College news
• Jackson Heller of Brattleboro recently graduated magna cum laude with a B.F.A. in film from DePaul University.
• Jake Moore of Saxtons River was named to the Dean’s List during the spring 2026 academic semester at Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island.
• Charlee Davis of Londonderry was named to the spring 2026 President’s List at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy, New York.
School news
• 802 Credit Union recently announced the recipients of its 2026 High School Scholarship Program, awarding twelve $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors from across Vermont and New Hampshire. The annual program recognizes students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to their future goals. Local scholarship recipients include Maeve Bald and Colby Bristol of Brattleboro Union High School, Ellessia Hall of Compass School, and Garrett Haskell of Greenwood School.
Obituaries
• Allithea Stephanie Cary, 88, of Brattleboro. Died peacefully in her sleep at home, surrounded by her family, July 14, 2026. She is survived by her sons, Lewis Bloch of San Diego, California, and Philip Bloch of Brattleboro; her sister, Patricia Tucker; her grandchildren, Aliana Bloch, Julian Bloch, Sean Bloch, Maxwell Klapper-Bloch, and Ariel Eckert; and her nephews and nieces and great-grandchildren. Daughter of George Cary Jr. and Patricia (Warren) Cary, Allithea spent many happy years of her childhood on the upstate New York farm of her uncle Francis and aunt Allithea (Cary) Lango, learning to ride horses and helping out with farm chores, instilling a talent for and love of gardening and nature. Throughout her life she was a lover of animals, especially horses, dogs, and cats. She was an alumna of Brown University, where she graduated Phi Beta Kappa, and received her master’s degree in English at the State University of New York in Stony Brook. She went on to teach English and the Bible as Literature at Suffolk County Community College on Long Island, New York, for many years. After retirement she moved to Brattleboro, where her son Philip had established himself as a musician and composer, and she as well became a member of the musical community as a gifted pianist and singer. Allithea was known for her engagement with church, the American Legion, and her neighbors, and for her gentle, dry wit and generous spirit. She was inspiration to all who knew her to be more loving, more just, more spiritual, more musical, and more joyous. Memorial information: A funeral Mass was held July 21 at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church in Brattleboro, followed by committal rites and burial in St. Michael’s Parish Cemetery. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Richard Kenneth “Dick” Davenport, 77, of Hinsdale, New Hampshire. Died July 11, 2026, surrounded by his family, following a brief illness. Dick was born in Brattleboro Feb. 20, 1949, the son of Morris and Marjorie (Fossey) Davenport. He was raised and educated in Brattleboro and graduated from Brattleboro Union High School with the Class of 1967. A resident of Hinsdale for the past 40 years, he worked as a heavy equipment operator for many years at Crystal Ice & Fuel, and later worked for Barrows & Fisher, which he retired from in 2011. Dick was a talented fabricator and mechanic. During his retirement years, he took three parts cars and combined them to make a 1949 Jeepster that was later featured in Hemmings Classic Cars. He won numerous “Best in the Show” awards for his unique classic. He later went on to work on other auto and truck projects for friends before he turned his passion to woodworking. He loved working with wood and spent countless hours honing his craft; his creations are housed in many area homes. Dick enjoyed fishing and spending time on the water with his wife, Anne; daughter, Amber (John); and grandsons John and Nathan. Every summer was spent in Maine with his bass boat, fishing, kayaking, and enjoying lobster rolls with his family. A quiet, unassuming man, he will be remembered for his kind heart, spirit of friendship, and sense of humor. Dick was a longtime member of the B.P.O. Elks, Brattleboro Lodge #1499, joining the lodge when he was 21. He especially enjoyed stopping in at the lodge on Friday afternoons. On July 25, 1987, at Saint Joseph’s Church in Hinsdale, he was married to Anne Edson, who survives. Besides his faithful and devoted wife, daughter, son-in-law and grandsons, he leaves one brother, James Davenport (Harriet) of Chesterfield, New Hampshire; a nephew, Travis Davenport (Katey) and their son, Henry; as well as many other nieces and nephews. Memorial information: In keeping with Dick’s final wishes, there are no formal funeral services scheduled. A celebration of life gathering will be held at the Elks Club on Putney Road at a future date. Donations to the Windham County Humane Society, P.O. Box 397, Brattleboro, VT 05302. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Susan Heiser Hadden, 87, of Grafton, and Sugarloaf Key, Florida. Died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Grafton July 9, 2026. She was born on Dec. 11, 1938, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Charles and Dorothy Heiser. Susan had an extraordinary range of interests and was well known for her intelligence, warmth, and wit. She adored mineralogy, American history, literature, art, and music, and she was never at a loss for something interesting to learn or discuss. She freely shared her time, knowledge, humor, and friendship with everyone, from close friends and family to complete strangers in checkout lines. Her lifelong fascination with rocks, minerals, fossils, and geology began at age 5 with an arguably ordinary but pivotal collection from the family driveway, which her father unwittingly threw away. What started in the driveway led to museums, publications, and the designation of several Vermont state symbols. She wrote for and contributed to several mineralogy publications, including The Mineralogical Record, and for decades, was an active and engaged member of the Brattleboro Mineralogical Society. In 1989, Susan co-founded the Grafton Museum of Natural History (now The Nature Museum), which first opened its doors above the Grafton Town Hall for a rent of $1. She founded the Vermont Museum of Mining and Minerals, which operated for many years in Grafton and was known as a “true gem for rockhounds.” She also led the effort to have Vermont adopt its official state gem, mineral, and state rocks in 1992: grossular garnet, talc, granite, marble, and slate. Susan was an accomplished artist whose work included many life-sized portraits of rock musicians. Walking into her home often meant crossing paths with Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, or Jon Bon Jovi, often with classical music or opera blasting in the background — though just as easily Tom Waits, Reverend Peyton, or Stevie Ray Vaughan. A dedicated Florida snowbird for many decades, she was also active for many years in the Sugarloaf Shores Property Owners Association, where she served as president and was instrumental in protecting land on Sugarloaf through state conservation efforts. She was also a big fan of Key West chickens. She is survived by her daughter, Kate Hadden; her stepchildren, Jane Geisse, David Hadden, and John Hadden; her step-grandchildren Jesse, Erica, Ali, Boo, Taylor, and Emma; a growing number of step-great-grandchildren; and her two dogs, Milo and Matilda (aka the Bumpus Dogs). She was predeceased by her husband, Alexander H. Hadden, and her stepdaughter, Betsy Hadden. Memorial information: A private service will be held for the family. Donations to Grafton Cares (802-869-1527, graftoncares.org) or the Grafton Rescue Squad (802-843-2401, [email protected]).
• Marilyn A. Lucier, 81, of Hinsdale, New Hampshire. Died peacefully in the comfort of her home July 12, 2026, surrounded by her family, following a lengthy period of declining health. Marilyn was born in Brattleboro Aug. 12, 1944, the daughter of Percy and Florence (Monteith) Sprague. Raised and educated in Brattleboro, she attended public schools and graduated from Brattleboro Union High School with the Class of 1962. She worked as a store clerk at all three incarnations of the supermarket on Upper Canal Street — Finast, Price Chopper, and Market 32, from which she retired. Additionally, Marilyn worked for several years at C&S Wholesale Grocers in Brattleboro. A woman of faith, she was a devoted wife and loving mother and grandmother whose life centered around her family. She enjoyed going to tag sales, special functions (especially Christmas bazaars), and feeding and caring for her birds in the backyard. Most importantly, Marilyn cherished time spent with her family and close friends. She was first married to the late Raymond N. Toney. She later exchanged wedding vows with Harry W. Lucier Jr. May 23, 1982, in Chesterfield, New Hampshire. Besides her husband of 43 years, she leaves one son, Martin R. Toney (Linda) of Hinsdale; a daughter, Lynne Toney of Brattleboro; two step-daughters, Marie Brownell of Saxtons River and Tina Stockwell of Hinsdale; two brothers, Dwight and Robert Sprague; and a sister, Janice Cross. Additionally, she is survived by her grandson, Corey Toney; step-grandchildren Tracy Gerard, Lindsey Laisi, Dennis Norse Jr.; Timothy, Amanda, Alex, and Joseph Stockwell; Brian, Zachary and Whitney Brownell; several great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Marilyn was predeceased by her brothers Percy, Byron, and Richard Sprague. Memorial information: Graveside committal services will be conducted Sunday, July 26, at 10:30 a.m., in Pine Grove Cemetery in Hinsdale. A celebration of her life will follow, to be held at the Brattleboro Eagles Club on Chickering Drive from noon until 4 p.m. Donations to Bayada Hospice, 1222 Putney Road, Suite 107, Brattleboro, VT 05301, for the exemplary care and compassion given to Marilyn. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Meris Elaine Morrison, 87, of Brattleboro. Died July 8, 2026, at Thompson House in Brattleboro. Meris was born to Voris Leo Morrison and Merle Olive Cox Sept. 7, 1938, in Topeka, Kansas. She was raised in the Greens Bayou neighborhood of Houston, Texas, and graduated with a master’s degree in library science from Indiana University at Bloomington. She was also a proud Sigma Tau sorority sister. Her second master’s degree, in organizational behavior and management, came from Antioch New England and was attained while working as library director at Brooks Memorial Library in Brattleboro. Her library career began at Texas Southern University in Houston. She later came to Vermont and was the library director at Bennington Free Library before coming to Brattleboro in 1975 to run Brooks Memorial Library for 18 years. She retired from Brooks in 1993, but in 2001, she returned to her profession to be the librarian at Moore Free Library in Newfane until her second, and final, retirement in 2013. Along with her passion for books, Meris was an avid participant in the Brattleboro art scene. She displayed the work of innumerable local artists at Brooks, spawning Friday gallery walks. She sat on several boards in Brattleboro, as well as the Vermont Library Association. Her contributions to Brattleboro civic organizations are many. Meris acted in several plays with the Actor’s Theatre Playhouse, notably Patience. She possessed an operatic voice, and participated in sacred circle dances and clowning workshops. In retirement, she was a member of the Stone Soup Artists. As a Unitarian Universalist, she held dear a philosophy of Humanism and was active in the Civil Rights Movement while in college and the Women’s Liberation Movement while in Bennington (and throughout her life). She practiced her convictions and often gave refuge and perspective to those in need. Her energy seemed boundless for Broadway shows (in New York and London), flower shows, and art museums. She loved vacationing with her children and eating lobster together. Meris was outgoing and fun to be around. She loved her children unconditionally and was present when it mattered most. Meris is survived by her children, Mark and Kristen Eggert of Brattleboro, and her great-godchildren Asif and Arik Rahman, also of Brattleboro. Her inspiration will live on through many. Memorial information: An informal memorial service will be held Saturday, Aug. 8, at 2 p.m. at All Souls Church in West Brattleboro. Donations in her memory to The Gathering Place of Brattleboro, which she loved attending.
• Robert James Robinson, 82, of Wilmington. Died peacefully at his home July 7, 2026, following a long battle with cancer. Born Nov. 17, 1943, to Harry (“Tip”) and Francine Robinson, Robert grew up in West Wardsboro and graduated from Leland & Gray in 1961, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete. After a short period working at Mount Snow, he served three years in the Army in Europe. Upon returning to Wilmington, he pursued a career in carpentry, worked for Rocone Company, and then began a 35-year career at GS Precision in 1970. In 1972, Robert married the love of his life, the late Susan Waldron, and together they made their home on Lisle Hill Road in Wilmington. He was a dedicated outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing with his brothers, but he was perhaps best known for his extraordinary gardening skills. He took great pride in starting his vegetable plants from seed each spring and generously sharing the seedlings with family, friends, and neighbors. When harvest season arrived, he was just as eager to share the abundance from his garden. His remarkable talent was recognized many times at the Deerfield Valley Farmers’ Day Fair, where he earned the honor of Gardener of the Year on multiple occasions. Although Robert had no children of his own, he was a devoted uncle who was always there to lend a helping hand, offer support, and share his time with his nieces and nephews. His kindness, generosity, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Robert is survived by his brother, Harry Robinson and his wife, Clara, of Jamaica; his sisters-in-law, Jane Waldron of Wilmington and Connie Kmec of Vernon; his nephews, Alan Robinson and companion Bridget of Wilmington, Travis Robinson and wife Kathy of Augusta, Maine, and Adam Robinson and wife Megan of Austin, Texas; and his nieces, Amber Robinson and husband Casey of North Haven, Connecticut, and Ashton Robinson and husband Scott of Searsburg. Robert was predeceased by his wife Susan and brothers Alan and Kevin Robinson. Memorial information: Graveside services will be held Saturday, Aug. 1, at 11 a.m., at Riverview Cemetery in Wilmington. A celebration of life will follow the services at the Deerfield Valley Rescue Community Center on Stowe Hill. A second graveside service will be held Saturday, Aug. 8, at 11 a.m., at Fairview Cemetery in West Wardsboro. Donations to Deerfield Valley Rescue, P.O. Box 854, Wilmington, VT 05363. Also, the family encourages those wishing to honor Robert’s memory to plant a garden and share its harvest with others.
• Amy Ellen St. Louis, 53, of Shelburne, formerly of Brattleboro. Died unexpectedly July 10, 2026, at her home. Amy was born in Keene, New Hampshire, April 29, 1973, the daughter of Ernest and Audrey (Denyou) Kinsman. She was raised and educated in Brattleboro, graduating from Brattleboro Union High School with the Class of 1991. Amy went on to attend Castleton State College, earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1995. She later graduated from Champlain College in 2015 where she received her MBA. At the time of her death, Amy was employed in the anesthesiology department as an executive assistant at the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington. Previously, she worked in the Creative Media Department at Champlain College, and in the Grants Department at UVM. Amy’s many hobbies included cooking and baking, interior design, antiques, and going to yard sales and flea markets. Amy was happiest finding new treasures for her home, and always had at least 10 projects going simultaneously. She took great pride in making everything look good. Amy was an avid fan of horse racing, and surprised Matt and her father one Christmas with a trip to The Preakness Stakes in Baltimore. On Aug. 23, 2003, at First Congregational Church in Burlington, she married Matthew D. St. Louis, who survives. Besides her devoted husband of 22 years, she leaves her father, of Chesterfield, New Hampshire; aunt and uncle, Elton and Alice Kinsman of Vernon; mother-in-law, Maris Rock of St. Albans; brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Kirsten St. Louis of Raleigh, North Carolina; their children, Michael and Bailey; and Matt’s extended family, including many aunts, uncles and cousins. Additionally, Amy leaves her cats, Hattie and Sally. She was predeceased by her mother in 1997.Memorial information: Graveside committal services will be conducted Saturday, July 25, at 11 a.m., in Pine Grove Cemetery on Depot Street in Hinsdale, New Hampshire. In consideration of her love of animals, especially cats, donations in Amy’s name may be made to the Windham County Humane Society, P.O. Box 397, Brattleboro, VT 05302.To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
Services
• A graveside service for Rex Sheldon III will be held Saturday, July 25, at 10 a.m., at Meeting House Hill Cemetery on Orchard Street in Brattleboro, followed by a Celebration of Life at the Elks Club in Brattleboro on Putney Road from noon to 4 p.m. All are welcome. Bring stories, bring love, bring yourself as authentically as you can as family and friends celebrate a great man who meant so much to so many.
• Graveside committal services with military honors for William David “Bill” Manley will be conducted Saturday, July 25, at 8:30 a.m., in Meeting House Hill Cemetery on Orchard Street. Bill, a lifelong resident of the area, died March 6, 2026, at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital. To view his full obituary and offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
This Milestones item was submitted to The Commons.