Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main Street, Manchester, CT (2026)

03/24/2026

Rene Luis Tagle

Rene “Lucho” Luis Tagle, 94, of Manchester, passed away peacefully on the morning of Friday, March 20, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born October 15, 1931, in La Rioja, Argentina, he was the son of the late Juan Leon Tagle and Catalina Ramona (Pisetta) Tagle.

In 1954, Rene married the love of his life, Lidia Tagle. Together they shared more than 71 devoted years of marriage before her passing in June of 2025. In 1965, with courage and hope for a brighter future, Rene and Lidia made the life-changing decision to move their family from Argentina to the United States. They first settled in Brooklyn, New York, later moved to West Hartford, and eventually made their permanent home in Manchester.

Rene worked for many years as a quality control engineer at Jacob’s Manufacturing, where he was respected for his dedication and strong work ethic. Outside of work, he found joy in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. He was an avid soccer fan and cherished hosting traditional Argentine barbecues—“Asados”—for family and friends. Above all else, Rene treasured time spent with his family, who were the center of his world.

He is survived by his children and their spouses: Eduardo O. Tagle and his wife Deborah of Newington; Olga C. Tagle Coelho and her husband Paul of Manchester; grandchildren Jennifer M. Tagle Whitton and her husband David of Enfield; and Nicole E. Tagle McCandless and her husband Patrick of Newington. He also leaves behind his beloved great-grandchildren, Brayden McCandless, Cameran McCandless, and Emily Whitton, who brought him immense pride and joy.

Family and friends may call on Monday, March 30, 2026, at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., followed by an 11:30 a.m. chapel service. Burial will be private.

Rene's legacy of devotion, resilience, and tradition will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

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03/20/2026

Roger Whitney Wilson

Roger Whitney Wilson, 77, of Bolton, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2026 at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford with loving family by his side. Born May 13, 1948, in Hartford; he was the son of the late Russell and Eileen (Whitney) Wilson. Roger was a class of 1966 Manchester High School graduate and then went on to attend Thiel College in Greenville, PA where he obtained his degree in Political Science, and then went on to obtain his MBA from Western New England College in Long Meadow Massachusetts.

Roger spent most of his career in construction sales at Master Builders, where he earned many awards and was highly respected for his industry expertise.

In August of 1990 he married his beloved wife Judy, and soon after they made their home together in Bolton. They were fortunate to settle into a beautiful new community of wonderful neighbors with whom they have shared many good times over the years. Roger served on the Town of Bolton Planning and Zoning Board, as well as the Town Committee.

Roger was known for his outgoing personality and his enthusiastic approach to just about everything. He loved all animals, especially his dogs, who were his constant companions and essentially his “kids”.

In his younger years, he enjoyed many summers on his grandparents’ farm in Salisbury Vermont. Roger was a member of Scout Troop 25, where he learned many important life skills, and obtained the rank of Eagle Scout.

Roger was a lifelong sportsman and lover of nature, and he took special joy in being on the water. He started boating early in life, navigating the Connecticut river, Long Island Sound, Block Island and the Vinyard. He also enjoyed fishing, water-skiing and scuba diving.

Roger was an expert skier, on the slopes in Vermont where he served for a time on ski patrol, as well as in the Alps and out West. An avid golfer, he played in local leagues and organized tournaments for his company in Massachusetts. Among his many other talents were tennis, trap & s***t shooting, woodworking, acoustic guitar, bridge, and card games of all kinds.

He is survived by his loving wife Judy; his sister Janet Prior and her husband Jack, his nephew Daniel Prior and wife Nicole Vander Laan, grand-nephews Berend and Lochlann Prior, his niece Carrie Prior and partner Matt Mann, and numerous other extended family and friends.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 5 to 7 PM at the Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home 400 Main Street, Manchester CT. The funeral service will take place the following morning on Friday, March 27, 2026, at 11 AM at the Funeral Home, followed by burial in East Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Center Congregational Church or to Troop 25, 11 Center Street, Manchester CT 06040.

To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com.

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03/18/2026

Barbara E. Alley

Barbara (Ely) Alley passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026 at Evergreen Center for Health and Rehabilitation in Stafford Springs, CT. She was 99 years old.

She is predeceased by her beloved husband Richard K. Alley, her parents Helen and Clifford Ely, her brothers - Leonard and his wife Shirley, Clifford and his wife Trinette, as well as nephews Tom and Scott Ely.

She is survived by her sons, Gene and wife Joanne of Oakham, MA and Neil of Vernon, CT, granddaughter Laura and great-grandchildren Michael and Allasya, as well as several dear nieces and nephews.

Born and educated in Norwalk, CT. Barbara graduated from the Norwalk Hospital School of Nursing, Cadet Corp, in September 1947. In 1949 she married Dick, the love of her life. They enjoyed life together with family and friends until his death in 2006.

While in Norwalk, Barbara worked as Head Nurse on Pediatrics and then for two pediatricians before retiring to Harwich, MA. She was an active member of Grace Episcopal Church, serving on the Vestry and many other committees. She was a member of the Women's Golf Association of Oak Hills.

After retiring to Harwich, MA in 1987, she was an active member of Christ Church Episcopal in Harwich Port serving on the Vestry and many other ministries. She was a Lay Eucharist Minister which was very dear to her heart. She also was a member of Cranberry Valley Women's Golf Association and a volunteer for many years at the Harwich Council on Aging.

For the past 20 years she lived in Storrs, CT, and became an active member at St. Mark’s Chapel. She loved her St. Mark’s “family” and missed them dearly when she was no longer able to attend.

Barbara was especially proud of her Scottish heritage. She enjoyed attending Highland Games, working on her family genealogy, needlework, gardening and of course cheering on her NY Yankees.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11am on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at St. Mark’s Chapel in Storrs, CT. A private Burial in Pinehill Cemetery, Sherborn, MA will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Mark’s Chapel, 42 N Eagleville Rd, Storrs, CT 06268 or to a charity of one's choice. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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03/16/2026

Deborah O. Palmer

Deborah Oslund Palmer, 61, of Manchester CT, Beloved wife of Fred Palmer Sr since 2013, passed away on February 11th, 2026 at home, surrounded by loving family after a long battle with heart failure. She was born on May 08th,1964 in Hartford, CT. She is predeceased by her parents Judith "Judie" Fontaine and Merritt Sanford "Sandy" Oslund. In addition to her husband Fred, she is also survived by her children Christopher Sapolis (wife Theresa) of Debary, FL and Samantha Christina (husband Steven) of Taftville, CT as well as her sister Barbara Marquis (husband Ben) of Cocoa Beach, FL. She also leaves behind many bonus children (lovingly referred to as “The Litter”), many bonus grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and beloved friends.

Deb was employed by Stop & Shop for many years, where working in the floral section ignited her love of gardening. She was also active in the American Legion, VFW, and Moose International organizations throughout central CT.

She was a loving mother devoted to her family. Anyone who was fortunate enough to know her, knew she was always available for anyone who needed a good cry, a good laugh, or just a hug. She loved spending time with family and friends, whether it was fishing or a bonfire in the summer or accompanying her husband to holiday parties as his beloved Mrs. Claus.

Deb will always be remembered for her whimsical and playful spirit, her sense of humor, and, most of all, her big heart. Her ability to love everyone around her was an inspiration to many. The hearts of those she touched will be forever changed.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 1pm on Saturday, March 21st at American Legion Post 180 at 567 Exeter Rd, Lebanon CT, 06249. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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03/15/2026

Camilla A. Lagos

Camilla Lagos, born on December 23, 2010, in Manchester, CT, passed away on March 12, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of joy, faith, determination, and extraordinary talent. Though her time with us was far too short, her life overflowed with purpose, beauty, and a radiant spirit that touched everyone she encountered.

Camilla was a sweet, smart, and remarkably gifted young woman, known for her gentle heart and her beautiful smile that could brighten any room. She was ambitious and determined, always striving to accomplish her goals and inspiring others with her drive and discipline. Academically, she excelled—she was a proud member of the Junior National Honor Society and consistently earned a place on the High Honor Roll.

A gifted musician, Camilla was an excellent pianist and also played guitar and flute, filling her home, school, and church with music that reflected her grace and creativity. She enjoyed crocheting, playing piano and going on adventures with friends, exploring the world with curiosity and joy.

As a freshman at Blue Mountain Academy, Camilla served as Class President, leading with humility, kindness, and a natural ability to bring people together. She was beautiful inside and out—her character, compassion, and warmth made others feel valued and loved.

Above all, Camilla loved the Lord. Her faith shaped her life, guided her choices, and shone through her kindness, her leadership, and the way she treated others. She lived with a quiet but steadfast trust in God, and her life reflected the beauty of a heart anchored in Him.

As we grieve at her passing, we hold tightly to the blessed hope of Scripture:

“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout… and the dead in Christ shall rise first.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:16

We wait for the Lord’s second coming with longing and hope, trusting that we will see Camilla again.

Camilla was preceded in death by her father, Ferdinand Lagos. She is lovingly survived by her mother, Karina Flores; her sister, Isabella Lagos; her grandmother, Yolanda Flores; her grandparents, Alejandrina and Rogelio Arohuanca; and a large circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who cherished her deeply.

Her impact will continue to live on—in her music, in the memories she created, and in the hearts of all who loved her. May she rest in the Lord until we see her again on that blessed resurrection morning.

Camilla had a deep love for music. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to consider donating to the Camilla Lagos Memorial Fund, established to support other children in learning music and developing their musical talents.

Please click the link below, and from the list select “Camilla Lagos Memorial Fund”

https://adventistgiving.org/donate/AN4MDA

Calling Hours will be held on Tuesday, March 17th from 10am till 11am at Connecticut Valley Seventh Day Adventist Church, located at 354 Foster Road, South Windor CT. There will be a Funeral Service following Calling Hours from 11am till 1pm at Connecticut Valley Seventh Day Adventist Church. Burial will take place afterwards at Buckland Cemetery, located at 1210 Tolland Turnpike, Manchester CT.

To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

View Camilla A. Lagos's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/12/2026

Barbara E. Alley

Obituary to be Posted.

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03/12/2026

Norma Joyce Maloney

Norma Joyce Maloney, 93, of Vernon, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 6, 2026, at Manchester Memorial Hospital.

Born September 2, 1932, in Concord, New Hampshire, she was the daughter of the late Pasquale and Flora (Linscott) Miniutti.

Norma dedicated many years of service to the State of Connecticut, working in Information Technology for the Department of Labor. She approached her work with diligence and quiet dedication, earning the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Above all else, Norma was a warm and loving mother who cherished her family beyond measure. Her greatest joy in life was the time spent with those she loved. She will be remembered for her kindness, steady strength, and the unwavering love she gave so freely.

Norma will be forever loved and remembered by her son, Michael Maloney and his wife, Doreen Maloney; her daughter, Pamela Dunne; as well as numerous other extended family members and dear friends. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved husband.

Care of private funeral arrangements has been entrusted to the Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home of Manchester.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in her memory. www.holeinthewallgang.org

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03/12/2026

Angel F. Maldonado

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the untimely passing of Angel Francisco Maldonado, who passed away at his home in Manchester on Friday, March 6, 2026, at the age of 27. Born on November 9, 1998, in Farmington, Connecticut, he was the beloved son of Angel Rivera and Migdalia Cruz Maldonado.

Angel faced and overcame many hardships throughout his life, yet he never allowed them to dim his spirit. He brought light and laughter to those around him and had a remarkable ability to make others feel welcome and valued. A natural with technology, Angel excelled at anything computer-related and could quickly master any video game he picked up. His sharp mind and determination were evident in everything he pursued.

He had an adventurous palate and loved trying new and exotic foods and recipes, while also finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. Angel enjoyed relaxing while watching his favorite WWE matches and sharing a plate of chicken wings with family and friends. Above all, he will be remembered as a sweet and gentle soul whose presence touched the lives of everyone he met.

In addition to his loving parents, Angel is survived by his sisters, Angelica and her husband, Michael Jurczyk; Joanne Rivera; and Amy Rivera; his brother, Angel Rivera, Jr.; his grandparents, Ernesto Soriano and Luz Sanchez Rodriguez; as well as many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Calling Hours will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Glory Chapel International Cathedral, 221 Greenfield Street, Hartford, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place immediately afterward at East Cemetery in Manchester, Connecticut.

Angel’s love, laughter, and gentle spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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03/06/2026

James Peter White

James (Jim) Peter White, 78, of Manchester, CT died after a long illness on February 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born on March 20, 1947, in Seattle, Washington to the late Lester and June White. Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Jane White, and daughters Jennifer Haviland and her husband Michael; Jolene Drechsler and her husband Steven; and Melissa Pietlock and her partner Kevin. He is predeceased by two brothers, Donald and Richard, and survived by his sister Rebecca Rainford. He was blessed with four grandchildren: Benjamin, Emma, Leo and Charlie.

Jim joined the Navy as a submariner during the Vietnam era. He served at the naval base in Groton, Connecticut. During his time in Groton, Jim met his beautiful wife, Jane. After they married, they moved to Washington state, where they started a beautiful family. After 6 years in Washington, they relocated to Jane’s hometown of East Hartford, Connecticut where they lived for 41 years before moving to Manchester 7 years ago.

Jim was a professionally trained executive chef. He had a passion for the culinary arts and was very dedicated to his craft. He started his career through a scholarship at a local Seattle community college, which led to a variety of jobs including working at the Seattle Space Needle, several 5-star restaurants, and corporate offices such as The Travelers. His final years as a chef, before retirement, were spent at The Little Sisters of the Poor in Enfield, a convent for retired nuns. He was a member of the Connecticut Chefs Association and was inducted into the American Academy of Chefs.

Jim was very much loved by his family and friends and a respected colleague by those who had the privilege of working with him. He was a devoted husband, wonderful father, loving grandfather, and a man of strong faith.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, March 21st at 10am at The First Baptist Church of Manchester, 240 Hillstown Road, where he was a member for nearly 50 years. Attendees are encouraged to wear Seattle Seahawk colors or attire.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the ASPCA, Connecticut Humane Society, or the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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03/02/2026

Elda B. Schmidt

Elda Beletti Schmidt, of South Windsor, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, at the remarkable age of 100. Born on July 13, 1925, in Manchester, Connecticut, to Dominick M. Beletti and Letitia Gagliardone Beletti, Elda lived a century defined by joy, adventure, and vibrant energy that inspired all who knew and loved her.

Elda had a true passion for life. She loved to travel and never shied away from new destinations and experiences. She had a gift for dancing that brought her happiness throughout her life and to everyone fortunate enough to share the dance floor with her. Perhaps most impressively, she remained an avid golfer well into her 90s — a testament to the active, spirited lifestyle she embraced every single day of her extraordinary 100 years.

She is survived by her devoted longtime companion, William Fleming; her three sons, Gary Schmidt and his wife Susan of Manchester, Connecticut; Jeffry Schmidt and his wife Janet of Vernon, Connecticut; and Bruce Schmidt and his wife Deborah of Lebanon, Connecticut. She also leaves four cherished grandchildren: Jocelyn Schmidt; Ryan Schmidt; Adam Schmidt and his fiancée, Aisha Errington; and Alec Schmidt and his wife, Hannah.

The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to her devoted caregiver and friend, Veronica Beckford, whose compassionate care, kindness, and companionship brought comfort, dignity, and warmth to Elda in her later years.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice in Elda’s memory.

Calling Hours will be held on Friday, March 6th, 2026, from 9am till 11am at Holmes Watkins Funeral Home located at 400 Main Street, Manchester CT 06040. A Funeral Home Service will take place from 11am till 11:30am with burial to follow at St. James Cemetery, located at 368 Broad Street, Manchester CT. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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02/28/2026

Madeline Lee Matheny

Madeline L. Matheny, 107, passed away peacefully in her sleep shortly after celebrating her birthday on January 21. A life that began in 1919 — in the shadow of one world war and before another — came to a gentle close more than a century later. She did not merely live through history. She endured it, adapted to it, and kept moving forward through it.

Born on January 21, 1919, in Chicopee, Massachusetts, to a hardworking immigrant family from Lebanon, Madeline was the youngest of nine children. In a home filled with siblings, responsibility, and strong family values, she learned early that education was a path forward and perseverance was non-negotiable.

She carried that belief into her own academic journey, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Framingham Teaching College in Framingham, Massachusetts. At a time when higher education for women was far less common, Madeline stepped forward. She went on to teach at Chicopee High School for several years, beginning a lifelong respect for learning, discipline, and self-reliance.

Her path into business was later influenced by family as well. An older sister operated a children’s clothing shop in Westfield, Massachusetts, and spoke of opportunity in a growing town just outside Hartford — Manchester, Connecticut. Madeline listened.

In 1954, with characteristic courage and resolve, she moved to Manchester and opened Mari-Mads Youth Specialty Shop, a store that would become part of the town’s fabric for more than 30 years. She helped outfit generations of children for first days of school, holidays, and special milestones. Her shop reflected her nature — organized, welcoming, and run with purpose.

Madeline was full of tenacity. She was always on the go — purposeful, independent, rarely idle. Whether in a classroom, behind a store counter, or at home raising her family, she moved through life with determination.

She was happily married for over 60 years to her beloved husband, Gordon Matheny, an earth science teacher at Bennet Junior High School in Manchester for more than 25 years. Together, they built a home centered on education, responsibility, and enduring commitment.

She raised two children, Mark Matheny and Marcia Benson, instilling in them resilience, independence, and the value of hard work. She is survived by her son, her daughter, a devoted son-in-law, three grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren — four generations strengthened by her example.

Across her 107 years, Madeline witnessed the Great Depression, world wars, the rise of air travel and space exploration, and the dawn of the digital age. Through it all, she remained what she had always been: steady, determined, and quietly strong.

She passed as she lived — peacefully and without fanfare — leaving behind not just memories, but momentum.

From a Lebanese immigrant household in Chicopee to a classroom, to a storefront in Manchester that served a community for decades, her life stretched across more than a century. Its influence will stretch even further.

A memorial service will be held at South United Methodist Church on March 16 at 2:00 p.m.

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02/27/2026

John Cicchiello

John Paul Cicchiello, 71, of Waterbury, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Born in Waterbury on July 19, 1954, he was the son of Ann (Napolitano) Cicchiello and the late Angelo Cicchiello.

John was raised in Waterbury and was a graduate of Wilby High School. Shortly after graduation, he enjoyed traveling and subsequently moved to California, where he spent several years before returning to Connecticut in the late 1980s. Upon his return, he met his former wife, Karleen Stula. They married and made their home in Columbia, where they raised their family together.

A dedicated and hardworking man, John operated his own painting business for many years. John was also a salesman at several local auto dealerships throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.

John found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved sailing, fishing and venturing to Marco Island with his friends. He was a devoted fan of UConn Huskies' basketball, rarely missing the opportunity to watch a game. John had excellent taste in music, was a pool shark and was able to strike up conversation and make friends wherever he went. He will be remembered most for his quick wit and terrific sense of humor.

He is survived by his loving mother, Ann Cicchiello; his daughter, Eve Cicchiello and her partner, Joshua Jones; his stepdaughter, Kara Cicchiello; Kara and Eve’s mother, Karleen Cicchiello; his sister, Annette “Chick” Clark and her husband, Jack Clark; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

In addition to his father, John was predeceased by his stepdaughter, Maria Cicchiello; his brothers, Joseph “Butch” Cicchiello and Thomas Cicchiello; and his nephew, Jason Cicchiello.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main Street, Manchester, Connecticut 06040. A 2:00 PM chapel service will immediately follow at the funeral home. Burial will be private.

John’s memory will live on in the laughter he inspired, the friendships he cherished, and the love he shared so freely with those around him.

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