Dawnita Ames
Dawnita Ames, born on February 16, 1960, died peacefully on July 11, 2026.
Dawnita grew up on the family farm in Holland, and was the beloved daughter of Lyndol and Nita Ames. She attended specialized educational programs through Derby United Church and a special school in Troy, where she learned to read and write. She found great joy in drawing, coloring, and simple art, often spending hours each day expressing her creativity.
A lifelong member of East Charleston Nazarene Church, Dawnita faithfully attended Sunday school and delighted in helping distribute church bulletins. Through her church family, she formed many lifelong friendships. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she especially enjoyed gathering with the Christian Women’s Club.
Dawnita dearly loved her family, especially her grandparents, Will and Olive Gardener, who founded East Charleston Nazarene Church. She treasured the love and memories they shared together.
In her later years, Dawnita made her home at Maple Lane Nursing Home, where she became known for her radiant smile, cheerful spirit, and kind heart. She deeply appreciated the compassionate caregivers who cared for her over the years and loved each of them as though they were family.
She also had a special love for animals. Among her happiest memories were the pony her father gave her and the companionship of her beloved dogs Linus and Sudsy. One of the greatest highlights of her life was a trip to Walt Disney World in Florida with her Aunt Jackie and her brother Rod, where she was thrilled to meet Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
Dawnita was preceded in death by her parents, Lyndol and Nita Ames, and by her brothers Terry Ames and David Ames.
She is lovingly survived by her brother Rod Ames; extended family; many dear friends; and the devoted caregivers whose kindness and friendship enriched her life.
Calling hours and a celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 17, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Curtis-Britch and Bouffard Funeral Home, 37 Lake Road, Newport. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, July 18, at 10:30 a.m. at Mead Hill Cemetery. Family and friends who wish to attend are invited to gather at Derby Community Church at 10 a.m. to proceed together to the cemetery.
Dawnita’s life reflected unconditional love, simple yet steadfast faith, and a joyful spirit that brightened the lives of everyone who knew her. Her beautiful smile, gentle heart, and unwavering kindness will be remembered always and cherished by all who were blessed to know her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: United Christian Academy Scholarship Fund, 65 School Street, Newport, Vermont 05855. Online condolences are welcomed at curtis-britch.com.
James “Jim” Barrup
James “Jim” Barrup, age 75, peacefully died and left this world to be with the Lord on July 3, 2026. Born September 10, 1950, Jim lived in Brownington his entire life. Born as the sixth of seven children to Lee and Alta Barrup (White). Jim’s roots were deep in farming and agriculture. He continued to enjoy watching his beef in the pasture or deer wandering around his property until his last days, but he loved to fish more than any other outdoor activity. He was especially known for his talent at catching brook trout, and he regularly shared his harvest with his neighbors.
A Navy veteran during the Vietnam War, Jim always took the time to engage his fellow veterans in conversation whether in the community or at the VA clinic. He felt that there were many of his fellow vets who struggled more than he did. Jim was a longtime supporter of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
He frequently gave to the local youth groups and was passionate about helping children with medical issues. St. Jude’s was another cause that he strongly believed in. But Jim never forgot the local kids in the area and was well known for giving them $5 or a sleeve of candy on holidays such as Christmas or Halloween.
When he was still able to drive around the Kingdom, Jim was known to be one of many locals stopping for coffee at the Evansville Trading Post, and he would frequently spend long periods of time shooting the breeze with the regulars there. He could also frequently be found parked in the North Beach lot at Willoughby reading his paper.
Jim married Linda Hall from Island Pond in 1973, and they welcomed their only child Lee into their small family in 1974. Jim worked alongside Lee for many years including chores such as milking cows, haying fields, boiling maple syrup, and logging trees. Jim was proud of the amount of wood that he could pull with his little 35hp Kubota.
For Jim, his greatest joy in life came from his three grandchildren, and he always told everyone who would listen how proud he was of them. He will be missed by his family more than words can express.
Jim is survived by his son Lee and wife, Amy, of Brownington and his three grandchildren: Zachary, Morgan, and Sommer. Jim was also extremely thankful for the continued friendship and care that he received from his former wife, Linda.
Jim was a true Vermonter… a dying breed.
No public service will be held at Jim’s request.
If anyone would like to make a donation in his name, please support St. Jude’s or the DAV.
Diane Costanzo
Diane Costanzo, a longtime resident of Barton, died on July 3, 2026, at her home. Diane enjoyed the quiet and beauty of the Northeast Kingdom.
Born in New York on May 9, 1955, to Joan Leaman Costanzo, Diane relocated to Ridgewood, New Jersey, with her mother, in the early 1960s where she was later joined by her sister Virginia (Ginny) Adler, and brother Geoff Adler.
Diane completed her education at Ridgewood High School in 1972 and subsequently obtained a BS in physical education from Lyndon State College in 1976. As an outstanding goalie for the women’s “Hornets” field hockey team, she was renowned for her exceptional defense, particularly her remarkable performance against Castleton State during the 1974-1975 season.
Following college, Diane held various positions, including roles in teaching physical education, construction, prison security, and factories, such as the Ethan Allen furniture mill.
Diane had a tight-knit circle of friends, with Marlene being one of her closest. Marlene’s passing a few years back left a profound sorrow.
Her greatest affection was reserved for her animals, especially her dogs and cats, who brought her immense joy and solace.
Diane is survived by her half-brother Geoff Adler; her nieces Christine, Adriana, Ella, Caitlyn, and Hannah, her nephew Max; and her step-brother Rick Adler. She was also predeceased by her mother Joan Adler, stepfather Allen Adler, half-sister Virginia (Ginny) Greene, and step-brother Robert Adler.
Melba F. (Willis) Cota
Melba F. (Willis) Cota of North Troy, died peacefully at her home July 2, 2026, at the age of 93.
She was born April 22, 1933, to the late Selden and Mildred (Sargent) Willis.
On September 15, 1951, she married the love of her life, Howard Cota. Together, they shared nearly 73 years of a beautiful marriage.
Melba was a devoted stay-at-home mother who lovingly raised seven children. She enjoyed making crafts, sewing clothes, creating baby quilts, and making Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls for her children and grandchildren. She was an exceptional cook and baker, and her homemade doughnuts and jams were favorites among family and friends. Her special treats were often requested for birthdays and celebrations. She welcomed family into her home for countless holiday gatherings, no matter how large or small. If one couldn’t find her in the kitchen, they would likely find her tending her vegetable garden or working on a puzzle or word search. For many years, she also helped her husband operate the family business Cota Sanitation.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Howard Cota, of North Troy. Also, by her parents, Selden and Mildred Willis, and siblings: Milton Willis Sr., Don Willis, Roberta Sargent, Ida Willis, and Christine Willis. She was also predeceased by her beloved daughter Kathy Cota, grandson Robert Cota and great-grandchildren: Nathaniel Cota and Aaliyah Descheneau.
She is lovingly remembered by her children: Stanely Cota and his wife, Anne, of Troy. Douglas Cota and partner, Tina Willis, of Newport, Brian Cota and his wife, Terry, of Hardwick, Keith Cota of North Troy, Peggy Richardson and her husband, Keith, of Lowell, and Janet Cota of Newport. She also leaves behind many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as her sister Priscilla Platt of New Hampshire.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, at North Troy Village Cemetery. Online condolences are welcomed at curtis-britch.com.
Terry Dillon
Terry Joseph Dillon, 67, of Newport Center, died on July 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and friends after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born November 20, 1958, in Newport.
Terry was a hardworking and dedicated man whose work ethic and kindness touched many lives. He spent 47 years at Ethan Allen Furniture, where he worked in the sanding department and as an inspector. He also worked at Jay Peak for 21 years as a cook and beloved Santa Claus, bringing joy to countless children and families. Terry later worked for seven years in the sporting goods department at Walmart, where he continued his role as Santa Claus, and found what he often referred to as his “true family” among his supportive coworkers.
Throughout his life, Terry was deeply committed to his community. He served on the Orleans County Sheriff’s Department for a number of years, and was second constable for Newport Town. He volunteered as a coach and umpire for softball, baseball, and basketball and was always willing to lend a hand at fundraisers, often helping prepare meals. His love of bringing happiness to others shined through his many years portraying Santa Claus at community and workplace events.
Halloween was Terry’s favorite holiday. He enjoyed volunteering at haunted forests for schools and campgrounds, helping create lasting memories for children and families. Terry also cherished time spent camping with family and friends over the years and enjoyed many happy days at Murphy’s Hunting Camp and other gatherings with those he loved.
Terry was grateful for the many friendships he built throughout his lifetime. He especially wished to thank Roy and Rhonda Bullis, Linda and Cyril LaPlume, Gary and Adalene Lantagne, Dennis and Linda Drown, Theresa Gray and Diane Bowman and Alan Griffin for their unwavering support and friendship during his battle with cancer.
Terry loved to have a good time and had a great sense of humor.
Terry leaves behind his loving wife of 47 years, Esther Dillon; his sons: Travis Dillon and his wife, Lauren, Jason Blay and his wife, Jennifer; and his cherished grandchildren: Kaden, Ellah, and Blake Dillon, and McKenna and Tristan Blay. He is also survived by his sister Linda Choquette and her husband, Richard; his brother, Chris Dillon and fiancée, Lori Ward; sister-in-law Donna Baker; brother-in-law Roland Bergeron and wife, Pauline; and brother-in-law Henry Bergeron. Along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends too numerous to mention.
He was predeceased by his parents, Clifford and Madeline Dillon, and Henry and Fannie Bergeron; his brothers: Dennis Dillon and Clifford Dillon Jr.; and his beloved son Nicholas Blay.
Terry will be remembered for his generosity, sense of humor, dedication to family and community, and the joy he brought to others as Santa Claus. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his kindness, volunteerism, friendship, and humor.
His celebration of life will be at the North Troy Legion on Saturday, August 29, from 1 to 4 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to one of the following most gracious organizations that helped his family in their time of need: Orleans Essex Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice, HALO Foundation, Northeast Kingdom Cancer Action Network (NEKCAN), and Catch the Cure Foundation. Please visit www.awrfh.com to share your memories and condolences.
Duane Roy Gonyaw
November 6, 1932 — June 28, 2026
With great sadness, his family shares the death of Duane Roy Gonyaw, 93, of Hudson, Florida. He was born on November 6, 1932, in Albany and died in Florida (where he resided until 1979 with his family) on June 28, 2026.
Duane led a full life. He was enlisted in the United States Army from 1952-1976. As a military policeman and then working as an intelligence officer, he and his beloved wife had several duty stations, to include: Alabama; West Point, New York; Manheim and Berlin, Germany; Korea; Fort Ord, California; New York City; and finally, retirement. Once retired, Duane lived in California, where he was an investigator for Lake County Sherriff’s office. From there, they moved to Brandon, Florida, in 1979. He was employed as security guard for Tropicana, then in 1982, he entered into the federal government workforce in Tampa, working for the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) as an investigator. In 1994, he retired.
Duane was predeceased by his wife, Simmone (Liz) of 71 years on March 15, 2024; his sister Rhoda Irish; brother Michael; daughter-in-law Theresa; and his parents, Bernie and Maylo.
Duane is survived by his daughter Deborah (Gene) Avey of Aiken, South Carolina, and his son Gary of Land O’Lakes, Florida. Other survivors include his brother Bernie (Claudette) of Newport; grandsons: Philip (Avery) and children of Texas; and Jason of Nebraska; also, by great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Military honors will be held on Friday, August 7, from 11 to 11:45 a.m. at the Florida National Cemetery located at 6502 Southwest 102nd Avenue, Bushnell, Florida 33513.
Derick M. Lay
September 27, 1989 — June 14, 2026
Derick Lay, 36, died suddenly in Sarasota, Florida, on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Derick was born in Newport on September 27, 1989, to Doug and Kathy (Sinon) Lay. He grew up in Newport Center and attended North Country Union High School before going on to Castleton University, where he studied sports management. While there, he became the first “walk-on” player in Spartan football history.
He loved sports — whether he was playing or watching them, analyzing stats, or building his fantasy teams.
With a zest for life and a heart of gold, he was funny, kind and compassionate; he was always there with a smile, a hug, a laugh or a helping hand to make each day a little brighter.
He loved to travel with trips to Mexico, Ireland and the Indy 500 being a few of his favorites.
In 2014, Derick moved to Lakewood Ranch, Florida, where he found his calling in hospitality, most recently as general manager at Ed’s Tavern(s). He believed that leadership wasn’t about titles — it was about setting the standard and lifting others up along the way.
Above all else he treasured his family and friends.
Derick is survived by his parents, Doug and Kathy Lay; his brother Devin, and Devin’s wife, Sara; his aunts and uncles: Donna Willoughby, Madelyn Sinon, Maureen Russell, Theresa and Ron Lay-Sleeper, Dan and Staci Lay, David Lay (Shannon), and Phil Duchesneau; and his cousins: Ann Poginy, Heidi Willoughby, Steven Martineau, Aaron Duchesneau, Ethan, Orian, and Theron Lay-Sleeper, Morgan Russell, and Declan and Hannah Lay, along with many close friends.
He was predeceased by his grandparents, Nelson and Shirley Lay and John and Pauline Sinon; his aunt Beverly Duchesneau; and several very good friends.
His family asks for those to join in a celebration of his life on Sunday, September 27, at 1 p.m., at the Creek Hill Barn, 2527 Creek Road, Irasburg.
Elizabeth (Fedele) Lemieux
August 3, 1940 — July 2, 2026
Elizabeth (Fedele) Lemieux died peacefully on July 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, humor, and quiet strength that will be cherished by all who knew her.
Born on August 3, 1940, to Cosmo and Marie (Antetomaso) Fedele, Elizabeth (Liz) was a proud member of the Fedele family and a lifelong resident of Newport. She graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1959, forming friendships that remained dear to her throughout her life. On May 27, 1963, she married Romeo Lemieux, and together they built a life centered on family, community, and faith. Both were devoted members of St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church, where she served faithfully as a Eucharistic Minister.
Elizabeth’s ties to Newport ran deep. Alongside Romeo and her siblings, she was part-owner of the well-known Fedele’s Grocery Store. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She was a loving mother to Dana, Craig, and Deanna, and a proud “Granny” to Daren, Olivia, Brendan, and Nicole. She was also a cherished aunt to thirty-eight nieces and nephews and a loyal friend to countless others.
Elizabeth will be remembered most for her playful humor and mischievous spirit. She delighted in teasing others with a quick-witted comment, visiting with her grandchildren, enjoying maple walnut ice cream, and playing cards, Upwords, or Yahtzee. She loved singing along with the Bee Gees and sharing laughter while hanging wallpaper with her good friend Chris and sister-in-law Martha.
Elizabeth is survived by her son Dana and his wife, Maureen, of Williston; her daughter Deanna Jannace and her husband, Jim, of Rangely, Maine; her grandchildren: Brendan and Nicole Lemieux and Daren and Olivia Jannace; and many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Romeo; her infant son Craig; her parents, Cosmo and Maria Fedele; her sister Mary Chaffee (Edwin); her brothers: John (Agnes), Cosmo Jr. (Yvette), Anthony (Martha), and Frank Fedele; and her faithful German shepherd Max. As the last of her generation, she carried the Fedele legacy forward through a life marked by devotion to family, friendship, and faith.
“We are deeply comforted by the memories we shared with her. She will be profoundly missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in our hearts. We take solace in knowing she has returned home to the God she served so faithfully and to the loved ones who went before her.”
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
Calling hours will be held on Friday, July 17, from 6-8 p.m. at Curtis Britch Funeral Home, 4670 Darling Hill Road, Newport. A Mass of Christian burial and celebration of Elizabeth’s life will take place on Saturday, July 18, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Newport. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester. Online condolences are welcomed at curtis-britch.com.
Clifton Alden Reed
Clifton Alden Reed, 84, of North Wolcott, died on the morning of July 3, 2026, at Copley Hospital in Morrisville. Born in Hardwick, on January 9, 1942, to Stanley and Stella (Clark) Reed, Clifton spent the majority of his life in North Wolcott.
Growing up on the family farm, Clifton developed a strong work ethic early in life. He attended the one room schoolhouse in North Wolcott and later graduated from Craftsbury Academy. He served his country for six years in the National Guard, including training in armor at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Throughout his professional career, Clifton worked at IBM and later served as a mail carrier. Even in his retirement, he could often be found helping his family by piling firewood, working on projects on their homes, and always checking on their well-being.
Clifton’s greatest joy in life was found in spending time with his family. He was a devoted family man who went out of his way to ensure his loved ones knew they were cherished by him. In his leisure time, he enjoyed metal detecting, hunting, and going on trips with his grandchildren. He was also a dedicated NASCAR fan. He was a quiet man whose presence always spoke louder than words. His shy, sideways grin often gave away what he was thinking. He will be greatly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Stella; his grandson Eric; his sister Debra; great-grandson Joseph; his brother Clayton; and his brother-in-law Jerry.
Clifton is survived by his wife, Rhoda Reed; his sons: Dallas Reed and Dalton Reed (wife, April) of North Wolcott; and his grandchildren: Heather (husband, Ryan Eldred, their children Teagan, Ryan Jr., and Ryder) of Berkshire, Samantha Reed (partner, Daniel) of Hyde Park, and Andrew Reed of Texas; sisters Donna (husband, Clyde) Gardner and Deanna (husband, Andy) Staples; and sisters-in-law Kathy and Hilda, along with numerous beloved nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his stepchildren Dale (wife, Annie) Levesque of Colorado, Paul (wife, Laurie) Levesque of New York, Scott (wife, Jeanette) Levesque of Stowe, Andrea (husband, Randy) Davis of Johnson, along with their families.
Clifton’s family would like to especially thank his nephew Christopher Reed for all of his dedicated help in the last couple of years, and Copley Hospital’s medical-surgical staff for their incredible support and care over the last difficult weeks.
Please join the family in the celebration of Clifton’s life, on Sunday, July 26, at the Morrisville VFW from 1 to 4 p.m., and bring a memory to share.
The family would love for donations to be made in his memory to: Meals on Wheels of Lamoille County, P.O. Box 1427, Morrisville, Vermont 05661.
Online condolences are welcomed at: northernvermontfuneralservice.com.
0 shares
