Lillian Willey

Lillian Willey of Waterford passed away on Friday August 23, 2024, at Grafton County Nursing Home in Woodsville, NH where she had just celebrated her 95th birthday.

 Lillian was born in St. Johnsbury, VT on August 18, 1929, to the late Francis and Irene (Stuart) Nutter and grew up in Waterford where she went to school. She graduated from St. Johnsbury Academy in 1949.

 Through her love of horses, she met her late husband Bernard of Waterford. They married on January 19, 1962. The two raised many horses over their 48 years together. They enjoyed running a horse farm in Passumpsic VT, and later downsized to a few horses at their home in Waterford where their family could enjoy trail riding. Bernard predeceased Lillian in 2010.

 Her love for the outdoors could be seen in her beautiful flower and vegetable gardens at her home. She was especially proud of the variety of Lilies she had acquired over the years.

 She later took up painting to pass the long winters. She was a self-taught artist. Many people have enjoyed her work over the years which was displayed at Warner’s Gallery in Wells River. Her four Season Crosscut Saws with landscapes of the changing Vermont seasons were especially in demand.

 She is survived by her three daughters, Sandra McLure and husband Norm of Cambridge, Bonnie Gucwa and husband Dave of Meredith, Paula Gillander and husband Kevin of Waterford, and son Bernard and wife Kim of Waterford. Nine grandchildren, Marisa Monette and husband Adam, Justin McLure, Morgan McLure, Kali Martin and husband Justin, Cory Gucwa and Kate, Chad Gillander and wife Nicole, Taran Gillander and wife Katelyn, Taylor Brink and husband Billy, and Kyle Willey. Nine great-grandchildren, Olivia, Amelia, Colton, Lukas, Peyton, Grant, Wyatt, Natalie, and Parker. Brother Herbert Nutter and wife Martha, sister Shirley Belmore.

 She was predeceased by her sister Joyce Root.

  A graveside service for all will be held at Riverside Cemetery Rte 18 Waterford Vt at 1 pm on Saturday Sept. 7th. There will be a gathering following the service at Bernard and Kim’s home on Duck Pond Rd in Waterford.

 In Lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a memorial contribution to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s 2024 -Northeast Kingdom - Team Bud.

 Memories and condolences can be shared at caledonialifeservices.com. Guibord-Pearsons & Sayles Funeral Home are assisting the family with arrangements.