Elizabeth Williams

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Elizabeth Anne Simonds Williams, 91, of Lily Pond Road in Lyndonville, VT. On Tues., Feb. 4, 2025, with her family by her side, she joined her beloved husband, Roland, whom she had mourned since his passing in 2017.

Liz was born in Rockingham, VT on July 16, 1933, to Philip and Mary (LaClair) Simonds. Following high school in Bellows Falls, she attended Lyndon Teachers College, graduating in June, 1956 with her bachelor’s degree and then taught elementary school for 35 years. In 1957 she started kindergarten in Lyndonville. Before that, students just went into first grade. She always visited each student in their home before school so they were more comfortable on day one of school.

On. Aug. 15, 1955, she married Roland Ray Williams Jr. They shared 62 years of marital bliss until Rollie passed.

Liz was an active member and deacon of the First Congregational Church in Lyndonville for over 70 years. She sang in the choir for 50 years and directed the Jr. Choir for 25 years. She attended church each week right up until weeks before her passing. She particularly enjoyed the music.

She served as director and secretary for the Lyndon Outing Club for many years in the 1960’s and 1970’s. She was treasurer for Retired Teachers Association for 20 years and was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, a women’s educators society.

Liz enjoyed dancing, picnics and horses. In her final years, her great-grandchildren were the light of her life.

Survivors include her children: Deborah Stork (David) of South Daytona, FL, W. David Williams, of Lyndonville, and Mary Beth Lombardo (Tony) of Ormand Beach, FL; 6 grandchildren: Amber, Nathan, Shane, Danica, Nykea and Dylanie; 10 great-grandchildren; 5 sister-in-laws; 2 brother-in-laws; several nieces and nephews, and cousins.

She also leaves behind several amazing friends who played Rumicube every Tuesday for years. They include: Becky Reynolds, Nancy James, Judy Sherberne and Mamie Cleveland, all retired local teachers.

She was predeceased by her husband, Roland; her parents; her sister Marilyn; and two brothers, Phil and Bill Simonds.

A celebration of her life will be held on Sat. Feb. 15th at 11am at the First Congregational Church in Lyndonville, VT. Gathering and food to follow downstairs at the church. Burial will be with family in May in Craftsbury, VT.

Donations in Liz’s memory can be made to the First Congregational Church, 52 Middle Street, Lyndonville VT 05851.

Memories and condolences can be shared online at CaledoniaLifeServices.com. Guibord-Pearsons and Sayles Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.