Davis Memorial Chapel

03/24/2026

Lawrence Leon Wight, 85, passed away on March 23, 2026 surrounded by his family after a long and meaningful life defined by curiosity, creativity, learning, and a deep love for the natural world. He was born on August 19, 1941, in Claremont, New Hampshire, to Mildred (Coffran) and Leon Wight. He graduated from Steven’s High School class of 59’ and attended the University of New Hampshire, pursuing studies in forestry and education, two passions that guided much of his life.

One of Larry’s favorite narratives was his belief that his soul was split between Alaska and Vermont. After marrying his high school sweetheart, his adventurous spirit and curiosity led him to move across the country, settling in Girdwood, Alaska where he taught middle school and spent years exploring the wilderness with his family, always eager to share his experiences with his students. Larry kept meticulous records of every single fishing, hiking, camping, and hunting trip he took while he lived in Alaska. He said it was because he did not want to forget anything and toward the end of his life, it was those memories that remained the most vivid.

Larry devoted many years to education and the students and communities he served. In the mid 70s, his wife convinced him to move back to New England. They purchased their dream home on Route 5 in Weathersfield, Vermont, where they remained for close to 50 years. Larry spent the next 30+ years in the public school system teaching science and history courses and holding numerous administrative positions throughout Vermont and New Hampshire. He retired for the third time (yes, you read that correctly) in 2010 as principal of Springfield High School.

Larry was often remembered by former students as an educator who recognized when someone needed guidance, validation, or a renewed sense of purpose. He often went out of his way to support students who needed a little extra encouragement or who struggled in some capacity. His family hopes that if anyone takes something away from his life, it is his example of compassion, believing that people are capable of change, and the willingness to help others find their worth.

Larry was an artist, photographer, woodworker, writer, avid reader, fisherman, historian, hunter, auctioneer, business owner (he and Dottie owned and ran Ladeau’s Furniture in Claremont, New Hampshire for 12 years), explorer, antique finder, and lifelong learner. He was a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, mentor, and friend to many. He loved his family, his home, his land, countless hunting dogs, and the quiet beauty of nature and wildlife.

Larry had a wonderful sense of humor and animated expressions that those close to him will never forget. His creativity shined brightest in his detailed carvings of decoy ducks and fish, handmade fly fishing flies, scrapbooks, and in his infinite photographs. Fishing was one of his greatest joys; he could often be found in his fishing boat on the Connecticut River, black coffee in hand (and probably a sweet treat of some sort), with his wife by his side (more than likely betting that she’d catch the bigger fish—which she usually did).

He was known for his generosity, steady guidance, and a heart always open to helping others. He was wonderfully stubborn and remained so until the very end. His love story with his wife, Dottie, spanned more than 70 years and was a source of pride and joy throughout his life.

Even as parts of Larry’s memory faded, the moments that mattered most—his love for family, his humor, and his spirit—remained present. His family is grateful for the time they spent with him and for the opportunity to help care for him in his final years.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Dottie Wight (Duval); their daughter Shelley Alflen (Wight) and her husband Robert (Bob) of Weathersfield, Vermont; his granddaughter Kayla Staples (Wight), formerly of Springfield, Vermont, her husband Graham, and their children Exelia and Gauge; his granddaughter Kaidance Craig of Windsor, Vermont, and her fiancé Ryan; and his niece Jennifer Johnston of Nashua, New Hampshire.

He was predeceased by his mother Mildred; his father, Leon; and his younger sister, Brenda Wight.
His family extends sincere gratitude to the staff at Summercrest Senior Living in Newport, Hanover Terrace Long-Term Care, and Bayada Hospice for the care and compassion they provided over the past four years.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of New Hampshire so that other young minds may discover beauty and purpose in the outdoors or to the Alzheimer’s Association so that the research can continue.

Larry’s wishes were not to have a service and for all who love him to go fishing. A celebration of life may be held in the future.

We hope you catch all the fish, read all the books, and eat all the donuts in your afterlife. Save us a spot on the river. We love you.

Lastly, a quote from one of your most favorite books: “…and the turtles of course, the turtles are free…as turtles and maybe all creatures should be.” - Dr. Seuss

Please view Larry's guest book at the link below:
https://www.davismemorialchapel.net/obituary/lawrence-wight

03/24/2026

Newport, NH.
Debora L. Merritt “Debbie” 69 died Monday March 23, 2026 at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH after a short illness. She was born February 18, 1957 in Cleveland Ohio the daughter of Richard R. and Florence (Holmes) McDonnell.
Debbie worked at the Claremont Pet Store for 25 years, and most recently worked as a Personal Shopper at Walmart in Claremont, NH.

She enjoyed geocaching, kayaking, hiking and just being outdoors, she also enjoyed line dancing and bird watching, always staying active. She enjoyed visiting Plum Island, Massachusetts and did many times. She never missed her grandson Collin’s baseball games and enjoyed attending her granddaughter Stella’s dance recitals.

Debbie loved all animals.

She was a loving mother and grandmother and a friend to everyone, and loved spending time with her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her two daughters Michelle Pinders (Alan), and Kelly Benoit, and by two grandchildren Collin Pinders and Stella Benoit.

She was predeceased by a son Brian.

At her request there will be no services.

Memorial contributions may be made to a Humane Society of one’s choice or to VINS Nature Center.

Davis Memorial Chapel is assisting with arrangements.

Please view Debbie's guest book at the link below:
https://www.davismemorialchapel.net/obituary/debbie-merritt

03/23/2026

Chester.
Frances “Jean” Douglas passed away on March 19th 2026 at the Gill Odd Fellows Home in Ludlow, Vermont where she had made her home for the past year. She was born in Hartford, Connecticut on November 24, 1941 to Francis “Frank” Perry and Grace LItz.
She grew up in the Lake George NY area and had many fond memories of spending time

with her grandparents on the lake. She married George Earl Douglas on June 20th 1959, and they had two sons, Bruce Earl Douglas and Darryl Alan Douglas. She loved animals, her
horses, cats and dogs especially. She was predeceased by her mother Grace, stepfather Fred Parker, brother James Perry
and sister-in-law Karen Parker, two grandsons Aaron Douglas and Jamie Douglas and her husband, George.

She is survived by her sons, Bruce (Kelly) Douglas, Darryl (Lisa) Douglas, her grandchildren Rachel (Ed) Rushford, Kyle Douglas, Morgan Douglas, Griffin Douglas and Alaina (aka Maverick) Douglas, two great granddaughters Emily Rushford and Erin Douglas, her brother Leon Parker and sister-in-law Paula Perry. Many cousins, nieces, and nephews as well as close family friends.

The family would like to thank her care givers at the Gill Home for her care and support, and her roommate Sandy and family for their friendship and attention to Jean this past year and in her final hours. Her children and grandchildren remember many fond memories spent at her house on “Grammy’s night” where they would play outside or join in board games and Gunsmoke
marathons, as well as her famous ‘shiny lasagna’.

Per her request, there will be no calling hours or services. The family will have a private burial in the spring.

Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, Vermont is assisting with arrangements.

Please view Jean's guest book at the link below:
https://www.davismemorialchapel.net/obituary/frances-douglas

03/20/2026

Ascutney, VT.

Kevin L. Ovitt, 64, passed away peacefully and comfortably at home on March 8, 2026. He was a loving husband to his late wife Kathleen Ovitt, whom he was married to for 27 years before she passed away in 2018. They shared over 30 years together.

Kevin was born in Windsor, VT on May 20, 1962, the son of Lawrence D. Ovitt and Roxanna A. Allen. He graduated from Springfield High School and enlisted in the Vermont Army national Guard where he served for 12 years. He enjoyed his years in the service and talked so proudly about serving. He held various jobs over the years but worked as a painter/finisher for about 20 years at Mack Molding. He loved the work and the people there.

Kevin loved animals. His dogs, cats and ferrets were like his children. He enjoyed collecting eagles. He liked his court shows, his live PD shows and action movies. He will be remembered for his incredible work ethic and as one of the bravest, strongest and kindest men ever. One of his most selfless acts of love he showed over the years was when he decided to give his kidney to his wife, which added many more years to her life. He actually had a harder recovery after and almost lost his life, but he always said that he would do it all over again just to have those years with her.

He is survived by his loving mother, Roxanna Pierce of Springfield, VT, brothers: Jeff Ovitt of South Reading, VT, Richard Pierce and his children of Springfield, VT, Patrick Ovitt and his children of Windsor, VT, Kirk Ovitt and his family of Zumbrota, MN, his younger sisters Kathryn Ovitt-Besaw and her family of Weathersfield, VT and Cynthia Ovitt and her family of Windsor, VT; his two precious cats: Stella and Bella; several nieces, nephews, cousins; uncle, Steve Ovitt and aunt, Rosalie Ovitt of Reading, VT; his best friend, Rick Pulsifer and his significant other, Cindy Stillwell of Springfield, VT.

He was predeceased by his father, Lawrence D. Ovitt; step-mother, Barbara Vashaw; his step-father, Richard Pierce Sr; his brother, Martin Ovitt; his uncle, Wayne Allen and Janice Ryan.

There will be a celebration of life and burial on May 23, 2026 at 12PM on Kevin and Kathy’s land at 176 Goulden Ridge Rd, Ascutney, VT 05030.

https://www.davismemorialchapel.net/guestbook/kevin-ovitt

03/19/2026

Springfield…
James David Reed II 65, died unexpectedly on Friday March 13, 2026 at his home in Springfield. He was born September 11, 1960 in Princeton, West Virginia the son of James D. and Masel (Hubbard) Reed. He served in the United States Navy.

He was employed at Mack Molding and Pizzagalli Construction. He enjoyed raising tropical fish and gardening.

He is survived by his three children; Shane Trumbull, Crystal Metcalf, and Jason Reed, one sister Lora Cheatham, and one granddaughter Serenity Fernandez.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, Vermont is assisting with arrangements

03/19/2026

Springfield.
Sandra Christine Crilly (Sandi Chase) 65, formerly of Springfield died unexpectedly on March 5, 2026 at her home in Barre, Vermont. She was born September 18, 1960 in Albany, New York.
Sandi graduated from Springfield High School in 1978. She soon found her calling in life as a Waitress, Cook and Bartender. She worked at Idlenot Restaurant as a teenager and continued to put a smile on customers faces at Country Girl Diner, Riverside Restaurant and Alibis, making many friends and memories doing what she loved to do.

Sandi made Barre, Vermont her home for the past 20 years and quickly made friends in her community working at Basil’s, Pit Stop Diner, Wayside Restaurant and Montpelier Elks Country Club as a Manager Waitress. Sandi was always the life of the party and enjoyed dressing up in costumes for Halloween, St. Patrick’s Day, Valentines Day or any other occasion to put a smile on your face. She had a closet full of accessories and wasn’t afraid to use them.

In the past few years Sandi would volunteer at local community kitchens helping prepare and serve meals. She was always preparing meals and desserts at her home for friends and neighbors and anyone she felt needed a meal.

Sandi loved to provide for others, and spent a lifetime doing what she did best, she made you her friend, she put a smile on your face and left you with a full belly. After a long day at work she would go home to her many cats. She was a cat lady at heart and loved them dearly.

She was predeceased by her two sons Thomas Kinghorn II and Paul Crilly, her parents Charles Chase and Janice (Grover) Chase, and by her brother Gary Chase.

She is survived by three brothers; Dana Chase (Nola) Greg Chase (Kathy) and Charles Chase (Addie), sister-in-law Denise Chase and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of life service will be held April 12, 2026 from 12 noon till 2:00 PM at the Crown Point Country Club 155 Golf Course Road Springfield, Vermont 05156.

Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, Vermont is assisting with arrangements.

Please view Sandi's guest book at the link below:
https://www.davismemorialchapel.net/obituary/sandra-crilly

03/19/2026

Springfield, VT.

Brittany Lynn Hankins, 40, of Springfield, Vermont, passed away on March 13, 2026. Born on May 17, 1985, in Tampa, Florida, Brittany brought light and vibrancy to all who knew her.

Brittany was the beloved daughter of Jeffrey Hankins and the late Sherry Batchelder. She was also cherished by her stepfather, Bruce Batchelder Sr. She is survived by her three children—Braden Morrie, Calan Morrie, and Ava White—whom she deeply cherished and loved unconditionally. Brittany’s siblings, Brian Manning Jr., Jennifer Spear, and Cassidy Hankins, will forever hold her memory close to their hearts. She was predeceased by her paternal grandmother, Ruth Kendall.

Known for her creative spirit and radiant smile, Brittany had a remarkable ability to create beauty in every aspect of her life. Her home was always meticulously kept—a welcoming space where friends and family could gather and feel at ease. Brittany had a natural flair for fashion and took pride in presenting herself with elegance and style; she never left the house without looking her best. Her magnetic personality made her a force of nature—often the center of attention wherever she went.

May Brittany’s memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. A private get together for family and friends will be held in the coming weeks.

Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, VT is assisting with the arrangements.

https://www.davismemorialchapel.net/guestbook/brittany-hankins

03/17/2026

Perkinsville.
Dorothy A. Buxton “Dottie” 89, died Sunday March 15, 2026 at the Gill Odd Fellows Home in Ludlow, Vt. She was born August 22, 1936 in Springfield, Vt. the daughter of Earl and Pearl (Shippy) Snide. She attended Springfield Schools.

Dottie was a Homemaker and at home child care provider and assisted her husband Dean with groundskeeping and bookkeeping for the Plain Cemetery in Perkinsville for many years.

Dottie enjoyed cooking and loved to feed her family and friends, she was well known for her Dot Dot rolls. She also enjoyed her cats, crocheting, and sewing. She loved the color purple and was affectionately called Grammy Purple by her grandchildren.

She is survived by her children; James Jenks, Mary LoSavio, Deborah Poire, and Peggy Grote. Step-children; Tammy Buxton and Deana Fuller, brother Eddy Snide, sister-in-law Sally Buxton, and by many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great- great grandchildren, and a special neighbor whom she considered like a grandchild, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Dean, her daughter Nancy Macey, her siblings; Donald, James, Robert, Arthur, Bernice, Gail and Barbara and step-daughters Deborah and Terri Lynn.

A celebration of life will be held on her birthday August 22, 2026 with details announced later.

Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, is assisting with arrangements.

Please view Dottie's guest book at the link below:

Perkinsville. Dorothy A. Buxton Dottie 89, died Sunday March 15, 2026 at the Gill Odd Fellows Home in Ludlow, Vt. She was born August 22, 1936 in Springfield, Vt. the daughter of Earl and Pearl Shippy Snide. She attended Springfield Schools. Dottie was a Homemaker and at home child care

03/17/2026

Jack H. Porter, 90, passed away on March, 13, 2026 at the Summercrest Senior Living Community in Newport, NH. He was a leap-year baby born February 29, 1936 in Rochester, NY and an only child raised by his mother Isabelle. In high school, he was a swimmer and diver and lettered in Lacrosse and Football. Jack enlisted in the US Navy Reserves in 1954 and later graduated from Dean Junior College where he became an All-American diver. In 1957, he and a few diving buddies started the dive troupe, The Dizzy Denizens of the Deep. The troupe, known for their “comedy divers” who performed slapstick, were the grandstand attraction at the 1957 Monroe County Fair. The feature event was Jack’s dives executed with professional form and his signature 85-foot “fire dive”. For several seasons, he was a lifeguard at Lake Ontario’s Seneca Park and Charlotte Beach where he set long-standing lifeguard records. He also served as a scuba diver assisting Rochester, NY and local police departments when needed.

A storyteller to the end, everyone who met Jack was likely to hear a story from his youth on either fishing with Uncle Bill or Tom Foster, playing the trumpet with Chuck Mangione, the Dizzy Denizens or some otherwise playful shenanigans with his many brothers-in-law and buddies.

On April 12, 1958, he married his love, Patricia J. Caprio and they remained married for 63 years until her passing in 2021. For many years, they remained in the Rochester, NY area and brought 6 children into their world before relocating to Springfield, VT in the fall of 1970 to be the manager of Vermont National Bank. After 30 wonderful years in Springfield creating a lifetime of memories with family and so many close friends, Jack and Pat decided to move to Leesburg, FL in 2001. Early on in Florida, both Jack and Pat were often seen on the senior swimming circuit earning State level accolades along the way. Jack’s original family of 8 has grown to well over 30.

Jack was very fond of his involvement in the Springfield Swim Team both as a coach and later as long-term starter and supporter of both swimming and diving. He and Pat could also be seen at countless sporting events cheering on their children and their Cosmos teammates at the pool, on the field or on the court and carried that spirit to college sporting events. He also enjoyed fishing in Maine among other “spots” and was well known for his woodworking skills. He was often found in his woodshop in Vermont and later in Leesburg, FL. Every item he created has a signature and a story.

Jack was predeceased by his loving wife Patricia, daughter Michelle and granddaughter Nicole. He is survived by daughter Linda Lewis (Patrick), son Michael Porter (Allison), daughter Shannon Porter, son Kevin (Kris) and daughter Patty Deschaine (Rick). His grandchildren: Rachelle, Adelle, Makenzie, Callahan, Mary, Jeremy, Nick, Nate, Megan and Jenna. Great Grandchildren: Harrison, Tedy, Isabella, Callahan & Adeline.

A Celebration of Jack’s life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in honor of his daughter, Michelle Porter and his granddaughter, Nicole Lewis. A special thank you from the family to John, Anne, Samantha, Dara and Nick and everyone at Summercrest Senior Living for the patience and care they provided for dad. Thank you to the folks at Hawthorne down in Leesburg for all your love and support for Dad after mom passed.

Davis Memorial Chapel is assisting with arrangements.

Please view Jack's guest book at the link below;
https://www.davismemorialchapel.net/obituary/jack-porter

03/17/2026

Springfield.
Brian J. Wheelock 77, died Friday March 13, 2026 at the Gill Odd Fellows Home in Ludlow. He was born January 7, 1949 in Springfield, Vermont the son of Elroy R. and Muriel A. (Parker) Wheelock. He graduated from Springfield High School, Lyndon State College and later from the New Haven Culinary Institute.

On January 17, 1981 Brian married Shelley Osier.

Brian was employed as a Surveyor with Dufresne Henry for over 20 years.

Brian was a very active member of the Calvary Baptist Church, serving on the Board of Deacons for over 20 years, and delivering sermon tapes to elders of the church.

He enjoyed fishing and was an avid Yankees and Giants fan. Brian loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife Shelley, brother Tim (Ann) Wheelock of Calais, Vt., son Graig (Kirsten) Wheelock of Rochester, NY. Also by his nephews and families.

He was predeceased by his parents Elroy and Muriel Wheelock

A memorial service will be held at the Calvary Baptist Church in Springfield, Vt. on Saturday March 21, 2026 at 1:00 PM

Davis Memorial Chapel is assisting with arrangements.

Please view Brian's guest book at the link below:

Springfield. Brian J. Wheelock 77, died Friday March 13, 2026 at the Gill Odd Fellows Home in Ludlow. He was born January 7, 1949 in Springfield, Vermont the son of Elroy R. and Muriel A. Parker Wheelock. He graduated from Springfield High School, Lyndon State College and later from the

03/13/2026

Richard Allan “Jake” Jacobs, 74, of Springfield, Vermont, passed away on March 8, 2026. He was born January 2, 1952, in Midland, Michigan.

Jake graduated from South Burlington High School in 1970 and served in the United States Army, receiving an honorable discharge in 1978.

A successful businessman and landlord, Jake owned and operated Jake’s South Street Market in Springfield for more than 45 years. Under his leadership the market grew from a small convenience store into a popular community destination offering deli items, meats, and take-out meals. Known for his street-smart business sense and personable nature, Jake built lasting relationships with customers, tenants, and neighbors alike. He took great pride in running a tight ship while supporting the interests of the community he called home.

Jake had a lifelong passion for the outdoors. An avid rifle and bow hunter, he traveled widely pursuing both sport and cultural experiences. Along the way he formed many lasting friendships, enjoying opportunities to meet new people and learn about their traditions, lifestyles, and food. He especially cherished his land and hunting camp in Williamstown, Vermont, where he spent countless hours improving the forest and wildlife habitat.

Jake also enjoyed home gardening and had a deep affection for the many dogs and cats that shared his life over the years.

A dedicated member of the community, Jake was actively involved with the Springfield Moose Lodge 679, where he served in numerous leadership roles including President. His commitment to the organization and the community was widely recognized. As one fellow member noted, “To know Jake was to know the very definition of dedication. For the Springfield Lodge, Jake was the engine behind it.” Jake achieved Moose International’s prestigious Pilgrim Degree, the highest honor bestowed by the organization.
Jake was also a life member of the Springfield Elks, the Springfield VFW, the Chester American Legion, the South Burlington Eagles, and the St Johns Lodge FAM, Springfield.

He was predeceased by his mother, Wilma Benson Jacobs Martin, and his brother, Michael Jacobs.

He is survived by his stepfather, Roy Martin of South Burlington, Vermont; his brother, David Jacobs of Venice, Florida; his sister Suzanne Martin Couillard and her husband David of North Hero, Vermont; his sister Kathy Martin of Georgia, Vermont; and his life partner, Janet Makela of Springfield, Vermont. Jake also leaves behind ten nieces and nephews and shared a particularly close bond with his nephew, Michael Jacobs Jr.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Springfield, Vt Moose Lodge on Saturday May 16, 2026, at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jake’s memory may be made to Moose International’s Mooseheart Charity. Donations may be mailed to:

Richard A Jacobs Memorial Mooseheart Fund Springfield Moose Lodge #679
39 South St
Springfield, VT 05156

https://www.davismemorialchapel.net/guestbook/richard-jacobs

03/13/2026

Trevor Forrest Watkins, 56, passed away unexpectedly at home on March 8, 2026. He was born in Springfield, VT on August 12, 1969 to Glenn and Ellen (Lambert) Watkins.

Trevor graduated from Springfield High School and began his career trucking. He drove cross country for BDR and for Stowmills more locally. He also worked for the city of Keene as a heavy equipment operator and also helped establish Two Neanderthals Smokin’ BBQ. Trevor was a hard-working man, always providing for his family.

Trevor loved music; ATX, Alice in Chains and Tool were his favorites. He loved sitting by the fire, the smell of the ocean and pointing out awesome Peterbilts. But most importantly, he loved his children and grandchildren! He loved telling stories of his years trucking and all the things he’d seen over the road. He always said Montana was the most beautiful place he’d ever been to. It was so great that we all took an epic family vacation to Wyoming and Montana where many beautiful memories were made.

Trevor was predeceased by his son, Nathaniel Watkins. Trevor is survived by his wife Melinda, his daughter Jessika Nadeau and son-in-law Matthew, his daughter Annalise Watkins and her significant other Daniel Weiser, son Layne Watkins and his girlfriend Marlo Goodrich and his son Collin Watkins. Grandchildren: Nora and Calvin Nadeau; parents Glenn and Ellen; sister Carrie and her husband Frank Fuller and many nieces and nephews and his honorary son-in-law, Ryan Bean.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the National MS society or Donate Life as Trevor was the recipient of a life saving liver transplant in 2019.

Davis Memorial Chapel in Springfield, VT is assisting with the arrangements.

https://www.davismemorialchapel.net/guestbook/trevor-watkins