Douglas A. Currie

Douglas A. Currie, 92, of Springfield, passed away at his home on Monday October 22, 2018 surrounded by his family. He was born February 8, 1926 in Springfield, Vermont the son of Robert D. and Julia E. (Keisler) Currie.

He attended Springfield Schools, graduating from Springfield High School class of 1943. He was a star quarterback for the Springfield Cosmos during High School.

He served in the United States Navy during WW II.

On August 9, 1950 He married Elinor Stewart in New York, and they have made their home in Springfield, Vt. for many years.

He owned and operated Brando’s Pizza in North Springfield, Vt. for several years. He was a Postal Carrier with the United States Postal Service out of the Springfield Post Office for 38 years, retiring in 1982. After retirement He drove School Bus and drove delivering and picking up cars for Soucy Motors in North Springfield, Vt.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Springfield, a member of the Knights of Columbus and served on the St. Mary’s Parish Council, and volunteered as an Usher.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing, was an antique collector, enjoyed attending local sporting events. officiated at Cosmos Football games for 20 years, and coached Little League Baseball for many years. He was also an avid Yankee’s fan.

He is survived by his wife Elinor of 68 years of Springfield, two sons ; Michael Currie of North Springfield, and Howard Currie of Springfield, two daughters ; Cynthia Currie of St. Albans, and Melissa Leenders of Lebanon, N.H. Three grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, one daughter Linda Currie, one son Robert Currie, one brother Jim Currie, and two sisters Peggy Stone and Shelia Thompson.

Friends may call at the Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield on Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 PM

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Friday October 26, 2018 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Springfield, Vt. Reverend Peter Williams will officiate.

Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Cemetery in Springfield.

Contributions may be made in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, Vermont.

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Alberta E. Ugolnik

Alberta E. Ugolnik, 91, passed away on Sunday evening, Sept. 23, 2018 at her home in North Springfield, Vermont surrounded by her family. She was born Jan. 7, 1927 in Proctorsville, Vt., the daughter of Eugene Dunlap and Grace Turgeon.

She was a mother and homemaker, she loved spending time with her grandchildren, she loved baking cookies and pies, and loved animals. She also enjoyed yard sales and collecting elephant items.

She is survived by two sons, Raymond Stillwell of Springfield and Robert Stillwell of Chester; step-son Tony Ugolnik of Hartford, Connecticut; four daughters, Barbara Cram of North Springfield, Vermont, Floreen McNulty of North Springfield, Vermont, Patricia Goodrich of Chester, Vermont, and Brenda Waters of Springfield, Vermont; 12 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; a nephew; and a great-niece.

She was predeceased by two sons, John Stillwell and Eugene Stillwell, and Baby Stillwell, one brother Ed, and one sister Lena Aldrich, and by her ex-husband Anthony Ugolnik.

Friends may call at the Davis Memorial Chapel on Saturday evening Sept. 29 from 6-8 p.m.

A burial service will be held at a later date in the Hillcrest Cemetery in Proctorsville, Vermont.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Davis Memorial Chapel.

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Susan M. Fleming

Susan Marie (Gleason) Fleming, 71, of North Springfield passed away at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, New Hampshire surrounded by her loving family, after an illness.

Sue was born Feb. 5, 1947, in Middlebury, Vermont, the daughter of Frederic and Beatrice (Martel) Gleason. She attended Springfield, Vermont schools graduating in 1965. She married Leslie E. Fleming, Nov. 28, 1965.

Sue is survived by her loving daughters Carol Fleming-Gates and her husband Rick of Bedford, New Hampshire and Leslie A. Fleming-Stearns and her husband Clarence of Burlington; her precious grandchildren, Ryan Gates, Brittany and Alex Duchemin and Emma Stearns; her sister, Ruth Sargent (Tony), David Gleason (Korrena), Rodney Gleason of Springfield; her sister, Linda Alexander (Clyde) of Louisville, Kentucky; her brother-in-law Lawrence Roundy of Orlando, Florida; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband of 49 years, and brother Frederic V. Gleason.

A private graveside service will be held at the Pine Grove Cemetery, North Springfield. There will be a celebration of life service at the Fletcher House, 472 Main Street, Chester at 1 p.m. Oct. 13, 2018.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sue’s memory to the Community Hospice House, 210 Naticook Rd, Merrimack, NH 03054.

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Howard D. Hill

Howard D. Hill, 86, died Sunday, July 8, 2018, at the Gill Odd Fellows Home in Ludlow.

He was born May 28, 1932, the son of Harry E. and Eva (Washburn) Hill, in Andover, where he attended local schools.

He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War era.

On April 7, 1956, he married Marlene L. Liberty in North Springfield.

Mr. Hill was employed as a machinist with Lovejoy Tool Co. for 38 years.

He was a member of Robert L. Johnson VFW Post 771 in Springfield.

He enjoyed snowmobiling, riding motorcycles, camping, and was a member of Hawk's Mountain Ridge Riders.

Survivors include his wife, of Ludlow; five children Howard Hill II, of Northwood, New Hampshire, Daniel and Lorrie Hill, both of North Springfield, Nancy Barror, of Springfield, Stephanie Lewis, of Woodstock; seven siblings Patricia Gannaway, Barry, Roy, Harry, Ruby, Doris and Darlene Hill; 13 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and cousins.

Mr. Hill was predeceased by four siblings Vivian Currier, Mabel King, George and Darl Hill.

The memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 15, at Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, where a calling hour will begin at 1 p.m. prior to the service officiating by the Rev. George Keeler.

Memorial contributions may be made to Gill Odd Fellows Home, 8 Gill Terrace, Ludlow, VT 05149.

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Margaret Spaulding

Margaret Spaulding, 97, died Saturday, April 21, 2018, at Stoughton House in Windsor, surrounded by family.

She was born Sept. 5, 1920, in Springfield, the daughter of Charles D. and Clara A. (Bibens) Heald.

She graduated from Springfield High School and from beauty school in Keene, New Hampshire, and then worked in hair salons in Claremont, New Hampshire.

On Dec. 14, 1941, she married Henry W. Spaulding in North Springfield, Vermont.

Mrs. Spaulding worked as a hairdresser from her home, and also as a reflexologist for many years in Vermont and in Florida.

She was a member of North Springfield Baptist Church and the Windsor County Home Dem Club.

She enjoyed knitting, sewing, crocheting and bead work. She did knitting and crocheting for RSVP, as well as for Chistmas craft sales and craft stores.

Survivors include three children Keith Spaulding, of Sandown, New Hampshire, Carl Spaulding, of North Springfield, Celia Taylor, of Perkinsville; a sister, Marion Harlow, of North Springfield; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mrs. Spaulding was predeceased by her husband May 4, 1998.

The memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 28, at North Springfield Baptist Church. The Rev. George Keeler, pastor, will officiate. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery in North Springfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Springfield Humane Society, 401 Skitchewaug Trail, Springfield, VT 05156; or North Springfield Baptist Church, P.O. Box 23, North Springfield, VT 05150.

Arrangements are by Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield.

Margaret with her husband and three children, early 1960s

 

Margaret with her sister Marion

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William R. Guy

William R. Guy of North Springfield, Vermont, died Friday, March 23, 2018, peacefully at his home after a courageous battle with cancer. Bill was born Nov. 26, 1939, in Lebanon, Maine, to Eugene N. and Zelma (Nichols) Guy.

Following the death of his father in 1945, he along with his mother and brother moved to Alton, New Hampshire. In 1955 they moved to Chester, Vermont, where Bill graduated from Chester High School in 1958. After graduation he joined the Army Reserves in Chester. In 1962, Bill married Evelyn Crossman at the First Baptist Church in Chester, Vermont.

Bill became a skilled machinist and over the course of the next five years he was employed at Pratt and Whitney, Cone Automatic and Bryant Grinder.

In 1967 Bill became co-owner of Idlenot Family Restaurants with his brother Eugene, then over the course of the next 20 years, they built up a chain of 12 restaurants in Vermont, New Hampshire and New York, later selling to the Friendly’s Corporation in 1986.

He was a member of the Springfield Elks Club and bowled in leagues for more than 30 years at the Plaza Bowl in Springfield.

Bill’s favorite hobby was restoring and driving his classic cars.

Survivors include his wife Evelyn of North Springfield; his son, Douglas, granddaughters Gillian and Grace Guy and their mother, Georgeann Guy, and brother Eugene (Carol ) Guy, all of Springfield, Vermont; also nieces and nephews. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday March 31, at First Baptist Church on Main Street in Chester, Vermont.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Springfield Humane Society, 401 Skitchewaug Trail Springfield, VT 05156.

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Jane M. Kervella

Jane M. Kervella, 84, of North Springfield, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Friday evening February 23, 2018. She was born July 7, 1933 in Troy, New Hampshire the daughter of Lawrence and Lempi ( Mattila ) Lepisto. She attended and graduated schools in the Troy area. On September 24, 1954 she married Louis E. Kervella Jr. in Troy, N.H. He predeceased her on July 25, 1999.

She lived in Troy, Keene and East Alstead N.H. most of her life, moving to North Springfield, Vt. in 1999.

Jane was employed in Customer Service with American Optical and Schleicher & Schuell in Keene, N.H.

She was an active member of the North Springfield Baptist Church and enjoyed working and attending Church suppers. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching and thrift shopping. She loved her cat Webley.

She was a mother and grandmother to everyone.

She is survived by 1 son Lawrence L. Kervella and his wife Sun Sok of Yorktown, VA. 2 daughters – Johanna Beam and her husband Stuart of Springfield, and Lesa Hinkley and her husband Douglas of Springfield. Also by 7 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband one daughter Heidi and by 2 brothers – Paul and Robert.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Saturday March 3, 2018 at the North Springfield Baptist Church, Reverend George Keeler Pastor will officiate. Burial will be in East Alstead, N.H. at a later date.

Contributions may be made in her memory to the North Springfield Baptist Church P.O. Box 23 North Springfield, Vt. 05150 or to the Springfield Humane Society 401 Skitchewaug Trail Springfield, Vt. 05156.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, Vermont.

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Phillip N. Streeter

Phillip Norman Streeter, 85, of Snowflake, Arizona, passed away at his home on Feb. 15, 2018. He was born on May 30, 1932, in North Springfield, Vt., to his parents Charles and Mary (Guild) Streeter.

A visitation will be held at 9 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 23, at the Concho Valley Community Church, located at 36650 Highway 61, in Concho. Funeral services will follow at 10 a.m.

Burial will take place at a later date at the Pine Grove Cemetery in North Springfield, Vt.

Phillip worked as a mover for J.M. Giddings Trucking then was a truck driver for Northeast Riggers. He was honorably discharged from the United States Army, where he served during the Korean War. His hobbies were woodworking and gardening.

He was a member of Concho Valley Community Church and attended Advent Christian Church in North Springfield, Vt.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda (Ballard) Streeter of Snowflake; sister, Mary Nelson of Port St. Joe, Fla.; daughters, Debbie (Michael) Knox of Fairfield, Maine, Lisa (Mark) Callaghan of Apache Junction, Wendy (Michael) Blish of Phoenix; son, Eric Streeter of Putney, Vt.; adopted daughter, Marion Ellen Smith DeStellano of White River Junction, Vt; grandchildren, Devan and Kassady Smith, Jennifer Coolidge and Daniel Knox; and great-grandchildren, Katelyn and Jason Coolidge, and Addy and Tully Starger-Knox.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Janet Anderson Streeter; and brothers, Charles Russell and Alfred Streeter.

Owens Livingston Mortuary of Snowflake handled the arrangements.

---

UPDATE 04/10/18:

The graveside service for Phillip Streeter, 85, formerly of North Springfield, who died Feb. 15, 2018, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 14, in Pine Grove Cemetery in North Springfield.

The Rev. Floyd McIntyre will officiate.

Reception follows at the Advent Christian Church, Church Street, North Springfield.

Local arrangements are by Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield.

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Rev. Cushman A. Bryant

Reverend Cushman A. Bryant, 92, of Dowling Park, Florida passed away from cancer on Tuesday, September 19, 2017. He was born June 11, 1925, in North Springfield, the son of Clarence and Beatrice (Whitcomb) Bryant. Cushman grew up in North Springfield where he became a member of the Advent Christian Church at age 15.  He graduated from Springfield High School in 1943. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran serving in WWII.  After his time in the Navy, Cushman attended the New England School of Theology and for 60 years served as pastor at various Advent Christian Churches, including the Advent Christian Church of Rutland, Vermont.

He moved to Dowling Park 35 years ago from Nova Scotia. In retirement, he was a member of the Advent Christian Church in Dowling Park.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years: Erlene A Bryant, Dowling Park, FL ; Three daughters: Joy Goode, Lake City, Fl , Donna Carr, Nicholasville, Ky and Amy Beebe, Apopka, Fl; Two sons: David Bryant, Winter Haven, Fl and James Bryant, Bangor, Me; Eight grandchildren and Eight great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 am Monday, September 25, 2017 at Bixler Memorial Chapel, Dowling Park, Fla. with Rev. Jason Hilliard officiating.

In Service of God and Country 

6/29/2015

Seventy years ago, World War II was almost a year old. The United States had yet to enter the war directly, though they were sending supplies to their allies in Europe. Germany, Italy, Japan and Russia were marching (literally and figuratively) through Europe and Asia, defeating and laying claim to those countries they desired. It was a frightening time at home and abroad. And things had only just begun.

As the world remembers the 75th anniversary of its second world war, we would like to take the opportunity to spotlight a few Advent Christian Village members who served our United States as servicemen and women during those years of war. Without the personal sacrifices of brave individuals from all over, the outcome of the last world war would not have been as favorable. One such individual is Cushman Bryant.

Cushman grew up in Vermont. After the war had been going on for a few years, he received a draft notice during the summer of 1943. Not having yet graduated from high school, Cushman’s mother and principal worked it out that Cushman could receive a deferment in order to complete his senior year in half the time and report for military service during the winter of 1944. Cushman says he believes his teachers took pity on him, helping him to pass all his senior classes in half a year, and sending him off to Navy boot camp in January 1944.

Cushman Bryant was a scrappy 
 18-year-old when he joined the 
 Navy in 1944. Cushman served 
 until April 1946. 

After World War II had been going on for a few years, Cushman Bryant received a draft notice during the summer of 1943. Not having yet graduated from high school, Cushman’s mother and principal worked it out that Cushman could receive a deferment in order to complete his senior year in half the time and report for military service during the winter of 1944. Cushman said he believes his teachers took pity on him, helping him to pass all his senior classes in half a year, and sending him off to Navy boot camp in January 1944.

After boot camp, Cushman was assigned to the USS Waldron, a destroyer named for John C. Waldron, a US Naval aviator who led a squadron of torpedo bombers earlier in the war. Cushman was assigned as a gunner’s mate, but construction on the ship was not finished until early summer 1944.

Stationed in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, a short distance by train from his hometown of North Springfield, Vermont, Cushman was granted leave to return home for his high school graduation ceremony. Though administration had asked for all applause to be held until the last name was called, when Cushman strode across the stage in uniform to receive his diploma, he received a standing ovation.

For the next two years, Cushman served on the Waldron. The Waldron’s main duty was to escort ships in the Pacific which were putting the pressure on Japanese forces.

One of the more memorable events Cushman remembers is when a Japanese picket boat attacked another destroyer and then attempted to break by the Waldron in order to get to the ships the destroyers were protecting. The Waldron could not fire on the boat because of its proximity to the other destroyer, so she rammed the picket boat, splitting it in two.

During Cushman’s two years as a sailor, he says he may not have advanced in rank or performed any memorable military service, but he is well remembered because of his faith.

Cushman and two other men, after finding each other because all three read their Bibles and prayed in their bunks, approached the captain about holding regular religious services on the Waldron. The captain granted their request and supported them, even when others fought to end their activities. Cushman had not previously had any ideas of becoming a preacher or missionary, but he readily and willingly acted as a chaplain for the men serving on the Waldron, including the captain himself.

Gunner’s Mate Cushman Bryant stands aboard his ship, the USS Waldron, a destroyer.

Cushman remembers fondly one particular sailor. On occasion, when in port, those who were involved in religious services on the separate destroyers would get together for what they called revival services. One of those times, an inebriated sailor approached Cushman and asked if they could pray together. Despite being warned by another chaplain that the sailor was most likely going to give Cushman trouble the next day, Cushman says he responded, “If someone asks me to pray with them, I’m going to pray.” The next day, Cushman found the sailor and discovered that he had left home on bad terms with his family and was now praying that God would heal those relationships. At a Waldron reunion, years later, people remembered that sailor and how Cushman had helped him turn his life around.

Cushman has attended several reunions of the crews of the USS Waldron. In fact, he has the special honor of being a “plank owner,” meaning he was one of the original crew aboard the Waldron when it was first commissioned.

After his time in the Navy, Cushman attended the New England School of Theology and served as pastor at many churches in the east, even after his retirement to Advent Christian Village. At Waldron reunions, he is known as Reverend Bryant and has been asked to pray, and he has also performed a wedding ceremony.

We thank Cushman for his years of service to our country. But, more than that, we thank God that he used Cushman to support and reach so many sailors through love and ministry.

 --Advent Christian Village News,
Dowling Park, Florida

  

Cushman Bryant in 2015

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Wesley D. Jewell Sr.

Wesley D. Jewell Sr., 94, died Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2017, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire.

He was born Jan. 22, 1923, in East Topsham, the son of Raymond and Marie (McKay) Jewell.

He graduated in 1941 from Bradford Academy and later, from Concord (New Hampshire) Business School.

Mr. Jewell married Blanche Carpenter Sept. 10, 1948, in East Corinth.

He was employed as a machinist with Fellows Gear Shaper in Springfield for 17 years and later, as a truck driver with St. Johnsbury Trucking, retiring after 17 years of service.

He was a member of Minerva Lodge #86 F&AM in East Corinth, the Mount Sinai Shriners and the Sinai Joes Clown Unit. He was also a volunteer driver for CRT. Mr. Jewell enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, snowmobiling, vegetable gardening and puttering.

Survivors include his wife, of North Springfield; four children, Virginia Ricker, Susan Jewell, both of Perkinsville, Wesley Jewell Jr., Mark Jewell, both of Springfield; a sister, Paula Jewell, of East Corinth; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Calling hours are from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6, at Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield.

The graveside Masonic service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, in New Cemetery in East Corinth.

Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 North Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.

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Arthur R. Taft

Arthur R. Taft, 59, died Monday, Aug. 28, 2017, at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts.

He was born Sept. 23, 1957, in Springfield, the son of Clifford and Rena (Martin) Taft.

He graduated in 1975 from Springfield High School.

Mr. Taft was employed as a lineman and in electrical maintenance at substations for Central Vermont Public Service for many years. He built, owned and managed North Springfield Self Storage for many years.

He enjoyed snowmobiling and riding motorcycles.

Survivors include a brother, Martin Taft, of North Springfield, nephews, great-nephews and -nieces.

He was predeceased by his parents and a sister, Nancy Sammel.

Calling hours are from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6, at Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield.

The memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, at the funeral home with the Rev. George Keeler, pastor of North Springfield Baptist Church, officiating.

Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery in North Springfield.

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Margaret E. Behsmann

Margaret Ellen Behsmann, 82, died Wednesday, June 21, 2017, at Springfield Hospital.

She was born July 1, 1934, in Biddeford, Maine, the daughter of William and Helen (Knight) Wheeler.

She graduated from high school in California and later, earned an associate's degree.

On May 25, 1972, she married Lawrence Behsmann in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He died Aug. 20, 2010.

Mrs. Behsmann worked as an accountant and bookkeeper for Schlage Lock Co. for many years. She cared for handicapped children for many years and raised miniature horses on her farm, Trinity Farm, of Springfield.

She was a painter, an artist, and won blue ribbons with her show horses.

Survivors include three sons, Roger Stone, of Springfield, Bill Stone, of Colorado, and Tim Behsmann, of Maryland; a sister, Becky Lowe, of North Carolina; 12 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

She was also predeceased by a daughter, Kathy Anderson.

The memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are by Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield.

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Larry W. Griswold

Larry W. Griswold, 64, of North Springfield, passed away Tuesday evening April 11, 2017 at the Springfield Health & Rehab Center in Springfield, Vermont. He was born August 12, 1952 in Springfield, Vermont the son of William and Eleanor (Simonds) Griswold. He attended Springfield Schools, graduating from Springfield High School class of 1971. He served in the United States Army during Vietnam, stationed in Germany. He served 3 years active duty and 10 years in the Guard Reserves.

On September 10, 1977 He married Sueann Sanford at the Weathersfield Center Church in Weathersfield, Vt.

Larry was employed on the assembly floor at Bryant Grinder Co. in Springfield for 23 years. He later owned and operated his own construction and excavating business for many years.

He enjoyed hunting, woodworking, four wheelers and raising miniature ponies and donkeys.

He is survived by his wife Sueann of North Springfield, one brother Christopher Griswold, of North Springfield, one sister Elaine Erskine of North Carolina, and nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, and also by his son Shawn Griswold in 1997.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday April 22, 2017 at the Assembly of God Church in Springfield, Vt. Reverend Marc Aube Pastor will officiate. Burial will follow in the Pine Grove Cemetery in North Springfield, Vermont.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, Vermont.

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Jean Willard

Jean Willard (n. Follett) of North Springfield died Tuesday, March 21, 2017, at the home of her daughter, Brenda Wells, surrounded by family members.

She was born March 11, 1927, in Jamaica, Vermont, the daughter of Robert C. Follett and Muriel (Grout) Follett, and grew up in Townshend, Vermont, Watertown, Connecticut and North Springfield, Vermont.

A graduate of Springfield High School, Jean studied journalism at Boston University and physical education at Castleton State College, as well as participating in numerous workshops and instructional programs. She earned an associate degree in human services at the Community College of Vermont.

She worked in various venues teaching yoga, dance and physical education, and wrote local features for the Eagle Times in the late sixties. But her life’s work was wife, mother, neighbor and community worker. She married Harold (Sunny) Willard on Jan. 11, 1947, beginning a 57-year partnership until his death in 2004. Harold was a machinist for J&L. While caring for their own family of two boys, two girls, and at times foster children, Jean and Harold were active neighbors in North Springfield. Several of her grown children’s childhood friends recall Jean as a “second mother." Jean and Harold enjoyed community theater, gardening, Good Sam events with their trailer, the fellowship of friends and especially dancing.

Jean was active in local organizations and government. She served for more than 25 years on the Springfield Board of Civil Authority including 19 years as a Justice of the Peace. And she served on the Springfield Select Board, 1987-1996, including terms as vice chair and chair. From 1994 to 1998 she served as Vermont District Representative on the Vermont-New Hampshire Solid Waste Executive Committee, serving as vice chair and chair. She served four years on the school board and was a founder of the Windsor County Select Board Association. She was honored for her court diversion work. In addition, Jean did extensive volunteer work for 4-H, Girl Scouts, the Red Cross and others.

Jean was dedicated to the North Springfield Baptist Church. She was a Sunday School teacher, youth director, camp director and member of the Christian Education Committee. Jean was especially proud of having created and nurtured the Interpretive Choir that incorporated dance into the church’s worship. She honored her late husband’s memory by completing her written history of the church, a goal the Willards had shared.

Thanksgiving 2016

Jean remained vital and energetic well into her eighties. Besides writing her church history, she dedicated herself to another goal she’d shared with Harold, the neighborhood volunteer effort to preserve the North Springfield School property as a youth recreation center. The young parents she led in the effort referred to her as “the Boss," and a government official with whom she dealt called her a “gentle pit bull." She was also a leader in stopping an intrusive biomass electrical generating plant in North Springfield. She continued her Bible studies and gardening, and greatly enjoyed her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Reflecting on her life, Jean was proudest of episodes when she stood up against injustice. As a little girl, she jumped from a stair landing to beat up a bully who was picking on a smaller child. As teenagers, she and her brother walked out of their dancing lesson when the teacher barred a girl of color from the class. In college, she spoke up to defend a Jewish girl from a bigoted house mother. More recently she led the successful effort to have the North Springfield Baptist Church welcome GLTB members.

She was predeceased by her husband, Harold. She is survived her brother, Robert C. Follette Jr. of Amherst, Massachusetts; and by her four children and their spouses, Steve and Peggy Willard of North Springfield, Richard Willard and Richard Nault of Greenfield, Massachusetts, Cynthia Metcalf and Sen. Dick McCormack of Bethel, Vermont and Brenda and Steve Wells of St. Johnsbury, Vermont; six grandchildren, Nathan Willard, Steve Willard, Alex Metcalf, Ben Metcalf, Emily Metcalf and Wayne Johnson; six great-grandchildren, Starr and Summer Willard, Elliana Cook, Charlotte and William Metcalf, and Riley and Lillianna Johnson.

Visiting hours are from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, March 25, followed by services at 11 a.m. and a reception, all at the North Springfield Baptist Church. Reverend George Keeler Pastor will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jean’s memory can be sent to the North School Preservation Society, P.O. Box 107 North Springfield, VT 05150 ( nsps.awardspace.us ); The North Springfield Baptist Church (The Willard Scholarship Fund), P.O. Box 23, North Springfield, VT 05150; or Valley Court Diversion Program, P.O. Box 474, White River Junction, VT 05501.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield.

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William C. Hannah

William C. Hannah, 74, died Tuesday, March 7, 2017, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire.

He was born Nov. 14, 1942, in Springfield, the son of Fred and Hilda (Stone) Hannah.

He graduated in 1961 from Springfield High School.

Mr. Hannah married Sharon L. Heald Aug. 5, 1967, in Springfield.

He was employed as an inspector in the machine tool industry with Jones and Lamson for many years. He also worked for Vermont Research and Springfield Printing.

In North Springfield, he was a member of the Civil Air Patrol and worked on airplanes at Hartness Airport, and was active in the North School Preservation Society.

Mr. Hannah enjoyed electronics, carpentry, bowling, roller skating, and was a ham radio enthusiast.

Survivors include his wife, of North Springfield; a daughter, Dorene Barnette, of Apopka, Florida; a grandson, Jathan; a sister, Shirley Reed, of South Carolina; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Arrangements are by Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield. Services will be announced at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association , 110 Main St. #203, Burlington, VT 05401; or American Diabetes Association , P.O. Box 15829, Arlington, VA 22215.

Update:  The graveside service took place June 10, 2017 at the Pine Grove Cemetery in North Springfield. Rev. George Keeler officiated.  A reception followed at the North Springfield Baptist Church.

Video: Life Is Short


Written and Performed by
Craig Aven

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Catherine B. Jordan

Catherine B. Jordan, 93, of Brentwood Nursing Home, Warwick, Rhode Island, went to be with the Lord on February 27, 2017. She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Ralph E. Jordan and by her two brothers, Bulter Baucom and Joseph Baucom.

Born in Unionville, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Adam C. Baucom and Beulah B. (Rushing) Baucom. She is survived by her son Paul J. Jordan and wife Rebekah of North Kingstown and her daughter Betty L. Jordan of Rensselaer, New York. She is also survived by her two grandchildren Andrew P. Jordan (wife Karissa) and Melissa J. Cail (husband Ben) and four great grandchildren.

Mrs. Jordan was a graduate of King's Business College, Charlotte, North Carolina and held secretarial positions at Burrough's Adding Machine in Charlotte, Choate Rosemary Hall School in Wallingford, Connecticut, Quidnessett Baptist Church in North Kingstown, Rhode Island and New Hampshire Technical Institute in Concord, New Hampshire. She became a member of Exeter Chapel, Exeter, Rhode Island when she and her husband moved back to be with family in 2003.

She met her husband, Ralph E. Jordan, at the New England School of Theology in Boston, Massachusetts and supported him in pastoral work in New England for over 20 years. Rev. Jordan was pastor of the Advent Christian Church in North Springfield, Vt. from 1963 to 1970. Her children remember her devotion to the Lord, her avid reading and study of the Bible, the ability to sew and crochet and her piano playing of Chopin and hymns.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Friday, March 3 at 11:00 am at Exeter Chapel, 765 Ten Rod Road, Exeter, Rhode Island. Burial in the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter will be private. Condolences may be offered and remembrances shared online at carpenterjenks.com.

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Robert A. Pixley

Robert A. “Butch” Pixley, 69, passed away on Friday evening Feb. 10, 2017, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H. He was born on June 20, 1947, in Springfield, Vt., the fourth child of Albert M. and Charlotte F. (Thaxter) Pixley. He attended Springfield public schools and graduated from Springfield High School, Class of 1965.

In June 1966 he enlisted in the United States Navy, doing his training at Great Lakes Training Center. He was assigned to the USS York County and stationed in Little Creek, Va. He sailed to islands in the Caribbean and did two tours in the Mediterranean area.

In June 1972 he married Judy Stoodley, sister of his brother Howard’s wife, Jane Stoodley. Robert and Judy had two children, Rebecca Lynn and Matthew Mark, and resided at their 10-acre home on Whitesville Road in Cavendish, Vt., until their divorce in May of 1995.

Robert’s working career consisted of Book Press in Brattleboro, Vt., Bryant Grinder in Springfield, Vt., Door Crafters in Ludlow, Vt., Jones & Lamson Machine Tool in Springfield, Vt., and Feriux Machine Shop in North Springfield, Vt.

In 1977 Robert joined the 131st Vermont Army National Guard which was activated for the Gulf War in November 1990. In May 1991 the 131st was sent to Saudi Arabia for one year. He achieved the rank of staff sargeant. In the summer of 2001 while on maneuvers in New York State, he contracted carditis, which required him to resign from the guards after 24 years.

Robert joined the Cavendish Fire Department in 1974 and had attained the rank of assistant chief. He served twice as the commander of the Robert L. Johnson V.F.W. Post 771 in Springfield, Vt. (2009-2010), and as state commander of the Disabled American Veterans. He was also an active volunteer and driver for the D.A.V.

He is survived by his father Albert M. Pixley of Springfield; one daughter, Rebecca L. Nareau of Cavendish; one son, Matthew M. Pixley of Fairbanks, Alaska; one brother, Howard Pixley of Cavendish; two sisters, Betty Wall of Springfield and Flora Bush of Ogunquit, Maine; his former wife Judy; his companion, Leslie Bensley, of North Springfield; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his mother, Charlotte.

A memorial service will be held at 11a. m. on Friday, Feb. 17, 2017, at the Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, Vt. Reverend Abraham Gross, pastor of the Cavendish Baptist Church, will officiate. Burial with military honors will be in the Vermont Veterans Cemetery in Randolph Center, Vt., at a later date.

Contributions may be made in his memory to the Robert L. Johnson V.F.W. Post 771, P.O. Box 568 Springfield, VT 05156 or the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) at dav.org or mail to: Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301. Arrangements are under the direction of the Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, Vt.

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Eleanor J. Houghton

Eleanor J. Houghton, 93, a longtime resident of Springfield, passed away Tuesday morning, Jan. 10, 2017, at the Springfield Health and Rehabilitation Center in Springfield.

She was born May 13, 1923, in West Windsor, the daughter of Louis and Myrtle (Clay) Merrill. She received her schooling in West Windsor and Windsor, graduating from Windsor High School in 1942. She married Frank H. Houghton on May 9, 1952 in North Springfield. She and her husband operated the family farm in West Windsor for many years. Mrs. Houghton was an active member of the 4-H Club, winning many awards over the years. She was also a member of the Happy Homemakers Club in Ascutney, the 251 Club and had attended the North Springfield Baptist Church for several years.

Eleanor enjoyed crafts, crocheting and sewing. She was fond of animals, especially her cats, and greatly enjoyed spending time with her family. Her husband passed away in 2009. She was also predeceased one son, David Houghton in December of 2016.

Survivors include one daughter, Judy Spaulding and her husband, Carl, of North Springfield; one daughter-in-law, Nancy Houghton of South Charlestown; six grandchildren, Tracy Benedict, Kevin Spaulding, Todd Houghton, Toby Houghton, Tanya Frady and Lori Altfather; several great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at the Knight Funeral Home in Windsor. A prayer service will begin at 3:30 p.m. with Rev. George Keeler, Pastor of the North Springfield Baptist Church, officiating. Committal services will be held in the spring at the Brownsville Cemetery in West Windsor.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Springfield Humane Society, 401 Skitchewaug Trail, Springfield, VT 05156. Condolences may be expressed to her family in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com.

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Burt E. Stevens

Burt E. Stevens, 93, passed away Saturday, Dec. 24, 2016, at his home in Springfield. He was born Dec. 16, 1923, in North Springfield, Vermont, to the late Ernest and Lena (Coburn) Stevens.

Burt resided in southern Vermont for most of his life. He also spent time in New York, New Mexico and Connecticut. Burt was a World War II veteran. He served in the United States Navy and the United States Air Force.

Burt worked several jobs over the years, a few of which are Pinkerton’s Security, General Electric, and the Town of Springfield as well as being self-employed for several years.

Burt enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was an active member of the Charlestown Bible Church in Charlestown. Anyone who knew Burt knew of his love of NASCAR and especially Jeff Gordon.

Burt was predeceased by his first wife, Reba Porter and second wife, Eugenie Spicer. Also by six siblings, two in infancy, one brother Forrest Stevens, and three sisters, Theda Carlisle, Rose Butler and Elisabeth Porter. He was also predeceased by a son, Brian R. Stevens; and two stepchildren Carla (Spicer) Clark and Robert Spicer. Surviving family includes his wife of over 16 years Frances (Ledoux) Stevens; two sisters, Flora Pierce and her husband, Fred, and Bernice Jenks, all of Ocala, Florida; two children, Gary B. Stevens and his wife, Karen, of Canterbury, Connecticut and Carla (Stevens) Pomenleau and her husband, Leonard, of Lebanon, Connecticut; three stepchildren, Paul Spicer, Vallery (Curtis) Bromley and John H. Curtis III; also by 28 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren and many great-great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, 2017, at the Charlestown Bible Church, 37 Hammond Road in Charlestown. A gathering will follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Visiting Nurse and Hospice of VT & NH, P.O. Box 976, White River Junction, VT 05001; or to the Charlestown Bible Church, P.O. Box 461, Charlestown, NH 03603. Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Marjorie J. Bartley

Marge J. Bartley, 81, of North Springfield, died August 7, 2016, at Springfield Health & Rehabilitation Center.

She was born May 26, 1935, in West Burke, the daughter of Hyland R. and Bernice I. (Olney) Lamphere. She graduated from Springfield High School in 1953.

She lived most of her life in North Springfield, where her mother’s family had lived since the 1780s.

She was a lifelong member of the Advent Christian Church, where she married her husband, Leonard M. Bartley, on May 5, 1953.

She moved with her husband to Fredericksburg, Virginia, while he was in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War. They moved back to North Springfield, where they spent the rest of their lives.

She worked at the National Survey in Chester, later at Simmons Precision in Bellows Falls and retired from there as manager of the stockroom.

She enjoyed singing in the church choir, reading, playing cards and board games, traveling and spending time with her extended family.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years; son Larry Bartley; son Scott Andrew “Drew” Bartley; a grandson; brother Ernest “Puggy” Lamphere; and half siblings Bradley Morgan and Anne Smith. She was predeceased by her son, Alan Bartley, in 1960; and siblings Ervin Lamphere, Francis Lamphere and Dean Lamphere.

There will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2016, at Pine Grove Cemetery in North Springfield. A celebration of life will follow at her home adjacent to the cemetery. Arrangements are by Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield.

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