Terry A. Andrade died on July 12, 2016, in Dunedin, Fla., after a long battle with cancer. She was 59 years old.

Terry was born and raised on Martha’s Vineyard, the daughter of Martha Fay (Brennan) and Richard J. Andrade Sr. She attended the Island schools and graduated from Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. She loved going to Linda Jean’s to have her favorite cup of coffee and American chopped suey. She also liked going to Cumberland Farms to pick up her father’s papers every morning.

When her mother was alive, Terry and she would go out every Thursday night to play bingo. She also loved going out to hear live bands play and dance.

Terry’s first job was at the old Ben Franklin 5 & 10 store for a couple of years, until she took another job driving the senior citizens’ van. She finally found a job that she really wanted to do, being a TSA agent for the Martha’s Vineyard Airport, where she worked for years. She loved working with the friends she met there.

She was married to Sidney Counsel for a short period. Later, they remained friends.

She transferred her job and moved to Florida, where she met her boyfriend, Tony Depaula, and her best friend, “the Dog,” Robbie. Terry had a kind heart, she would help anybody in need, but most of all she loved her family and her dog Robbie. She also had a good friend that she trusted and loved, Antonette Cutrer, who watched over her.

Terry was predeceased by her mother Martha Fay (Brennan) Andrade, and survived by her father Richard J. Andrade Sr.; by her three sisters and three brothers, Carol Andrade of Florida, Judy Martinek of Colorado, Debbie Luce and her husband Sandy of Edgartown, Dicky Andrade and his wife Connie of Edgartown, Bobby Andrade and wife Nancy of Vineyard Haven, and Tommy Andrade and wife Elizabeth of South Dennis; also by nieces and nephews David, Sarah, and Timmy Luce, Jesse Martinek, Jocelyn and Derek Andrade, Zachary and Benjamin Andrade; and by a great-niece and -nephew, Jayden and Mason Luce.

There will be a memorial service on Saturday, Sept. 10, at 11 am at Oak Grove Cemetery in Vineyard Haven.

The post Terry A. Andrade appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

With his sly humor intact, Oliver “Ollie” Ernest Coffin, previously of Edgartown, left his post at the Six Lakes golf course in Florida on Friday, July 23, 2016. He was 85.

Ollie was born in Orleans to Hetty Roxane and Ralph Alaric Coffin on October 1, 1930, and was immediately recognized as their favorite child.

Ollie played shortstop, centerfield, and occasional relief pitcher for the Orleans Cardinals of the Cape League, and while Terry Malloy once said he “could’a been a contender,” Ollie chose instead to serve his country in Korea. His field promotion to Sergeant 1st Class when the 1st Cavalry 5th Regiment landed in Pyongyang has been celebrated with a sigh of relief from his subsequent offspring.

Ollie was a manager at Com Electric on Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod, where he maintained the storytelling traditions of his mother, successfully distracting customers from electricity. He was an inveterate family man, always announcing his arrival home immediately after work with a whistle appreciated by all couples getting married on a two-seated bicycle within a quarter-mile radius.

Clamming was a passion for Ollie. His love of Cape Cod shellfish was apparent in the size of his knuckles when he carried in the handful of quahogs that survived his shucking of the entire bushel. He possessed the ideal blend of “skill and luck” for the social game of cribbage, at which he excelled, possibly by always claiming he was losing. Hearts, pinochle, bid whist, or bridge brought the same bluff, maintained paradoxically through his many victories. He “never won” quite a bit of money at bingo, and he golfed vicariously right up to the end, sitting on his patio rating others on a scale of 1 to 10 at Six Lakes Park (nobody ever got a 10).

Ollie waited 74 years for the Red Sox to win the pennant. His surviving family will be filing suit with the Red Sox for the 2004 and subsequent victories, without which Ollie could not have moved on with a life fulfilled.

Ollie stepped out with just months to spare before his 50th wedding anniversary with surviving wife, life partner, and “straight man” of the Edgartown Dube clan, Joan Dube Coffin. He is also survived by nearly his entire brood, seeding all corners of the United States, including Cindy Carlton of Maryland, Rebecca Locklear and husband Chip of Oregon, Barry Coffin of Florida, Joel Coffin and wife Mary of Massachusetts, Veronica Clark and husband Dave of Texas, and Phillip Coffin and wife Lara of California; as well as 10 grandchildren. He is predeceased by his infant son David Tristram and his son-in-law Dale Carlton.

Services for Ollie will be held at the First Christian Church in North Fort Myers, Fla., on Saturday, August 6, at 2 pm. Some of the other thousands of people Ollie has touched with his smiles, jokes, and stories will be welcome to celebrate his life back on Cape Cod sometime this autumn.

The post Oliver “Ollie” Ernest Coffin appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Jack Carbon, loving husband, father, and grandfather, died peacefully Friday, July 15, at the Plymouth Rehabilitation Hospital in Plymouth.

Jack grew up in Sherborn. He was the son of John and Ellinor Carbon. As a child, Jack loved camping and was an active Cub Scout.

Jack met his future wife Ginny in high school when she moved to Sherborn with her foster family. She was nervous, stepping on the bus for the first day, and Jack offered her a seat next to him. They fell in love and married. Shortly after the birth of his first child, Ellie, Jack left to serve in the Vietnam War. He served one year as a Navy Seabee builder.

When Jack returned, he and Ginny lived in Ashland and had their second child, Danny. They then made the decision to move to Martha’s Vineyard. Jack built the house in Edgartown where they lived and raised their family. On the Vineyard, Jack and friend Jerry Grant started Grant & Carbon Marine. During this time, they contributed to the “Jaws” set together, and had fun building the dock that was designed to collapse in the movie. Several years later, Jack got his captain’s license and drove the Chappy Ferry. He enjoyed his years on the ferry, making many good friends from Chappy and even delivering a baby late one night. Later Jack went to work for Red Ward at Gazaille and Ward as a carpenter. He worked for Red for a number of years, as did his son-in-law Steve. Several years later, Jack and Steve went into business together doing carpentry.

Jack was a kindhearted man, always with a smile. He was a dock builder, court officer, caretaker, carpenter, volunteer fireman, and boat captain. He loved traveling, and with Ginny was able to see London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Portugal, where Danny was living as an adult. He also loved going on cruises, and he and Ginny enjoyed making new friends as they sailed the seas. Jack loved Maine and New Hampshire, and they would often travel there in the fall with Danny and Ellie when they were younger. He enjoyed fishing and photography. He loved the Patriots and the Celtics. But mostly he enjoyed his family. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he loved watching them in their activities, playing computer games with them, or swimming in the pool. Papa Jack’s calm personality had a way of getting any restless baby to sleep or overtired toddler to curl up in his lap.

Jack leaves behind his wife and best friend of 50 years, Ginny; son Danny, daughter-in-law Shannon, their children Jack and Bess; daughter Ellie, son-in-law Steven, and their children Kristen and Sarah. He also leaves behind his sister Jean and her family, his brothers Tony and Jay and their families, as well as many other loving family members.

A private service will be held at a later date. Contributions in his name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

The post Jack Carbon appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Michael Christopher Moreau of West Hartford, beloved husband of Marci (DeMeo) Moreau, died peacefully at home on July 16, 2016, with his entire family by his side. He was 58.

Michael was born in Hartford, Conn., on Dec. 10, 1957, and was predeceased by his parents, Aurelien and Annette (Soucy) Moreau. Michael was a graduate of East Catholic High School and Northeastern University. He was a well-known and acclaimed restaurateur and businessman, spending his entire life working in the hospitality industry, beginning his career as a bartender at Jai Alai in Hartford, and operating numerous restaurants including Coach’s Sports Bar and Grille, Azul, and Simmer and Sauce. Michael served as vice president, treasurer and board member of the Connecticut Restaurant Association, and was a member of Les Amis d’Escoffier Society.

His mantra in life embraced “enlightened hospitality,” and he truly believed it is all about how you make people feel. Michael served as a mentor to many, and was always willing to give someone an opportunity in the restaurant business. He often spent many hours helping others get their business ventures off the ground. Blessed with charisma, Michael was a friend to all who were fortunate enough to meet him.

Michael’s real success and true happiness came later in life when he married his wife, Marci, and acquired three stepdaughters, and soon after, the love of his life, his daughter Grace, was born. From a single man to living with a house full of women, which would later include his son-in-law Rob, he built a loving family that supported him through his challenges with breast cancer. Originally diagnosed in 2004, Michael chose life and love, and for the past 11 years he showed us the true meaning of a hero.

He found comfort with his family and his special group of Vineyard friends on the Island. He often said a glass of wine with Mimi and Sir (née Pat and Kerry Alley) on their deck, a day at State Beach, and a rum punch (or two) at Donovan’s was some of the best medicine available. His passion for food, wine, and family resulted in some of the most joyous holidays, milestone celebrations, and family dinners.

You were fortunate to break bread and raise a glass with Michael. Every meal shared with his family and friends was “delicious” to Michael, and our dinner table will never be the same!

The post Michael Moreau appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Jack Samuel Koontz Jr. died at his home in Bourne on Saturday, July 16, after a long and determined battle with throat cancer. It was the second time in six years that he was laid low by this horrible disease. He was 70.

Born on May 13, 1946, in Washington, D.C., Jack was the son of Jack S. and Kathryne E. Koontz. He grew up in Edgewater, Md., just south of Annapolis. He graduated from Annapolis High School and attended the University of Maryland, an experience he preferred not to remember. After working as a lifeguard in Beverly Beach near his grandfather’s house, he became a tobacconist and arborist in Annapolis. He moved to Martha’s Vineyard in 1970, part of an influx of young people who had low-impact intentions, although they were viewed by many Islanders as a high-security threat. Some moved on after a winter or two here, while others, like Jack, wove themselves into the fabric of Island life. In a very used Ford Econoline van with everything he owned in the back, Jack chugged onto the Island with Silas, a collie mix as mellow as his master. Indivisible as two peas in a pod, friends half expected to see them sharing a smoke on Jack’s ubiquitous pipe.

Living in a one-room shack in the woods near the Tisbury–West Tisbury line, he found work as the Friendly Woodsman, felling, splitting, and delivering cordwood. Later he worked for Everett Poole, first driving a truck and then running the Chilmark Chandlery, which he built up into a full-service tackle shop.

After work, he played the guitar and trumpet, and loved to sing, whether alone or with friends. He entertained some friends with a broad repertoire of folk songs, from “Gilgarra Mountain” to “Darcy Farrow” to “The Banks of the Ohio”; with others he might share a Broadway show tune from “My Fair Lady,” “Camelot,” or “Guys and Dolls,” mimicking Rex Harrison or Richard Burton as he did so.

His passion for fishing flowered in the mid-1970s, first with surfcasting in the evening at the west end of Dogfish Bar, and later aboard Mooncusser, a 22-foot Aquasport that he ran as a charter boat out of Menemsha. Then came an outboard-powered Sisu, a Tripp Angler 22 inboard, and ultimately Julia, a black 25-foot Surfhunter I/O owned by Lillian Hellman, one of many prominent clients he consistently put on fish between Tashmoo and Squibnocket, Nomans and Cuttyhunk. He introduced many of them to the excitement of using light tackle instead of heavy trolling gear.

For several winters, he chartered out of South Seas Plantation, where Chilmarker Doug Fischer was head guide, on Captiva Island in Florida. In the early ’80s, he started Derby Jack’s Tackle Shop in the house next to Up-Island Auto on State Road in West Tisbury. (His friend Geoff Muldaur coined the name Derby Jack when Jack won the bluefish division of the Bass Derby.) As at the Chandlery in earlier years, the shop became a hangout for many up-Island fishermen, where tall tales of all sorts were the norm. For nearly a decade he wrote the weekly fishing column in the Vineyard Gazette, building a large following.

He was a terrific storyteller, relying on an encyclopedic memory for detail and emphatic gesticulations for color. He never had children, but he enjoyed those of his friends, reading to them, teaching them to fish, or just sharing his special take on the world with them.

When he wasn’t cutting wood or catching fish, he was a natty, though casual, dresser, always on the lookout for the perfect garment. With his head slightly cocked, due to a weak left eye, and his pipe in hand, he had a distinctive look, perhaps influenced by his affinity for Southern living. He liked looking good, and he was good at it.

Offseason during the mid-1980s, he worked for Salt Water Sportsman magazine, selling subscriptions at boat shows. Then in 1987 he was hired by Chilmarker Spider Andresen, co-owner and publisher of Salt Water Sportsman, to sell advertising in the mid-Atlantic region. He took to the work, and it to him, quickly and naturally, and soon he was sales representative for the East Coast. Coupled with his experience as a fisherman, his sincerity and diligence impressed both colleagues and clients. He enjoyed being part of a team, and he found the work fun and fulfilling. More significantly, in the long run, he met Jaye McAuliffe, who also worked at the magazine. The two married in 1998, the beginning of the happiest period of his life. They settled in Wrightsville Beach, N.C., a state near and dear to his heart, before moving to Bourne 10 years ago.

In addition to Jaye, he leaves his sister, Beth Cauffman of Sanford, Fla., her significant other Andrew, and her children, Shane and Casey Beth.

Also of importance to Jack since marrying Jaye were her family, which included her sister Carol Avery and her children, Daniel, Timothy, and Lis Pepin, as well as sister Nancy Sullivan, her husband Mike, and their children, Ryan and Neil.

To a host of friends up and down the East Coast and others farther afield, life won’t be the same without Jack Koontz, a true one-off.

A memorial service for Jack will be held at 11 am on Thursday, August 25, at the West Falmouth United Methodist Church, 636 W. Falmouth Highway (Rte. 28A), West Falmouth, with a gathering to follow in Bourne.

Contributions in Jack’s name may be made to the Betty Ann Lima Bryant Scholarship Fund, c/o Permanent Endowment Fund of Martha’s Vineyard, P.O. Box 1182, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557, or to the American Cancer Society.

The post Jack Koontz appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Vernon M. Jernegan died unexpectedly on Sunday, July 10, surrounded by his family. He was 81.

Born on Dec. 1, 1934, to LeMont and Ella Martin Jernegan, Vern was a lifelong resident of Edgartown. He certainly was one the most wonderful, generous people you could ever meet.

On June 16, 1957, he married Marilyn (Viera) of Tisbury. Together they raised two beautiful children, Vera-Jean Clements (husband Albert III) and Clifford (wife Deborah). Together they built their Vineyard home and lived happily. Whether it was a drive up Route 1 in Maine, through the mountains of New Hampshire, or vacationing in Naples, Fla., Vern and Marilyn appreciated the beauty of the East Coast. He always had his trips mapped out, and knew the best hotels and places of interest. He liked calculating the gas mileage on the various Ford pickup trucks he owned throughout his life. Unfortunately, Marilyn lost her battle with cancer in 2000.

Vern enlisted with the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1955. His 50-plus years at K.T. Galley Co. are what he was best known for. There is a very strong mutual respect between the two families. At a young age, he followed his father and uncle Del into the construction trade, which he would come to master. His craftsmanship graced many Vineyard homes that he was proud of, and he enjoyed meeting many families along the way.

Vern was an avid New England sports fan. He especially followed the Boston Red Sox, and enjoyed the magical Bird-era Celtics. He played baseball as a kid, a southpaw (lefthander) who played mostly at first base. It was probably around that time he earned the nickname “Jughead,” as many Islanders acquired those names back then. While spending a couple of years in Connecticut, Vern developed a taste for racing, and would take his young family to the stock car races at the now defunct Danbury Fairgrounds. He could often be found flipping channels between a good ballgame and a race on any given weekend.

Outside of work, family was important to Vern. Many weekends with family were spent at the pool in the backyard. His grandchildren, Albert IV (wife Rebecca), Erick, Summer-Anne (husband Arilson), Laura, Alexander (wife Eva), and Ella, grew up enjoying the beautifully manicured grounds. Years later when the pool got old, sprang a leak, and flooded the yard, he said, “Well, that is enough of that.” In its place went a nice garden, still providing tasty vegetables.

In the years leading to retirement, Vern and his companion Jane made many special memories together. They both welcomed their families on each side with open arms. Jane’s sons Mike and Tim (wife Joan) Creato, and grandchildren Eva, Ethan and Sarah, loved spending time with the couple.

Together they were content at Jane’s home, where again Vern kept the yard in shape and even installed a fish pond. He befriended many wild animals and birds, earning the trust of squirrels who would tap on the sliding glass for peanuts at the back door. Life was simple and good for a man of the utmost kindness and integrity. He would want us all to remain strong, remembering him through a good story and a laugh.

To all family and friends, thank you for joining us at the memorial service on July 22. There was a wonderful send off at Katama Airfield that followed. Any donations in his memory may go to Island Veterans, Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, or a charity of your choice.

The post Vernon M. Jernegan appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Lillian Rhame Meleney of Westwood and Vineyard Haven died June 24, 2016, after an extended illness. She was 94.

Lillian, or Lil as she was known to her friends, was born and grew up in Columbia, S.C., to Sellis and Lillian Rhame on Feb. 12, 1922. Sellis Rhame owned and operated the Lower Main Street Savings Bank in Columbia, and was noted for his quiet contributions to charity and irrepressible charm.

Lil attended the University of South Carolina, but due to the war, transferred to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where she earned a certificate in aeronautical engineering. After graduation, Lil worked on propeller designs at Curtiss-Wright in Caldwell, N.J. While at Rensselaer, Lil met Jack Meleney, who was doing flight training in the area. They were married in January 1945, and thus began Lil’s long association with Martha’s Vineyard.

Jack was part of the Meleney family that has been summering on East Chop for over a century, and Lil soon found herself a regular visitor.

Jack went to work in New York with the law firm of Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, where he remained his entire working career. By the end of 1950 they had two sons, and were coming to Martha’s Vineyard for ever-increasing lengths of time.

In 1957 they bought their first Island house, a small cottage on Brewster Avenue on East Chop. In 1968 they moved over to Hatch Road in Vineyard Haven to be closer to their sailing activities. Jack and their two sons were active in sailing at the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club, where Jack served as commodore.

Lil and Jack were active in curling during winters in New York, and Lil was a proficient bridge player at home and on Martha’s Vineyard. After Jack’s retirement in 1981, he and Lil moved to Columbia, S.C., where Jack pursued a Ph.D. in history and Lil reunited with her South Carolina friends. In 1997, the couple moved to Westwood, to have easier access to Martha’s Vineyard and to be closer to their family.

Lil was known for her intelligence and breadth of knowledge; an avid reader, she seldom went a day without reading an entire newspaper. She could mix Southern charm with insightful observations, and was known for her frank assessments of what she saw and experienced.

She is survived by her sister, Anne Rhame Bates; two sons, Christopher Coit Meleney and John Alexander Meleney; five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

The post Lillian Meleney appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Helen Curtis Peacock died Monday, August 1, 2016, at her home in Oak Bluffs. Helen was born at home on Hillman Street in New Bedford on March 28, 1930, though she only knew the Island as home. She moved here at the age of 2, spent her childhood here, and graduated from Oak Bluffs High School in 1948.

When she was 22, she married James Peacock (U.S. Navy) on Oct. 8, 1952. Their daughter, Susette, was born two years later. Helen worked as a printer and photographer at Mosher’s in Vineyard Haven for over 20 years. She may be well remembered as a 4-H leader, VFW auxiliary member, and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

At age 86, Helen now joins her husband, but is survived by her daughter, Susie Benjamin; her son-in-law, Lee Benjamin; her granddaughter, Trinket Easter; her grandson, Michael Benjamin, married to Amanda Benjamin; and her three great-grandsons, Ryan Easter, Bret Easter, and Haven Benjamin.

Her family is hosting a small open house on Saturday, August 6, 2016, at Helen’s home at 99 New York Avenue, Oak Bluffs, from 1 to 4 pm to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, her family encourages donations to Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard, P.O. Box 2549, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557. Visit ccgfuneralhome.com for online guest book and information.

The post Helen Curtis Peacock appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Frank Wangler, a longtime resident and beloved character of Martha’s Vineyard, died on Saturday, June 18, at Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis of a heart condition. He was 72.

Frank started his building career on the Vineyard when he remodeled the former Papa John’s restaurant on Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs. He then went on to frame many homes on the Vineyard, including the home of Jackie Onassis; he was even mentioned in the book “A Woman Called Jackie” (page 600).

Just an old country boy from Maine, he was very proud to have met so many influential people.

Frank was born in Virginia near a Navy base. A former Marine, he served his country honorably, and was a friend to many and a dedicated father. Frank always wanted people to laugh at the hard times and celebrate the good. Frank loved his motorcycle, and though he moved away, he always considered Martha’s Vineyard his home.

Frank is survived by his son Carl Wangler of Mashpee and daughter Kelly Feldthouse of Sandemose, Calif. A memorial service is planned for late August.

Donations in his memory may be sent to 241 Greatpines Drive, Mashpee, MA 02649.

The post Frank Wangler appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Alison Beth Reynolds died unexpectedly on July 27 at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital of natural causes due to a long-term medical condition — It was the hospital where she was born on August 5, 1972. She was 43.

Alison attended school at Ponciana Elementary School in Key West, Fla., and schools in Orlando, Fla. She graduated from Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School in 1990, and went on to attend Southeastern Academy of Travel and Tourism in Orlando.

Alison was a hard-working, vivacious, fun-loving young lady who always wore a smile. Her work ethic was one of her most outstanding qualities. For a few years she was the smile behind the deli counter at the Stop and Shop in Tisbury, and she had worked in the dietary department at the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. An excellent saleswoman, she loved selling candles and having PartyLite parties. This past spring she obtained her CDL license and was excited to be driving a school bus.

She was the daughter of Cheryl Ann Kinnecom Cullinan and her husband James Cullinan of Seminole, Fla., as well as Gary Reynolds and his wife Ellen Sutter Reynolds of Edgartown. Alison was the granddaughter of Captain Robert Kinnecom and his wife Ernestine Rose Kinnecom of Oak Bluffs, and the late William and Georgianna Reynolds of Edgartown.

She is survived by her parents and step-parents, and by her Kinnecom grandparents Bob and Ernestine. Alison is also survived by her siblings David Reynolds of Orlando, Tara Reynolds of Edgartown, and Ashley Cullinan and Amy Cullinan Lolo of Florida. In addition, she is survived by her three children, Christopher, Bianca, and Payton.

Alison is survived by her aunts Jo-Ann Kinnecom Murphy and her husband Brian of Tisbury, Roberta Kinnecom Evans of Mashpee, Barbara Kinnecom Connell of Cullowhee, N.C., and her uncle Robert E. Kinnecom Jr. and his wife Rosemary of Plymouth. She is also survived by numerous members of the Rose, Kinnecom, and Cullinan families.

Funeral services were held at Chapman, Cole and Gleason on Sunday evening, and a graveside service was conducted by the Reverend Nagle on August 1 at Sacred Heart Cemetery. A fund is being set up at Martha’s Vineyard Savings Bank, as well as a GoFundMe account online, for the benefit of her children.

The post Alison Beth Reynolds appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Isabel Schaefer Cahill, 93, of Vero Beach, Fla., and Martha’s Vineyard died peacefully at her home in Indian River Estates, Vero Beach, on August 13. She was born on Oct. 10, 1922, in Boston, the only daughter of Mary and George J. Schaefer. Her two brothers, George and Gerard, predeceased her. She also lived in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, Loudonville, N.Y., and New Canaan, Conn.

She was a graduate of the Ursuline School in New Rochelle, N.Y., and Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY.

Known for her devotion to husband and family, she took a leadership role in her community, children’s schools and sporting activities. She loved playing golf at Waccabuc Country Club in Waccabuc, N.Y., was a charter member of Farm Neck Golf Club in Oak Bluffs, and was an active member of Bent Pine Golf Club, Vero Beach, Fla.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, John J. Cahill, her high school sweetheart and the love of her life. She is survived by five children, Susan Gebhardt of Seattle, Wash., Geraldine Ordway (Christopher) of Houston, Texas, Julia Cahill of New York, N.Y., John Cahill of Vineyard Haven, and Elizabeth Cahill Ruksznis (David) of New Canaan, Conn. Also surviving are eight adoring grandchildren, Ursula Gebhardt Mann, Leo Gebhardt, Christopher Ordway, Katharine Ordway Reishman, Stephen Ordway, John Ordway, Isabel Ruksznis, and Grace Ruksznis, and 10 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service was held on Thursday, August 18, at Indian River Estates in Vero Beach.

In lieu of flowers, please direct gifts to the Farm Neck Foundation, P.O. Box 1656, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557. An online guestbook is available at lowtherfuneralhome.com.

The post Isabel Schaefer Cahill appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Colonel Herbert David Maddox, a man of many talents who excelled in three careers that included decorated service in the U.S. Air Force, as a celebrated engineer with Bell Laboratories, and as a lifelong concert trombonist and union member of Hollywood Local 47, and a life member of AFM Local 16-248 serving New York City, died on August 10, 2016. He was 88.

Herbert was born on August 28, 1918, in Brush, Colo. to Nellie and Chet Maddox. He was the eldest of three children, growing up with his sisters Dorothy DeJong and Shirley Harness in Englewood, just outside of Denver. The Maddox family were among the founders of the town of Englewood and the owners of Maddox Ice Co.

Herbert began playing trombone at the age of 7 in the Highlanders Youth Band in Englewood. By the age of 13 he was traveling to Los Angeles, visiting his beloved aunt Olive, to perform in concerts, and shortly thereafter became a member of Hollywood Local 47. He graduated in 1936 from Englewood High School, a member of the Senior Band (winners of the Award of Excellence at the Denver Music Week of that year).

He attended University of Denver for electrical engineering, paying his way through college by performing with bands, seven nights a week at times. Many of these performances were held regularly at Elitch Gardens in Denver and the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, among others. During this time he sat in with the Dorsey Brothers and Duke Ellington. He graduated from DU in 1940 with a degree in his field and pursued advanced engineering courses at MIT, Harvard, and Cleveland Institute of Radio Electronics.

Herbert was a slight man and underweight when he volunteered for military service in 1942. His recruiter for the Army Signal Corps suggested he spend a week eating only bananas and drinking beer to gain the pounds he needed. Herbert promptly spent the week in Golden, Colo., at the Coors Brewery. Not surprisingly, the only beer he drank for the rest of his life was Coors Banquet Beer.

After training in Monmouth, N.J., he was dispatched to Bury, England, to serve with the RAF. He was a member of the Electronic Training Group responsible for developing the Coastal Radar Defense System in collaboration with Sir Watson Watt, for which he received the European/African/Middle Eastern Service Medal. After a brief return to the U.S. on leave, several members of the ETG volunteered to go back to England, but they were rerouted to New Guinea. In the Pacific Theater he received the American Defense Service Medal with one Bronze Star, American Service Medal Asiatic Pacific Service, and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon for his defense of Clark Field. His trombone traveled with him throughout his service in these theaters, and he was a regular performer in the USO with Bob Hope.

He was on leave in August of 1943 to attend a staff communications school for two weeks in Orlando, Fla. During this time he met his wife Eloise Stephens, the atomic bomb was dropped, and the war ended. He and Eloise were married in Englewood on Oct. 21, 1945. Two weeks later he began work at Bell Laboratories in New York City.

In this position he worked on the Nike/Zeus, Sentinel, and Safeguard projects, which brought Herb and his family to Winston-Salem, Los Angeles, Kwajalein Island, and White Sands. He served a portion of this time as the supervisor for the flight-testing program for Douglas Aircraft. During this period, Herbert played trombone with the Winston-Salem Symphony, the Jimmy Meyers Orchestra, the Harry Snell Trio, Ice Capades, Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus, National Rodeo Association, and many other concerts through Hollywood Local 47. He was an active reservist, and retired as colonel in 1972 with 30 years of service to the Air Force.

The family moved to Mountain Lakes, N.J. in 1965, where Herb continued to work for Bell Laboratories in Whippany. He dedicated his time outside of work to regular performances with a variety of acts, including Bob Hope, Judy Garland, Arthur Godfrey, the Captain Kangaroo Show, American Steel and Weldry Band, the Fairleigh Dickinson University Symphonic Band, and the Silver Starlight Orchestra at venues such as Radio City Music Hall, Carnegie Hall, and the Bickford Theater. He also volunteered as a coach for local softball leagues in both Mountain Lakes and Boonton. He was an ardent supporter of local athletics, and actively supported his son and grandsons in their athletic endeavors in baseball, hockey, football, and luge.

He was predeceased by Eloise in June 2009. He is survived by his children Sandra Maddox, David Maddox and his partner Cindy Curran of Vineyard Haven, his grandson James Dolan and his partner Penny Allen, his grandson Lawrence Dolan and his wife Leslie Cosgrove, and his great-grandson Gabriel Dolan. The family wishes to thank CVPH R-6 and Plattsburgh Rehab and Nursing Center for their excellent service and care of Herbert during his last weeks. Donations in Herbert’s name may be made to the Honor Flight Network at honorflight.org.

Services are scheduled for Tuesday, August 23, at R.W. Walker Funeral Home in Plattsburgh from 5 to 7pm. Prayers and words of remembrance will be delivered by Father Timothy Canaan and family members at 6:30 pm. Interment will take place at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

Arrangements have been trusted to the care of the R.W. Walker Funeral Home, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh, NY. To share a photo, story, or online condolence, please visit rwwalkerfh.com.

The post Colonel Herbert David Maddox appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Nancy Winterbottom of Brookline and Vineyard Haven died in her sleep on August 17, 2016, at Windemere Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Oak Bluffs. She was 81.

Nancy was born on Dec. 23, 1934, to Lawrence and Hazel Winterbottom. After graduating from Tisbury High School in 1952, she attended UMass Amherst for two years, transferred to the New England Baptist Hospital School of Nursing, and then continued her education by earning a bachelor of science degree from Emmanuel College. She spent her nursing career at the New England Baptist Hospital, and for most of her life traveled the U.S. and abroad pursuing her interests in birding, hiking, skiing, and classical music.

Nancy was an active member of the United Parish in Brookline and a Red Sox season ticket holder for over 40 years. She was a member of the Bosox Club, Brookline Bird Club, Appalachian Mountain Club, Audubon Society, and Brookline Symphony Orchestra, and was a friend of the Mount Auburn Cemetery. She spent many years volunteering at Boston Symphony Hall and for the town of Brookline.

Nancy will be missed by her only sibling, Judy Hathaway of Edgartown; her nieces Karen Ames (Mark) of Sandwich, Molly Hargy, and Wendy Hathaway, both of Edgartown; and her two great-nieces, April Hargy of Allentown, Pa., and Samantha Hargy of Edgartown; as well as many dear friends.

A graveside burial service will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10, at 2 pm in the Oak Grove Cemetery, State Road, Vineyard Haven, officiated by the Rev. Dr. Roger Spinney.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Jimmy Fund, 44 Binney St., Boston, MA 02115; Alzheimer’s Research, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601; or Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard, P.O. Box 1748, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.

Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown Road, Oak Bluffs. Visit ccgfuneralhome.com for online guest book and information.

The post Nancy Winterbottom appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Deborah Montambault of Edgartown, whose life was characterized by the guiding principles of truth, humor, compassion, knowledge, and love, died on August 7, 2016. She was 55.

Debbi would not want her life summarized by dates, certifications, and accomplishments. She was born in 1961 and shaped by the culture and sensibilities of that time, but strongly independent and with an intuitive sense of fairness, she danced to her own music. She studied and worked hard to become highly qualified in her chosen profession, and earned the respect of her peers and clients alike.

She cared not if her furniture matched; if the car she drove was new; or if she wore what designers claimed to be the latest fashion. The accumulation of status markers did not bring her the type of joy that pleased her. What she found important weren’t things, but relationship and experiences — the intangibles.

An avid reader and information seeker, she believed anything could be learned, overcome and improved upon if thoroughly investigated and thoughtfully reflected upon, and enough earnest self-discipline was applied. She often set lofty goals and a blistering pace for herself. Her written expressions were often beautiful, sometimes pointed, but always deeply understanding and fully understood by the recipients.

Debbi stood on the guiding principle that the truth, no matter how unsatisfactory, was always preferable to misinformation, half-truths, and lies. At least with the truth, warts and all, the situation could be reconciled and improved. The concept is simple — tell the truth, admit when you are wrong, say you’re sorry and strive for the best version of yourself. She was passionate about most everything, but mentally flexible enough to change her opinion if thoughtfully persuaded with intelligent insight. Unafraid of confrontation, her intent wasn’t to prove she was right, but rather to facilitate a meeting of the minds and a mutually satisfactory resolution.

Raising children was an endeavor she took purposefully, and did so with her characteristic quest for knowledge, keen observation, and copious amounts of caring and love. Few things pleased her more than the laughter of our children. More than a few times the acknowledgement that our children taught her more than she could ever teach them passed her lips. Kahlil Gibran’s poem “On Children” strikes well the chord of her child-rearing intentions.

A teacher at heart, although not by profession, her gift was displayed in her ability to deeply empathize, listen intently, and provide a thoughtful mirror for reflection. Her insight into the tools someone might need to move forward or accomplish his or her goals was not only a gift to the recipient but a testimony to her compassion. One of her favorite paintings is Van Gogh’s “Cafe Terrace at Night.” Its bright orange awning lighting the cafe tables invites us to come and sit down. I believe it’s not the beauty or the location of the cafe she was drawn to, but instead the prospect of sitting there with someone, sharing ideas, laughing, and making a little more sense of this life experience we share.

Her sense of humor was unique, contagious, and an integral part of her being. The humorous way she strung words together was a small treasure. Enthusiasm and unbridled joy often manifested itself with laughter that burst forth with a clarity that came from her core. Debbi lived out loud: What you saw is what you got.

Gratitude and humility in the face of adversity was part of her origin. Self-pity and despair held no place in her heart. Intention and determination are the allies she chose as life’s trail markers, often overcoming huge obstacles. An inspiration to family, friends, and caregivers alike, she truly felt cared for and loved, and true to her indefatigable spirit, reflected that back twofold. Never wanting to be defined by health challenges, and fully believing that the journey would be temporary, she looked forward to the day when she could reach out and help another navigate similar trials.

“Will we forget you?” The answer is, “Shall we forget to breathe?” We will find you in the sound of small stones gently rattling in the backwash of a wave, in the sound of the wind moving through the trees, in the laughter of children, in the silver sparkle of sunlight dancing on water, in a cloud moving through a brightly lit moon, in the sound of rain on canvas, colorful beads, wildflowers, in a piece of found sea glass …

Surrounded by and in the presence of Love, with the sun shining and a swallowtail butterfly outside her window, Debbi — mother, spouse, daughter, sister, and friend made her transition at 3:15 in the afternoon.

In Debbi’s memory: Listen mindfully if someone you love is challenging your high opinion of yourself (few others will care enough to bother); do your job; don’t be a pill; thank someone for even the smallest gesture of kindness; make a list and set some goals; find the silver lining in your dark clouds.

If you wish, donations can be made to one of her supported charities, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38015. A private memorial service is planned.

Dave, Kayla, Brian, and Kevin can be reached at P.O. Box 2477, Edgartown, MA 02539.

The post Deborah Montambault appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Linda J. Scott died peacefully of metastatic colon cancer on August 22, 2016, surrounded by family and friends. She was 61.

Linda approached her diagnosis with the same grace and tenacious optimism as she approached life. Known for her smile and caring nature, she will be deeply missed by her husband, children, and family. Never one to accept the status quo, Linda did things her way right till the end, changing the rules and doing so with a sly grin the entire way.

Linda was born on Feb. 19, 1955, to Ernest Garvin and Lillian (Gonsalves) Garvin in Oak Bluffs. She was raised during some of the most influential years of the civil rights movement, an experience she compiled into a book based on her memories, journal entries, and her family’s long history on Martha’s Vineyard. Her family will continue the work she started to complete the project.

She developed an early love of writing and photography, both of which remained important to her throughout her life. Linda graduated from the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School and remained on the Island for many years, working as a home aide and private nurse, as well as running her own childcare service. During this time, she also developed a deep and lasting love for the Lord, and became very involved with the Apostolic House of Prayer, forming a religious foundation that remained with her throughout her life.

On Oct. 19, 1986, she met her husband, Francis Scott, at the House of Prayer. It was a Sunday-night service and they recognized each other from high school. They were married on June 18, 1988, settling down in Vineyard Haven, where they raised three children.

Never someone to settle for conventions, Linda chose to homeschool all three of her children, a choice she made to better ensure they had the foundational grounding and education she wanted for them. Always a bit of a rebel, she and Francis decided to move the family to Texas and use the cross-country road trip as a learning opportunity, an experience that none of them would forget. They lived for two years in Waco and Austin, Texas, before returning to Martha’s Vineyard. During these years she returned to nursing off and on, and became more involved as an advocate for education on Martha’s Vineyard and youth in Aquinnah.

She was a devoted wife and mother who took great pride in the time she spent with her husband and children and her role as their primary educator. Linda will be remembered for her contagious smile, vibrant and upbeat personality, and quick wit. Linda’s family and friends all feel blessed and humbled to have known such a selfless and kindhearted woman.

She is survived by her husband, Francis Scott; her children Matthew Scott, Naomi Scott, and Samuel Scott; her siblings Pastor Marcia (Garvin) Buckley of Oak Bluffs, Yvonne (Garvin) Michelson and husband Richard Michelson of Oak Bluffs, Ernest Garvin and wife Denise Garvin of Idaho, and Stephen Garvin and wife Trudy Garvin of Oak Bluffs; as well as her nieces and nephews Christy Vanderhoop, Nya Clark, Joshua and Isaiah Garvin, Rebekah Sellers, Sarah Barbieri, Richard and Stephen Duarte, and Stephen, Cera and Serel Garvin.

A graveside service will be held at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Oak Bluffs, at 2 pm on Friday, August 26.

The family wishes to thank everyone for the flowers, cards, donations, and condolences. They would especially like to thank the nurses and staff at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (especially floor 5B) and the staff and volunteers from the Vineyard Nursing Association and Martha’s Vineyard Hospice for their exceptional care, support, and compassion over the past year.

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested in Linda’s honor either to the Linda J. Scott Memorial Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 2512, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568, or to the House of Prayer, P.O. Box 907, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557.

The post Linda Janet Scott appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Eileen Sullivan Mayhew died on May 21, 2016, after celebrating her 101st birthday with her family and friends at Long Hill in Edgartown.

Born in Melrose on May 11, 1915, Eileen was the seventh of the 10 children of Margaret (Sidley) and John Sullivan of County Cork, Ireland. She attended St. Mary’s Parochial School in Melrose and then Cheverus High School in Malden. She graduated from Emmanuel College in Boston with the class of 1937, having majored in biology and chemistry. After graduating, she studied at Massachusetts Memorial Hospital to become an X-ray technician.

Eileen came to Martha’s Vineyard in 1938 to work as the first X-ray and laboratory technician at the Vineyard hospital. She married Benjamin C. Mayhew Jr. on Jan. 18, 1941. A fisherman’s wife, Eileen was instrumental in getting the town of Chilmark to approve women scalloping in Menemsha and Quitsa Ponds. She served briefly as the Chilmark Postmistress, and was involved with the Chilmark Community Center and the Town Affairs Council. Eileen was a strong supporter of her husband’s political involvement in the community as selectman of Chilmark and as the representative of Dukes County in the Massachusetts State House. She was a loving, dedicated mother to their five children.

Eileen was predeceased by her husband in September 1969 and her daughter Eileen Mayhew May in January 1999. She is survived by her three sons, Benjamin Mayhew III (known as “Skip”) of Edgartown and his wife Cristina; Gregory Mayhew of West Tisbury and his wife Lois; Jonathan Mayhew of Chilmark and his wife Anne; and one daughter, Margaret Pénicaud of Chilmark and her husband Dominique. She had 27 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 am, Saturday, Sept. 10, at St. Augustine Church in Vineyard Haven, followed by a celebration of her life at the Chilmark Community Center (about 11:30). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Good Shepherd Parish, P.O. Box 1058, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568, or to the Supportive Day Care Program of the Martha’s Vineyard Center for Living, P.O. Box 1729, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.

The post Eileen Sullivan Mayhew appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Clinton Peterson Griesser of Edgartown died unexpectedly while swimming at Edgartown Great Pond. He was 32.

Clinton enjoyed life to its fullest. His first loves were his family and friends, who were very important to him, especially his nephew Miles.
Clint loved going to see the Patriots play. He also enjoyed his time at the beach, listening to country music, and going to see Jimmy Buffett. Clint loved his recent adventure to Wyoming with his friend J.T Dooley. He was employed by Contemporary Landscaping for many years.
Clint is survived by his mom and stepfather, Cindy and Tim Corner, and his sister Holly Wallace and her husband Andrew and son Miles. Clint was predeceased by his father, Peter Griesser.
“I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one,
I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the way,
of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun,
of happy memories that I leave when life is done.”
A visitation will be held on Saturday, Sept. 3, 11 am to 12 pm in the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown Road, Oak Bluffs. A funeral home service will follow at 12 pm, with the Rev. Dr. Roger Spinney officiating. Family and friends will gather following the service at the Portuguese-American Club, Vineyard Avenue, Oak Bluffs. Please bring a dish to share.

The post Clinton Peterson Griesser appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

Theodore “Ted” G. Leslie Jr. of Aquinnah died May 26, 2016, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. He was 63. At the time of his death he was surrounded by his wife of 35 years, Kristina Hook-Leslie, son Theodore Leslie, daughter Jennifer (Leslie) Lewis and her husband Eugene (Boo), Stephanie (Leslie) Russell, Samantha Eveliegh, and Jennifer Staples.

Ted was a veteran of the United States Army, having served in Korea and Vietnam. He managed American Legion Post 143 in New Cumberland, Pa., and was a member of VFW Post 9261 in Oak Bluffs. Ted loved to fish, and everyone who knew him came to enjoy his unique brand of humor.

Ted leaves 13 grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brother Mark, and leaves sistera Ruth Butler of Bensalem, Pa., and Shirley and her husband Tom Polk of Annapolis, Md.; brother Stephen and his wife Susan of Philadelphia; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Donations in Ted’s memory may be made to the Aquinnah Cultural Center. On Saturday, Sept. 17, we will gather at sunset on Lobsterville Beach, so Ted can fish forever. The gathering will be followed by a potluck at the Aquinnah Town Hall for everyone who was touched by Ted.

The post Theodore “Ted” G. Leslie Jr. appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

John S. “Shack” Kenney, D.V.M., 79, died on Saturday, August 27, 2016, with his family by his side.

His lifelong love of horses led him to his distinguished career as an equine veterinarian, having also been one of the breeders of Albatross.

John played a wicked good game of racquetball and tennis. His unabashed Southern charm, good looks, and snarky humor endeared him to many. The consummate curmudgeon, he loved to rile and be riled by anybody up for the challenge, and would kill to win a heated game of Scrabble; he was also a really sore loser.

John ventured into real estate, and truly enjoyed being a docent at Polly Hill Arboretum along with his wife, Corinne, whom he adored.

He is survived by Corinne; his children Jonathan, Jennifer, and Megan; brother Charles; sister Carolyn; grandchildren Alex, Patrick, and Lauren; great-grandchild Sydney Rose; and faithful Cairn terrier Pip. John will be sorely, sorely missed.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, donations may be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (stjude.org) and/or The Polly Hill Arboretum on Martha’s Vineyard (pollyhillarboretum.org). Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, Oak Bluffs.

The post John S. Kenney appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.

There will be a memorial service for Michael Medeiros at 3 Duarte Circle, Vineyard Haven, from 1 to 5 pm on Sunday, Sept. 4. Michael died on Feb. 9, 2016, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. He was 48. For information, call 508-627-3486.

The post Michael Medeiros memorial service appeared first on Martha's Vineyard Times.