Hale Funeral Home

04/22/2026

Philip N. Garland

In Loving Memory

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved friend and family member Philip Garland. Philip passed away peacefully in their home on April 14th with his husband Johnathan at his bedside. Their kindness, warmth, and unwavering support touched all who knew them. Throughout their life, they brought joy to countless lives and left a lasting legacy of compassion and generosity.

They will be deeply missed by their family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing them. As we mourn their loss, we also celebrate the beautiful memories and the lasting impact they made on our lives.

Phil was born on Oct 9, 1956, in Adelaide, South Australia, to Nelson Garland and Shirley Fishlock. Phil served proudly as a United States Marine. He was disabled in Yemen while on duty and shortly retired with the ranking of Staff Sergeant.

He leaves behind a loving husband, Johnathan Gordon. Johnathan and Phil dated for a good many years and were married on June 15, 2024.

Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home, 187 Upper Plain in Bradford, VT.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.halefuneralhomes.com

View Philip N. Garland's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/17/2026

View Wanetta L. Stalker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/16/2026

Wanetta L. Stalker

Wanetta Louise Fleming Stalker, 81, of Corinth, Vermont, passed away peacefully at her home on April 5, 2026.

Wanetta was born on May 13, 1944, in Middlebury, Vermont, to Clarence and Alice (Hill) Fleming. She was a graduate of Middlebury Union High School, Class of 1962. On February 2, 1963, she married Walter Stalker Jr. in Barrington, Massachusetts, beginning a devoted partnership that remained central to her life.

Wanetta dedicated much of her working life to caring for others. She was employed as a nurse's aide with VNA for 28 years before retiring in 2016. Her work reflected her compassionate nature and steady commitment to helping those in need.

Creative and talented, Wanetta was a masterful seamstress who found joy in making hand crafts. She took pride in her work and generously shared her skills with family and friends. Above all, Wanetta treasured her family and found her greatest happiness in being a mother and grandmother.

She is survived by her son, Walter Stalker III, and daughter, Sherri Stalker, both of Corinth; and her beloved grandsons, Riley and Logan, who brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her sisters Theresa Bougor, Janice Calkins, Evelyn Sacket, and Kathy Boldyga; her brother Tom Fleming; and many nieces and nephews.

Wanetta was predeceased by her husband, Walter Stalker Jr., in 1994; her sisters Carolyn Tullar, Bertha Benjamin, Arlene Brown, Sandra Tebbetts, and Elizabeth Holcumb; and her brothers Clarence Fleming Jr., William Fleming, and Mike Fleming.

A graveside service will be held at Meadow Meeting House Cemetery in Corinth, Vermont, on April 25, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., followed by a reception at the Corinth Town Hall.

Wanetta will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her warmth, kindness, and gentle laughter live on through her family, and she will always be remembered as a fabulous mother and a loving, doting grandmother whose family meant everything to her.

Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home, 187 Upper Plain, Bradford, VT

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.halefuneralhomes.com

View Wanetta L. Stalker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/14/2026

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04/08/2026

Linda D. Paradee

Linda Dean Paradee passed away on February 22, 2026, in Hanover, NH. She was born in 1937 to Earl M. and Marie L. Dean and grew up in Lakeville, CT. She was a fine arts major at Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, RI. After graduating she took a job at Capital City Press in Montpelier, VT. A few years later she left there to work for Vermont Life magazine, the state-run publication, where she was hired to write books. Linda was instrumental in creating and publishing an original coffee table book named "Vermont: A Special World". Published in 1969 it sold over 100 thousand copies. In 1967 she became Managing Editor of the magazine. She oversaw the magazine's layout, photography and printing for 34 years until she retired in 2001.

In her years at Vermont Life, Linda worked with every editor from Walter Hard to Tom Slayton. In her work she kept up with many changes in photography, publishing and the printing industry, from letterpress to offset, then computers, desktop publishing and digital printing. She always found and implemented the latest technology but never gave up driving a standard shift car.

She was a strong advocate for painting and visual art and volunteered for 30 years at the T. W. Wood Museum, an art gallery in Montpelier. She was a member of the board and devoted many hours to its art collections. She was a WCAX Super Senior in 2017 where she showcased the museum.

Though she lived in Montpelier for many years, Linda inherited an old farm on the Connecticut river in Orford, NH and put much effort into renovating the house. She spent many happy summers there and after having it winterized, finally moved there year-round in 2024. Linda loved train rides, paddling her canoe on the river, birds, gardening and cats. Her last two, Missy and Claude, were rescued from her barn.

Her husband, Brad Paradee, whom she married in 1967, died in 1994. Linda leaves her brother Eric, her niece Sally and nephews Alex and Bryan; her stepdaughter Kathryn Bovat and granddaughter Lisa Rushlow; stepson Brad Paradee, his wife Jennifer and grandchildren Kathryn Roberts and Brian Paradee; great grandchildren Evelyn, Archer, Kenzie and Madelyn and Jennifer's daughter Annelise Parnau. Her grandson Tim Bovat predeceased her.

No services are planned at this time.

Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home 187 Upper Plain in Bradford.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.halefuneralhomes.com

View Linda D. Paradee's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/06/2026

William A. Hayward

BRADFORD - William “Bill” Hayward passed away suddenly on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at his home in Bradford, Vermont. His passing leaves a deep ache in the hearts of those who loved him and all who knew his larger-than-life presence, glowing blue Hayward eyes, and the smile to match. Bill had a way of making everyone in his life feel important.

Bill was born on August 12, 1961, in Hanover, New Hampshire, to Roberta (Hayward) White and Frederick “Fred” Hayward III of Fairlee, Vermont.

He spent much of his life behind the wheel of a truck, a career he took great pride in. He began hauling milk for his grandfather at Hayward Transportation and, in a fitting full-circle moment, ended his career hauling milk for G.K. Bisson Trucking. For many years in between he ran his own successful business, Zepplin Trucking.

Bill approached life with humor, warmth, and a story always ready to be told. Those who knew him will remember his unforgettable stories, his jokes, and the unmistakable spark he brought into every room.

He was proud to teach his sons how to drive big rigs, heavy equipment, and anything with more than two axels. Even if it was on his lap. Bill took great pride in his trucks, always making sure they looked their best, and was equally dedicated to keeping his lawn in perfect condition.

Bill shared special bonds with many of his son’s friends and his nephews, loving them as his own. He could often be heard saying his signature phrase, “Nooo Sh*t,” which will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, and his infant son, John Paul Hayward.

He is survived by his loving siblings, Mishelle “Shelly” Catenaci and her husband Doug of Troutman, North Carolina, and Michael Hayward and his partner Edith of North Palm Beach, Florida, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Bill was a proud and devoted father to his children: Kristopher Barber of Piermont, New Hampshire and his daughter Ava; Todd Hayward and his partner, Tynika, and their daughter Hallie; and Monica Sharf and her partner, Nick, and their son Drake. His love for his children was steady and unwavering, and he carried each of them in his heart always.

He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved grand pups, Patsy and Winnie. Even though they got into his perfectly kept lawn.

Services will take place on May 2nd at two o’clock at the Fairlee Community Church of Christ, 55 Town Common Road, Fairlee, Vermont, followed by a committal service at Fairlee Village Cemetery. A celebration of life will follow the committal service at Bill’s House; 647 Goshen Rd E, Bradford, Vermont.

Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home in Bradford.

Those wanting to express online condolences may do so at: www.halefuneralhomes.com

View William A. Hayward's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/27/2026

Herman D. Piper

Herman D. Piper

September 20, 1933 – March 22, 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Herman Dean Piper. Our beloved Herm (Pop) passed on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at Valley Terrace after a brief illness. He was born September 20, 1933 in Lyme, NH and was the son of William Piper and Dorothy Piper (Henry).

He married his high school love, Nancy Alice Piper (Banker), in June 1953, and they shared 67 years together. They had five children and, later in life, adopted a sixth. In his early years Herm worked as a miner at the Elizabeth mine in Strafford, VT, along with a short time in North Carolina doing the same. He later built and ran a very successful plumbing and heating business, H.D. Piper Plumbing and Heating, in the upper valley area for over 35 years. He contributed to building and developing many homes and land in the town of Fairlee, VT. He enjoyed watching and sponsoring local race cars and cultivated a lifelong love for the sport.

Anyone who knew Herm knew he was one of a kind. He was the most loving husband, father, and friend to everyone he knew. He was a strong, kind, and funny man that could tell a story or joke like no other. Herm loved planting and tending to his vegetable gardens every year, only to give anyone he knew the bounties of his hard work and love. Herm loved spending time with his family, his dogs, hunting, fishing, Nascar races, and football.

Herman is predeceased by his beloved wife Nancy, two sons, Michael Piper and Douglas Piper, and a daughter Debra Rosẻn. He is survived by his sons David Piper of Bradford VT and Nicholas Piper of Plainfield NH, daughter Donna Uline of Fairlee VT, six grandchildren, Michael Piper, Arty Piper, Chris Uline, Dawnelle Weaver (Uline), Matt Piper, Brian Piper, eleven great grandchildren and brother Arthur Piper of Texas.

The family of Herm would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the staff that loved and cared for him during his short stay at Valley Terrace. We would also like to thank the caring staff of the VNH Hospice team for their love and support, as well as Hale Funeral Home (Bradford, VT) for all your kindness and support for our family through this. Herm will be remembered for his generous spirit and the unending amount of love and humor he gave to anyone he met.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the VNH Hospice (88 Prospect St., White River Junction, VT 05001) or the Upper Valley Human Society (300 Old Route 10, Enfield, NH 03748).

A celebration of life will be held at a later date at the discretion of the family.

Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home, 187 Upper Plain in Bradford, VT.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.halefuneralhomes.com

View Herman D. Piper's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/26/2026

Tamara M. Estes

Tamara M. Estes (Roy), a resident of Orford, NH, passed away unexpectedly on March 10th, 2026. She was born in Plymouth, NH, on January 1st, 1958, the daughter of Thomas and Carol Roy.

Tamara was the devoted wife of the late Rodney Estes of Orford, who preceded her in death on November 30th, 2016. She dedicated her life to caring for others, both as a loving homemaker and a nurse. She was cherished for her deep devotion to her family and her beloved dogs, and was widely known for her exceptional baking, especially her famous dinner rolls.

She is survived by her children: son Jim Eastman and his wife Kasey of Hartford, VT, and daughter Ami Eastman of Canaan, NH. She also leaves behind three granddaughters, Grace Moore of Canaan, NH, Rylee Eastman of Hartford, VT and Sophia Taylor of Canaan, NH, along with two great-granddaughters, Huntleigh and Winona.

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A graveside service will be held at the Orford Village Cemetery in Orford, NH, on April 19th at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Tamara's memory to the Upper Valley Humane Society.

Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home, 187 Upper Plain in Bradford, VT.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.halefuneralhomes.com

View Tamara M. Estes's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/24/2026

Tonia J. Mauro

Tonia Mauro of East Topsham, Vermont, passed away on December 29, 2025, surrounded by love. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Tonia dedicated her working life as a compassionate nursing assistant, caring for the elderly with kindness, patience, and dignity. She took great pride in her work and found true fulfillment in helping others during their later years.

She will be remembered for her caring heart, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. Above all, Tonia cherished being a mother and held her loved ones close to her heart.

In her free time, Tonia found peace and happiness riding her horse and spending time with her beloved dog, Happy. These moments reflected her deep love for animals and the outdoors.

Tonia is survived by her son, Christian Mumley (wife Shay); her mother, Burnice Dow; her brother, Dale Mauro (wife Terri); her sister, Christina Welker (husband Bayne); her stepsisters, Stefanie Dow and Julie Dow Fortunati (husband Paul); as well as extended family and friends who will cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ralph Mauro, and her stepfather, Glenn Dow.

Though her life was far too short, it was filled with love and purpose. Tonia's memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her, and she will be remembered always for her kindness, resilience, and the love she gave so freely.

A celebration of Tonia's life will be held at Topsham Presbyterian Church in East Topsham, Vermont, on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM.

Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home, 187 Upper Plain in Bradford, VT.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.halefuneralhomes.com

View Tonia J. Mauro's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/20/2026

Charles H. Ward

BRADFORD, VT - Charles (Harry) Ward, 75 of Bradford, VT, passed away peacefully March 10, 2026, after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease.

Harry was full of life - Always Love, Laughter and Food Fights. He loved his family including his fur babies. He enjoyed the "Little Things" in life. Harry loved to "tinker" (even if it didn't need to be fixed). Harry was always willing to help anyone; he also had one of the biggest hearts.

Harry leaves behind his beloved wife of 49 years, Betsy Ward of Bradford, VT, His son Daniel Ward of Bradford, VT, his granddaughter, Rebecca Ward of Bradford, VT and his niece Crystal Ward of Bradford, VT. He also leaves behind his brothers Roy Ward, Russell Ward, both of Strafford, VT, his sister Pearl Hutchinson of Strafford, VT, his sister-in-law Robin Kantowski of Grafton, NH. As well as many nieces and nephews.

There will be a celebration of life at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home 187 Upper Plain in Bradford, VT.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.halefuneralhomes.com

View Charles H. Ward's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/07/2026

Edward W. Eckman

In Loving Memory

BRADFORD, VT - Edward Eckman, age 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, surrounded by family and his pastor. Born on November 6, 1939, in Lancaster City, PA, Edward was the son of Christ H. and Virginia Bernhardt Eckman. He grew up in Lancaster City, cherishing childhood memories along the Conestoga River.

Edward graduated from Lampeter-Strasburg High School in 1957, earned his bachelor's degree in education from Southeastern University in 1961, and completed theological studies at Gordon College Theological Seminary in 1964. That same year, he married Martha J. Stanley, with whom he shared a devoted partnership and raised three sons: David, Daniel, and Kevin.

Edward and Martha settled in Bradford, VT, after living briefly in Piermont, NH. He taught at Bradford Academy before serving as pastor at East Orange Union Church and West Fairlee Congregational Church. Later, he operated Eckman's Hardwood Equipment and continued to serve as a guest pastor at several area churches. Despite losing much of his eyesight, Edward contributed to his community by working in facilities maintenance at the Clara Martin Center.

A skilled builder and a trusted source of wisdom, Edward was a longtime member of the Bradford Evangelical Free Church. He loved gardening, generously sharing his harvest, and was an enthusiastic supporter of Boston sports teams, celebrating their championship victories. Above all, time spent with his grandchildren brought him great happiness.

Edward is survived by his sons: David E. Eckman of Sutton, NH; Daniel C. Eckman of Winthrop, MA; and Kevin F. Eckman and wife Marla Gardner Eckman with their children, Iris, and Ezekiel, of Waterbury, VT. He is also survived by his sisters, Mildred Harper of Bellefonte, PA, and Audrey Bucher of State College, PA, and his brother-in-law Harold Charles Stanley and wife Constance Stanley of The Villages, FL.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Martha J. Stanley Eckman; his parents, Christ H., and Virginia Bernhardt Eckman; and his brother, Ronald C. Eckman.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Bradford Evangelical Free Church, officiated by Pastor Brian Bailey.

Calling hours will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Hale Funeral Home in Bradford, VT.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Edward's honor may be made to the Jack Byrne Center for Palliative & Hospice Care at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, or to the Vermont Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired in South Burlington, VT.

Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home, 187 Upper Plain in Bradford, VT.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.halefuneralhomes.com

View Edward W. Eckman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/07/2026

Joyce T. Hatch

BRADFORD, VT - Joyce Shirley Hatch Passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026.

Shirley as she was called was born on March 12, 1935, to Leo and Thelma (Dunham) Taylor. Shirley graduated from Bradford Academy in the class of 1953.

After school she worked at the Chimes Restaurant before marrying Alan Howard Hatch on June 5, 1954. They made their home on Goshen Road in Bradford in the early 60's where they bought the family farm from Howards parents.

They had three children Micheal, Peter and Pamela and they owned and operated the farm. Shirley enjoyed her sheep and taking care of large gardens where she did all the canning and pickling from her vegetables.

In the spring they would sugar and had many customers that bought their syrup. Shirley made maple crème, in which Mr. Mallory would tell her it's the best he ever tasted.

In the early 80's they sold the farm and moved to Fairground Road where they made their home. Shirley went to work at Copelands Furniture where she worked for many years. By now they had three grandsons which they enjoyed very much, Ryan and Jeremy Hatch and Dana Hartley. Shirley and Howard both enjoyed going to sports events the boys played, watching Dana show cattle, apple picking in the fall, Christmas at grammies house and many sleepovers.

Shirley is survived by her children Pamela Hatch Hartley and her husband Ernie. Peter Hatch and his wife Leanne. Her grandchildren Ryan and Jillian Hatch of West Fairlee, VT. Jeremy and Mollie Hatch of Bradford, VT, and Dana and Jasmine Hartley of Piermont, NH. Also, her great grandchildren Bryson and Finely Hatch, Hayden and Easton Hatch, Aspen, Lane, and Dawson Hartley.

Shirley was predeceased by her parents, her son Michael Hatch, husband Howard Hatch and brothers Marvin, Leo, Dale, David and Paul Taylor and her sister Barbra (Taylor) Kinghorn.

A private graveside service will be held at the Sawyer Cemetery in Bradford VT.

The family would like to thank the Jack Byrne Center for Palliative and Hospice Care for their wonderful care and compassion shown not only to Shirley but to all her family.

Arrangements are in the care of Hale Funeral Home, 187 Upper Plain, Bradford, VT.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.halefuneralhomes.com

View Joyce T. Hatch's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.