Obituaries
• William "Bill" Bedard, 82, of Brattleboro. Died May 1, 2025, holding his wife Linda's hand. Both of his daughters and his first grandson were by his side. Bill is survived by his wife of 61 years, his two daughters, Melissa Bedard and Martha Missale, and grandchildren Amanda Oles, Jacob Oles, Luke Missale, and Tucker Missale. He is also survived by his younger brother, Joseph Bedard (Gail). He was predeceased by his older brother, Edward Bedard. Bill or Billy, as he was affectionately known, was a "true son" of Brattleboro. The second born of George and Annie Bedard, he grew up in Esteyville. Bill attended Brattleboro Union High School where he excelled in sports, receiving numerous accolades. He was co-captain of the baseball and football teams and, in 1961, he represented his school in the Shrine Maple Sugar Bowl. His outgoing personality, coupled with his leadership skills, earned him the honor of being voted president of the Class of 1961, a role in which he took great pride. After high school, Bill attended Maine Maritime Academy for two years, where he played in the Ship's dance band. Those who knew Bill recognized his passion for music. Not satisfied with being just "Class Crooner," he formed the first ever rock and roll band at school, Billy and the Boosters. Bill played the guitar in several bands over the years. In his 20s, he performed with the Valiants, whose claim to fame was playing back up for Little Richard, The Coasters, and Little Anthony and the Imperials at Mount Snow. But most around town will remember him and the Solid Gold Cadillacs. They kept Brattleboro "Rockin' Around the Clock" and "Splish Splashin'" until taking their farewell bow in 1995. Even in his final days, he could be heard humming a tune. Bill was also an avid outdoorsman who loved the woods, lakes, and rivers of Vermont. He looked forward to hunting camp every fall and loved nothing better than waking his girls to go in search of nightcrawlers, fishing for trout, and adored watching the birds gather at their feeders from his seat in their dining room. And let us not forget his absolute joy in cheering for Tom Brady and the Patriots! He had an unwavering loyalty and commitment to his beloved town Brattleboro and always endeavored to participate in any way that would better his community. He served as president of the BUHS Alumni Associations twice. At 21, he became the youngest member of the Rotary Club and was a member in good standing for over 50 years. He received the Paul Harris Rotary Fellow Award twice. In 1967, he was asked to join the Town Crier newspaper where he worked for 32 years, 25 of those as publisher and vice president. He was chair of the Community Chest in 1969 and president of the Winter Carnival in 1971. He was an active member of the Brattleboro Area Chamber of Commerce, becoming its president in 1975. He was a trustee of the Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation, and was involved in the Windham County chapter of the Red Cross, serving as second vice chair and received their merit award. In 1973, Bill was given the Distinguished Service Award by the Brattleboro Jaycees as "Young Man of the Year" for his "loyal and faithful efforts resulting in lasting contributions to the community." Other community service included chair of the United Way (1974), Representative Town Meeting member (1981), the Brattleboro Savings & Loan board of directors, and corporator and member of the board of directors at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital. In 1995, the Chamber named him "Person of the Year." He said, "I can't believe you're giving me an award for doing something I love." In 2002, he followed his mother's and wife's legacy as executive director of the BMH Development Office, which he retired from in 2009. Bill was also a proud member of the Elks, Masons, and Shrine Clubs throughout all those years, as well as a long-standing member of the First Congregational Church. Not only was Bill a cherished member of the community, but he was also a devoted and loyal family man and friend. He was most proud of these roles. He met his wife, Linda Rogers, in 1963 when visiting his mother, Annie, working at BMH. When asked the secret to a long marriage, he said, "Patience," with a twinkle in his eye. He was a tremendous role model and cheerleader to his daughters, his grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Bill never missed a baton, flute, or dance recital, school play, or pee-wee football game. One of the happiest moments of his life, though, was watching his granddaughter Amanda marry her husband Steve this past September. Bill will be remembered as a kind, gentle, unassuming man with a broad, ever-present smile and a kind word for all. He radiated positivity. Bill carved out a rich, happy life that was full of love, laughter, and joy. These amazing qualities will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him. Memorial information: Calling hours are Friday, May 16, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Atamaniuk Funeral Home on Terrace Street. Church services will be held at the First Congregational Church in West Brattleboro on Saturday, May 17, at 10 a.m. Graveside committal services will follow at Meeting House Hill Cemetery, followed by a celebration of his life at American Legion Post 5 from noon to 3:30 p.m. Donations to Rescue Inc., P.O. Box 593, Brattleboro, VT 05302; The National MS Society, New England Chapter, P.O. Box 91891, Washington, DC 20090; or the charity of your choice. It was his wish to "pay it forward." To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
• Frederick E. "Fred" Burdick III, 64, of Newfane. Died unexpectedly, surrounded by family, on April 23, 2025, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Fred was born on Sept. 4, 1960, in Westerly, Rhode Island. He grew up in Stonington, Connecticut, where he graduated from Stonington High School. In his younger years, Fred enjoyed racing motorcycles with his friends. He eventually found himself in Brattleboro, working at Dunham's, where he met Linda, his wife of 34 years. In the later years, Fred loved feeding the birds and squirrels while watching them from his recliner, with their cat Abby on his lap and giving too many treats to his buddy, Mac. He enjoyed talking on the phone with his family and friends. When he was able, he also liked taking his bass boat out to go fishing with his son. Fred will be missed dearly by his family. He leaves behind his wife, Linda Cominoli Burdick; daughter Bethany Burdick, son Daniel Burdick (fiancée Brianna Ogden), and grandson Ryker Burdick. He was very proud to be a grandpa. He also leaves behind his father, Frederick E. Burdick, and his wife Evelyn Burdick, whom he called mom; as well as brothers Michael and Raymond of Connecticut, Alan of Florida, and many nieces and nephews. Memorial information: Donations can be made to the Windham County Humane Society, P.O. Box 397, Brattleboro, VT 05302.
• John Hillis Carnahan, 96, formerly of Brattleboro. Died peacefully on May 7, 2025, at Menig Nursing Home in Randolph Center. Prior to moving to Randolph, John and his wife Mary lived on Tyler Street in Brattleboro for 56 years. A longtime Brattleboro attorney, John was born in Manhattan, Kansas, on Jan. 22, 1929, the middle son of Paul Adelbert and Gladys Kelly Paul Carnahan. He attended Harvard University (Class of 1950) and Harvard Law School (Class of 1954) while serving in the Navy. Carnahan married Mary Elizabeth Faigle in August 1955. They moved to Brattleboro where John began working for the law firm Fitts & Olson. Less than two years later, he became the administrative assistant to U.S. Rep. William H. Meyer, the first Democrat ever elected to Congress from Vermont. John returned to Vermont and served as the Assistant U.S. Attorney for Vermont from 1961 to 1965. In 1965, he returned to Brattleboro as an associate with the law firm of Kristensen, Cummings, and Price. Two years later he was appointed Windham County District Judge. In 1973, he rejoined Fitts & Olson as a partner and worked there until 1995, when he became a sole practitioner, retiring in 2004. John was especially active in the Democratic Party and historical organizations. He was Democratic National Committeeman for Vermont from 1979 to 1988, was the Democratic State Chairperson in 1977, and was the party's unsuccessful candidate for lieutenant governor in 1984. He was involved in many campaigns over the years and hosted countless Democratic candidates who visited Brattleboro. A longtime and active member of St. Michael's Episcopal Church, John was known for his quiet kindness. He generously gave his time to many organizations. He served on more than a dozen social service agency boards during his lifetime, including trustee of the Brattleboro Retreat from 1970 to 1994. He was a trustee of the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center in the 1980s. He began serving as a trustee of the Vermont Historical Society in 1982 and served as its president from 1993 to 1995. He was a founding member of both the Brattleboro Historical Society (1982) and the Estey Organ Museum (2002). He served on the Advisory Council for the Vermont Division for Historic Preservation and was a trustee of the Preservation Trust of Vermont. He helped establish the Friends of the Vermont State House. John was interested in the architecture and history of U.S. state capitol buildings and donated his extensive collection of state capitol postcards to the Curator of State Buildings in 2021. John was an avid newspaper reader. In their later years, John and Mary could be seen walking daily to get multiple newspapers at Baker's or Putney Road Market. John took great joy in his family, especially at multi-generational celebrations on Tyler Street. He was predeceased by his brothers and his beloved daughter Sarah Kelly Carnahan in 2014. He is survived by Mary, his wife of 70 years; his son, Paul (Eve) of Montpelier; his daughter, Susan (William) Vodrey of Cleveland, Ohio; his son-in-law Alfredo Quintero of New York City; and eight grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Memorial information: A memorial service at St. Michael's Episcopal Church in Brattleboro in August is being planned. Condolences can be expressed at dayfunerals.com/obituary/john-carnahan.
• Leona Mae Gilbert (Walker), 90, died peacefully on Dec. 19, 2024, in Dunnellon, Florida. Born on May 11, 1934, in Plymouth, Vermont, she lived a long and full life rooted in love for her family and faith. Leona was the daughter of Clarence H. and Lottis E. (Sanderson) Walker Sr. She was raised in Vermont alongside her siblings LeRoy, Shirley, and Clarence (Buster), all of whom preceded her in death. She married Charles C. Gilbert, with whom she shared 52 years before his death. Throughout her life, Leona worked diligently at several Brattleboro area businesses including H. Margolin Co., The Book Press, W.T. Grant, Basketville, and Erving Paper. She concluded her career with Georgia Pacific before retiring. Her work ethic and dedication were evident in every role she held. Leona found great joy in simple pleasures - watching old Westerns brought her comfort and nostalgia - and she treasured time spent visiting with family and friends. Her home was always open to those she loved. A woman of deep faith, Leona loved worshiping with her church family. Her spiritual community brought her strength and fellowship throughout the years. Family was the cornerstone of Leona's life. She was a devoted mother to Cheryl (Glenn) Cunningham of Dunnellon, Karen Kaiser of Dummerston, Robert (Angie) of Vernon, Erick (Nikki) of Great Falls, Montana, Tinamarie (Kevin) Tidd of Walpole, New Hampshire, and Richard (Angela) Gilbert of Brattleboro. She also leaves 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She was especially close to her brother Roy's children. She was predeceased by her beloved daughter Sherry Louise. Leona shared a particularly close bond with her granddaughter Kristen Weaver. They were best friends who cherished each other deeply. Kristen lovingly cared for Leona until she moved to live with her daughter Cheryl in Florida. Leona also mourned the loss of her grandson, PFC Kyle C. Gilbert, son-in-law Alonzo Kaiser, and grandson-in-law Philip Weaver. Her extended family included many who loved and admired her deeply. Among them was her cherished brother-in-law Delbert "Paul" Gilbert. May the memory of Leona Gilbert bring comfort to all who knew and loved her. Memorial information: A service was held May 10 at West Brattleboro Baptist Church, followed by burial at Meeting House Hill Cemetery.
• Millie Gundry, 86, of Brattleboro. Died peacefully on April 25, 2025. Born in Montgomery Center, Vermont, to Leland and Maude Snider, Millie was raised among the rolling hills of her beloved home state and spent most of her life in the Brattleboro area. A woman of warmth and resilience, Millie was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. She cooked any style of eggs to perfection as a short-order breakfast cook, always putting her heart into her work. Millie overcame many obstacles in her life with a fierce determination that was inspirational to those who knew her. She never quit when she set her mind to something, and achieved a proud milestone by earning her high school diploma in 1991 at the age of 52. Millie's joys were simple but profound: the laughter of babies, her vast collection of elephant figurines, the sweetness of maple syrup, the thrill of Bingo nights, a juicy cheeseburger, a new place to see, and the company of her family. Her grandchildren cherished her peanut butter fudge and pumpkin bread, and she often baked treats for her fellow residents at Roxbury Plaza to enjoy during Sunday coffee. Millie had a soft spot for the underdog and loved everyone with a kindness that radiated from her gentle spirit. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Gaysford Lumbra; her second husband, Alfred Gundry; her son, Rodney; and siblings Barbara, Arthur, and Richard. Millie is survived by her children Randy, Teah, Brent, Marty, Karl, and Karlene; her siblings Marion, Marguerite, Douglas (Wanda), and Sally (Hollis). She was blessed with 13 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, along with friends who will forever miss her generous heart. Memorial information: A celebration of Millie's life will be held Saturday, May 17, from noon to 4 p.m, at the Brattleboro Eagles, 54 Chickering Drive. A graveside service will be held in August at Saint Isadore Cemetery in Montgomery Center. The family suggests donations to The Community Kitchen, P.O. Box 1315, Keene, NH 03431, or simply sharing a sweet treat with someone in her memory - because Millie believed the world could always use more kindness (and maybe a little more maple syrup.)
• David G. Johnson, 85, of Winchester, New Hampshire. Died on May 2, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, following a period of declining health. He was born on the family farm in Vernon on Nov. 2, 1939. He attended school in Vernon and Brattleboro, then enlisted in the Army at age 17. He served stateside in Texas and Massachusetts and was then deployed to Germany. Upon his return from Germany, he married the love of his life, Carol A. (Cousino) Johnson on Jan. 10, 1959, in a simple service in Greenfield, Massachusetts. Together they lived in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, and Brattleboro, and raised their family in the two homes they built together in Hinsdale, New Hampshire. They enjoyed their retirement in their motor home, traveling the country and spending extensive time in Polk City, Florida, before moving to Winchester. David was an incredibly devoted and loving husband. He worked as a manager at Georgia Pacific for over 42 years, taking great pride in maintaining their boiler and ensuring its safe operation. After retiring from Georgia Pacific, he spent many summers working at Hinsdale Campground, sharing his love of camping with guests and ensuring the smooth operations of the campground. In addition, he played a pivotal role in organizing the Thanksgiving celebration at the campground each year, taking pride in roasting the numerous turkeys. David was a proud member of the Bounder International motor home club as well as the Dam Yankees RV club, attending and coordinating many rallies throughout the country with Carol. Those who joined David at the rallies will always remember being treated to homemade blueberry pancakes by David each morning. David was a loving father to their sons Ronald, Dennis, and Edward, and their daughter, Lisa. Among the many ways in which he supported and encouraged his children, through his role as a Boy Scout leader. He was able to guide his son Ronald to becoming an Eagle Scout. David was predeceased by his parents, Ernest and Pauline, his wife, Carol, son, Ronald, daughter, Lisa, and grandson, Matthew. He is survived by sons Dennis and Edward as well as grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. David was an incredible caregiver at heart, taking great care of many family members and loved ones throughout his life. He will be remembered for always putting the needs of others before his own and giving of himself tirelessly. David leaves a legacy of hard work, unconditional love, nurturing, caretaking, and being humble. He overcame much adversity throughout life, always looking for solutions rather than focusing on the negative. Memorial information: A private burial will take place at Pine Grove Cemetery in Hinsdale. A celebration of David's life will be held on Saturday, June 7, at 1 p.m., at Kampfires campground in Dummerston. All his friends and family are welcome and encouraged to share their favorite stories.
• Linneil "Todd" Kelley, 63, of Brattleboro. Died peacefully, surrounded by family, on April 25, 2025 after a courageous battle with a brief illness. Born Nov. 1, 1961, he was predeceased by his mother, Nancy Lois (Johnson) Kelley; his father, Richard Walter Kelley Sr.; and his sister, Amy Lynn (Kelley) Murray. He is survived by siblings Charlotte Marion (Kelley) Bishop of West Brattleboro and Richard Walter Kelley Jr. of Westminster; half-brother Alfred Spitzer of Manchester, New Hampshire, and half-sister, Kathyrn Steinbaum of New Jersey. Additionally, he is survived by nieces Amanda Sweeney, Adrienne Kelley, Tamara (Kelley) Morse, Danielle (Kelley) Ash-Bristol, Cassidy Kelley, and Courtney Brock; and nephews Matthew Bishop and Leonard Bishop. Todd had a rough beginning in life, being born prematurely and having been diagnosed with hydrocephalus. This would lead to Todd's being developmentally challenged. But he was up to anything that was put in his way. He was on track to start first grade in the fall of 1969, but in late summer he had a grand mal seizure. This regressed him to the stage of an infant. He then had to relearn to walk, talk, feed himself, and every other aspect of life. His mother worked patiently to get Todd as close to his old self as she could. As much progress as Todd was able to make, he never regained most of his speech. Todd was very compassionate, always wanting to send a card when he heard someone wasn't feeling well. He remained at home with his mother and father until they could no longer care for him. In May 2006, they made the very painful decision to put him in the care of Thompson House Nursing Home to ensure he would be taken care of. Todd resided there until the time of his death. Memorial information: There will be a graveside service on Saturday, June 14, at 11 a.m., in Locust Ridge Cemetery, with a celebration of life immediately after at the VFW on Black Mountain Road. To offer condolences, visit atamaniuk.com.
Services
• A celebration of the life of Allen F. Weeks, who died on March 11, 2025, will take place on Saturday, May 17, at 1 p.m. at Windham Community Chapel, Route 5, East Dummerston, followed by interment at Guilford Center Cemetery.
• Graveside services for Bernard W. Haley will be held on Saturday, May 17, at 1 p.m., at Houghtonville Cemetery. Mr. Haley, 98, of Grafton, died on Jan, 18, 2025.
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