Bacon Funeral Home Willimantic, CT

02/05/2026

William L. Lovely II, 73, of Willimantic, beloved husband of Brenda (Durandetto) Lovely, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Middlesex Hospital.

He was born on October 5, 1952, in Hartford, Connecticut, the son of the late William and Frances (Jenkins) Lovely, and was raised in Willimantic. William was deeply devoted to his family and took great pride in his roles as a husband, father, grandfather, and brother. Those closest to him knew him as a man who expressed love through loyalty, steadiness, and quiet strength.

William proudly served his country in the United States Military during the Vietnam War, reflecting a strong sense of duty and patriotism. Outside of his family and service, he found joy in the outdoors and maintained a lifelong passion for fishing, clamming, and hunting, pursuits that brought him peace and fulfillment.

In addition to his wife Brenda, William was predeceased by his life partner of 24 years, Mary J. Woods; his brothers, Steven Parkmen and Michael Lovely; and his nephew, Jaime Dancosse.

He is survived by his children, Mark Cargo and his wife Maria of Connecticut; Heather Lovely-Fouse and her husband Thomas (TJ) of Pennsylvania; and Eva Mae Avery and her husband Joshua of Connecticut. He is also survived by his sisters, Andrea McCall and her husband Joe Sullivan of Florida, and Kimberly Lovely-LaFlamme and her husband Michel LaFlamme of Connecticut.

William was a devoted grandfather who cherished each of his grandchildren: Julianna and Benjamin Cargo; Nicholas Pennewell-Garcia; Jaden Etchison; Keira Lovely; Bryan Fouse and Thomas Fouse III; Isaiah and Ahviel Rodriguez; and Cameron, Barry, Rilee, and Sage Avery. His love for them was boundless, and they brought immense joy to his life. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, including Robert, Amy, Edwin, Wayne, and Michael, as well as many great-grandchildren and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Tuesday, February 10, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Bacon Funeral Home, 71 Prospect Street, Willimantic.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in William’s memory to the Vietnam Veterans of America

02/04/2026

Why choose Bacon Funeral Home ? We take great pride in caring for each family that enters our home and will work to provide you with a beautiful tribute to your loved one. We want to help you through your difficult time. Family owned and operated since 1916.

Bacon Funeral Home in Willimantic, CT provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding area... Learn More

01/31/2026

Diane D. Cox, 67, of Willimantic, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. She was the daughter of the late Alphege and Beatrice (Dion) Maclure.

Born on January 1, 1959, in Willimantic, CT, she was loved by many and touched many people's lives. Everywhere she went, she was a presence. She loved having a good time and making people smile; she would help anyone who asked. She was a kind and loving person. Her family was the world to her, even her extended family who have always been by her side through all the ups and downs.

She is survived by her daughter Brandi Cameron; her brother Arthur Maclure; her sisters Jacky Gordon, Joan Maclure; her nephews, her nieces, and her cousins.

Services will be private. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/30/2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Dennis Bailey on Friday January 30, 2026. Dennis was the son of Raymond and Ruth Bailey born on January 29, 1949 in Bluefield, WV. He moved to Connecticut in 1961 and became a long time resident of Mansfield.

After graduating from E. O. Smith high school, Dennis served 4 yrs in the US Air Force with a stint in Pakistan. Upon returning home he resumed a position at UConn in the IT Dept where he had worked part time as a student. He retired from the university in '03 with over 38 years of service as a supervisor on third shift. He made long time friends, especially Ann. He had a life long passion for fishing especially in the Mansfield and Quaddick state parks. He was a member of the Windham Fish and Game club. He also enjoyed many summers camping and fishing in Rhode Island with his family as well a traveling throughout the United States with his wife. He was an avid UConn Women's Basketball fan never missing a game and he especially enjoyed the precious time spent with his family.

Dennis leaves behind his beloved wife of 55 years, Sandy Trudeau Bailey; daughter Karen Bailey and granddaughter, Elyse Macha and members of the Bailey, Lawless and Warinsky families. He was predeceased by his brothers, Raymond, Robert and Carson Bailey.

A graveside service in St. Joseph Cemetery, Windham will be held Thursday Apr 23, at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Willimantic VFW 630 Valley St, Willimantic, CT 06226. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/29/2026

Aaron Joseph ( AJ) Perry
October 12, 1976 - 1/26/2026

Aaron was born in Gaston NC to the late George R Perry and the late Louise Hinkle Perry.

He is survived by his mother Patricia Perry of Scotland CT who raised him as her own since he was 8 years old. He is survived by his sister's Jennifer Willette and her husband Roger of Scotland , Wendy Berlepsch and her wife Lucia of Edinburg Scotland UK , Priscilla Perry of Vernon CT and a brother Kenneth Perry and his fiance Robert of Oakdale CT. His only niece Araya Reilly of Vernon. Aaron also leaves behind a wonderful woman who has brought him so much joy and companionship the last few years Eileen Mercedes Figueroa, she was his partner in faith and his favorite dance partner. He had many friends in fellowship at his church but Josh Lewis was always there for him throughout his illness visiting and helping out with whatever he needed. A true caring friend. Aaron leaves his Uncle Rodney of Scotland CT who was his sidekick throughout his life spending time together watching Nascar, Football and going to the drag races and of course they were both avid FORD fans. As Aaron's illness progressed Rodney took on the role of healthcare advocate bringing him to treatments and medical appointments and advocating for him. And of course taking him out to eat Aaron's favorite pastime eating. They definitely had a special relationship. Thank You for everything you did for making Aaron's journey easier. He leaves his Aunt's Joan Perry Doyle and her husband Ray of Scotland, Janet Garson and her husband David of Columbia CT, Uncle's Fred Perry and his wife Charlene of Scotland CT, Jim Hinkle of Somers CT , William Callahan and his wife Britt of Florida and Aunt Linda Collenburg of South Carolina. He is predeceased by his Uncle David and his wife Bridget Perry and cousin Elijah Perry. He leaves numerous cousins to mourn his passing especially his cousin Sean another avid Ford and race fan who was with him through the good times and the rough ones spending time with him and talking about cars and making sure he was okay.

Aaron graduated from Parish Hill High School in 1994 and joined the Army and was stationed in Anchorage AK , loving the Alaskan people after his enlistment he joined the Air Force Reserves and lived in Alaska for 10 years it was in Alaska he became a disciple of the Anchorage Church of Christ. He returned to CT in 2004 and continued being a member of the Air Force Reserves which he served for 20 yrs and retired as a SSGT. He joined the Greater Hartford Church of Christ upon his return and has been a loyal worshipper of the Lord . He worked as a material handler at Pratt Whitney until his illness prevented him from continuing. He fought like a warrior for the last 7 years against brain cancer always with a positive attitude and a contagious smile.
Fly High Aaron you have gained your wings and are now free of cancer, seizures and pain. Your smile , laugh and memorable voice will be missed but we know you are in the Lord's hands cheering on your Red Sox , 49ers and your nascar drivers and of course looking for someone to play scrabble with.

The family would like to thank the staff at Vanderman Place for the loving care and support you gave him throughout his rehabilitation and his final days.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to The Greater Hartford Church of Christ ( Benevolent Fund) 1417 Stanley St New Britain, CT. 06053.

Services will be on Saturday March 14,2026 1:00 pm at The Greater Hartford Church Of Christ 1417 Stanley St New Britain, CT 06053. Internment will be in the Palmertown Cemetery Scotland, CT in the Spring. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/29/2026

Patricia A. Stoddard, 67, of Hampton wife of Robert A. Stoddard Sr. passed away Wednesday January 28, 2026 at Backus Hospital.

Born on October 31, 1958 in Norwalk, CT she was the daughter of the late Bruce and Ida (Murphy) Scott Sr.

Services are private. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/28/2026

Richard J. Riquier, 83, of Willimantic devoted husband of Janet A. (Messier) Riquier passed away Friday January 23, 2026. He was the son of the late Wilfred and Aldea (Garceau) Riquier.

Born on February 2, 1942 in Willimantic, CT he was a devout Catholic and lifelong communicant of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Willimantic. He attended St Mary’s Parochial School and Windham High School both in Willimantic, before partnering with his brother in the family business; R.J. Riquier, Inc. Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning. Prior to his retirement, Richard served as President, having played a key role in the business for more than 50 years.

Richard loved to travel, even if it just meant hopping in the car with Janet for a drive to take in the scenery. In his younger years, he and Janet would frequently take their children on driving trips to Canada and camping in the Catskills. In his retirement years, Richard and Janet joined many pilgrimages with Bishop Michael Cote and Monsignor Brown, Chancellor of the Diocese of Norwich, visiting Italy including the Vatican in Rome; France including Paris and Lourdes; Ireland, Portugal, and Israel.

Besides his wife of 61 years, Janet, he is survived by four children Laurie Stilwell of Lebanon, CT; Allen Riquier of Chaplin, CT; Jane (Michael) Roberts of Willimantic, CT and Carol (William) Ashburn of Concord, NC. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his brothers Raymond Riquier, Henry Riquier, George Riquier, and his sisters Irene Williams and Alice Riquier.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Catholic Church 46 Valley St. in Willimantic, CT on Wednesday, February 4th at 10am. Interment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 134 Club Road, Willimantic, CT.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Church Repair Fund, 80 Maple Avenue Willimantic, CT 06226.

01/26/2026

The family of Paul Leo Pellerin of Wethersfield wish to announce his peaceful passing on January 20, 2026, four months shy of his 100th birthday.

Born in Moncton, NB Canada on May 9, 1926, he was the youngest born of the late Joseph Sylvain Pellerin and the late Alexina (Melanson) Pellerin. Paul emigrated to Hartford in 1947, working in the offices of Underwood Typewriter, Aetna Insurance and Acme Auto Parts. He never forgot his home country and returned to the Maritimes most summers to visit family in NB & NS. Paul was the last surviving member of his immediate family. He was pre-deceased by brothers Omer & Victor, and sisters Doris, Zella, Yvonne and Bertha. He was also pre-deceased by his long-time partner Larry Stires in 2023. Paul and Larry traveled extensively in their younger days, returning home with every souvenir and photo imaginable, along with gifts for family. They also enjoyed going to casinos and collecting stamps, coins, movies, record albums and books.

Paul is survived by nephew Dana Pellerin (and wife Patty) of Moncton NB Canada, who were responsible for Paul’s care in the last few years, and many other nieces and nephews scattered across the Maritimes, the rest of Canada and the US.

Special thank-you to Paul’s caregiving team, in particular Zejna and her daughters Jasna and Emina. He was truly blessed to have them in his life.

The body has been cremated and is in the care of BACON FUNERAL HOME, 71 Prospect St, Willimantic CT 06226. The remains will be returned to Canada for a family memorial. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/20/2026

Dorothy D. Griffin, 79, of Willimantic, passed away Friday January 16, 2026 after a brief illness. She was the wife of the late John W. Griffin, the daughter of the late Russell and Gladys (Lemire) Durkee, and the beloved sister of the late Nancy Shea.

Dorothy was born on August 15, 1946 in Willimantic, CT where she remained her entire life. She was employed by the University of Connecticut as a secretary at the School of Business before retiring to be a full time grandmother in 2001. Her favorite things to do were: talking every day with her sister Nancy; going to the casino and Friday night bingo at St. Joseph's; attending Saturday mass followed by dinner with friends; watching UConn Huskies basketball; and most of all, being a devoted Grammie to her four grandchildren.

She is survived by her sons Jeffrey Griffin and Tyler Griffin; Jeff's wife Kat and two daughters Rachel and Madison; Tyler's two daughters Zoe and Fiona, their mother Kerin, and his partner Katelyn and her daughter Natalie. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Francis Shea and several nieces and nephews.

She will be deeply missed by her family, her friends, and the community she and her late husband were a part of for their entire lives.

Relatives and friends may visit on Thursday Jan 29, from 5 to 7PM at Bacon Funeral Home 71 Prospect St, Willimantic. A Mass will be celebrated on Friday Jan 30, at 10 AM at St. Joseph Church 99 Jackson St, Willimantic. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Breast Cancer Foundation/Susan G. Komen (komen.org) To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/20/2026

Geraldine Ann Helmer died peacefully on January 15th, 2026. Gerre was born in Buffalo, New York on September 25th, 1928 to Geraldine Sweeney and Edward Tighe. She attended Saint Bridget’s Elementary School where she met the love of her life, Raymond Helmer, who she went on to marry in 1949. They later settled in Chaplin, Connecticut where they raised their four children, Michael, Margery, Patricia and Kathleen. Gerre and Ray became part of the Chaplin
community, with Gerre working as the secretary at Chaplin Elementary School, then later becoming the town Librarian at William Ross Public Library, and
eventually the director of the Chaplin Public Library. She also proudly served as a
town Registrar of Voters for the Democratic Party.

Gerre loved nothing more than spending time with her family, and was blessed with loving children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren who adored her. A joyful presence at every gathering and celebration, she found happiness in simple pleasures like a delicious meal, engaging conversation and a strong old- fashioned. She loved a good mystery be it on page or screen, and enjoyed She savored hot fudge sundaes, long days on the beach during yearly Cape Cod escapes, and sitting peacefully with her black and white Kit-Kat purring softly by her side. Gerre was so much fun to be around and will be deeply missed by all
who knew her.

Geraldine was predeceased by her husband Raymond and her son Michael Helmer. She is survived by her daughters Margery Jahnke (John Fratiello Jr.),
Patricia Helmer and Kathleen Hardisty; her grandchildren, Jessica Jahnke, Matthew Hardisty, Jackson Hardisty (Ali Hardisty), Kathleen Jahnke (Christopher
Domenick), Meagan Samaha (Michael Samaha); her great-grandchildren Finn Jahnke, Jameson Hardisty, Eva Hardisty-Donnelly, Jackson Samaha, Conrad and Nico Hardisty and Leo Domenick.

Services are private. In lieu of flowers, donatiobs may be made to the Covenant Soup Kitchen (covenantsoupkitchen.org) To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/19/2026

James Joseph Murphy Jr., 70, of Rocky Hill formerly of Willimantic passed away Monday January 19, 2026 at his sister’s home. He was the son of the late James Sr. and Viola (Nye) Murphy

Born on April 11, 1955 in Willimantic, CT he was a U.S. Marine veteran.

He is survived by his son Chase; sisters Kathy Murphy of Willimantic, Christine Murphy of South Carolina and Patricia Murphy of Willimantic; 2 special nieces Nicole and Jessica Murphy, 2 nephews Corey Murphy and Josh Terry; 4 greatnephews, 1 greatniece, 2 greatgreat nephews, 1 great great niece and his dearest friend Helen of the Rocky Hill Veterans Hospital.

Services are private. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/18/2026

When you call us, you’ll be connected to director and owner John A.Adamcewicz who will take care of you and your loved ones like our own. Willimantic's only family owned funeral home since 1916.