frederick of Shelburne; three grandchildren, Major Robert Teague and his wife Jeanette of South Berwick, ME, Cheryl Lynn Ovitt and her husband Jeffrey of St. Albans and Benjamin & Danielle Davis of Littleton, CO; four loving great grandchildren, Emma P. Teague and Matthew J. Teague both of South Berwick, ME and Jordan and Hunter Ovitt both of St. Albans; her siblings, Winston & Shirley Mandigo of Port Elgin, Ontario, Peggy Mandigo of St. Marys, Ontario, Lois Sturgeon of Waterloo, Quebec, Connie (Mandigo) Sherrer of Wetaskiwin, Alberta, Geraldine Gowing of Hartford, CT and Carol-Ann Vorse and her husband Clifton of Enosburg Falls; her siblings-in-law from Keiths family, Shirley Gardner of Dunham, Quebec, Audrey Kitt of Bedford, Quebec, Dorothy Sherrer of Sutton, Quebec and several nieces & nephews.
Besides her parents, Shirley was predeceased by her grandson, Frederick J. Davis III, her siblings, Leonard Sturgeon, Cecil Mandigo, Ross Mandigo,Royce & Mary Mindigo and Ruth Bernie and Keiths family, Hugh, Lloyd, George, Douglas, Alden, Patricia and Joyce Sherrer, Mrs. Douglas (Opal) Sweet, Mrs. Francis (Ethel) Haggerty, Mrs. Ernest (Bernice) Tittemore, Ernest Tittemore, Glenna Sherrer, George & Helen Diamond, Steve Kitt and Donald Gardner.
Shirleys family would like to thank the staff at the Pillsbury Manor North in South Burlington for the care given to her over the past 4 months. They would also like to thank the doctors and staff on Baird 4 at the University of Vermont Medical Center.
In keeping with Shirleys wishes she will be cremated and a celebration of her life will be held Friday, October 23, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. Interment will be held this spring in Sutton, Quebec.
A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home on Friday from 10:00 AM until the hour of the service.
For those who wish, contributions in Shirleys memory may be made to Vermont Respite House, 99 Allen Brook Lane, Williston, VT 05495 or to Make A Wish Foundation of Vermont, 100 Dorset St., Suite 14, South Burlington, VT 05403
RICHFORD – Judy A. Dussault
....show
, age 71, passed away on Tuesday, October 6, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
She was born on August 3, 1944 in Caribou, Maine to the late Peter & Patricia (Greenier) Conroy.
Judy grew up and attended school in Caribou, ME. After graduation she spent several years traveling around the country before meeting her husband, Daniel Dussault and settling in Richford. Judy worked for Green Mountain Power while her health allowed her to do so. For the past 15 years, as Judys health failed, Daniel became her primary caregiver while her grandchildren became her pride and joy. Other than being with her grandchildren, reading was her favorite hobby.
She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Daniel J. Dussault of Richford; 5 children, Kathryn Richardson of Shreveport, LA, Hollene Green of Doylestown, PA, Dawn Boczulak and her husband Steven of Endwell, NY, Jennifer Stanhope and her husband David of Richford and Tim Dussault and his wife Theda of Richford; 11 grandchildren, Charles and Brandon Green, Miranda Gledhill, Gary Odom, Taylor Kaminsky, Seth, Adam and Jacob Boczulak, Christopher Stanhope, Samantha Griffis and Megan Dussault; several great grandchildren, 2 sisters, Cindy Charette and her husband Claude of Hanies City, FL and Nancy Boivin of Concord, NH; brother-in-law, Pete Dussault and his wife Sue of Richford and several nieces & nephews. Besides her parents, Judy was predeceased by a sister-in-law, Michelle (Dussault) Tatro.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, October 17, 2015 at 2:00 PM at All Saints Catholic Church, Main St., Richford with Fr. Karl Hahr officiating.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 16, 2015 at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls from 5-8 PM.
For those who wish, Contributions in Judys memory may be made to Richford Ambulance Service, P.O. Box 236, Richford, VT 05476 or the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.
ENOSBURGH – Michael Corey
....show
, age 63, passed away on Monday, October 5, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
He was born in Morrisville on January 1, 1952 to the late Theodore & Evelyn (Dashno) Corey.
Michael spent his entire life in Vermont and married Valarie Cook in 1979. Throughout his career he worked at several area farms, at A.G. Anderson in Swanton for over 10 years and at Peerless Clothing in St. Albans for the past 18 years. Michael loved hunting, camping, sitting by the camp fire and snowmobiling but most importantly he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Valarie Corey of Enosburgh; children, Renee Badger and her husband Art of Richford and Theodore Corey and his wife Anna of Enosburgh; 4 grandchildren, Ann Marie and Devon Badger and Stephen and Joshua Corey; siblings, Randy Corey and his wife Karen of Enosburgh and Joyce Godin of Berkshire; a sister-in-law, Cathy Clark and her husband Ernest of Enosburgh; his beloved dog, Laddy and several nieces & nephews. Besides his parents, Michael was predeceased by his siblings, Theodore Jr., Gaylord, Lynn and Sally Corey and Betsy Ploof.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, October 10, 2015 at 12:00 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Pastor Patrick Hoadley officiating.
A time of visitation will be held Saturday at the funeral home from 10:00 AM until the hour of the service.
For those who wish, contributions in Michaels memory may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 417005 Boston, MA 02241-7005.
ENOSBURG FALLS – Florence T. Slivka
....show
, age 96, passed away Tuesday evening, September 29, 2015 at the St. Albans Health Care Facility in St. Albans.
She was born August 30, 1919 in Paterson, New Jersey the daughter of the late Jacob & Marziana (Matuschefsko) Gurlacz.
Florence was raised and spent most of her adult life in the Elmwood Park, New Jersey area where she worked at Marcal Paper Company for several years then retired from the Warner Woven Label Company after 30 plus years of service. She had been a member of the local senior citizens group in New Jersey. She enjoyed traveling with the group, especially the trips to Atlantic City. Florence moved to Vermont in 2002 to be closer to her son and became a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. In her spare time she enjoyed knitting Afghans.
She is survived by her son William Skol of Enosburg Falls; her grandchildren, Bill W. Skol and his wife Nerissa of Waddell, AZ, and Nicholas Skol and his wife Nina of Olympia, WA, and Joe Weglarz of Elmwood Park, NJ; her great grandchildren, Aaron, Gabriella and Tristan; her brother, Chester Gurlacz of Venice, FL; several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Florence was predeceased by her husband, John Slivka; daughter, Judith Foley; daughter-in-law, Bik-Mui Skol; and siblings, John, Stanley, Paula & Eva.
Mass of Christian burial will be held Monday, October 5, 2015 at 11:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 222 Missisquoi St., Enosburg Falls. Interment will follow in St. John the Baptist Cemetery.
A time of visitation will be held Monday from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
For those who wish, contributions in Florences memory may be made to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, P.O. Box 563, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.
ENOSBURG FALLS – Helen F. Spears
....show
, age 93, passed away at her home on Monday evening September 28, 2015.
She was born August 6, 1922 in Rutland the daughter of the late Earl & Ruth (Porter) Flanders.
Helen was a graduate of Rutland High School and married William E. Spears on December 15, 1943. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and was a former member of the Parish Council and Ladies of St. Anne Society. She enjoyed making ceramics and playing cards with the 500 Card Club .
She is survived by her children, William E, Spears Jr. and his wife Kathleen of Enobsurg Falls, Pamela Dodge and her husband Clark of Charlotte, and Patricia Stowe and her husband David of Enosburg Falls; her grandchildren, Kim Lawyer, Jennifer Ladue, Jody Luten, Robyn Spears, Megan Dodge, Amber Stowe & Autumn Stowe; her great grandchildren, Aspen & Gage Ladue, Nick, Allie & Noah Ladue, Journi & Isaiah Luten and Mallori Drolette-Spears; her sister, Joyce Bruner of Essex; sister-in-law, Pauline Flanders of South Burlington; several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Helen was predeceased by her husband, William E. Spears Sr. on June 20, 1981; and her brother, Earl Bud Flanders.
Helens family wishes to give a special thanks to the staff at Franklin County Home Health, also Theresa, Sonja, Kathy & Susie and all of her granddaughters for the special care she received which made it possible for her to remain at home.
Funeral services will be held Friday, October 2, 2015 at 10:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 222 Missisquoi St., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Karl Hahr celebrating the Mass of Christian burial. Interment was in St. John the Baptist Cemetery.
Visiting Hours will be held Thursday from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
For those who wish, contributions in Helens memory may be made to St. John the Baptist Cemetery Association, C/O Donna Magnant, P.O. Box 575, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450
FRANKLIN – Janet T. Magnant
....show
, age 83, passed away after a brief illness on Friday, September 25, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
She was born in St. Albans on February 14, 1932 to the late Merrill Magnant & Lucy (Perrotte) Garrow.
Janet spent her working career at Union Carbide in St. Albans. After retirement she became the full time care giver to her mother and step-father, Harland until their passing. She enjoyed traveling, especially on her various bus trips as well as 2 trips to Scotland. Janet was a giving person that would do anything for anybody; she was always willing to bring someone to church or an appointment. Her favorite hobby was playing cards and she would attend several card parties around the area.
She is survived by her sister, Betty Wright of St. Albans; 2 nieces, Kathy Beaudoin and her husband Greg of Jeffersonville and Debra Swan and her husband Gary of Colchester; great niece & nephews, Ashley, Garrett and Erik; close friends, Lorraine Longley and Sue Richards and several others. Besides her parents, Janet was predeceased by her step-father, Harland Garrow.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, October 3, 2015 at 11:00 AM at St. Marys Catholic Church, School St., Franklin. Interment will follow in St. Marys Catholic Cemetery in Franklin.
A time of visitation was held on Friday, October 2, 2015 from 4-7 at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
For those who wish, contributions in Janets memory may be made to the Franklin Homestead - Resident Activity Fund, 114 Homestead Drive, Franklin, VT 05457 or to St. Marys Catholic Church, P.O. Box 563, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.
FRANKLIN – Raymond Sonny Larose Jr.
....show
, age 85, passed away on Thursday, September 24, 2015 at the St. Albans Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center.
He was born in Lisbon, New Hampshire on November 2, 1929 to the late Raymond Sr. & Mary (Marshia) Larose.
Sonny farmed in his younger years but the majority of his working career was spent as an auto body mechanic for Champlain Chevrolet and Dick Wright Ford. He loved spending time outdoors especially fishing or just enjoying the wilderness. Sonny enjoyed going to flea markets, going for rides and spending time with his family.
He is survived by a son, Rick Larose of Franklin; grandchildren, Richard Larouche and his wife Tanya, Rebeca Martin and her husband Robert, Stacey Gregorek and her husband Eric, Linda Sochia and her husband James, Laura Field and her husband Richard, Lisa Larose and her fianc Scott Jewett and Shauna and Amanda Larose; great grandchildren, Rick, Destiny, Dustin, Bethanie, Hunter, Damien, Matthew, Aly, Skyler, Sophia, Seth, Tyler, Kaylee and Matthew; a sister, Jeanette Rutherford of Hagerstown, MD; a nephew, Carl Rutherford and his wife Leslie also of Hagerstown, MD; close family friends, Guy Demag and his wife Mary, Joyce Christian and her husband Ronald, Edward Corwell and his wife Judy, Janet Fuller, Lori Royea and Linda Billado and his beloved dog, Sprocket. Besides his parents, Sonny was predeceased by his wife, Sheila (Lahue) Larose and his sons, Terrance and Bruce Larose.
In keeping with Sonnys wishes he will be cremated and there will be no services.
For those who wish, contributions in Sonnys memory may be made to the Franklin County Humane Society, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478.
MONTGOMERY CENTER – Evelyn G. Hart
....show
, age 97, passed away Sunday evening, September 20, 2015 at the Franklin County Rehab Facility in St. Albans.
She was born February 19, 1918 in St. Albans the daughter of the late Harvey & Virginia (Lumbra) Gonyea.
Evelyn was a lifelong resident of Montgomery Center and was a member of St. Isidores Catholic Church and the Ladies of St. Theresa Society. Evelyn had a full life with family and friends and enjoyed playing BINGO, card games, bowling and gambling. After getting her license at the age of 71 she enjoyed driving and outings with the Red Hat Girls.
She is survived by her daughter, Sandie Cota of Montgomery Center; her grandchildren and their families, Dana Cota his wife Kelly of Enosburg Falls and their two sons Evan and Connor, and Marty Cota of Montgomery Center his daughter Krystal Hernandez and Krystals daughter, Sahara Hernandez; and her nephews, Brent & Dennis Godin. Besides her parents, Evelyn was predeceased by her husband, Max P. Hart on, June 15, 1987. Evelyn and Max were married on July 30, 1940. She was also predeceased by her sister, Hilda Godin; brother-in-law, Henry Godin; son-in-law, Bob Cota; and cousin Alvira Arel.
Evelyns family wishes to give a special thanks to the Home Health nurses and the staff at Franklin County Rehab for the special care she received.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 24, 2015 at 11:00 AM at St. Isidores Catholic Church, 169 Mountain Road, Montgomery Center Richford with Rev. Karl Hahr celebrating the Mass of Christian burial. Interment will follow in St. Isidores Cemetery. In keeping with her wishes there will be no visiting hours.
For those who wish, contributions in Evelyns memory may be made to Franklin County Home Health Agency, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478.
SHELBURNE – Wilma Howard
....show
, age 98, passed away on Tuesday, August 25, 2015 at The Arbors at Shelburne.
She was born in Swanton on June 27, 1917 to the late Earl & Anna (Loop) Reed.
Wilma graduated as valedictorian from Essex Jct. High School. After graduation she attended the University of Vermont for a short time before marrying Donald Howard on May 14, 1938. Wilma belonged to several groups including the Order of the Easter Star, L.V.I.S, Fireside Club, the Girl Scouts and Brownies as a troop leader and the Enosburg Falls United Methodist Church. She had a green thumb, especially when it came to plants, her interests included gardening, swimming, canoeing, biking and a love for the outdoors. Wilma was fiercely loyal to family and never had a bad word for anyone. She took great pride in being Donalds devoted wife while caring for him as his health failed through the final 8 years of his life.
She is survived by her children, Carole Ann Johnson and her husband Ivan of Swanton and Mary Howard of Burlington and a very special friend Jonathan Raphael; grandchildren, Ivan Johnson Jr. and his wife Mary, Bruce Johnson and Jessica Ladd and Christine Scanlon and her husband Chris; great grandchildren, Joana Smith and her husband Mike, Joseph Johnson, Adam Johnson and his wife Kelli and Carly Scanlon; great great grandchildren, Cheyanne & Savannah Johnson and several nieces & nephews. Besides her parents, Wilma was predeceased by her husband Donald S. Howard; her siblings and their spouses, Wilmot & Susie, James & Carol, Earl Jr. & Eleanor and Hugh & Eleanor Reed and a sister-in-law, Lillian Olbrych and her husband Jim.
Wilmas family would like to thank the people that helped care for her over the past several years including the staffs from Gazebo Apartments of Pillsbury Senior Communities and The Arbors at Shelburne; and family friends, Julie Lacross, Paul & Pauline Loiselle, Kevin Dulude and the late Charlie Colburn.
A Funeral Service will be held Thursday, August 27, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Pastor Jon Bly officiating. Interment will follow in Riverside Cemetery in Swanton at 3:00 PM.
A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home on Thursday from 10:00 AM until the hour of the service.
For those who wish, contributions in Wilmas memory may be made to the Enosburgh Ambulance Service, 83 Sampsonville Road, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.
RICHFORD, VT / OLMSTEDVILLE, NY – Martin Henry Byrne Marty
....show
, 87, died peacefully on Aug 13, 2015, at Our Lady of the Meadows in Richford, Vermont with his family by his side.
Born April 20, 1928, in Glens Falls, NY he was the son of the late Martin J. and Grace (Tougas) Byrne.
Marty grew up in the Glens Falls/Queensbury, NY area and loved nothing more than spending time outdoors, especially hunting and fishing on Glen Lake. Martin joined the Army Air Core when he was just 17 years old and completed his basic training at Keesler Field, Mississippi. He continued on to serve in Australia and in the South Pacific, always reflecting on his years of service with pride and honor. He truly loved his country.
Upon returning from the service, he went to work for Niagara Mohawk Power and Light in Glens Falls. He worked as a Lineman/Line Foreman until his retirement in 1985. Marty was also an avid Scuba Diver and one of the first to lay power lines on the floor of Lake George.
Marty married Norma Marie (West) Byrne in 1950 and settled in the Glens Falls / South Glens Falls area where they raised their children. His hunting and fishing passions continued on through retirement at his home in Olmstedville, NY: deer hunting in the fall with his son and grandsons, snowmobiling in the winter with friends, and trout fishing in the spring and early summer - he lived for the outdoors. Winters in FL with his daughter and family were also very special.
He so loved the Adirondack Mountains and spent many hours around the wood stove with family and friends, sharing stories and a beer (had to be Budweiser). This was his forever home. He also was a member of Safari Club International (recognized for several International Exotic Animal Records), a proud member of the NRA as well as the American Legion and VFW.
Marty loved spending time with his many friends and second family at Sportys Iron Duke Saloon in Minerva, NY. (A special thank you to David and Donna Beale and Penny Mitchell for their many years of friendship and love and to all his friends in the North Country). He was a proud member of Sportys Rifle Team and also participated in many local charities and community events.
Martin is predeceased by his parents and his wife, Norma (West) Byrne; 4 sisters: Shirley Byrne, Grace Betty Betts, Anna McKinney, and Helen McHugh.
He is survived by 3 Children and 6 Grandchildren; Jeffrey Michael Byrne and wife Leslie, and two grandsons Alex and Connor Byrne, of Georgia VT. He is also survived by his daughter Sue Ann Millar (Byrne) and her husband Thomas, and two grandchildren Nicole (Millar) Lesko and Matthew Millar of FL. and Timothy Byrne, wife Sue, and grandchildren Aislinn and Devlin of Derby Line, VT, as well as several nieces and nephews.
A special thanks to the entire staff of Our Lady of the Meadows Assisted Living Home in Richford, VT for the true comfort, care, and kindness given to Marty. Thank you also to the dedicated Hospice caregivers.
There will be a short service at Sportys at noon on August 16, 2015 with a luncheon to follow. The family has requested that donations be made to the American Legion (post of your choice) or your local VFW in Martin Byrnes name.
A graveside service will be held at St. Marys cemetery in South Glens Falls on Monday, August 17, 2015 at 1:00 PM. All friends and family are welcome to attend.
SHELDON – John E. Severance
....show
, age 71, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, August 11, 2015 surrounded by his loving family at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
He was born in Sheldon on October 24, 1943 to the late Clarence & Ryllis (Chamberlain) Severance.
John graduated from B.F.A. St. Albans class of 1961. Throughout most of his career he worked for Eveready, retiring in 1997. He married Betty Barkyoumb on August 12, 1967. John enjoyed his retirement and became a master gardener; his gardens were some of the biggest around! He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association and the American Legion Post #88 in Sheldon Springs. John enjoyed most of his roles throughout life but he loved being Papa the most.
He leaves behind his wife of 48 years, Betty Severance of Sheldon; 2 sons, Keven Severance and his wife Robin of Wesport, NY and Jeffrey Severance and his wife Amy of Enosburgh; grandchildren, Amanda, Lacey, Haley, Mathew, Brianna & Megan; 2 brothers, George Bubby Severance and his wife Nancy of Mesa, AZ and Raymond Severance and his wife Yvette of Sheldon; an aunt, Janet Lumbra and her husband Reuben of Milo, ME; siblings-in-law, Mary Severance of Jeffersonville, Janet & Roger Yandow of Essex, Frank & Carol Barkyoumb of Westford, Gloria & Ray Ledoux of Fairfax, Sandy Cutting of Fairfax, Linda & Richard Mathieu of Westford, Kenneth Barkyoumb and his fianc Sally of Bolton, Brenda & Ike Irish of Fairfax, Debbie & Mark Irish of Fairfax and Susan & Douglas Corse of Fairfax and several nieces, nephews & cousins. Besides his parents, John was predeceased by a brother, Bernard Severance; a brother-in-law, Ron Cutting and aunt & uncles, George & Thelma Stebbins and Lila & Clelan Jones.
A Memorial service will be held Saturday, August 15, 2015 at 1:00 PM at Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with pastor Jon Gorton officiating.
A time of visitation will be held on Saturday at the funeral home from 12:00 PM until the hour of the service.
For those who wish, contributions in Johns memory may be made to Sheldon Volunteer Fire Department, 479 Mill St., Sheldon Springs, VT 05483 or a charity of your choice.
HYDE PARK/ENOSBURGH – Anthony Tony Edward Parent
....show
, age 54, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2015 surrounded by his loving family at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
He was born April 14, 1961 in St. Albans to George W. Parent and the late Rita (Rainville) Parent.
Tony graduated from B.F.A St. Albans in 1978 and joined the United States Army. After serving 20 years in the military he retired and went to work for the United States Postal Service in Montpelier until his passing.
He was a rather quiet soul with a very generous heart. Tony absolutely loved music and the Boston Bruins. He had an eclectic approach to gardening and was a giving person who never asked for anything in return. For several years Tony would make his routine Sunday visit to West Enosburgh to visit his folks and several family members in the area; not once did he ever show up without a bag full of assorted snacks and drinks to share.
Tony... keep shining down upon us with that beautiful smile of yours! You will truly be missed.
He is survived by his father, George W. Parent of West Enosburgh; 12 brothers and sisters, Robert S. & Diane Parent of Sheldon, Patricia & James Keefe of Bel Air, MD, David L. & Susan Parent of Gouverneur, NY, Alan T. Parent of Bensalem, PA, Denise & Gale Messier of St. Albans, Dianne & Leonard Parent of St. Albans, Gloria Parent of Glastonbury, CT, Norman V. & Pamela Parent of Burke, NY, Rene & Melissa Parent of Portland, OR, Marcel V. Parent & Betsy Larose of West Enosburgh, Martha E. & Timothy Magnant of Franklin and Gisele & Chris Stimpson of West Enosburgh; 25 nieces & nephews and 23 great nieces & nephews. Besides his mother, Anthony was predeceased by a sister, Doris Parent; a nephew, Matthew Parent and a brother-in-law, Sven Swanson.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held Friday, August 14, 2015 at 2:00 PM at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 222 Missisquoi St., Enosburg Falls with Fr. Ben Kiely officiating. Interment will follow in the Parent lot in St. John the Baptist Cemetery.
Visiting hours will be held Friday from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
For those who wish, contributions in Anthonys memory may be made to a charity of your choice.
RICHFORD – Jody Fletcher
....show
, age 50, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, August 8, 2015 in Richford.
He was born in St. Albans on November 2, 1964 to the late Lynn Buster & Joyce Jo (Farrar) Fletcher.
Jody lived in Richford all of his life. He enjoyed the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing or just sitting by the river. He was a talented musician and loved Blue Grass music but above all he loved spending time with his children.
He proudly leaves behind 2 children, Macie and Zack Fletcher and their mother, Kelly Thompson all of Richford; his siblings, Kelli Peters and her significant other, Mike Lawyer, Aaron Fletcher and his wife Vicki and Hailey Jewett and her significant other Jamie Latimer all of Richford; nieces & nephews, Amanda, Ben & Mary, Amy, Emily & Riley, Jake, Samantha, Kati, Emma, Evan, Janessa and Jamie; several great nieces & nephews; an uncle, Noel Fletcher and his wife Jan; 2 aunts, Joyce Fletcher of Richford and Geraldine Toot DAgostino of Enosburgh; his former mother-in-law, Linda Thompson of Enosburgh and former sister-in-law, Jodi Thompson of North Troy; a faithful dog, Thor and several cousins and close friends including, the Lossman family, Stephanie & Scott, Johnny B, Neil, Larry, Danny, Tim, Rick, Ron & Rod. Besides his parents, Jody was predeceased by a close uncle, Keith Fletcher; a special friend and brother-in-law, Timothy Peters; a close friend, Louis Peanut Gilbeau and former father-in-law, Norman Ikey Thompson.
A graveside service will be held Wednesday, August 19, 2015 at 11:30 AM in the Richford Center Cemetery, South Richford Rd., Richford with Rev. Lyle Willey officiating. There will be no visitation.
For those who wish, contributions in Jodys memory may be made to the Richford Food Shelf, 53 Main St., Richford, VT 05476.
RICHMOND – Verna Vicki Barwin
....show
, age 84, passed away on Thursday, August 6, 2015 at the Sterling House in Richmond.
Vicki was born November 4, 1930 in Lafayette, Indiana, daughter of the late Gladys Marie Nevitt and Vernon Nevitt. After her parents divorce when she was four, her mother remarried Lloyd Field, who formally adopted her and whom she forever on called her father.
She grew up during the Great Depression, so her parents traveled across the country for a decade, following job opportunities. She spent the bulk of her teen years in Kalamazoo, Michigan, near where her Grandmother lived (Hattie Mae Mohr). During her senior year in high school, her parents moved to Orlando, Florida, and opened Vickis Bakeshop, where Vicki learned how to balance the books, decorate cakes, and entertain customers.
Vicki attended Rollins College in Florida for two years, with a major in bookkeeping.
Vicki met Richard Otto Barwin (Sam ), when she was a dance instructor at an Arthur Murray Dance Studio, and they were married in 1955, and had three children in quick succession; Katherine Barwin (Essex, VT), Richard Pete Barwin, Jr. (Westford, VT), and John Charlie Barwin, (Essex, VT). After ten years of living the life of an Air Force wife, Vicki and her family settled in northern Vermont, where Sam worked at UVM, Vicki lived her dream of owning a horse farm, and the children attended, and graduated from, the Enosburg Falls school system.
She was a stay-at-home mom, teaching Sunday school at the local Methodist church, until she was in her 40s. She then decided to go back to school, earning her Bachelors in Education from Johnson State College in 1981, and her Masters degree in Special Education in 1983. When her husband died, Vicki worked full-time as an educator in local schools, her last school being Essex Elementary School, where she was a special educator and Title I reading teacher for many years.
Vicki was passionate about equal rights for women, was an ardent supporter of the Democratic Party, and watched CSPAN continuously when she became homebound in her elder years. She also loved teaching children how to read. She is survived by her three children, and her eight grandchildren.
A graveside memorial service will be held on Sunday, August 16, at 1 pm, at the Enosburgh Center Cemetery, Boston Post Rd., Enosburgh with Rev. Jon Bly officiating.
For those who wish, donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Enosburgh Falls Public Library, P.O. Box 206, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450 to be used to purchase childrens picture books. 3
PENSACOLA, FL – William Richard Bill Riggie
....show
, age 61, of Pensacola FL, passed away on July 29, 2015 unexpectedly at his home.
Born in St.Albans, VT, he was the firstborn son of William K. Riggie and Patricia (Pollard) Riggie.
He graduated from Enosburg Falls High School, Class of '72, and honorably served in the U.S. Navy and VT National Guard. He retired from General Dynamics and went to work on golf courses in Essex and Williston. During this time he started his own property maintenance company, JIF, LLC. He was a 40-year member of the American Legion, a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Aerie 4218 and the Knights of Columbus Council 10417.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William K. Riggie and Patricia Riggie Graeter; his infant daughters, Jessica and Andrea; and by his parents-in-law, Arthur and Mary Soule.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Riggie; his cherished daughter, Lauren (Ren) Chase; and his adoring grandchildren, Isabelle and Jack Hammond. He is also survived by his step-mother Paula Riggie; his brother, Dana Riggie; sister, Michele (Aaron) Sweigart, and their son, Jason; brother, Scot (Melissa Mosley) Riggie; sister-in-law, Sue (Lee) Tillotson and their sons, Leif, Courtney (Sara), and Jeremy; three great-nephews and a great-niece and aunts, Pennie Chapman and Phyllis Riggie. He loved his family and this country with all his heart.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 7th at St. Isidore's Cemetery in Montgomery Ctr. at 2pm with a reception to follow at the Parrish Hall.
MONTGOMERY – Donald Fillion
....show
, age 82, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2015 at his home in Montgomery.
He was born in Boston, MA on January 14, 1933 the son of the late Arthur & Ruth (White) Fillion.
Donald had a very distinguished 32 year career as a sports writer for the Burlington Free Press. His accomplishments include being inducted in to the Norwich University Sports Hall of Fame, the Vermont Principals Association Sports Hall of Fame and several sports writer of the year awards. Don loved all sports but he had a real passion for skiing, golfing and auto racing. He also loved spending time with his family, especially cookouts.
He leaves behind the love of his life and wife of nearly 60 years, Klara Fillion; their children, Mark, Brian and Steven Fillion and Barbara Burns and her husband Richard and Virginia Streeter and her husband Robin; several grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.
A time of visitation will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2015 from 12-3:00 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls. Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.
For those who wish, contributions in Donalds memory may be made to St. Judes Childrens Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105
ST. ALBANS – Linda A. Rockwell
....show
, age 63, passed away on Thursday, July 23, 2015 at the Franklin County Rehab Center in St. Albans.
She was born in St. Albans on May 9, 1952 the daughter of the late Etta Cook.
Linda spent the last several years living at the Franklin County Rehab Center where she made many friends. Her favorite hobbies included making crafts, raising birds and shopping.
She is survived by her 3 children, Pamela Reed, Gerry and Doug Mott; several grandchildren; several great grandchildren; her sisters, Marilyn Almeida and Priscilla Johnson and several nieces & nephews. Besides her mom, Linda was predeceased by a great grandchild; and her sister, Shelby Paradee.
In keeping with Lindas wishes there will be no services.
For those who wish, contributions in Lindas memory may be made to Franklin County Rehab Center, Enrichment Program, 110 Fairfax Rd., St. Albans, VT 05478.
West Berkshire/ Shelburne, Vermont - George Donald Ewins, Sr.
....show
died peacefully on July 21st, 2015, after a struggle with Alzheimers disease. He was 82.
Born on the family farm on May 6, 1933, George was the oldest son of C. Donald Ewins and Virginia (Thomas) Ewins. A sixth-generation Vermonter, George maintained a lifelong pride in his state and its Yankee traditions.
George attended the one-room school house in West Berkshire. He graduated from Enosburg High School in 1951 and was a member of the University of Vermonts class of 1955. To pay for his education, he sold knife sharpeners and other products door to door. After graduation he moved to New York City, where he worked while earning an MBA in finance from New York University.
He was accepted into the Chase Manhattan Bank training program after graduation and went on to become a portfolio manager for the Mobil Oil Corporation. He capped off his Wall Street career as senior VP and top institutional salesman at Loeb Rhoades & Company.
George's love of his home state pulled him from back from Wall Street to Vermont in 1978. He and his wife Maxie settled in Shelburne, and George established the state\u0027s first Merrill Lynch office, in Burlington. A successful manager and investor, George built a thriving franchise for Merrill Lynch and excelled for many years as one of its top producers. He loved teaching people about the rule of 72 and compounding interest, which he affectionately called "the eighth wonder of the world."
George retired in 2001, after 22 years of helping people achieve financial success. Spending more time in Berkshire, he reacquainted himself with old friends, made new ones, and indulged his passion for historic preservation. He enjoyed going to auctions and collecting antiques, art, and automobiles.
An intellectual and a studious reader, George had a superlative vocabulary. Yet he never forgot his roots; his farm boy upbringing instilled in him a naturalist\u0027s knowledge of local flora and fauna and a deep connection to nature. On walks with family, he would often point out Jack-in-the-pulpit, trillium, bloodroot, or lady\u0027s slipper - he knew them all.
Many people will remember George reading the Declaration of Independence at his and Maxies annual Fourth of July party, often wearing a stovepipe hat. Independence Day was his favorite holiday. He loved hosting family and friends at this event, reveling in traditional music, especially Sousa marches. He considered the day incomplete without a fireworks display.
George served on the board of the Salvation Army, the Mary and Alden Bryan Memorial Gallery, and the vestry of the Trinity Episcopal Church. He was an active member of the Shelburne and Charlotte Rotary and a supporter of the Republican Party and the Ethan Allen Institute. Later in life he enjoyed socializing at the Charlotte Senior Center.
George traveled extensively, venturing as far afield as Honduras, where he helped build houses with the Rotary Club, Canada\u0027s Baffin Island with his two sons, and Kiribati, in the Pacific, where his daughter Katherine was serving in the Peace Corps. He and Maxie often traveled to Maxies native Berlin, Germany then toured Europe extensively. He loved exploring new cultures and exchanging stories with people he met on his travels. In later years he self-published "Travels with Maxie," a collection of his travel diaries.
Children and animals were drawn to George, and his children often remarked on this Dr. Doolittle quality he possessed. He loved his dogs, Sam, Ben, Max, Aik and Lily, his constant companions on many hikes and walks. He had great timing, expressive, brilliant blue eyes, and an endearing ability to wiggle his ears, which he often employed before dropping a punch line. Always ready to listen, console, inspire, or guide, George was a loving husband, father and grandfather; a wonderful uncle, friend, and mentor.
He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
George is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Maxie Ewins of Shelburne; his children from a previous marriage to Nancy Innis: Elizabeth Thomas Ewins of Arlington, Mass., Katherine C. E. Krekel and her children Sarah Elizabeth and Caroline Innis of Silver Spring, Md., George D. Ewins, Jr. and his wife Marie-Michelle Gaudreau of Charlotte, Vt. and their son, Felix George: Georg Sr. and Maxies son Fritz S. Ewins and his wife Carly Yates-Ewins of Brooklyn, NY and their children Beau Yates and Rae Arrow; his step-children, Eva K. Wollenberg of Shelburne, Vt. and her son, Nikolas Baya, Franzi D. Wollenberg of Boston, Mass., and Katrine Wollenberg of London, England; his siblings Richard Ewins and his wife Susie of W. Berkshire, Vt., Mary Ewins of W. Berkshire, Vt., and Nancy Vincent and her husband David of St. Albans Bay, Vt., as well as many nieces and nephews and his old walking partner, Lily the Springer spaniel.
A funeral serviceheld on Friday July 31st at 11 a.m. at the East Franklin Union Church, 4610 Lake Road, East Franklin, followed by a reception at the Phoenix house in West Berkshire.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Georges memory can be made to the Vermont Historical Society, the Charlotte Senior Center or the Vermont chapter of the Alzheimers Association.
George's family acknowledges all of the wonderful caregivers and professionals whose compassionate care helped make Georges final years better. You are all incredible. Thank you.
ENOSBURG FALLS – Evelyn W. Stanley
....show
, age 99, passed away on July 19, 2015 at the Franklin County Health & Rehab Center in St. Albans.
She was born in St. Albans on November 7, 1915 the daughter of the late Lorenzo & Winifred (Campbell) Weed.
Evelyn graduated from Enosburg Falls High School in 1933 and attended Green Mountain College School of Music. On June 11, 1936 she married Carroll C. Stanley and moved to South Franklin where they owned and operated a Registered Jersey dairy farm until 1966, when they retired to Enosburg Falls. After Carroll passed away in June, 1974, Evelyn continued to live in their home until the age of 98, living independently with the help of her caring neighbors, the Websters, Lussiers and Willeys and the services of Franklin County Home Health and Meals on Wheels.
Evelyn's family, farm and community were always her first priority. Her talents and interests were many; including leader of the Franklin Merry Girls and Lake Carmi Boys 4-H clubs; womens chair of County Farm Bureau and state director; photojournalist of agricultural, historical and current events in local and national publications; ballroom dancing; Champlain Echoes, a womens barbershop chorus; Enosburg Methodist Church choir; Ladies Village Improvement Society, chairing the award winning Community Improvement Program; Enosburgh Historical Society charter member, chairing the Enosburgh Heritage Center committee; Green Mountain Folklore Society, editing their newsletter, The Potash Kettle, for many years. She wrote a daily illustrated journal of life in a rural, agricultural village from 1976 to 2009, now housed at UVM Bailey-Howe Library Special Manuscripts Dept., to be publicly opened 2076. Her proudest early achievement was being a member of first E.F.H.S. girls varsity basketball team. Evelyn\u0027s homes were noted for the lovely perennial gardens she maintained her entire life and her last years were spent outside as much as possible, wherever she was, enjoying the flowers and birds.
She is survived by her four children: Winona Larose and husband, Richard, of Morrisville; Earl and wife, Susan, of Franklin; Laurel of Danville; Paul and wife, Linda of Bakersfield. She is also survived by 8 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, a niece and several nephews. Besides her husband, she was predeceased by a brother, Leonard Weed and two sisters, Winona Mason and Elizabeth (Betty) Weed.
The family wishes to thank the superb staffs of both Our Lady of the Meadows and Franklin County Rehab Center for their wonderful care of Evelyn in her final year.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2015 at 1:00 PM at the Enosburg Falls United Methodist Church, 245 Church St., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Jon Bly officiating.
Donations in Evelyns memory can be made to Enosburgh Methodist Church, 245 Church St, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450 or the Franklin County Rehab Center Music and Memory program, 110 Fairfax Road, St. Albans, VT 05478.
ENOSBURG FALLS – Larry R. Sylvester
....show
, age 83, passed away on Friday, July 17, 2015 at the Franklin County Health & Rehab facility in St. Albans.
He was born in Montgomery on February 2, 1932 to the late George & Doris (Rushford) Sylvester.
Larry grew up in Montgomery and was educated by his mom in a 1 room schoolhouse on West Hill. He served in the National Guard through the Korean Conflict. On April 21, 1956 he married the love of his life, Jeannean Lumbra. In 1962 they moved to Connecticut, with their children, to pursue better paying jobs. He spent time with Eastern Breeders and then Pratt & Whitney before moving back to Vermont. Larry & Jeannean returned to Vermont in 1971 and started Sylvesters Inc. which was a convenience store in the town of Fairfax. After running the store for a few years Larry began working as a Carpenter for Ron Parah and IBM.
His brother Ronald called Larry to say he would like to return to Montgomery and asked if he was interested in becoming business partners. The brothers, with their spouses, went in to business in 1977 and purchased Puffers IGA in Montgomery and started Sylvesters Market which became a very successful grocery store. Larry was an excellent meat cutter and customers would travel several miles for his signature smoked meats. In 1995 they sold the store and began to enjoy retirement. He was a hard worker and helped pick-up and deliver cars for Bob Cota at R&D Enterprises and Champlain Chevrolet throughout his retirement. Larry & Jeannean purchased a RV and would travel to Arizona for the winters in their later years.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jeannean Sylvester of Enosburg Falls; his children, Patricia Rodger and her husband Dennis of Montgomery and Mark Sylvester of Lyndonville; 3 grandchildren, Melinda Sylvester and her children, Joseph & Jaylin of St. Johnsbury, Bryan Rodger and his significant other, Mikal Faucher and their son Khane all of Enosburgh and Andrew Sylvester of St. Johnsbury; siblings, Ronald Sylvester and his wife Jeannette of St. Albans and Charlene Plouff of Enosburg Falls; siblings-in-law, Beverly Sylvester of Franklin, Maxine Robtoy of Enosburgh, Reginald Lumbra of Montgomery and Paulette OBar and her husband Carey of Island Pond and several nieces & nephews. Besides his parents, Larry was predeceased by an infant son, Scott Anthony Sylvester; his brothers, Wilber, Keith Sam & Wayne Sylvester; his mother and father in-law, Eugene & Marion Lumbra and a sister-in-law, Linda Viau.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, July 20, 2015 at 11:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Church, Missisquoi St., Enosburg Falls with Fr. Roger Charbonneau officiating. Interment will follow in St. John the Baptist Cemetery.
A time of visitation will be held on Monday at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls from 9:00 - 10:30 AM.
For those who wish, contributions in Larrys memory may be made to Lamoille Area Cancer Network, 198 Farr Ave., Morrisville, VT 05661.
RICHFORD – Allen Lemuel McMurphy Jr.
....show
, age 89, passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2015 at the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans.
Allen was born in Randolph, VT on Christmas day, December 25, 1925 to the late Allen Lemuel Sr. & Fannie Moseley (Harrington) McMurphy. Allen was one of eight (8) children. He received his early education in Randolph Center Elementary School and graduated from Randolph High School in 1943.
Allen's service to his country included participation in the CAP Reserve Corps in 1943, then entry into the U.S. Army Air Corps. He later served in the Vermont National Guard for 4 years, from 1955 to 1959.
This child of the beautiful Vermont hills served on active duty in Mississippi, Georgia, and Alabama. It was in Dothan, Alabama, that he met his lifelong love, Mary Emily Jacobs, a Georgia peach known to family and friends as Emily. After being honorably discharged from the Army Air Corps in 1944, Allen went to his parents\u0027 home in Trout River, New York, where his father was serving in Customs and Immigration; but he couldn\u0027t stay away from the lovely redhead very long and soon returned to Dothan.
Allen graduated from Alabama Photo School, and became a photographer with L&J Studio in Dothan. On April 21, 1946, he and Emily were married in Dothan. In early 1949, he transplanted his Georgia peach and their young son, Michael, to Trout River, where they lived with Allen\u0027s parents for 2 years. Their daughter, Cheryl, was their gift to Michael on his third birthday. In 1951, Allen bought a photography studio, Studio North, in Richford, and the family has lived there ever since. In 1954, he was recruited to be a photographer for the U.S. Forestry Service in Washington, D.C., but could not find housing he considered suitable for his young family and returned to Richford. Their third child, Barry, was born in November that year. Allen worked for local newspapers and relaunched his studio, eventually expanded to include a printing business called Richford Studio-Press. After the birth of the fourth child, Kerri, Allen also sidelined as a school photographer for Alston Studios. Before deciding to retire, he worked 13 years as a traffic manager for HK Webster, Blue Seal Feeds.
Not being content with retirement, Allen has served as Richford town moderator, justice of the peace, and member of the Board of Civil Authority. He worked as a lister for the town of Richford, a position from which he finally retired last year, at age 88. Even after this retirement, he continued to serve as an auditor for the town. Last year, he received the golden service award from the Richford Beautification Committee in appreciation for a lifetime of dedicated service to the community of Richford. Richford\u0027s Hometown Follies, in which Allen performed for many years, dedicated their 2014 show to him. The Vermont Secretary of State named him a citizen of the year for his many years of service to the town and state.
Allen and Emily have been members of the Richford Baptist Church for more than 60 years. Allen served the church as, among many other positions, Head Deacon and lead bass in the choir.
Allen was a dedicated brother of the Masons. He was named a Master Mason in 1954, and served Missisquoi Lodge No. 9 as Master. He was secretary-treasurer of his Lodge for decades, and served as District Deputy Grand Master of the Seventh Masonic District, with distinction. He served the Grand Lodge of Vermont as Worshipful Grand Sword Bearer and was awarded the John Barney Medal for his devoted service to his country, his community, his church, and Vermont Free Masonry and has been named Citizen of the Year.
Allen was the last remaining charter member of the Lions Club of Richford, for which he served in multiple offices including (twice) King Lion. The Lions Club International Foundation named him a Melvin Jones Fellow for dedicated humanitarian service and the International President named him an Everyday Hero. He was also a member of the American Legion.
Allen is survived by his wife, Emily (Jacobs) McMurphy of Richford; their children, Michael & his wife Maureen McMurphy of Potomac, MD; Cheryl and her husband Morris "Buzz" Joseph of Carmel, CA; Barry & his wife Christy McMurphy of Topeka, KS; and Kerri Plante and her significant other Charles Senesac of Highgate; grandchildren, Matthew & spouse Amanda McMurphy, Kevin & spouse Amanda McMurphy, Heather & spouse Hans Kramer, step grandson Zachary & spouse Ayala Joseph, Mead McMurphy, step grandson Nathan Walker, Jonathan and Shawn Plante, and 5 adopted grandchildren, Anthony, Myah, Savannah, Hailey, and Payton; 6 great grandchildren, Daly, Emmett, Vivian, Zaia, Sami, and Nora; a brother, James & his wife Barbara McMurphy of Witchita, KS; siblings-in-law, Shirleen Thornton and Ruth Reddish both of Waynesville, GA, Mercedes Dowling of Nahunta, GA and William & Mavis Jacobs of Waycross, GA and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and great-grand-nieces & nephews. Besides his parents, Allen was predeceased by a grandson, Patrick Michael McMurphy; a son-in-law, Donald Plante; siblings, Harrington, Martha (Law), Traver, Laura (Maloney), Clarence and Eldon and siblings-in-law, Southwell Jacobs, Theresa Strickland, Agnes Johns, and Shelba Jean Jacobs.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 15 at 2:00 PM, at the Richford First Baptist Church, with Pastor Timothy Stetson officiating. Interment will follow in the Richford Center Cemetery.
A time of visitation will be held at the church on July 15, from 1:00 PM until the hour of the service. There will be a fellowship hour (with refreshments) to share love and memories in the church\u0027s downstairs fellowship hall following the interment.
For those who wish, contributions in Allens memory may be made to the Richford First Baptist Church, 30 School Street, Richford VT 05476.
RICHFORD – Herschel Wallace Donna
....show
, age 91, passed away Thursday, July 2, 2015, at his home with his family at his side.
He was born in Richford on August 20, 1923 the son of the late Wallace & Hildred (Comings) Donna.
Herschel was a lifelong resident of Montgomery, Berkshire & Richford. He devoted his career to dairy farming and maple syrup producing. Following his retirement from farming he drove school bus and worked as the custodian for the Berkshire Elementary School. He was active in community affairs serving as Selectman and Justice of the Peace for the Town of Berkshire and served on the Berkshire Center Cemetery Association. He was also a longtime member of the Richford United Methodist Church. Herschel and Mary loved to travel having visited Alaska, Germany, Ireland, the Canadian Rockies via train and many trips to Branson, MO.
He is survived by his wife, Mary (Fletcher) Donna of Richford. Herschel & Mary were married on October 4, 1947. He is also survived by his children and their families, Penny & Luther Johnson of Wilder, and their daughter Joanna Johnson, Mick & Connie Donna of Fairfield, OH, and their children, Jeremy & Julie Donna, and Diana & Charles Butkus of Clarksville, TN, and their children, Merry Hinson her husband Roger and her children, Adrian, Morrighan & Maeve, Charles Butkus & Kathleen Butkus; his brother, Rayburn Donna and his wife Shirley of Richford; his sister, Athalie Whitt and her husband John of Enosburg Falls; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, July 7, 2015, at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Jon Bly officiating. Interment followed in the Berkshire Center Cemetery.
Visiting hours were held at the funeral home on Monday from 4-7PM
For those who wish, contributions in Herschels memory may be made to Richford United Methodist Church - Memorial Fund, C/O Carolyn Smith, 49 Magoon Road, Richford, VT 05476.
FRANKLIN, VT / SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – Dr. Robert Lee Pratt
....show
passed away in Bethesda, MD on June 30, 2015.
Robert was laid to rest with a private burial in the Franklin Village Cemetery on July 6, 2015.
His family will be holding a service for Robert and his late wife, Audrey, this fall in the Franklin Village Cemetery.
ENOSBURGH – Dawson Timothy-Michael Perley
....show
, age 15, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 28, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center surrounded by his family as the result of an ATV accident.
He was born December 24, 1999, in Burlington the son of Amber Fairbanks and Timothy Perley.
Dawson just finished his freshman year at Enosburg Falls High School. He was very athletic and especially loved soccer and basketball. He had many special friends and family and loved laughing and telling jokes with them. Anyone who knew Dawson knew how special and unique he truly was. Dawson, as a big brother, was adored and looked up to by his brothers and sisters. He should always be remembered as a kind, generous, giving, easy going and loving, son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend.
He is survived by his mother, Amber (Fairbanks) Ovitt and her husband Bradley of Enosburgh; his father, Timothy Perley of Enosburgh; siblings, Levi Webb, Cadence, Ethan, & Aspyn Ovitt all of Enosburgh; maternal grandparents, Michael & Reba (Bowlby) Fairbanks of Enosburgh; paternal grandfather, Peter Perley and his fianc, Roberta Morin of Enosburg Falls; maternal great grandparents, James Bowlby of Enosburgh, Kenneth & Linda Fairbanks of St. Albans, and Beverly Fairbanks of St. Albans Bay; maternal step-grandparents, Dennis & Donna Ovitt of Bakersfield; aunts & uncles, Melissa (Perley) St. Pierre her husband Jason and their daughters, Emma & Mia of Enosburgh, Jeremy Fairbanks and his wife Tiffany of Sheldon, Shannon Fairbanks of Sheldon, and Sue & Chuck Pearce of Richford; step aunts & uncles, Jennifer & Aaron Wright of Bakersfield, Belinda & Jared Bessette of St. Albans, Darren & Tina Ovitt of Bakersfield, Tony & Jackie Ovitt of Bakersfield, and Barry & Debbie Ovitt of Fairfax; many close and special cousins and friends. Dawson was predeceased by his maternal great grandmother, Nancy Bowlby; paternal great grandparents, Merrill & Fern Perley; and his cousin Thomas Cook.
Funeral services will be held Friday, July 3, 2015, at 11:00 AM at the Enosburg Falls High School Gymnasium. At the conclusion of the funeral all are welcome to join the family in the school cafeteria. Burial will be private and held at the convenience of the family in the Enosburgh Center Cemetery.
MONTGOMERY VILLAGE - Joseph H. Ostrout
....show
, age 70, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 22, 2015 at the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans.
He was born October 25, 1944 in North Brookfield, MA the son of the late Leonard & Mary (Miner) Ostrout.
Joe grew up in Westfield, VT where he was known as the Buck Hill Boy . He moved to Cailfornia where he worked for the Ford Motor Company as a line leader and then moved back to New England and worked at Beatty Electrical in New Hampshire as a machinist and then at the Burlington Free Press in distribution and as a professional cleaner for Harry Loso both in Burlington. He moved to Montgomery in 1984 and has made his home with Brenda Elkins for the past 13 years.
Joe loved to play musical instruments, especially the guitar and fiddle. He and Doug Corwell formed the band The Bums that played in several venues around the county. As a young boy he also loved to play baseball with his brothers.
He is survived by his caregiver, Brenda (Elkins) Ostrout of Montgomery; his children, Leonard Ostrout of Swanton, Kevin Ostrout and Doug Ostrout both of Spokane Valley, WA; his step daughter, Wendy Riegers of Mission Viejo, CA.; his grandchildren, Jacob Ostrout & Kristen Beane; step children (Brendas family), Carl Root and his wife Peggy of Milton, and Donna Corron and her husband Charles of Fort Covington, NY; step grandchildren, Samantha Bredin and her husband Connor, Carmen Root, and twins, Sierrah & Savannah LeClaire; and a step great grandchild, Harper Rae Bredin; his siblings, Elizabeth Ostrout of Hartford, CT, and Thomas Ostrout and his wife Diane of Inverness, FL; several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his faithful companion, Buddy, Joes Mini Jack Russell/Chihuahua mix. Beside his parents, Joe was predeceased by his son, Joseph Ostrout, Jr.; his brothers, George & Charles Ostrout.
In keeping with Joes wishes he was cremated. Burial will be private and held at the convenience of the family in the Montgomery Center Cemetery. There will be no visiting hours.
For those who wish, contributions in Joes memory may be made to American Lung Association of the Northeast, 1661 Worcester Ave., Framingham, MA 01701.
ENOSBURGH – Rene L. Longley
....show
, age 21, passed away unexpectedly as a result of a farm accident on Friday, June 19, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
He was born in St. Albans on March 12, 1994 to Rene E. & Carrie (Deuso) Longley.
Rene grew up in Enosburgh and attended Enosburg Falls High School and Vermont Adult Learning (VAL). He was employed for most of his teenage years at NAPA in Enosburg Falls, but his passion was running equipment so he recently went to work for Rainvilles Custom Crops. Rene loved riding his snow machine and anything with wheels and a motor especially 4 wheelers, dirt bikes and tractors. He was a hard worker and could often be found helping his grandfather cut wood, run equipment or get ready for sugaring. Rene was a thrill seeker and loved taking jumps, doing crazy stunts and living life to the fullest!
Rene leaves behind his son, Khaled Michael Fournier of Berkshire; his parents Rene E. Longley & Carrie Deuso of Enosburgh; a brother, Josh Longley and his fianc Jennifer White and their daughter Kallie all of St. Albans; maternal grandparents, William & Susan Deuso of Enosburgh; paternal grandparents, Richard Longley of Richford and Pat of Waterville; maternal great grandfather, Howard Deuso of Enosburg Falls; aunts & uncles, Lori Paradee and her husband Jay of Fairfield, Liesa Longley of St. Albans, Leandra Longley and Danny Fitzgerald of Georgia, Louise Jacob and her husband Roger of Enosburgh, Rick Longley of Berkshire, Billie Jo Draper and her husband Gary of Enosburgh, Howard Deuso and his wife Pamela of Franklin and Nick Deuso and his wife Kiley of Richford; his girlfriend, Hannah Day; special friends, Josh Randall & Taylor and their daughter Averi, Jessie Wells, Cody Paradee and George and Eli Gabuzda and many cousins and great aunt & uncles.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, June 25, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Jason McConnell officiating.
A time of visitation will be held Thursday at the funeral home from 10:00 AM until the hour of the service.
For those who wish, contributions in Renes memory may be made to the Khaled Michael Fournier Trust Fund, c/o Spears Funeral Home, P.O. Box 396, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.
BERKSHIRE – Virginia A. Ginny Raymo
....show
, age 73, left this earthly plain to be with her father in heaven on Thursday, June 18, 2015 after her third courageous battle with cancer. She passed away peacefully with her loving family at her side at the Franklin County Health & Rehab Facility in St. Albans.
Born in St. Albans on November 17, 1941 to the late Wilfred and Ruth (Johnston) Rogers.
Virginia was raised in Sheldon with her 3 sisters and attended B.F.A. St. Albans. She married Robert Herron in 1960 and they had 2 daughters. On March 7, 1970 she married the love of her life, Marlin Raymo and together they had 1 son. After Marlins tragic death in 1973, Virginia raised her 3 children in Richford. She was a faithful member of the 1st Baptist Church in Richford. She also belonged and supported the Prison Support Group in Swanton.
She enjoyed her small community and neighbors. She loved country music and dancing and often went to events in Canada. She loved watching July 4th events in Richford, especially the fire fighters skit on Main St. She also loved her soap operas. Virginia worked for Brattleboro Mutual Aid, Brownway Residence in Enosburg Falls for 13 years and after that Vermont Associates.
Virginia is survived by her 3 children, Ruth Grandin of Edwardsville, PA, Robin Lambert and her partner Daniel of St. Albans and Lewis Raymo of Newport; a former son-in-law, Paul Lahue of Berkshire; 3 sisters, Sharron West and her husband Lee of LaFeria, TX, Pearl Gilbert and her husband Daniel of St. Albans and Valerie Clark and her husband David of Franklin; her dearly beloved granddaughter, Sharron Rotunno and her husband Craig and their children, Deric, Devon & Katie all of Richford who lovingly cared for Virginia over the last 2 years. Virginia is also survived by 8 more grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren and 3 special nephews and their families. Besides her parents and husband, Virginia is predeceased by a 4th special nephew, William Billy Clark.
Virginias family would like to thank the staff of Franklin County Health & Rehab for the compassionate care given to her over the past few months.
A memorial service in Virginias honor will be held Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Lyle Willey officiating. Interment will be held privately at the familys convenience in the East Franklin Cemetery.
A time of visitation will be held on Wednesday at the funeral home from 10:00 until the hour of the service.
For those who wish, contributions in Virginias honor may be made to Franklin County Home Health Agency, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478 or the Franklin County Humane Society, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478.
ENOSBURGH – Norman L. Ikey Thompson
....show
, age 72, passed away peacefully and unexpectedly on Monday, June 15, 2015 at his home in Enosburgh.
He was born January 13, 1943 in Enosburgh to the late James & Marion (Wetherby) Thompson.
Ikey served 13 months in Vietnam and he was very proud of his service there. After returning home he met Linda Morse and they were married in December of 1968. Ikey spent time working as a farmer, carpenter and mason, but spent most of his career in concrete construction and even owned his own business for a period of time. He considered himself a jack of all trades - but master of none . His favorite hobby was junking which consisted of collecting, buying and selling junk metal, cars and tractors.
He leaves behind his loving wife of 46 years, Linda Thompson of Enosburgh; 2 special and loving daughters, Jodi Thompson and her significant other, Paul Stanhope of North Troy and Kelly Thompson and her significant other, John Nutting of Richford; his grandchildren, Jamie, Janessa, Macie & Zack; 1 great grandchild, Julian; a sister, Patricia Parker of Plattsburgh; a sister-in-law, Kimberly Morse of Powder Springs, GA; 2 brothers-in-law, Chauncey D. Morse of Manchester, VT and Jeffrey Morse of Richford; several nieces & nephews and many close friends including Jim, Jake, Terry, Donna, Adrianne & Gary. Besides his parents, Ikey was predeceased by his siblings, Roger Thompson, Bobby Thompson and his wife Winnie and Shirley Nutting and her husband Herb and a nephew, Rusty Thompson.
Ikey will be greatly missed by his family, but they take comfort in knowing he will be reunited with good friends Frank Meunier and Bob Stanhope.
A graveside memorial service with military honors will be held on Friday, June 19, 2015 at 11:00 AM in the Richford Center Cemetery. There will be no visitation.
For those who wish, contributions in Ikeys memory may be made to VA Medical Center, 215 North Main St., White River Jct., VT 05009.
EAST FAIRFIELD – Jerry Kardasz
....show
, age 86, passed away on Wednesday, June 10, 2015 at the St. Albans Health & Rehab facility.
He was born March 8, 1929 in Borslaw, Ukraine to the late Nicholas & Anna Kardasz.
At the age of 15 Jerry was taken from his home in Ukraine and brought to work in the camps in Germany. At the age of 18 he came to the United States, became a citizen and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After the military he worked in the construction field as a dry wall installer. Jerry married Caroline Healy in 1971 and they made their home in East Fairfield. His favorite hobby was gardening.
He is survived by his daughter, Katherine Young and her husband Jason of Enosburgh; his son, Ihor W. Kardasz and his wife Debra of Stroudsburg, PA; a step-daughter, Carolann Decker and her husband Tom of Virginia Beach, VA and a step-son, Joey Toth of Joliet, IL; several grandchildren, Courtney Kardasz-Church, Jerron Reynolds, Kaleb St. Cyr and Cayden & Jake Young. Besides his parents, Jerry was predeceased by his wife, Caroline (Healy) Kardasz in 2002.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 16, 2015 at 2:00 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Fr. William Giroux officiating. Interment will follow in St. Patricks Cemetery in Fairfield.
A time of visitation will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday from 1:00 PM until the hour of the service.
For those who wish, contributions in Jerrys memory may be made to Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinati, OH 45250-0301.
ENOSBURG FALLS – Larry R. Sylvester
....show
, age 83, passed away on Friday, July 17, 2015 at the Franklin County Health & Rehab facility in St. Albans.
He was born in Montgomery on February 2, 1932 to the late George & Doris (Rushford) Sylvester.
Larry grew up in Montgomery and was educated by his mom in a 1 room schoolhouse on West Hill. He served in the National Guard through the Korean Conflict. On April 21, 1956 he married the love of his life, Jeannean Lumbra. In 1962 they moved to Connecticut, with their children, to pursue better paying jobs. He spent time with Eastern Breeders and then Pratt & Whitney before moving back to Vermont. Larry & Jeannean returned to Vermont in 1971 and started Sylvesters Inc. which was a convenience store in the town of Fairfax. After running the store for a few years Larry began working as a Carpenter for Ron Parah and IBM.
His brother Ronald called Larry to say he would like to return to Montgomery and asked if he was interested in becoming business partners. The brothers, with their spouses, went in to business in 1977 and purchased Puffers IGA in Montgomery and started Sylvesters Market which became a very successful grocery store. Larry was an excellent meat cutter and customers would travel several miles for his signature smoked meats. In 1995 they sold the store and began to enjoy retirement. He was a hard worker and helped pick-up and deliver cars for Bob Cota at R&D Enterprises and Champlain Chevrolet throughout his retirement. Larry & Jeannean purchased a RV and would travel to Arizona for the winters in their later years.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jeannean Sylvester of Enosburg Falls; his children, Patricia Rodger and her husband Dennis of Montgomery and Mark Sylvester of Lyndonville; 3 grandchildren, Melinda Sylvester and her children, Joseph & Jaylin of St. Johnsbury, Bryan Rodger and his significant other, Mikal Faucher and their son Khane all of Enosburgh and Andrew Sylvester of St. Johnsbury; siblings, Ronald Sylvester and his wife Jeannette of St. Albans and Charlene Plouff of Enosburg Falls; siblings-in-law, Beverly Sylvester of Franklin, Maxine Robtoy of Enosburgh, Reginald Lumbra of Montgomery and Paulette OBar and her husband Carey of Island Pond and several nieces & nephews. Besides his parents, Larry was predeceased by an infant son, Scott Anthony Sylvester; his brothers, Wilber, Keith Sam & Wayne Sylvester; his mother and father in-law, Eugene & Marion Lumbra and a sister-in-law, Linda Viau.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, July 20, 2015 at 11:00 AM at St. John the Baptist Church, Missisquoi St., Enosburg Falls with Fr. Roger Charbonneau officiating. Interment will follow in St. John the Baptist Cemetery.
A time of visitation will be held on Monday at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls from 9:00 - 10:30 AM.
For those who wish, contributions in Larrys memory may be made to Lamoille Area Cancer Network, 198 Farr Ave., Morrisville, VT 05661.
RICHFORD – Allen Lemuel McMurphy Jr.
....show
, age 89, passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2015 at the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans.
Allen was born in Randolph, VT on Christmas day, December 25, 1925 to the late Allen Lemuel Sr. & Fannie Moseley (Harrington) McMurphy. Allen was one of eight (8) children. He received his early education in Randolph Center Elementary School and graduated from Randolph High School in 1943.
Allen\u0027s service to his country included participation in the CAP Reserve Corps in 1943, then entry into the U.S. Army Air Corps. He later served in the Vermont National Guard for 4 years, from 1955 to 1959.
This child of the beautiful Vermont hills served on active duty in Mississippi, Georgia, and Alabama. It was in Dothan, Alabama, that he met his lifelong love, Mary Emily Jacobs, a Georgia peach known to family and friends as Emily. After being honorably discharged from the Army Air Corps in 1944, Allen went to his parents\u0027 home in Trout River, New York, where his father was serving in Customs and Immigration; but he couldn\u0027t stay away from the lovely redhead very long and soon returned to Dothan.
Allen graduated from Alabama Photo School, and became a photographer with L&J Studio in Dothan. On April 21, 1946, he and Emily were married in Dothan. In early 1949, he transplanted his Georgia peach and their young son, Michael, to Trout River, where they lived with Allen\u0027s parents for 2 years. Their daughter, Cheryl, was their gift to Michael on his third birthday. In 1951, Allen bought a photography studio, Studio North, in Richford, and the family has lived there ever since. In 1954, he was recruited to be a photographer for the U.S. Forestry Service in Washington, D.C., but could not find housing he considered suitable for his young family and returned to Richford. Their third child, Barry, was born in November that year. Allen worked for local newspapers and relaunched his studio, eventually expanded to include a printing business called Richford Studio-Press. After the birth of the fourth child, Kerri, Allen also sidelined as a school photographer for Alston Studios. Before deciding to retire, he worked 13 years as a traffic manager for HK Webster, Blue Seal Feeds.
Not being content with retirement, Allen has served as Richford town moderator, justice of the peace, and member of the Board of Civil Authority. He worked as a lister for the town of Richford, a position from which he finally retired last year, at age 88. Even after this retirement, he continued to serve as an auditor for the town. Last year, he received the golden service award from the Richford Beautification Committee in appreciation for a lifetime of dedicated service to the community of Richford. Richford\u0027s Hometown Follies, in which Allen performed for many years, dedicated their 2014 show to him. The Vermont Secretary of State named him a citizen of the year for his many years of service to the town and state.
Allen and Emily have been members of the Richford Baptist Church for more than 60 years. Allen served the church as, among many other positions, Head Deacon and lead bass in the choir.
Allen was a dedicated brother of the Masons. He was named a Master Mason in 1954, and served Missisquoi Lodge No. 9 as Master. He was secretary-treasurer of his Lodge for decades, and served as District Deputy Grand Master of the Seventh Masonic District, with distinction. He served the Grand Lodge of Vermont as Worshipful Grand Sword Bearer and was awarded the John Barney Medal for his devoted service to his country, his community, his church, and Vermont Free Masonry and has been named Citizen of the Year.
Allen was the last remaining charter member of the Lions Club of Richford, for which he served in multiple offices including (twice) King Lion. The Lions Club International Foundation named him a Melvin Jones Fellow for dedicated humanitarian service and the International President named him an Everyday Hero. He was also a member of the American Legion.
Allen is survived by his wife, Emily (Jacobs) McMurphy of Richford; their children, Michael & his wife Maureen McMurphy of Potomac, MD; Cheryl and her husband Morris "Buzz" Joseph of Carmel, CA; Barry & his wife Christy McMurphy of Topeka, KS; and Kerri Plante and her significant other Charles Senesac of Highgate; grandchildren, Matthew & spouse Amanda McMurphy, Kevin & spouse Amanda McMurphy, Heather & spouse Hans Kramer, step grandson Zachary & spouse Ayala Joseph, Mead McMurphy, step grandson Nathan Walker, Jonathan and Shawn Plante, and 5 adopted grandchildren, Anthony, Myah, Savannah, Hailey, and Payton; 6 great grandchildren, Daly, Emmett, Vivian, Zaia, Sami, and Nora; a brother, James & his wife Barbara McMurphy of Witchita, KS; siblings-in-law, Shirleen Thornton and Ruth Reddish both of Waynesville, GA, Mercedes Dowling of Nahunta, GA and William & Mavis Jacobs of Waycross, GA and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, and great-grand-nieces & nephews. Besides his parents, Allen was predeceased by a grandson, Patrick Michael McMurphy; a son-in-law, Donald Plante; siblings, Harrington, Martha (Law), Traver, Laura (Maloney), Clarence and Eldon and siblings-in-law, Southwell Jacobs, Theresa Strickland, Agnes Johns, and Shelba Jean Jacobs.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 15 at 2:00 PM, at the Richford First Baptist Church, with Pastor Timothy Stetson officiating. Interment will follow in the Richford Center Cemetery.
A time of visitation will be held at the church on July 15, from 1:00 PM until the hour of the service. There will be a fellowship hour (with refreshments) to share love and memories in the church\u0027s downstairs fellowship hall following the interment.
For those who wish, contributions in Allens memory may be made to the Richford First Baptist Church, 30 School Street, Richford VT 05476.
RICHFORD – Herschel Wallace Donna
....show
, age 91, passed away Thursday, July 2, 2015, at his home with his family at his side.
He was born in Richford on August 20, 1923 the son of the late Wallace & Hildred (Comings) Donna.
Herschel was a lifelong resident of Montgomery, Berkshire & Richford. He devoted his career to dairy farming and maple syrup producing. Following his retirement from farming he drove school bus and worked as the custodian for the Berkshire Elementary School. He was active in community affairs serving as Selectman and Justice of the Peace for the Town of Berkshire and served on the Berkshire Center Cemetery Association. He was also a longtime member of the Richford United Methodist Church. Herschel and Mary loved to travel having visited Alaska, Germany, Ireland, the Canadian Rockies via train and many trips to Branson, MO.
He is survived by his wife, Mary (Fletcher) Donna of Richford. Herschel & Mary were married on October 4, 1947. He is also survived by his children and their families, Penny & Luther Johnson of Wilder, and their daughter Joanna Johnson, Mick & Connie Donna of Fairfield, OH, and their children, Jeremy & Julie Donna, and Diana & Charles Butkus of Clarksville, TN, and their children, Merry Hinson her husband Roger and her children, Adrian, Morrighan & Maeve, Charles Butkus & Kathleen Butkus; his brother, Rayburn Donna and his wife Shirley of Richford; his sister, Athalie Whitt and her husband John of Enosburg Falls; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, July 7, 2015, at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Jon Bly officiating. Interment followed in the Berkshire Center Cemetery.
Visiting hours were held at the funeral home on Monday from 4-7PM
For those who wish, contributions in Herschels memory may be made to Richford United Methodist Church - Memorial Fund, C/O Carolyn Smith, 49 Magoon Road, Richford, VT 05476.
FRANKLIN, VT / SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – Dr. Robert Lee Pratt
....show
passed away in Bethesda, MD on June 30, 2015.
Robert was laid to rest with a private burial in the Franklin Village Cemetery on July 6, 2015.
His family will be holding a service for Robert and his late wife, Audrey, this fall in the Franklin Village Cemetery.
NOSBURGH – Dawson Timothy-Michael Perley
....show
, age 15, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 28, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center surrounded by his family as the result of an ATV accident.
He was born December 24, 1999, in Burlington the son of Amber Fairbanks and Timothy Perley.
Dawson just finished his freshman year at Enosburg Falls High School. He was very athletic and especially loved soccer and basketball. He had many special friends and family and loved laughing and telling jokes with them. Anyone who knew Dawson knew how special and unique he truly was. Dawson, as a big brother, was adored and looked up to by his brothers and sisters. He should always be remembered as a kind, generous, giving, easy going and loving, son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend.
He is survived by his mother, Amber (Fairbanks) Ovitt and her husband Bradley of Enosburgh; his father, Timothy Perley of Enosburgh; siblings, Levi Webb, Cadence, Ethan, & Aspyn Ovitt all of Enosburgh; maternal grandparents, Michael & Reba (Bowlby) Fairbanks of Enosburgh; paternal grandfather, Peter Perley and his fianc, Roberta Morin of Enosburg Falls; maternal great grandparents, James Bowlby of Enosburgh, Kenneth & Linda Fairbanks of St. Albans, and Beverly Fairbanks of St. Albans Bay; maternal step-grandparents, Dennis & Donna Ovitt of Bakersfield; aunts & uncles, Melissa (Perley) St. Pierre her husband Jason and their daughters, Emma & Mia of Enosburgh, Jeremy Fairbanks and his wife Tiffany of Sheldon, Shannon Fairbanks of Sheldon, and Sue & Chuck Pearce of Richford; step aunts & uncles, Jennifer & Aaron Wright of Bakersfield, Belinda & Jared Bessette of St. Albans, Darren & Tina Ovitt of Bakersfield, Tony & Jackie Ovitt of Bakersfield, and Barry & Debbie Ovitt of Fairfax; many close and special cousins and friends. Dawson was predeceased by his maternal great grandmother, Nancy Bowlby; paternal great grandparents, Merrill & Fern Perley; and his cousin Thomas Cook.
Funeral services will be held Friday, July 3, 2015, at 11:00 AM at the Enosburg Falls High School Gymnasium. At the conclusion of the funeral all are welcome to join the family in the school cafeteria. Burial will be private and held at the convenience of the family in the Enosburgh Center Cemetery.
Visiting hours will be held Thursday from 4-7 PM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls.
For those who wish, contributions in Dawsons memory may be made to Dawson Perley Athletic Scholarship, C/O Community National Bank, P.O. Box 469, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.
MONTGOMERY VILLAGE – Joseph H. Ostrout
....show
, age 70, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 22, 2015 at the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans.
He was born October 25, 1944 in North Brookfield, MA the son of the late Leonard & Mary (Miner) Ostrout.
Joe grew up in Westfield, VT where he was known as the Buck Hill Boy . He moved to Cailfornia where he worked for the Ford Motor Company as a line leader and then moved back to New England and worked at Beatty Electrical in New Hampshire as a machinist and then at the Burlington Free Press in distribution and as a professional cleaner for Harry Loso both in Burlington. He moved to Montgomery in 1984 and has made his home with Brenda Elkins for the past 13 years.
Joe loved to play musical instruments, especially the guitar and fiddle. He and Doug Corwell formed the band The Bums that played in several venues around the county. As a young boy he also loved to play baseball with his brothers.
He is survived by his caregiver, Brenda (Elkins) Ostrout of Montgomery; his children, Leonard Ostrout of Swanton, Kevin Ostrout and Doug Ostrout both of Spokane Valley, WA; his step daughter, Wendy Riegers of Mission Viejo, CA.; his grandchildren, Jacob Ostrout & Kristen Beane; step children (Brendas family), Carl Root and his wife Peggy of Milton, and Donna Corron and her husband Charles of Fort Covington, NY; step grandchildren, Samantha Bredin and her husband Connor, Carmen Root, and twins, Sierrah & Savannah LeClaire; and a step great grandchild, Harper Rae Bredin; his siblings, Elizabeth Ostrout of Hartford, CT, and Thomas Ostrout and his wife Diane of Inverness, FL; several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his faithful companion, Buddy, Joes Mini Jack Russell/Chihuahua mix. Beside his parents, Joe was predeceased by his son, Joseph Ostrout, Jr.; his brothers, George & Charles Ostrout.
In keeping with Joes wishes he was cremated. Burial will be private and held at the convenience of the family in the Montgomery Center Cemetery. There will be no visiting hours.
For those who wish, contributions in Joes memory may be made to American Lung Association of the Northeast, 1661 Worcester Ave., Framingham, MA 01701.
ENOSBURGH – Rene L. Longley
....show
, age 21, passed away unexpectedly as a result of a farm accident on Friday, June 19, 2015 at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington.
He was born in St. Albans on March 12, 1994 to Rene E. & Carrie (Deuso) Longley.
Rene grew up in Enosburgh and attended Enosburg Falls High School and Vermont Adult Learning (VAL). He was employed for most of his teenage years at NAPA in Enosburg Falls, but his passion was running equipment so he recently went to work for Rainvilles Custom Crops. Rene loved riding his snow machine and anything with wheels and a motor especially 4 wheelers, dirt bikes and tractors. He was a hard worker and could often be found helping his grandfather cut wood, run equipment or get ready for sugaring. Rene was a thrill seeker and loved taking jumps, doing crazy stunts and living life to the fullest!
Rene leaves behind his son, Khaled Michael Fournier of Berkshire; his parents Rene E. Longley & Carrie Deuso of Enosburgh; a brother, Josh Longley and his fianc Jennifer White and their daughter Kallie all of St. Albans; maternal grandparents, William & Susan Deuso of Enosburgh; paternal grandparents, Richard Longley of Richford and Pat of Waterville; maternal great grandfather, Howard Deuso of Enosburg Falls; aunts & uncles, Lori Paradee and her husband Jay of Fairfield, Liesa Longley of St. Albans, Leandra Longley and Danny Fitzgerald of Georgia, Louise Jacob and her husband Roger of Enosburgh, Rick Longley of Berkshire, Billie Jo Draper and her husband Gary of Enosburgh, Howard Deuso and his wife Pamela of Franklin and Nick Deuso and his wife Kiley of Richford; his girlfriend, Hannah Day; special friends, Josh Randall & Taylor and their daughter Averi, Jessie Wells, Cody Paradee and George and Eli Gabuzda and many cousins and great aunt & uncles.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, June 25, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Jason McConnell officiating.
A time of visitation will be held Thursday at the funeral home from 10:00 AM until the hour of the service.
For those who wish, contributions in Renes memory may be made to the Khaled Michael Fournier Trust Fund, c/o Spears Funeral Home, P.O. Box 396, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.
BERKSHIRE – Virginia A. Ginny Raymo
....show
, age 73, left this earthly plain to be with her father in heaven on Thursday, June 18, 2015 after her third courageous battle with cancer. She passed away peacefully with her loving family at her side at the Franklin County Health & Rehab Facility in St. Albans.
Born in St. Albans on November 17, 1941 to the late Wilfred and Ruth (Johnston) Rogers.
Virginia was raised in Sheldon with her 3 sisters and attended B.F.A. St. Albans. She married Robert Herron in 1960 and they had 2 daughters. On March 7, 1970 she married the love of her life, Marlin Raymo and together they had 1 son. After Marlins tragic death in 1973, Virginia raised her 3 children in Richford. She was a faithful member of the 1st Baptist Church in Richford. She also belonged and supported the Prison Support Group in Swanton.
She enjoyed her small community and neighbors. She loved country music and dancing and often went to events in Canada. She loved watching July 4th events in Richford, especially the fire fighters skit on Main St. She also loved her soap operas. Virginia worked for Brattleboro Mutual Aid, Brownway Residence in Enosburg Falls for 13 years and after that Vermont Associates.
Virginia is survived by her 3 children, Ruth Grandin of Edwardsville, PA, Robin Lambert and her partner Daniel of St. Albans and Lewis Raymo of Newport; a former son-in-law, Paul Lahue of Berkshire; 3 sisters, Sharron West and her husband Lee of LaFeria, TX, Pearl Gilbert and her husband Daniel of St. Albans and Valerie Clark and her husband David of Franklin; her dearly beloved granddaughter, Sharron Rotunno and her husband Craig and their children, Deric, Devon & Katie all of Richford who lovingly cared for Virginia over the last 2 years. Virginia is also survived by 8 more grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren and 3 special nephews and their families. Besides her parents and husband, Virginia is predeceased by a 4th special nephew, William Billy Clark.
Virginias family would like to thank the staff of Franklin County Health & Rehab for the compassionate care given to her over the past few months.
A memorial service in Virginias honor will be held Wednesday, June 24, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the Spears Funeral Home, 96 Dickinson Ave., Enosburg Falls with Rev. Lyle Willey officiating. Interment will be held privately at the familys convenience in the East Franklin Cemetery.
A time of visitation will be held on Wednesday at the funeral home from 10:00 until the hour of the service.
For those who wish, contributions in Virginias honor may be made to Franklin County Home Health Agency, 3 Home Health Circle, St. Albans, VT 05478 or the Franklin County Humane Society, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478.
|