Milestones

Obituaries

• Louis Michael Andreotta Jr., 70, died Jan. 16, 2026, due to complications from Dementia. He was born Oct. 9, 1955, in Clifton, New Jersey, the son of Louis Michael Andreotta Sr. and Anita Salmon. He graduated from the Florida Institute of Technology. His professional career took him across the globe, from Texas to Europe and finally, to settle in Vermont where he served Marlboro as Emergency Management Coordinator after Tropical Storm Irene. He is survived by his grandson Ronin, sons Sean and Brandon, his wife Barbara, his brother Craig, and his sisters Rachel, Gale, Laurel and Michele. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter in-law Carissa Andreotta. Memorial information: His remains will be scattered along the Eastern Seaboard to inspire the humble.

• Denise Mary Anthes, Ph.D., 70, of Chesnee, South Carolina, formerly of Weaverville, North Carolina and Cranford, New Jersey, and sister to Edward Anthes of Dummerston. Died peacefully at her home, surrounded by family, on Jan. 6, 2026. Born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Denise was a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, sister-in-law, wife, partner, aunt, cousin, and friend to many. She was predeceased by her husband, Ronald A. Harrison; partner, Thomas Knight; her parents, Mary Rose (Higgins) and Edward W. Anthes; and Marie J. Anthes (Damelio). She was a cherished mother to her loving children, Dennis and his wife Jennifer, Jessica and her husband Jonathan, and Jonathan and his wife Jennafer; and a loving grandmother to Dilana, Kalan, Charlotte and Keegan; and devoted sister to Frances (Charles), Ed MaryRose (Mary Ellen) and Mary Celeste. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Denise graduated from Trenton State College (now known as The College of New Jersey) with a Bachelor of Science degree and pursued her passion of nursing for over 40 years. She furthered her education and attained a Master of Business and a Doctor of Theology in spiritual and holistic health with a special emphasis in integrative healthcare. Denise enjoyed an active life as a master gardener, along with other pursuits including ballroom dancing with her family and friends. Memorial information: A celebration of Denise’s life, and to support her brother Ed and other local family members and friends, will be held at Dummerston Congregational Church at the corner of East-West and Middle roads in Dummerston Center on Saturday, Jan. 24, at 10 a.m. Donations to TouchedbyALS.org.

• Ellen L. Aron, 79, of Westminster. Died Jan. 9, 2026, at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital. Ellen was born Aug. 20, 1946, in Bellows Falls to Hollis and Evelyn (Adams) Rhoades. She attended schools in Walpole, New Hampshire. On Nov. 12, 1971, she married Charles Aron, who recently predeceased her. Ellen worked for many years as a nurse’s aide at Maplewood Nursing Home in Westmoreland, New Hampshire, and at Hill House day care. Ellen was a member of the First Congregational Church of Westminster and the Red Hat Society. She loved music and she adored her family. Ellen is survived by her children, Felicia (David) King and Michelle Aron. She is also survived by grandchildren, Kristi Campbell and Lucas Aleman-Aron, as well as great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Memorial information: A funeral service was held Jan. 17 at Fenton & Hennessey Funeral Home in Bellows Falls, followed by burial at Westminster New Cemetery. Donations to First Congregational Church of Westminster, P.O. Box 122, Westminster, VT 05158.

• Lillian G. Brookes, 98, of Dummerston. Died Jan. 13, 2026, in the comfort of her home surrounded by her family in Willow Park, Texas. Lillian was born on October 28, 1927, in Brattleboro, Vermont, the daughter of Alexander and Margaret Murray. She was raised and educated in Brattleboro and graduated from Brattleboro High School with the Class of 1945. During her time in school, she befriended classmate Elva Pogar (née Brookes) and fell in love with Elva’s brother Walter. Their love endured his war-time absence and they were married June 1, 1946, at All Souls Church. They built a beautiful life and family together, and she was by his side through his death at the age of 80 in their home on Aug. 7, 2005. Lillian worked at the Holstein Association in many areas over many years. She also worked at Dunham Brothers as a secretary. For the decades she lived in Dummerston, she was an involved member of Dummerston Congregational Church, where she was active with numerous church activities, including the annual Apple Pie Festival. She was also a valuable volunteer for the Grange community meals. It brought her great joy to be with her church family and provide for others. She was a no-nonsense woman who was not afraid to speak her mind, and remained sharp as a tack well into her 90s. She was also quite funny, often delivering surprising quips that caught you off guard. Above all, she was a fiercely loving and loyal person, whose affection for her friends was only surpassed by that which she held for her family. She cared for others deeply, never missing a birthday, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or even an Easter card. Lillian carried people in her heart unlike anyone you’ve ever known. Even in her later years, she would ask after her grandchildren’s friends and those friend’s children – by name! – to inquire about their well being and ask for updates on their lives. Know that if you are (or even were, at any point in their lives) important to someone Lillian loved, you mattered to her, too. She nurtured lifelong friendships, remaining close with many of those she knew in high school and at every life stage after, and made a point to prioritize visits to those friends for as long as she was able. Lillian outlived them all, her family speculating that she was too stubborn to let any of them continue on alone. Everyone who knew her felt immensely lucky to have had her love for so long. Survivors include her three children, daughters Sherry Colachico (David) of Willow Park, and Lori Tkaczyk of Tampa, Florida; and son Walter “Sonny” Brookes (Debbie) of Dummerston. She was blessed with grandchildren Mark Colachico (Jennifer) of Salem, Oregon; Andrew “Andy” Colachico (Lara) of Willow Park, Kyle Brookes (Jenny) of Richmond, Briana Cronin (Matt) of Underhill, and Lesley Miller of Tampa. She leaves her cherished great-grandchildren Andrew, Dylan, Hannah, Brooke, Emma, Aiden, Abigail, Eleanor, Emerson, and Asher. Additionally, she had great-great-grandchildren Jaxon, Harper, and Harlow, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, her sisters Agnes Feijen, Evelyn Dodge and Margaret Wyman, son-in-law Brian Tkaczyk, and grandson Ian Tkaczyk. Memorial information: A memorial service will be conducted in Vermont in the spring. She will be buried in Morningside Cemetery alongside her beloved husband. Donations to Dummerston Congregational Church, 1535 Middle Rd., East Dummerston, VT 05346; or to the Windham County Humane Society, P.O. Box 397, Brattleboro, VT 05302. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.

• Joyce “JoJo” Clark (Lemieux), 71, died peacefully Jan. 7, 2026, following a period of declining health. Born to the late George E. and Lena E. Lemieux, affectionately known as “Peabody,” JoJo was known for her caring nature and quiet strength. She dedicated much of her life to helping others, both personally and professionally. JoJo is survived by her children, John Clark and his wife Shana of Brattleboro; Chris Heath and his spouse of Winchendon, Massachusetts; and Sarah Heath and her spouse Dean of Winchester, New Hampshire. She is also survived by her siblings Rebecca Rice and Gary Lemieux of Winchester; and Raymond Lemieux of Manchester, New Hampshire. JoJo was a devoted grandmother to Toria, Ava, Destiny, Haydn, Camden, Lucian, Samantha, Stacey, Emily, and Riley. She was predeceased by her siblings Judy and Benny, her son Stewart, and her granddaughter Abigail Dawn. JoJo spent most of her working life in the healthcare field. She began as a nurse’s aide in the late 1980s and later devoted many years to working with children in a treatment facility. She went on to support adults with disabilities through Monadnock Developmental Services until her health no longer allowed her to continue. Over the years, JoJo earned numerous certifications that reflected her commitment and experience in caring for others. In her quieter moments, JoJo enjoyed reading, spending time outdoors, and the companionship of her beloved cat, whom she thoughtfully re-homed when she was no longer able to provide care. JoJo has been entrusted to the care of the Cremation Society of New Hampshire. Memorial information: There will be no services at this time. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Donations to Brattleboro Memorial Hospital. To offer condolences, visit csnh.com.

• Joyce Thayer Harris, 83, of Vernon, and Fort Pierce, Florida. Died peacefully Jan. 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born to Leon J. Thayer and Eunice F. Thayer, both deceased, Joyce grew up in a close-knit family that shaped her lifelong devotion to caring for others. She is survived by her husband Edward, her sister Marilyn, and her brother Rodney, and was predeceased by her sister Connie and her brother Douglas. Joyce’s life was defined by her deep love for children — her own, her grandchildren, her great-grandchildren, and any little one who found comfort in her presence. In many photographs of Joyce, a small child rests in her lap, a testament to the warmth, gentleness, and sense of belonging she offered so naturally. Her legacy lives on through her large and loving family. She is survived by her six children: Eric J. Carpenter of Fort Pierce; Lisa C. Brooks and her spouse Vince of Rising Sun, Maryland; Craig R. Carpenter, Sr. of Dante, Virginia; Jonathan K. Harris and his spouse, Francesca of Framingham, Massachusetts; Adrienne E. Walton and her spouse Dan of Uxbridge, Massachusetts; and Matthew J.Harris and his spouse Kate of Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts. Joyce was blessed with 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride. Throughout her life, Joyce held many different jobs, reflecting her adaptability, strong work ethic, and willingness to help wherever she was needed. Most recently, she served as a housing coordinator at World Learning in Brattleboro, where for many years she supported the students and contributed to the organization. Joyce embraced a wide range of hobbies that showcased her creativity and love of activity. She enjoyed woodworking, crafting pieces with care and skill; knitting, often creating handmade gifts for those she loved; and during her years in Florida, she delighted in playing tennis and bocce, staying active and connected to her community. Joyce lived a life that was rich with love and quiet acts of kindness. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Memorial information: A celebration of Joyce’s life will take place May 30, when family and friends will gather for a memorial service followed by a celebratory picnic. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.

• Roberta “Bert” Jane (Amidon) Jenna, 83, of Guilford. Died peacefully on Jan. 9, 2026, at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Hanover, NH, after a short illness surrounded by her four daughters. She was born in Brattleboro on Mar. 21, 1942, to Edwin and Myrtle (Akley) Amidon. She grew up in Putney and Vernon, and was a part of the Vernon community for many years before moving to Guilford in 1987. Roberta was an Avon representative for many years; she also worked at London Fog, Book Press, and Baker’s Book Store, all in Brattleboro. Roberta enjoyed reading, puzzles, Yahtzee, and being with her family. She was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother. On Dec. 6, 1958, she married the love of her life, William “Bill” Jenna, who died in May 2021. They were married for 63 years and had five children. Four daughters survive her: Judy (Clint) Plante, Tammy (Victor) Derosia, Katrina Wilson and her partner Andy Cay, and Cathy (Matt) Shaw. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren (with one more due in June), two great-great grandchildren (with one due in the summer), seven stepgrandchildren, 11 stepgreat-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her son, William “Bill” Jr., in 1991; a grandson, Scott Lake, in 2022; and all of her siblings: Leona Mounsey, Viola Graves, Edwin “Jim” Amidon, Ernestine Amidon, Freida Wade, Francis “Bob” Amidon and Reginald “Reggie” Amidon. Memorial information: A funeral service will take place Saturday, May 9, at 10 a.m. at West Brattleboro Baptist Church, followed by a celebration of her life at the Brattleboro Eagles at noon. Donations to Rescue Inc., P.O. Box 593, Brattleboro, VT 05302. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.

• Dolores Currier “Doe” Kathan, 97, of Bellows Falls. Died quietly, her family by her side, on Jan. 9, 2026. Doe was born on Sept. 22, 1928, in Littleton, New Hampshire, to Leo and Neva LeClerc. She was adopted by her stepfather, Clayton Currier, who loved her deeply. She attended St. Rose of Lima in Littleton, St. Charles School, Bellows Falls High School, and North Phoenix High School in Arizona. After her graduation in 1946, Doe returned to Bellows Falls. Doe married the love of her life, Clayton “Bud” Kathan on June 28, 1947, at St. Charles Church in Bellows Falls. Doe was predeceased by her husband of 66 years in 2013; her son, David Kathan in 1965; her daughter, Bonnie (Kathan) VanAmberg in 1989; an infant brother, David LeClerc; a stepbrother, Thomas LeClerc; and her parents and grandparents. She is survived by her daughter, Pam Kathan of Charleston, South Carolina; her son, Thomas (Pam) of Dalton, New Hampshire; grandsons Mike (Annie) VanAmberg, Chris VanAmberg and special friend, Karen McElroy; Jennifer (Will) Williams, Cory (Jonathan) Chewing, and Ryan (partner, Hadassah Little); great-grandchildren Halle, Ellah, Clayton, Charlie, Colby, Cyrus, Ian, and Sarah, and the McArdle family. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Carol Miller (Mike); and nieces Donna Kathan, Judy Wolfe, Debbie Armor and nephew, Jim Kathan and her lifelong friend, Ainsley. Memorial information: Funeral services and a celebration of Doe’s life will take place in the spring. Donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

• Mark McKinley, 67, died Nov. 26, 2025, in Show Low, Arizona, following a brief battle with cancer. Born Dec. 6, 1957, in Glendale, California, Mark lived a life marked by service, humor, intellect, and compassion. A proud Navy veteran, Mark served as an Electronics Technician First Class (ET1), first as a Nuclear Propulsion Plant Maintenance Operator (Reactor Control) then as a Nuclear Propulsion Plant Maintenance Supervisor (Electronics). His military service laid the foundation for a distinguished civilian career in nuclear engineering. From 1983 to 1993 and again from 2008 through his retirement in 2018, he worked at the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station in Arizona. Between those periods, from 1993 to 2008, he contributed his expertise at Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Plant. Throughout his career, Mark was known for his technical acumen and unwavering dedication to safety and excellence. Beyond his professional achievements, Mark was deeply committed to helping others. From 2002 to 2006, he volunteered with Rescue Inc. and the Brattleboro Fire Department. Serving as an EMT, Technical Rescue Team Leader, First Responder, and Firefighter, he brought courage and skill to every emergency call. His passion for service extended far beyond duty – it was a reflection of his compassionate nature and desire to make a difference. Mark found joy and peace in being outdoors. He loved camping, fishing, exploring hidden corners of nature through geocaching adventures, and hiking trails. Those who knew Mark remember him as funny and intelligent. He could light up a room with his dry wit or a thoughtful insight. Though private by nature, his warmth was unmistakable to those fortunate enough to know him. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 29 years and soulmate Priscilla, his mother Ruth, and his father John (USN). Mark is survived by his daughter Shannon McKinley of Scottsdale, Arizona, who will miss him dearly. He is also survived by his stepfather, Harry Hover of Fountain Hills, Arizona, his stepsister Beth Mammet of Sacramento, California, sister-in-law Sara (Sally) Gill and brother-in-law Charlie of Vestal, New York, sister-in-law Elizabeth (Betsy) Eynouf of Tavares, Florida, nieces Kristen Brower, Taylor Fesender, Sara Mosher, and Emily Mammet; and nephews Burton Lee (BL) Thayer, Randy Mueller, Christian Mammet, Benjamin Mammet, and James Mammet. Mark’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched, whether through his work in the nuclear field, his brave volunteer service, or the moments shared with family playing games and telling stories during the holidays and adventuring to Christie Cottage on Southport Island, Maine, in the summer. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who value service, integrity, and kindness. Memorial information: At Mark’s request, there will be no funeral service. A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date.

• Susan Marie MacNeil, 72, of Bellows Falls. Died unexpectedly at her home on Jan. 10, 2026. A devoted community leader, advocate, and beloved matriarch, she leaves behind a remarkable legacy of compassion, service, creativity, and a fierce love for the people and causes that mattered most to her. Susan was born July 21, 1953, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Jean and Charles MacNeil. In 1959, her family moved to Coventry, Connecticut, where she was raised and attended local schools. Even at a young age, Susan stood out for her intellect and enthusiasm for life. She excelled academically, was an avid and lifelong reader, and brought energy and spirit to everything she did, including her role on the cheerleading squad. Susan later made her home in Keene, New Hampshire, where she became deeply rooted in the community, before eventually settling in Bellows Falls. No matter where she lived, Susan showed up fully and generously, believing that communities are strengthened when people commit themselves to one another. Her professional life was defined by public service and fearless advocacy. For decades, Susan dedicated herself to nonprofit arts, health, and civic organizations throughout New England. She was especially committed to supporting individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS, working during a time when stigma and fear often kept others at a distance. Susan approached this work with humanity, dignity, and persistence, ensuring that those most marginalized were seen, respected, and cared for. After moving to the Keene area in the late 1980s, Susan held countless leadership roles — some paid, many volunteer, all undertaken with the same devotion. She served as PTA president at elementary schools in Franklin and Marlow, New Hampshire, later becoming an executive board member of the New Hampshire State PTA Association. She served as vice-chair and then chair of the Operating Staff Council at Keene State College. She was director of marketing and, later, interim executive director of the Colonial Theatre in Keene. She found a special calling in her work with the LGBTQ community and was executive director of AIDS Services for the Monadnock Region from 2000 until 2008, and again from 2009 to 2014. As part of that work, she created community programs like Just Desserts, Keene Karaoke IDOL, and later Southern Vermont IDOL. She took special pride in bringing the AIDS Memorial Quilt to local communities each year for World AIDS Day. In 2025, she had the quilt displayed from the roof of the former Andrews Inn in downtown Bellows Falls. Susan also worked with the Keene Unitarian Universalist Church and the 100 Nights Shelter before relocating to Bellows Falls in 2015, where she joined Landmark College. She quickly immersed herself in civic life, lending her experience to Keene Pride and Bellows Falls Pride, helping these organizations navigate challenges and grow stronger. Even after a work-related accident in 2022 limited her physical abilities, Susan continued to advocate, promote events, and support others however she could. She served as a Bellows Falls Village Trustee, was active with the Rockingham Arts & Museum Project and Rockingham for Progress, and championed the preservation of the historic Miss Bellows Falls Diner. Susan also hosted a local television talk show, provided voiceovers for commercials, acted in local theater, wrote screenplays, published books, and volunteered wherever help was needed. If a cause was underserved or difficult, Susan stepped forward. At the heart of Susan’s life was family. She was a devoted mother to her son and a fiercely proud grandmother to her granddaughter, whom she loved with intensity and purpose. She was a loving sister, a cherished aunt, and a constant presence in the lives of her extended family. Susan deeply admired her mother and credited her with instilling the compassion, generosity, and strength that guided her life. Susan cared for her mother through the end of her life, an experience that profoundly shaped her advocacy around end-of-life care. After her mother’s passing in 2022, Susan wrote and self-published 18 Minutes: A Daughter’s Primer on Life & Death, inspired by the final moments they shared. She went on to advocate for amplified phones in hospital rooms and created a traveling workshop, “Life, Death and Cake—Preparing for a Good Death,” helping others navigate end-of-life planning with honesty and grace. Susan’s sense of family extended far beyond blood. She cultivated a wide “found family” of friends, colleagues, artists, and neighbors who relied on her loyalty, encouragement, and unwavering care. On her refrigerator was a bumper sticker that read, “And what difference did you make today?” When asked about it, Susan simply said,“That’s really how I’ve lived my life.” Susan is survived by her brothers Bill MacNeil of Sebring, Florida, Donald MacNeil and his wife Debbie of North Windham, Connecticut, and Bruce MacNeil and his wife Betsy of Keene; her son, Justin Ellsworth of Bedford, New Hampshire; her granddaughter, Kiyah Dannan Glenn-Ellsworth of Keene; and several nieces, a nephew, and grand-nieces, all of whom will forever cherish the light she brought into their lives. Susan MacNeil lived her life by showing up — with compassion, courage, kindness, and conviction. Her difference was immense, and her legacy will continue in every life she touched. Memorial information: Calling hours will be held Friday, Jan. 23, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Fenton & Hennessey Funeral Home, 55 Westminster St., in Bellows Falls. There will be food and drink afterward at Ciao Popolo, 36 The Square, from 6 p.m. on. There will be plans for a Celebration of Life in April and in July for her birthday.

• Charles Murray, 85, formerly of Jamaica and West Townshend, died Jan. 6, 2026, in Grand Junction, Colorado, surrounded by loved ones. Charles was born in Evanston, Illinois, to Bernard Latus Murray and Mary Emily Green, and spent his youth in Maryland. He attended Bowling Green State University, where he met the love of his life, Elaine. They were married for over 63 years, and welcomed their daughter Kelley, in 1963, and Claire in 1964. Charles graduated with undergraduate and master’s degrees in business/finance and later earned his second MBA in international business from the American Institute of Foreign Trade–Thunderbird School in Phoenix, Arizona. In 1969, the family moved to Brooklyn, New York, where Charles began his career in international banking with Morgan Guaranty Trust Company on Wall Street. During their years in Brooklyn, Charles was active in local politics and neighborhood life. He was integral to the development of the annual block party on Willow Place. Charles’s third daughter, Sarah, was born in New York in 1972. In 1975, Charles survived the Fraunces Tavern terrorist bombing in Manhattan. In 1978, Charles and Elaine moved their family to Vermont in search of a quieter life. There, they owned and operated the Three Mountain Inn in Jamaica for 21 years. In all aspects of his life, Charles connected with people effortlessly, meeting them with authenticity and curiosity. At the inn, Charles was the quintessential host. Through his ability to truly listen, he encouraged his guests to leave the stress of their day-to-day lives behind while they enjoyed their time in Vermont. Charles enjoyed photography with a focus on portraits. He had a unique ability to capture the true nature of his subject in moments when they were most relaxed in conversation with him. This ability to connect with people was evidenced in all areas of his life as people gravitated to Charles and considered him a dear friend and/or deeply loved family member. After their time running the inn, the family remained in the area, living in West Townshend for an additional two decades. Charles was active in his local Vermont community, serving on the Jamaica Planning Commission and participating in various civic and volunteer efforts. He loved skiing at Stratton Mountain, walking in the woods, and spending time with family. Charles and his family cherished spending time on Mackinac Island, Michigan, where Charles’s father once ran the Murray Hotel and where Charles worked in his youth. He organized the first Murray family reunion on the island in 1975, a tradition that continued through 2025 and became an enduring part of the family heritage. Charles is survived by his wife Elaine, daughters Kelley Murray, Claire Ninde (Gordon), and Sarah Murray-Shiflet (Clay); grandchildren Zoe, Si, and Jesse; and his brother, Martin Murray (Mary Jo). He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Paul. Memorial information: Donations in Charles’s memory may be made to Grace Cottage Hospital, P.O. Box 216, Townshend, VT 05353.

• Caryl Boyce Simeon, 90, formerly of Brattleboro. Died Jan. 6, 2026, in Gulf Breeze, Florida. Caryl was born in Brattleboro Aug. 21, 1935, the daughter of Edward and Bertha (Dinagan) Boyce. She attended St. Michael’s Catholic School, and graduated with the Class of 1953. She was employed at Woolworth’s, American Optical, Chomerics, and C&S Wholesale Grocers, and was self-employed for many years as a Tupperware consultant. Caryl was a member of the local chapter of AARP, the Evening Star Grange, and an associate member of the Dummerston Grange, Windham County Pomana #5. She was also a lifetime associate member of the VFW and the Vermont 251 Club. She enjoyed square dancing, knitting, and collecting shamrock items. In the last few years, she enjoyed playing Bingo, dominoes and coloring beautiful pictures for her friends and family. In May 1992, she married Charles Simeon, who died in February 2014. Caryl has three children from a former marriage of 24 years to George Bristol, which ended in divorce. They are Michael and his wife, Penny of Hinsdale, New Hampshire, Susan Drew and her husband, Donald of Guilford, and Peter and his wife, Christy of Navarre, Florida. She is survived by her sister, Martha Warren of Virginia Beach, Virginia, and predeceased by her other sister, Sandra LeVee of Ballston Spa, New York. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Memorial information: Funeral services will be held at Phaneuf Funeral Home in Brattleboro in the spring. Donations may be sent to “Your Tiny Church” at 362 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, #401, Gulf Breeze, FL 32561.

• Brian C. Sullivan, 60, of Brattleboro. Died peacefully in his home on Dec. 31, 2025. He was born Dec. 12, 1965, in Waterbury, Connecticut, and made Brattleboro his home for the last 11 years. He was a loyal employee at Eddie’s Wheels, where he made sure the correct wheelchair made it to the right animal. Brian was most passionate about his artwork, and was a devoted storyteller. He left behind journals filled with drawings, ideas, and worlds waiting to be explored. He possessed a wickedly sharp wit and a distinctive belly laugh and was wildly creative and effortlessly funny. Brian could often be found drawing and drinking a cup of black coffee at the Montague Book Mill, or wandering among the shelves and finding the best of old books. His storytelling came to life at weekly game nights with friends, playing games like Dungeons & Dragons and Call of Cthulhu. Brian is survived by his twin daughters, Madden and Riley Sullivan and by his siblings, Meghan, Matthew, and Kate Sullivan. Memorial information: An informal Celebration of Brian’s Life will be held Saturday, Jan. 24, from noon to 4 p.m., at 81 Kingsbury Rd., Walpole, New Hampshire. Stories, laughter, and fond memories are warmly encouraged and can be sent to licatasullivan@gmail.com.

• Phineas Harvey Alexander “Phin” Tillman, 24, of Grafton. Died unexpectedly Jan. 12, 2026, in Walpole, New Hampshire. Phineas is survived by his mother, Pamela Johnson-Spurlock; stepfather, Patrick Spurlock; and sisters, Helen and Madeleine Spurlock of Grafton; his father, Mitchell Tillman, stepmother, Joy, and brothers, Braedon and Hudson Tillman of Tifton, Georgia; grandparents Steve and LeaJean Manry of Blakely, Georgia, and Glen and Cynthia Spurlock of Grafton, as well as many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Harold Johnson and Dale Tillman. Phineas was born in Tifton June 4, 2001, and spent the first 14 years of his life in southwest Georgia. He moved to Vermont with his family and is a graduate of Green Mountain High School in Chester, where he was involved in band and theater productions. He went on to attend the University of Vermont before transferring to Vermont State University where he earned a degree in radiology. He worked at Walgreens in Walpole, and was set to begin his new career. Phineas was a loving son, brother, grandson, and nephew. To those who knew Phin, he was the kindest soul, full of joy and laughter, and could bring a smile to your face. He had everything going for him and was a sweet young man who loved his mother and his sisters tremendously, as well as the family cats, chickens, and dogs. He loved video games, Japanese anime, and fantasy novels, and was looking forward to getting out and becoming independent. One of the happiest points in his life was getting to study abroad in Japan during the summer as a high school senior through The Experiment in International Living. Memorial information: A candlelight vigil was held Jan. 17 at Brown-Fuller Memorial Park in Bellows Falls for Phin’s New England friends and family. A celebration of life will be held in Georgia in early summer and announced later. Donation to Child’s Play Charity (childsplaycharity.org), to honor Phin’s love of video games and the healthcare field, or The Experiment in International Living (experiment.org), to help other students have opportunities to learn and travel internationally.

This Milestones item was submitted to The Commons.