Charles W. Page of Falmouth, formerly of the Vineyard, died on June 25, 2018, at his home.
He is survived by his daughter, Nichole P. Shank, her husband, Buck, and their son Henry, all of Oak Bluffs, and his former wife, Sharon Page of New Bedford.
His memorial service will be held at a later date, and a complete obituary will appear at that time.
The post Charles W. Page appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
On April 23, 2018, “Sandy” John Edward Alexander, 64, died at home, surrounded by his wife and children.
He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Alexander; two sons, John Cameron Alexander and Anthony Iammarino and his wife Cassandra; three daughters, Matilda Alexander, Florence Alexander, and Alexis Iammarino and her husband Scott A. Sell; and extended Iammarino family Richard, Steven, Zeke, and Nora.
Our family welcomes you and yours to be with us to celebrate the life of Sandy with dinner and dancing, at the Martha’s Vineyard Ag Hall on Sunday, July 8, from 5 to 10 pm.
The post Celebration of life for ‘Sandy’ Alexander appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Micheline (Lauture) Correll, 56, died unexpectedly on Saturday, June 16, 2018, at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital. Her funeral service will be held at a later date, and a complete obituary will follow in another edition of this paper.
The post Micheline Correll appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Scoba F. Rhodes, 79, of East Falmouth died on Saturday, June 23, 2018, at the Falmouth Hospital after an illness. He was born in Indiana, the son of the late Scoba and Mary F. (McElroy) Rhodes. He was the former husband of Dorothy Rae (Kimble) Rhodes of Los Angeles, Calif., and of Sharon Duarte of New Bedford.
Scoba was raised and educated in Falmouth. He excelled in sports and graduated from Florida A&M University with a bachelor’s degree. He chose to attend college on the advice of Gen. Chappy James. He was a Vietnam-era veteran, having served in the U.S. Air Force from 1961 to 1965. He met and married Dorothy, and they had five children. With the help of his parents, he raised his five children after their divorce.
He worked in education administration, including as a counselor for Lawrence High School, where he also coached track, and in admissions for UMass Dartmouth, formerly S.M.U. He was a summer police officer in Falmouth, and the former dean of Upper Cape Tech High School in Bourne until his retirement in 1997.
Scoba enjoyed sailing and many other activities and memberships, including the Coast Guard Auxiliary, current president of the NAACP, the Falmouth Rotary Club, and served on many boards for town and local civic, education, and affirmative-action groups and causes. He was the recipient of the Civic Leadership Award for “No Place for Hate Falmouth.” He was also a founding member of the Falmouth Neighborhood Association.
Scoba is survived by his children, Scoba Rhodes Jr. and his wife Sonia of Tustin, Calif., J. Kimble Rhodes of Nevada, and the triplets, Lynne Rhodes of East Falmouth, Leslie Allen and her husband Terry of Edmonton, Alberta, and Lee Rhodes of Los Angeles, Calif. He was predeceased by his first son, Scoba Rhodes II. He was the brother of Earl V. Rhodes of Boston, Richard Rhodes of Laurel, Md., Elizabeth A. Rhodes of Boston, and the late Elnora M. Rhodes and Loretta (Rhodes) Stephens. He also leaves three grandsons, 11 nieces and nephews, and many great-nieces and -nephews.
Visiting hours will be held from 2 to 6 pm on Sunday, July 1, at the Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home, 475 Main St., Falmouth Center. A funeral Mass will be held at 10 am on Monday, July 2, at St. Anthony’s Church, 167 East Falmouth Hwy. (Route 28), East Falmouth. Burial will follow in St. Anthony’s Cemetery.
For online guestbook, obituary, and directions, visit ccgfuneralhome.com.
The post Scoba F. Rhodes appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Joan Coles (Wall) Potter, 83 years young, died at Massachusetts General Hospital on June 18, 2018, while surrounded by her family. Like her husband, John Stauffer Potter Jr., who predeceased her in 2014, her life read like a best-selling novel, filled with varied chapters of her lifelong pursuits and endeavors.
She was born to Howard P. Wall and Elizabeth Coles, who brought their newborn daughter to the Vineyard when she was but 4 weeks old. She summered every year in East Chop, where the family had deep ties, and while growing up she pursued her interests in swimming, tennis, family, and youthful shenanigans. The other parts of the year were spent in Connecticut and New York, where she eventually met her husband John. After they wed, she led a globetrotting lifestyle, living in Hong Kong and Singapore for many years while still summering in her beloved East Chop. She discovered many new interests and pursuits during these times, which included interior design, running her antique and custom jewelry business, All Things Oriental, learning Cantonese, breeding cocker spaniels, raising her family, and supporting the business efforts of her husband.
She retired to the Vineyard in 1997 with her husband to enjoy East Chop throughout the year, and to be close to her three sons, who all ended up residing on-Island. She was a well-known East Chop icon who served on many East Chop and Island nonprofit boards, loved mahjong, fashion, antiquing, swimming every morning, spending time with her sons and their families, and so much more. Early in 2015 she moved to Tashmoo Woods in Vineyard Haven, where she started a whole new chapter of life after the death of her beloved “Boulie” (husband John).
“Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories,” and Joan leaves behind many memories for her surviving family, who include her three sons and their spouses John S. Potter III and Susan Silverstein Potter, William N.H. Potter and Kerry Quinlan Potter, and Robert L.C. Potter and Deborah Holtzer Potter; her five grandchildren, Charlotte, Samantha, Chesca, Max, and Zak; her wonderful caregiver and friend Annemarie Frammartino, stepbrother Sterling Wall, and stepsister Sara Wall Locko, as well as her faithful furry companion Bella. She was predeceased by her stepbrother Howard Wall, who was a longtime Island resident as well. She also leaves an indelible mark on her many, many, many friends (a list that could fill several books alone) from all over the Vineyard and the world, to whom the family extends their gratitude for all of their support.
A celebration of her storied life will be held in the near future. Donations in her memory may be made to the Vineyard House, P.O. Box 4599, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568, or to a charity of your choice.
The post Joan Coles Potter appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Katherine Pierce Wilson died peacefully on April 1, 2018, in New York City. For much of her life, Kate battled more than most knew, fighting multiple sclerosis and chronic rheumatoid arthritis with heroism and dignity, and more recently dealing with multiple hip surgeries and other serious health conditions. She lived her life with grace, never revealing how much her illnesses affected her.
Kate was born in New York City on Feb. 8, 1985. She attended the Nightingale-Bamford School in New York from kindergarten through her graduation in 2003. She graduated from the University of Vermont in 2007. After college, Kate worked as a TV producer and music journalist, including stints at VH1 and Plum TV. Her passion was music, and her baby was nycmelody.com, where she wrote about new artists, reviewed concerts, compiled Top 10 lists, and eulogized music legends. Her blog had thousands of followers, and will live on, as one of her close friends takes over.
Kate lived in New York, but spent every summer of her life on the Vineyard. It was her favorite place. She loved everything about the Island — spending time on its wide variety of beaches, where she found beauty and tranquility, walking, reading or basking in the sun. She especially enjoyed the Vineyard’s music scene.
Throughout her challenges, Kate was sustained by the profound love she gave to, and received from, her treasured family and friends. Devoted to her family, she was a loving daughter, sister, and, especially, a doting aunt. She was a good friend, touching countless people. Scores of those whose lives she brightened have sent messages about how much she helped them through a difficult time or problem. Some recount events as early as when she was in nursery school, others as recent as shortly before she died.
Kate is survived by her parents, Paul and Elaine Wilson of Vineyard Haven and New York City; her siblings, Holly Swanson of Henderson, Nev., Paul Wilson of New York City, and Kiri Key of Marblehead; her nephews, Jamie and Robby Swanson, and Dylan and Alex Wilson; her nieces, Lucy and Hadley Key; her brothers-in-law, Eric Swanson and Ramsay Key; and her sister-in-law, Tara Wilson.
Donations in Kate’s memory may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or the Arthritis Foundation.
A celebration of Kate’s life will be held at the Vineyard Haven Yacht Club on July 21 at 5:30 pm.
The post Kate Wilson appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Frank M. Baird, 70, died peacefully on July 4, 2018, at his home in Oak Bluffs after waging a lengthy battle with brain cancer. His family was at his side.
Frank was born on Dec. 25, 1947. He was the husband of Ann Donnelly Baird, formerly of Rhode Island. He was the son of Arthur F. and Vianna R. (Perry) Baird. Frank grew up in Oak Bluffs, the second of eight children. He shared many wonderful stories of growing up in Oak Bluffs on Norris Avenue back in the day when houses were sparse and the woods were abundant. The family moved down to the corner of Circuit and South Circuit Avenue, where Frank spent his teenage years and beyond. He attended the Oak Bluffs Elementary School and MVRHS, class of 1966.
Frank went into the Army in March 1967. He was trained as a helicopter mechanic, and eventually went to Vietnam to work on helicopters. Frank excelled at his job and gained a reputation as the man you wanted to work on your helicopter. He was given many awards and citations for his work. When it was time to leave in March 1969, he had job offers from Boeing and other prominent West Coast aircraft companies. However, he put all that behind him and returned home to Oak Bluffs. Almost immediately he started working with his brother Tim for Berube Electric. A few years later Tim, his wife Sheila, and Frank took over the company, and continued to work together for close to 50 years.
Frank was known as a brilliant electrician, and was well respected among his colleagues. He liked a challenge and was great at figuring out things. Frank was interested in many things;, he was an avid reader from how-to books to biographies, travel, and history. His favorite book was the Bible. He knew the Bible front to back, and inside and out. Frank was a member and trustee of the Duxbury Free Christian Society. He attended meetings twice a year with his son Mark and other family members. All of his children spent time going to Duxbury with Frank while growing up.
Frank and Ann married in 1981, and had their children throughout the ’80s. During this time they renovated the barn on South Circuit into their family home.
Frank was very spiritual, a man of truth; he had strong convictions and never worried about what others thought of him. He had a great sense of humor and a wonderful laugh. He was a kind man who cared about people in need. He was a true Islander who still picked up hitchhikers. Most important, he was a family man who loved his children, grandchildren, and extended family.
He is survived by his wife Ann; daughters Natasha Shultz of West Tisbury, Sara (Baird) (Rob) Labelle of Torrington, Conn.; sons Mark Baird of Oak Bluffs, James (Emily) Baird of Vineyard Haven, and Michael Baird of Oak Bluffs; his grandchildren, Lawrence LaBelle and Vianna Belle Baird; brothers Timothy (Sheila) Baird of Edgartown, John Baird of Boston, Stephen (Vicky) Baird of Florida; sisters Jean Baird of China, Faye (Jim) Macy of Oak Bluffs, and Barbara (Alan) Fortes of Vineyard Haven. Frank was predeceased by his brother Richard (Rick) Baird.
He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.
Donations in Frank’s memory may be made to: Vineyard Independent Partnership (VIP) (supporting adults with disabilities), P.O. Box 1204, West Tisbury, MA 02575, or Island Elderly Housing, Quality of Life Programs, 60B Village Rd., Vineyard Haven, MA, 02568, or a charity of one’s choice.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 14, at 11 am in the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, 56 Edgartown Rd., Oak Bluffs. The family will receive visitors beginning at 10:30 am. A graveside service will follow at 12:30 in the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Vineyard Avenue, Oak Bluffs, with military honors provided by the veterans of Martha’s Vineyard. All are welcome to a reception at the P.A. Club on Vineyard Avenue in Oak Bluffs afterward. Please bring a dish to share.
Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown Road, Oak Bluffs. Visit ccgfuneralhome.com for online guestbook and information.
The post Frank M. Baird appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
The family and friends of Lynn Murphy II will be celebrating his memory with a potluck supper and music at 6 pm at the Chilmark Community Center on Thursday, July 19, on what would have been his 40th birthday.
The post Memorial for Lynn Murphy II appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Robert (“Buffy”) E. Northrop, 80, of Bethlehem, Conn., died on Sunday, July 1, 2018, at the VITAS Inpatient Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital, surrounded by his family and many close friends. He was soulmate and best friend of Christina Pratt, with whom he lived.
Buffy was born in Waterbury on March 7, 1938, son of Earl and Margaret (O’Shaunessy) Northrop. He graduated from Cheshire High School in 1956. He was class president, homecoming king, and captain of the football, basketball, and baseball teams. After high school, he proudly joined the U.S. Marine Corps, and later served in the USMC Reserves — an experience that he cherished his entire life.
He dedicated his career to the tool and die industry, and represented several Fortune 500 manufacturers throughout the U.S.
Beyond his professional work, Buff had several lifelong passions that helped define him as a larger-than-life person to all who knew and loved him. He was a great lover of jazz, and began collecting vinyl in the 1950s, eventually accumulating a collection of well over 4,000 classic albums.
His passion for cooking began early as well, but if you ever ate with him you would know that the meals did not! With his extended cookbook library and packed spice racks and cabinets, he could take you on a world-class culinary tour without ever having to leave his kitchen.
An avid golfer, he served for years as social director at the Waterbury Country Club. “When in doubt … putter out”: a technique that befuddled many an opponent … and often his playing partner.
He was a dedicated and loyal fan to all of his teams … the Nets, the Jets, and the Mets, and let’s not forget our Hartford Whalers … Go Whalers!
In addition to Christina Pratt, Buffy is survived by his three children, Stacey Northrop and her husband Eric Gaudette of West Tisbury, Greg Northrop of Berlin, Germany, and Peggy Hayes of Oakville, Conn., Stephen Northrop and his wife Lucinda Morriss of Oxford, U.K.; three siblings, Susan and Michael Logue of Cheshire, John and Rhonda Northrop of Wallingford, and Brian Northrop of Cheshire; two granddaughters that he loved and adored, Lola Peach Northrop of Berlin, Germany, and Martha’s Vineyard, and Mimi Free Northrop of Berlin, Germany; and his many nieces and nephews.
Buffy’s children are setting up a scholarship in the arts in their father’s honor:
The Robert E. Northrop “Breath for Buff Fund”
c/o Christine Pratt
170 Todd Hill Road
Bethlehem, CT 06751
Buffy was a true lover of life and people, whether family or friends. All were always welcome, and there was always more room at his table. We will miss him dearly … and learn to cook.
For more information or to send condolences, visit chaseparkwaymemorial.com.
The post Robert E. Northrop appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
James Peter Maciel of Vineyard Haven and Zephyrhills, Fla., died on Friday, June 8, 2018, at his son’s home in Vineyard Haven.
Jimmy, as he was known to his many friends and customers, was born in West Tisbury on New Year’s Eve in 1924, one of 11 children born to Raul and Rose Maciel.
The Maciel family moved to Tisbury, where Jimmy attended the Tisbury School until Army service in World War II interrupted schoolwork. Staff Sergeant Maciel served in the European Theater until his honorable discharge in 1946.
A short time after his return to the Island, Jimmy began to work for his brother, Manuel Maciel, in plumbing. He met Leona Dow, a schoolteacher at the Tisbury School, and they married on Feb. 21, 1953. Jimmy then began his own plumbing business, James P. Maciel Plumbing and Heating.
In 1989, James and Leona retired, turning the business over to their son Corly. They moved to Florida, eventually settling in Zephyrhills. Jimmy regained his love for golf as a member of the Scotland Yards Golf Club. He quickly became known for his chipping and putting, scoring an amazing six holes in one.
Jimmy had to leave Florida last year, and returned to the Vineyard to be cared for by his family after a series of medical issues.
He is survived by his two sons, Neal and Corliss (Corly), his daughter-in-law Marilyn, and grandsons Curtis and Denver. He was predeceased by his wife Leona and grandson Michael James. He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Hoffman, Anna Constantine, and Evelyn Christopher.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 18, at 10 am at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Tisbury, officiated by the Rev. Michael Nagle, with military honors provided by the veterans of Martha’s Vineyard.
As Jimmy was the last living charter member of VFW Post 9261, the family requests, in lieu of flowers, donations in Jimmy’s memory be made to VFW Post 9261, P.O. Box 1437, or American Legion Post 257, P.O. Box 257, both in 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 guestbook and information.
The post James Peter Maciel appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Rhoda Lesser Diamond died on June 30, 2018, at the age of 97. A summer resident since 1950, Rhoda began living year-round on the Island in 1993, when she moved here with her husband, Dr. Monroe Thomas Diamond. After her beloved Tom died in 1997, Rhoda immersed herself in a multitude of Island activities, inspiring all who knew her with her positive spirit and her zest for life and community.
Rhoda was born on March 30, 1921, in New York City. Her father, Jacob Joseph Lesser, born in Russia, had a law practice with his brother Henry. Her mother, Rae Virginia, was a schoolteacher. Rhoda had an older brother, Lawrence Lesser, an attorney, and an older sister Beatrice, an actress. After attending Julia Richman High School, Rhoda attended Radcliffe College (Harvard University), where she majored in economics, graduating in 1942 with honors. She worked for the federal government in Washington, D.C., during World War II, and then returned to New York City, where she worked for the Civil Service Leader newspaper. She met Tom at a ski club meeting, finding common ground in the fact that neither of them skied.
Rhoda and Tom raised their three children, John, Ginnie, and Paul, in Chappaqua, N.Y., where Tom, an internist, had a general medical practice. Rhoda obtained a master’s degree in library science at Columbia University, and worked in several local libraries as a reference librarian.
Rhoda and Tom were inseparable — they were apart only one day in their 49-year marriage. After Tom died, her family wondered how she would go on without him, and they were amazed by her resilient spirit and her tireless determination to live every day to the fullest. She took advantage of the huge array of activities available year-round on the Island, the plays, concerts, movies, and lectures; she never missed the Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival, and attended several movies this past March, even as her health was failing.
She loved the Hebrew Center clergy and community, and took great joy from belonging to a warm and loving congregation. She served on the Hebrew Center board for several years. Amidst a whirlwind 97th birthday weekend with her children, she attended the Seder at the Hebrew Center. She was a devoted member of the board of the Friends of the Chilmark Library and the League of Women Voters. She worked out at the Y, even participating in the indoor triathlon on her 94th birthday. Through the years, she also helped organize the Island’s Women’s Symposium, which featured accomplished female speakers who were asked to talk on a theme selected prior to each event. She loved her book groups, discussion groups, and luncheon groups, which kept her busy every day until just weeks before she died.
Rhoda was blessed with many Vineyard friends and also caregivers, who, with compassion and generosity, visited with her and included her in so many activities into her later years. Visits to the Post Office, grocery store, and even the dump took hours because of the friends she would run into, each one of whom she greeted with her big smile. Several people have commented that she was an inspiration to them in her determination to live life to the fullest and to be part of so many of the activities that the Vineyard has to offer. She did not want to miss a minute of it, wearing out her much younger companions.
Rhoda is survived by her devoted children, John, Ginnie, and Paul, John’s wife Lucia, Ginnie’s husband Richard, her seven adored grandchildren, Robby, Rachel, Jack, Danny, Jeffrey, Will, and Savannah, Danny’s wife Blair, and her cherished nephew George Lesser, his wife Patricia, her great-nephews Matthew and David, Matthew’s wife Sarah, and other extended family members. Following a service on July 3 at the Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center, led by Rabbi Caryn Broitman and Cantor Louise Treitman, Rhoda was buried in Abel’s Hill Cemetery alongside her husband.
The post Rhoda Lesser Diamond appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Brian Stewart Gager, who lived on the Island in Edgartown from 2012 until May of 2018, died on June 28, 2018, at the age of 46 in Pittsburgh, Pa. Brian built a house with a second-floor recording studio in Edgartown, where he composed, recorded, and mixed music for six years. While living here he met and enjoyed the company of other musicians and artists, especially at the Chilmark Tavern Art Evenings. Brian graduated from the School of Fine Arts at Carnegie Mellon University with a degree in music composition, with high honors.
For many years Brian taught at a Montessori school in Pittsburgh, where he spread his love of music to so many children, something he dearly loved. In fact, everywhere Brian went he shared his creativity, appreciation, and love of music with family and friends, old and new.
He is survived by his loving parents, Virginia (Dolly) and Stewart Gager of Edgartown, Bronxville, N.Y., and Naples, Fla., and his adoring sister Virginia (Robin) Gager of Stamford, Conn. Two first cousins are summer residents of Edgartown, Cindy Alten-DeLotto and Annchen Brown. There are many other first cousins, aunts, and one uncle still living who mourn his loss.
Brian’s ashes will be interred at the columbarium at Hitchcock Presbyterian Church in Scarsdale, N.Y., where he grew up, on July 14, in a small family service. There will be a memorial service at the Hitchcock Presbyterian Church on Sept. 15th.
Donations to the Mental Health Division of Community Services here on the Island can be made in his name.
The post Brian Stewart Gager appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
A memorial visitation for Robert A. Iadicicco of the Campgrounds in Oak Bluffs, who died on Feb. 18, 2018, husband of Connie M. Iadicicco, and father of Terry and Jeff, will be held on Saturday, July 21, in the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown Road, Oak Bluffs, from 4 to 6 pm.
The post Memorial for Robert A. Iadicicco appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
John Gerard Gadowski, 69, died peacefully at Massachusetts General Hospital on July 1, 2018.
“Grumpa,” as he was lovingly referred to, was born on March 15, 1949, in Cambridge. He grew up in Charlestown, and moved to Martha’s Vineyard in 1969. He was a landscape contractor, and former owner of Middletown Nursery and Garden Center. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed his boat, Two Sisters, and even when he could no longer captain her, spent countless hours sitting near the dock with his buddies at the Lagoon and Tashmoo.
Grumpa was a truly special person with a notoriously stubborn personality. He was also a wise and insightful storyteller with an impeccable memory.
John is survived by his beloved granddaughters, Jennelle and Jaidah Gadowski of Northborough, his youngest brother Daniel Gadowski (his wife Louise and children Marisha and Evan) of Quincy, and his ex-wife Jennie (Leventritt) Gadowski of Northborough. He was predeceased by his parents Edward and Mary (Monagle) Gadowski, his brothers Edward and Thomas Gadowski, his daughter Victoria (Tori) Gadowski, and his canine companion Justice. Countless friends and family will remember him with love, most especially his guardian angel Garrison Vieira and his longtime friend Billy Black.
Services for John will be private. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Polly Hill Arboretum, 809 State Rd., West Tisbury, MA 02575, or the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass & Bluefish Derby, P.O. Box 2101, Edgartown, MA 02539.
The post John Gerard Gadowski appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Karen Sue Achille died peacefully in her home on Saturday, July 7, 2018, in Oak Bluffs, after battling cancer. She was 76.
Karen was born on Feb. 24, 1942, in Evanston, Ill., to Robert and Josephine Blakesley. Her family moved to Whitefish Bay, Wis., in 1948, and she graduated from Whitefish Bay High School in 1959. Karen received her bachelor’s in education from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, and a master’s degree from the University of Bridgeport.
In 1964, Karen married Michael DeVivo in Las Vegas. After starting their teaching careers in Bakersfield, Calif., they relocated to New York. Together they had a daughter, Jennifer DeVivo, and a son, Matthew DeVivo. Karen was widowed in 1970 when Michael DeVivo died from complications after open-heart surgery. Three years later she married the love of her life, Michael Achille, and together they enjoyed fulfilling teaching careers at Nanuet High School in Nanuet, N.Y., and a happy retirement filled with friends, travel, and grandchildren.
At Nanuet High School, Karen was a beloved English teacher, softball coach, and cheerleading coach until her early retirement in 1988. Her fabled 1987 cheerleading squad qualified and competed in the National High School Cheerleading Championship. Karen and Mike both retired from teaching in 1988 and relocated to the town of Oak Bluffs, where they each began second careers. As the children’s librarian at the Vineyard Haven library and later the Oak Bluffs library, Karen discovered she had a sweet spot for engaging children of all ages, and for writing grant proposals for the community.
Karen was an active part of the Martha’s Vineyard community, devoting her time and talents to Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard, Martha’s Vineyard Cancer Support Group, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Martha’s Vineyard, M.V. Center for Living, Council on Aging, Massachusetts Librarians Association, and many others.
Karen Achille is survived by her husband of 45 years, Michael Achille of Oak Bluffs, and two biological and four stepchildren; Christine Gunter of New Orleans, La.; Michael Achille and Mark Achille of Orleans; Jennifer DeVivo of West Tisbury; Jennifer Parks of Chico, Calif.; and Matthew DeVivo of Raleigh, N.C.
A celebration of Karen Achille’s life will be held at one of her favorite places, the First Congregational Church of West Tisbury. All are invited to join her family there on Friday, August 3, 2018, at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, feel free to make a contribution to Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard, Martha’s Vineyard Cancer Support Group, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Martha’s Vineyard, M.V. Center for Living, or Council on Aging.
Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown Road, Oak Bluffs. Visit ccgfuneralhome.com for online guestbook and information.
The post Karen Sue Achille appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Philip James Brown III died on Monday, May 28, 2018, on Martha’s Vineyard after a heroic battle with prostate cancer. He was 61.
A dreamer in the best sense of the word, warm and giving and emotional, P.J. believed life was wonderful. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his wife of 24 years, Beck, and their daughter Michaela. A summer Islander since the 1960s, P.J. was an honorary member of the Polar Bear Club, and would swim between the jetties at Inkwell Beach in Oak Bluffs come rain or shine.
Born on Staten Island, N.Y., to Philip and Eileen Brown, he grew up in Venezuela, Belgium, and New Jersey, and was a graduate of Boston College, where he discovered his love of acting. P.J. worked regionally as an actor all over the country, and was a member of the Blue Light Theatre Company, where he was directed by Joanne Woodward. He went to Broadway with Steppenwolf’s “The Grapes of Wrath,” which won a Tony Award. Beyond his many theatrical achievements, P.J. found the greatest reward was in connecting with people: “You’ll never remember the specific lines you had in a play, but you will always remember the people you laughed with backstage.”
In 2005, P.J. moved his family to Santa Monica, Calif., where he worked as an actor in TV, film, theater, and voiceover. His most recent work was narrating the “King Tut Exhibit: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh,” which will be shown around the world.
P.J. is survived by his mother, his brother Barry, sisters Suzanne, Lisa, and Victoria, and his wife and daughter. He is predeceased by his father Philip Brown Jr. and sister Kathleen.
The family requests that donations be made in P.J.’s name to the Actors Fund, actorsfund.org. Celebrations of P.J.’s life are being planned in Morristown, N.J., on July 19, and in Santa Monica, Calif., at a future date.
The post Philip James Brown III appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Arlene L. Baril, 83, died on Monday, July 16, 2018, at Windemere Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was the wife of Donald J. Baril, who died in February this year, and also was predeceased by her son Gary Baril.
A memorial service will be held at a later date, and a complete obituary will follow in another edition of this paper.
The post Arlene L. Baril appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Susan K. Davies, beloved wife of James J. Davies, died peacefully, surrounded by her family, on July 16, 2018.
Susan was born in Monmouth, Ill., to Frances and Armound Olson. She graduated from Augustana College in 1964, and taught in public schools in Colorado and New York. She married James J. Davies in 1966, and waited for a year for him to return from Vietnam. Together, they began an IBM corporate journey that would take them to New York, Vermont, Virginia, Connecticut, Arizona, and back to Connecticut, where they settled.
Along the way, they had two beautiful children, Karyn and John. Susan was an elegant lady; a wonderful, patient wife; fantastic mother, and doting grandmother to Brennan, Tyler, and Kelly. She sang in several church and community choirs, including taking part in an Eastern European Tour with the Danbury Community Chorus. She was able to travel extensively in the U.S., Canada, and Europe during their 52-year marriage. From a strong Viking heritage, Susan “did it her way,” and did it well.
Susan will be laid to rest on August 23 at 11 am in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Pacific Avenue, in Oak Bluffs, where their life’s journey began during the summer of 1965.
A celebration of her well-lived life will be held in The Villages, Fla., at a future date. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation at themmrf.org.
The post Susan K. Davies appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Jerome (Jerry) Wesley Pikor, 79, of Oak Bluffs and Port Orange, Fla., died at Massachusetts General Hospital from complications due to a pulmonary embolism on the morning of Sunday, July 15, 2018. He was the beloved husband of Beverly (Crook) Pikor.
Born on Feb. 7, 1939, to John and Stella Pikor, Jerry grew up in Windsor and West Hartford, Conn. He attended the University of Miami in Florida. In the early 1960s, at United Aircraft in West Palm Beach, Fla., he worked on the engines incorporated into the lunar lander for the Apollo 11 spacecraft. He always maintained a good sense for problem solving, and applied it to the many businesses that he would create throughout his life. Businesses such as the Catalogue Shop, Astron Industries, and Landmark Corp. were just a few of his companies. He found success in various fields of business, and would always say, “Find a need, and fill it.”
His enterprises in land development would take him and his family all over the East Coast, from Vermont to Martha’s Vineyard, and all the way down to the Florida Keys, making friends and memories everywhere he went.
No matter where Jerry went, he was never very far from airplanes. He attained his pilot’s license at the age of 15, and made the local newspaper when he rented and flew a plane from Miami to Hartford to be home for Thanksgiving. His passion for aviation would follow him for the rest of his life, and take him to heights that most only dream of. Child and Family Services of Hartford, Conn., awarded him for initiating “Aviation Day” for children in the Hartford area. Over the course of his life, he was fortunate to have owned a fair number of aircraft, but his favorite by far was the humble two-seater, canvas and wooden J-3 Piper Cub. Anyone who rode in the bright yellow plane can remember holding the brakes for him while he manually pulled the propeller to start it.
Flying was a passion for Jerry, but he also loved to entertain friends and family on the back deck with cookouts or barbecues on the beach. He kept his mind sharp by studying the stock and commodities markets, and keeping up with the news and current events.
He is survived by his loving wife Beverly; their three sons, Jerome (Wesley) Pikor II and his wife Michelle of Martha’s Vineyard, Jeffrey Pikor and his wife Robin of Granby, Conn., and Steven Pikor of Geneva, Fla.; by his brother Roger Pikor and wife Marilyn, and his sister Carol Skinger and husband Leonard, with all their families. He is also loved by his six grandchildren, Christine, J.W., Vara, Claire, Charlie, and Case.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Good Shepherd Parish, P.O. Box 1058, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568. There will be a celebration of his life in September.
The post Jerome Wesley Pikor appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.
Charles H. Jones, 100, died on Oct. 9, 2017, with loving family present, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Charles was born in Winston-Salem, N.C., on April 22, 1917, to Emma and C.H. Jones. “Cee Jay,” as he was affectionately known, was raised in Winston-Salem, and attended Talladega College in Alabama. He moved to Harlem, N.Y., in 1942, and joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1943. He was discharged from the Marine Corps in 1946.
While in New York, he worked for 39 years for the U.S. Postal Service, where he ultimately became a supervisor and retired in 1982. Upon retirement, he traveled, and moved to Oak Bluffs permanently in 1989. He had visited the Island for decades prior. In Oak Bluffs, Cee Jay quickly became a town fixture. He volunteered in the town’s information booth for over a decade, and as a crossing guard at Oak Bluffs Elementary School. He joined a number of Island clubs and organizations, and made a multitude of friends and admirers. He became known as the “unofficial mayor” of Oak Bluffs due to his pleasant demeanor, personal charm, and knowledge of Martha’s Vineyard.
In 2012, for his military service, Cee Jay was awarded the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal — the nation’s highest civilian honor.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Thelma Morgan, and second wife, Mavis Jones, who he remained with until her death.
Cee Jay is survived by his grandchildren, Charles Jones IV, Darryl Jones, Cheryl Jones, and Chauncey Jones (Sarah), all of Winston-Salem; great-grandchildren Porsche Jones (Devoted), Shawn Brooks, Alasha Jones, Kenneth Anderson, Ryan Johnson, Jacob Jones, Sudan Jones, Olivia Jones, Chloe Jones, and Kelvin Jones; 10 great-great-grandchildren; as well as many friends from across the nation and world.
A graveside service will be held in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Pacific Avenue, in Oak Bluffs on Monday, August 13, at 10 am, with military honors provided by the veterans of Martha’s Vineyard.
The post Charles Jones appeared first on The Martha's Vineyard Times.