Potter Funeral Home

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Potter Funeral Home

Potter Funeral Home has been serving the people of Windham and the surrounding towns for generations. Please call the office with any questions you may have.

09/03/2025

Betty F. Wexler

Betty F. Wexler "Friend to All, Mother to Most" Betty F. Wexler passed away peacefully at home on September 2, surrounded by her beloved village of family and friends. Born in Lewiston, Maine, on September 30, 1929, Betty grew up with a love of learning, athletics, and community. She graduated from the University of Maine in 1950 with numerous academic and athletic honors, including being named one of the distinguished “All Maine Women.” Her time there also blessed her with lifelong friendships that she treasured throughout her life. Betty later earned her master’s degree from the University of Greensboro.

She and her husband, Imanuel, made Storrs, Connecticut, their home for nearly 60 years. Together, they built a life grounded in family, friendship, and community. Betty worked at the University of Rochester and later at the University of Connecticut, where she taught for many years. Beyond the classroom, she became a passionate force in the Storrs community. Her heart was especially devoted to the Mansfield Library. Betty’s spirit was as vibrant as her garden. She was happiest outdoors—on the tennis court, paddling her canoe on the lake while listening to loons, or tending to her flowers. She loved books, Needham chocolates, and a tall glass of milk, and she shared all of these joys generously with any and all. She was predeceased by her parents, Max and Anna Friedler; her brother, Steven; and her devoted husband of 57 years, Imanuel.

She is survived by her sister, Gladys Friedler; her children, David and Sarah; her daughter-in-law, Shannon; and her grandchildren, Maeve and Max. She also leaves behind her beloved niece Cynthia Larsen, her husband Kenyon, and their children Julia and Skylar—as well as countless cherished friends across the world. Known fondly as the Matriarch of Storrs and the Queen of Codfish Falls, Betty’s enduring spirit, radiant smile, quick wit, fierce independence and unforgettable “Bettyisms” will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. A celebration of “all things Betty” will be held on Saturday, September 6, at 2:00 p.m. at 301 Codfish Falls Road, Storrs. All are welcome.

View Betty F. Wexler's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/29/2025

Tina Abell

Tina Gene (Potter) Abell of Mansfield passed away peacefully August 27, 2025. She was born in Willimantic on May 3, 1952 the daughter of the late L Louise (Romanik) Potter and Norman W Potter. Tina graduated from Windham High, Class of 1970, and Quinnipiac University, Class of 1974, as a Physical Therapist. Following graduation, Tina worked as a Physical Therapist until 1990, when she joined her husband, Roger, in managing and overseeing the operation of Potter's Oil Service, a business started by her grandparents, Will and Edith Potter, in 1930.

Tina found her home in nature. An avid bird watcher, her yard was filled with various birdhouses and feeders, as well as wind spinners, and a weather station. There were flower gardens wherever there was room. She enjoyed sitting in her backyard at the pond which her brother had dug for her, fishing and watching the pond life.

Tina had an artistic and creative flair and her home was decorated with her paintings, photographs, pottery, quilts and cross stitch pictures. She loved cooking and baking and preparing Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for her family. Her kitchen was filled with kitchen gadgets. Always ready for an adventure, Tina loved to travel.....particularly the National Parks in the U. S. She was a past member of Soroptomists of Willimantic.

Tina will be greatly missed by her husband of 35 years, Roger, her son Matthew (Del), son Eric, and cherished stepchildren John (Tara), and Lori; 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; also survived by brother-in-law, Larry Sparks, and nieces Jessica (Craig) Demoran and Jennifer Sparks and extended family members and beloved friends. She was predeceased by her sister Pat (Potter) Sparks, and brother Scott.

There are no calling hours. A private graveside service will be held at the New Lebanon Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

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08/28/2025

Stacey A. Whitney

Stacey Ann (Queen) Whitney passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on August 26, 2025 after an 8 year long battle with dementia. She was 63 years old. Stacey was raised in Hebron, CT on Carriage Drive and attended East Catholic and RHAM high schools. A curious and active child, Stacey was always up for an adventure. She loved performing experiments in the swamp behind her family home, riding her bike in the dirt pile at the end of the road with her friends, and spent countless hours with her beloved grandparents learning about gardening, canning, and cooking. In her school days, she participated in many different activities such as hockey, softball, cheerleading, track and Scottish Highland dancing. It is also rumored that Stacey had a mischievous streak and may have been an excellent party planner when her parents were away. She loved rock music and wasn’t one to keep the volume low. After high school Stacey attended UCONN where she became a certified nurse’s aid and went on to work in the nursing field for more than 30 years. She worked for many years at Manchester Memorial Hospital, spent some time as a visiting nurse, and then went on to work at Windham Hospital. After this she even did a brief stint as a lunch lady in Mansfield which she enjoyed very much. In her 50s, she decided to take a course to become a certified Master Gardener which inspired her to attend Naugatuck Valley Community College where she fulfilled her lifelong dream of obtaining a degree in horticulture. Newly credentialed, she worked at American Landscape and Lawn Science doing what she loved: caring for and enjoying plants. Stacey was also extremely proud of her Scottish heritage. She took great joy in being part of Clan Ross Pipe Band in Lebanon after learning to play the bagpipes. Stacey was well known for her capacity for kindness and compassion. She was a devoted wife and mother and cared for family and friends deeply. She had a soft spot for animals and had a penchant for feeding stray cats and bringing her pet chickens in the house when they needed a little extra care. She touched the lives of many people over her lifetime. She was leader of Girl Scout Troop 5294 and then served as Advancement Coordinator for Boy Scout Troop 58. While with the boys scouts, she enjoyed running the town-wide Earth Day event and helping people learn how to care for and beautify their environment. Other activities she enjoyed were cooking, baking, and collecting daylilies as well as other interesting specimen plants for her yard. Her happy place was Nauset Beach on Cape Cod where she had gone with her family since the 1970s. She shared this enjoyment with her husband and children and many happy memories were made there. Against all odds, she was able to make it back to this special place after beginning her battle with dementia to fill her pockets with beachcomber’s treasures. Stacey is survived by her husband of 42 years, John William Whitney; daughter, Jolene Bernice Eggers and her husband, Roy Eggers of South Killingly; son, Patrick John Whitney of Pomfret Center; son, Jamison Cameron Whitney of Norwich; sister, Shelly Vendrillo and her husband Jay of Hebron; brother James Queen and his wife Sandra of Hebron; brother Christian Queen and his wife Holly of Glastonbury; mother-in-law Bernice Whitney of Lebanon; sister-in-law Autumn Whitney and her husband Todd Labbe of Lebanon; brother-in-law James Whitney of Lebanon and many nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts, and an uncle. She is predeceased by her parents John and Joyce (Lyman) Queen, her beloved grandparents Norman and Bernice (Whitehouse) Lyman, and her coffee buddy Vinnie Pudlo. A very special thank you to these special angels for helping Stacey along her journey with this disease: Autumn, Lynn, Sandy, Lauren, Jackie, Maria and Chrissy. Also thank you to the team from the Masonicare Hospice of Norwich for your compassion: Keri, Amy, Kristen, Pam, Michelle, and Janet. A celebration of life for Stacey will be held on Saturday, October 4th from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm at the Lebanon Fire Safety Complex. The address is 23 Goshen Hill Road in Lebanon, CT. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Masonicare Hospice. To share a memory or sign the online memorial guestbook please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com.

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

08/25/2025

Rose R. Watson

Rose (Ramos) Watson, 90, of Storrs, died Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Vanderman Nursing Home.

Rose was a past employee of Travelers Insurance and First Congregational Church of Willimantic. Rose also severed as a chaperone for the Fire-ettes Drum and Bugle Corp from Norwich, Connecticut. In addition to being secretary at First Congregational Church she was a proud member of the choir along with her granddaughter and husband. She enjoyed singing in other local choirs, loved painting and various forms of art.

She is survived by two children, Rodney (Gale) Watson and Rhonda Watson; three grandchildren Rodney Watson, Aaron Salley and Rachel Watson; brother-in-law, Norman Watson, sister-in-law, Jeanette (Tony) Weldon; sister-in-law, Joan Watson Palmer; niece Lori Ann Watson; several other nieces, nephews and many close family friends. She was predeceased by her husband Everett Watson and grandson Issac Watson. There are no calling hours. A celebration of Rose's life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 30th, at First Congregational Church of Willimantic, 199 Valley St., Willimantic. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

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08/25/2025

Lea A. Barbeau

Lea Agnes (Corbeil) Barbeau, 96, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, at Brightview Canton Living Center. Born and raised in Wauregan, Connecticut, she was the daughter of the late Cleophas and Blandine (Herbieux) Corbeil.

Lea graduated from Killingly High School in 1946. In her senior yearbook, she lightheartedly noted that her ambition was “to be an old maid.” Life, however, had other plans. After World War II, she met and married the love of her life, Paul Joseph Barbeau, a proud Marine Corps veteran. For 68 years, they nurtured a devoted and loving marriage, cherishing their time between Storrs, Connecticut and Blue Hill, Maine.

She is survived by her sister, Lorraine Czeluzniak and her husband Bill of Connecticut, and her three children: Paulette Coln of Louisiana; Gary Barbeau and his wife Coleen of New Jersey; and Linda Monahan and her husband Rick of Massachusetts. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Paul, as well as her sisters Lillian Morin and Lucille Caya, and her brother Gerard Maurice “Moe” Corbeil.

Lea leaves behind a proud legacy through her seven grandchildren—Joseph and Michael Smith, Brett Schomer, Dylan Barbeau, and Daniel, Michael, and Ryan Monahan—and ten great-grandchildren: Baylor, Leah, Zander, Nayeli, Lucy, Finn, Sadie, Ethan, Natalie, and Elam. Lea’s greatest joy was her family, spending time around the table playing cards, drinking coffee and talking till late into the night. Many of the grandchildren fondly recall Nana’s ever-present candy and cookie jars, with a special memory of the breadbox always filled with red Twizzlers. Above all, she will be cherished for the love she poured into passing down the treasured family tradition of crepe-making

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Brightview Wellness Village, the compassionate hospice caregivers of Care Dimensions, and the dedicated 24-hour nurses from Comfort Care for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Lea during her final days.

Lea’s funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, August 29, 2025 at 10:00am at St. Joseph Church, 99 Jackson Street, Willimantic, CT 06226 with assembly at the church. Burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Club Road, Willimantic, CT 06226.

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08/25/2025

Preston Boudreau

Preston Boudreau was sadly taken far too early on August 11th, 2025. After a courageous fight with cancer, he is now at peace, joining his beloved mother Marion Savoie, brother Todd Boudreau, as well as his father Robert, who all predeceased him.

He was a pure-hearted, empathetic, and true friend. He leaves behind Karen Wickham, his soulmate and partner of many years, who stood by his side through everything. He also leaves behind his brother William Phillips, sister Geana Philips, and brother Russell Phillips.

He will be tremendously missed by all, including his life on Friends, Jason King, and Josh Burkey, who were so lucky to share such a strong, forever bond with him.

We would like to acknowledge Middlesex Oncology, especially Dina, Shana, and Mary; Hospice care, Sherry and Linda, as well as Father Murphy, who blessed him with anointing oil for the sick.

Preston cared deeply for everyone he knew and loved. His laughter and love will forever remain in our hearts.

A wale was observed on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Potter Funeral Home, he was laid to rest at St. Philip Cemetery.

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08/25/2025

Cheryl Lee Hebblewaite

Cheryl Lee Hebblewaite, age 79, of Storrs, CT, peacefully passed away on August 22, 2025, at Windham Hospital after a brief illness, holding the hand of her loving husband.

Born on May 27, 1946, in Manchester, CT, to Fred and Anne Tilden, Cheryl lived a life full of love, laughter, and devotion to her family and friends.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, Russell; her daughters Tracy Maheu of Ashford, CT, and Karen (Richard) Zajac of Coventry, CT; her cherished grandchildren Chris (Heidi) Maheu, Erica Maheu, Noah Zajac, and LeeAnne Zajac; and her adored great grandchildren Beckham and Re*****on Maheu. Cheryl is also survived by her sisters Patricia (Joseph) Piatek and Janet (Tom) Conley; nieces and nephews Tom Jr. (Julie) Conley, Jennifer Piatek, Julie (Mark) DeCandia, Shannon (Spencer) Piatek, Sean Piatek (her godson), and Jamie (Chad) Bailey; as well as several great and great-great nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, her brother William Tilden and sister-in-law Elizabeth.

Cheryl’s circle of love extended beyond family. She leaves behind dear friends Walter and Linda Dann, Blanche Mills, Denise Gorka, Carol Lindlau, and many more who shared countless memories with her.

She loved traveling and camping with her husband, often accompanied by their faithful cocker spaniel, Maggie. Together, they made several cross-country trips in their motor home. Cheryl also enjoyed bus trips with her special friends, playing bingo, birdwatching, working on puzzles, visiting casinos, and watching NASCAR. Above all, she treasured time with her grandchildren, never missing a sporting event, play, concert, or special event. Her great-grandchildren held a very special place in her heart, always bringing joy to her days.

Cheryl retired from the University of Connecticut’s Purchasing Department after nearly 20 years of service, where she made many lifelong friendships.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 6 to 8 PM at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St, Willimantic, CT. Friends and family will gather the following morning on Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 10:30 to 11 AM at the funeral home, and then procced in procession to the New Mansfield Cemetery for burial. To share a memory or sign the online memorial guestbook, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com Cheryl was a cancer survivor, and in honor of her memory the family asks that memorial donations be made In lieu of flowers to the American Cancer Society.

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08/20/2025

Joyce Taylor Willey, 88, of Coventry, CT, and formerly of Vero Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2025, surrounded by her loving family after a long illness.
Born in Stafford, CT, Joyce grew up in Eagleville, CT, the daughter of Raymond and Vivian Warren. A proud graduate of Windham...