Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home

03/16/2026

Deborah O. Palmer

Deborah Oslund Palmer, 61, of Manchester CT, Beloved wife of Fred Palmer Sr since 2013, passed away on February 11th, 2026 at home, surrounded by loving family after a long battle with heart failure. She was born on May 08th,1964 in Hartford, CT. She is predeceased by her parents Judith "Judie" Fontaine and Merritt Sanford "Sandy" Oslund. In addition to her husband Fred, she is also survived by her children Christopher Sapolis (wife Theresa) of Debary, FL and Samantha Christina (husband Steven) of Taftville, CT as well as her sister Barbara Marquis (husband Ben) of Cocoa Beach, FL. She also leaves behind many bonus children (lovingly referred to as “The Litter”), many bonus grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and beloved friends.

Deb was employed by Stop & Shop for many years, where working in the floral section ignited her love of gardening. She was also active in the American Legion, VFW, and Moose International organizations throughout central CT.

She was a loving mother devoted to her family. Anyone who was fortunate enough to know her, knew she was always available for anyone who needed a good cry, a good laugh, or just a hug. She loved spending time with family and friends, whether it was fishing or a bonfire in the summer or accompanying her husband to holiday parties as his beloved Mrs. Claus.

Deb will always be remembered for her whimsical and playful spirit, her sense of humor, and, most of all, her big heart. Her ability to love everyone around her was an inspiration to many. The hearts of those she touched will be forever changed.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 1pm on Saturday, March 21st at American Legion Post 180 at 567 Exeter Rd, Lebanon CT, 06249. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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03/15/2026

Camilla A. Lagos

Camilla Lagos, born on December 23, 2010, in Manchester, CT, passed away on March 12, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of joy, faith, determination, and extraordinary talent. Though her time with us was far too short, her life overflowed with purpose, beauty, and a radiant spirit that touched everyone she encountered.

Camilla was a sweet, smart, and remarkably gifted young woman, known for her gentle heart and her beautiful smile that could brighten any room. She was ambitious and determined, always striving to accomplish her goals and inspiring others with her drive and discipline. Academically, she excelled—she was a proud member of the Junior National Honor Society and consistently earned a place on the High Honor Roll.

A gifted musician, Camilla was an excellent pianist and also played guitar and flute, filling her home, school, and church with music that reflected her grace and creativity. She enjoyed crocheting, playing piano and going on adventures with friends, exploring the world with curiosity and joy.

As a freshman at Blue Mountain Academy, Camilla served as Class President, leading with humility, kindness, and a natural ability to bring people together. She was beautiful inside and out—her character, compassion, and warmth made others feel valued and loved.

Above all, Camilla loved the Lord. Her faith shaped her life, guided her choices, and shone through her kindness, her leadership, and the way she treated others. She lived with a quiet but steadfast trust in God, and her life reflected the beauty of a heart anchored in Him.

As we grieve at her passing, we hold tightly to the blessed hope of Scripture:

“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout… and the dead in Christ shall rise first.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:16

We wait for the Lord’s second coming with longing and hope, trusting that we will see Camilla again.

Camilla was preceded in death by her father, Ferdinand Lagos. She is lovingly survived by her mother, Karina Flores; her sister, Isabella Lagos; her grandmother, Yolanda Flores; her grandparents, Alejandrina and Rogelio Arohuanca; and a large circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who cherished her deeply.

Her impact will continue to live on—in her music, in the memories she created, and in the hearts of all who loved her. May she rest in the Lord until we see her again on that blessed resurrection morning.

Camilla had a deep love for music. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to consider donating to the Camilla Lagos Memorial Fund, established to support other children in learning music and developing their musical talents.

Please click the link below, and from the list select “Camilla Lagos Memorial Fund”

https://adventistgiving.org/donate/AN4MDA

Calling Hours will be held on Tuesday, March 17th from 10am till 11am at Connecticut Valley Seventh Day Adventist Church, located at 354 Foster Road, South Windor CT. There will be a Funeral Service following Calling Hours from 11am till 1pm at Connecticut Valley Seventh Day Adventist Church. Burial will take place afterwards at Buckland Cemetery, located at 1210 Tolland Turnpike, Manchester CT.

To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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03/12/2026

Barbara E. Alley

Obituary to be Posted.

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03/12/2026

Norma Joyce Maloney

Norma Joyce Maloney, 93, of Vernon, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 6, 2026, at Manchester Memorial Hospital.

Born September 2, 1932, in Concord, New Hampshire, she was the daughter of the late Pasquale and Flora (Linscott) Miniutti.

Norma dedicated many years of service to the State of Connecticut, working in Information Technology for the Department of Labor. She approached her work with diligence and quiet dedication, earning the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Above all else, Norma was a warm and loving mother who cherished her family beyond measure. Her greatest joy in life was the time spent with those she loved. She will be remembered for her kindness, steady strength, and the unwavering love she gave so freely.

Norma will be forever loved and remembered by her son, Michael Maloney and his wife, Doreen Maloney; her daughter, Pamela Dunne; as well as numerous other extended family members and dear friends. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her beloved husband.

Care of private funeral arrangements has been entrusted to the Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home of Manchester.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in her memory. www.holeinthewallgang.org

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03/12/2026

Angel F. Maldonado

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the untimely passing of Angel Francisco Maldonado, who passed away at his home in Manchester on Friday, March 6, 2026, at the age of 27. Born on November 9, 1998, in Farmington, Connecticut, he was the beloved son of Angel Rivera and Migdalia Cruz Maldonado.

Angel faced and overcame many hardships throughout his life, yet he never allowed them to dim his spirit. He brought light and laughter to those around him and had a remarkable ability to make others feel welcome and valued. A natural with technology, Angel excelled at anything computer-related and could quickly master any video game he picked up. His sharp mind and determination were evident in everything he pursued.

He had an adventurous palate and loved trying new and exotic foods and recipes, while also finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. Angel enjoyed relaxing while watching his favorite WWE matches and sharing a plate of chicken wings with family and friends. Above all, he will be remembered as a sweet and gentle soul whose presence touched the lives of everyone he met.

In addition to his loving parents, Angel is survived by his sisters, Angelica and her husband, Michael Jurczyk; Joanne Rivera; and Amy Rivera; his brother, Angel Rivera, Jr.; his grandparents, Ernesto Soriano and Luz Sanchez Rodriguez; as well as many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Calling Hours will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Glory Chapel International Cathedral, 221 Greenfield Street, Hartford, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place immediately afterward at East Cemetery in Manchester, Connecticut.

Angel’s love, laughter, and gentle spirit will remain in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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03/06/2026

James Peter White

James (Jim) Peter White, 78, of Manchester, CT died after a long illness on February 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born on March 20, 1947, in Seattle, Washington to the late Lester and June White. Jim is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Jane White, and daughters Jennifer Haviland and her husband Michael; Jolene Drechsler and her husband Steven; and Melissa Pietlock and her partner Kevin. He is predeceased by two brothers, Donald and Richard, and survived by his sister Rebecca Rainford. He was blessed with four grandchildren: Benjamin, Emma, Leo and Charlie.

Jim joined the Navy as a submariner during the Vietnam era. He served at the naval base in Groton, Connecticut. During his time in Groton, Jim met his beautiful wife, Jane. After they married, they moved to Washington state, where they started a beautiful family. After 6 years in Washington, they relocated to Jane’s hometown of East Hartford, Connecticut where they lived for 41 years before moving to Manchester 7 years ago.

Jim was a professionally trained executive chef. He had a passion for the culinary arts and was very dedicated to his craft. He started his career through a scholarship at a local Seattle community college, which led to a variety of jobs including working at the Seattle Space Needle, several 5-star restaurants, and corporate offices such as The Travelers. His final years as a chef, before retirement, were spent at The Little Sisters of the Poor in Enfield, a convent for retired nuns. He was a member of the Connecticut Chefs Association and was inducted into the American Academy of Chefs.

Jim was very much loved by his family and friends and a respected colleague by those who had the privilege of working with him. He was a devoted husband, wonderful father, loving grandfather, and a man of strong faith.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, March 21st at 10am at The First Baptist Church of Manchester, 240 Hillstown Road, where he was a member for nearly 50 years. Attendees are encouraged to wear Seattle Seahawk colors or attire.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the ASPCA, Connecticut Humane Society, or the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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03/02/2026

Elda B. Schmidt

Elda Beletti Schmidt, of South Windsor, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, at the remarkable age of 100. Born on July 13, 1925, in Manchester, Connecticut, to Dominick M. Beletti and Letitia Gagliardone Beletti, Elda lived a century defined by joy, adventure, and vibrant energy that inspired all who knew and loved her.

Elda had a true passion for life. She loved to travel and never shied away from new destinations and experiences. She had a gift for dancing that brought her happiness throughout her life and to everyone fortunate enough to share the dance floor with her. Perhaps most impressively, she remained an avid golfer well into her 90s — a testament to the active, spirited lifestyle she embraced every single day of her extraordinary 100 years.

She is survived by her devoted longtime companion, William Fleming; her three sons, Gary Schmidt and his wife Susan of Manchester, Connecticut; Jeffry Schmidt and his wife Janet of Vernon, Connecticut; and Bruce Schmidt and his wife Deborah of Lebanon, Connecticut. She also leaves four cherished grandchildren: Jocelyn Schmidt; Ryan Schmidt; Adam Schmidt and his fiancée, Aisha Errington; and Alec Schmidt and his wife, Hannah.

The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to her devoted caregiver and friend, Veronica Beckford, whose compassionate care, kindness, and companionship brought comfort, dignity, and warmth to Elda in her later years.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice in Elda’s memory.

Calling Hours will be held on Friday, March 6th, 2026, from 9am till 11am at Holmes Watkins Funeral Home located at 400 Main Street, Manchester CT 06040. A Funeral Home Service will take place from 11am till 11:30am with burial to follow at St. James Cemetery, located at 368 Broad Street, Manchester CT. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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02/28/2026

Madeline Lee Matheny

Madeline L. Matheny, 107, passed away peacefully in her sleep shortly after celebrating her birthday on January 21. A life that began in 1919 — in the shadow of one world war and before another — came to a gentle close more than a century later. She did not merely live through history. She endured it, adapted to it, and kept moving forward through it.

Born on January 21, 1919, in Chicopee, Massachusetts, to a hardworking immigrant family from Lebanon, Madeline was the youngest of nine children. In a home filled with siblings, responsibility, and strong family values, she learned early that education was a path forward and perseverance was non-negotiable.

She carried that belief into her own academic journey, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Framingham Teaching College in Framingham, Massachusetts. At a time when higher education for women was far less common, Madeline stepped forward. She went on to teach at Chicopee High School for several years, beginning a lifelong respect for learning, discipline, and self-reliance.

Her path into business was later influenced by family as well. An older sister operated a children’s clothing shop in Westfield, Massachusetts, and spoke of opportunity in a growing town just outside Hartford — Manchester, Connecticut. Madeline listened.

In 1954, with characteristic courage and resolve, she moved to Manchester and opened Mari-Mads Youth Specialty Shop, a store that would become part of the town’s fabric for more than 30 years. She helped outfit generations of children for first days of school, holidays, and special milestones. Her shop reflected her nature — organized, welcoming, and run with purpose.

Madeline was full of tenacity. She was always on the go — purposeful, independent, rarely idle. Whether in a classroom, behind a store counter, or at home raising her family, she moved through life with determination.

She was happily married for over 60 years to her beloved husband, Gordon Matheny, an earth science teacher at Bennet Junior High School in Manchester for more than 25 years. Together, they built a home centered on education, responsibility, and enduring commitment.

She raised two children, Mark Matheny and Marcia Benson, instilling in them resilience, independence, and the value of hard work. She is survived by her son, her daughter, a devoted son-in-law, three grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren — four generations strengthened by her example.

Across her 107 years, Madeline witnessed the Great Depression, world wars, the rise of air travel and space exploration, and the dawn of the digital age. Through it all, she remained what she had always been: steady, determined, and quietly strong.

She passed as she lived — peacefully and without fanfare — leaving behind not just memories, but momentum.

From a Lebanese immigrant household in Chicopee to a classroom, to a storefront in Manchester that served a community for decades, her life stretched across more than a century. Its influence will stretch even further.

A memorial service will be held at South United Methodist Church on March 16 at 2:00 p.m.

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02/27/2026

John Cicchiello

John Paul Cicchiello, 71, of Waterbury, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Born in Waterbury on July 19, 1954, he was the son of Ann (Napolitano) Cicchiello and the late Angelo Cicchiello.

John was raised in Waterbury and was a graduate of Wilby High School. Shortly after graduation, he enjoyed traveling and subsequently moved to California, where he spent several years before returning to Connecticut in the late 1980s. Upon his return, he met his former wife, Karleen Stula. They married and made their home in Columbia, where they raised their family together.

A dedicated and hardworking man, John operated his own painting business for many years. John was also a salesman at several local auto dealerships throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.

John found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved sailing, fishing and venturing to Marco Island with his friends. He was a devoted fan of UConn Huskies' basketball, rarely missing the opportunity to watch a game. John had excellent taste in music, was a pool shark and was able to strike up conversation and make friends wherever he went. He will be remembered most for his quick wit and terrific sense of humor.

He is survived by his loving mother, Ann Cicchiello; his daughter, Eve Cicchiello and her partner, Joshua Jones; his stepdaughter, Kara Cicchiello; Kara and Eve’s mother, Karleen Cicchiello; his sister, Annette “Chick” Clark and her husband, Jack Clark; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

In addition to his father, John was predeceased by his stepdaughter, Maria Cicchiello; his brothers, Joseph “Butch” Cicchiello and Thomas Cicchiello; and his nephew, Jason Cicchiello.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main Street, Manchester, Connecticut 06040. A 2:00 PM chapel service will immediately follow at the funeral home. Burial will be private.

John’s memory will live on in the laughter he inspired, the friendships he cherished, and the love he shared so freely with those around him.

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02/26/2026

Bruce Elliott Fish

Bruce Elliott Fish, 82, of Manchester, husband of Joyce (Ames) Fish passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.Bruce was born on December 16, 1943, in Manchester, the eldest son of the late Elliott and Laura (Mathiason) Fish. He was raised in Manchester, attended local schools and was a graduate of MHS, class of 1961. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in accounting degree from Bentley College.

After graduating from college Bruce served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. Following military service, he began his professional career and worked many years for Aetna Life & Casualty Company and completed his career working in the Finance Department for the Town of Tolland.

Bruce enjoyed sports, particularly duck pin bowling, horseshoe pitching, softball and golf. He also had many fond memories of hunting and fishing with his father and brothers. He loved yard work and was always working on a project. He especially enjoyed watching the many species of birds that came to his feeders and nesting boxes. But most of all he loved his dogs Buffy, Brandy and Toby who were his best friends and companions.

Bruce is survived by his beloved wife Joyce (Ames) of 58 years, three daughters and their spouses, Susan Thomson and her husband Lee of South Windsor, Cynthia Anderson and her husband Jay of Stafford and Sharon Marino and her husband Kevin of Belchertown, Massachusetts. He also leaves five grandchildren, Chelsea, Jay, Brandon, Tyler, and Nathan along with two brothers, Donald and Steven, and four nephews.Funeral services will be private. Donations can be made to the Connecticut Humane Society or to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ASPCA.

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02/23/2026

❤️ The staff at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home recently gathered to recognize the American Heart Association’s Wear Red Day, showing their support for women’s cardiovascular health.

Participants included Alfredo Camargo, Christopher Gromko, Mandi Chater, Sarah Pruett, Kimberly Adams, Colton Schroder, Sowka Barcacel, Shay Perone, and Ann Negron.

Pictured in red, the team joined communities nationwide in raising awareness about heart disease—the leading cause of death among women—and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the health and well-being of the families they serve.

02/18/2026

****CHANGE OF SERVICE DATE. SERVICES HAVE BEEN MOVED FROM MONDAY, FEB 23RD TO WEDNESDAY, FEB 25TH DUE TO WEATHER CONDITIONS. OUR APOLOGIZES FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE****

Barbara A. Whaples

Barbara A. (Pyka) Whaples, widow of Howard M. Whaples, of Manchester, CT, passed away peacefully at Kimberly Hall, North in Windsor, CT on February 14, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on March 1, 1938, Barbara was the daughter of the late Walter Pyka and Agnes (Wandych) Pyka.

Her familial ties were deeply rooted in Manchester, where she was born and raised. Barbara is survived by her sister Diane Pyka Lombardi and her husband John, her nephews, Richard Garner and his partner Debbie, who she raised as a son, Steven Lombardi and his wife Amy, who will hold dear the memories of her love, kindness and guidance, Frank Lombardi and his wife Jessica and Donald Moore and his wife Peggy and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Barbara was predeceased by her older sister Loretta, who she was very close to, and younger brother Walter.

Barbara worked many years at Pratt & Whitney in East Hartford as a bookkeeper and brought her skills to Shawmut Equipment, M & R Liquors and RoVic. When she wasn’t working she would be knitting her wonderful slippers, dishcloths or something else that was perfectly done. She and her husband Howard were fans of race car drivers at Stafford Motor Speedway, sponsoring a race car and Howard restoring an antique race car. Barbara was a big Nascar fan traveling with Rich, Steven and Howard to Martinsville, VA, Charlotte Motor Speedway and Pocono Speedway. She had an extensive collection of Steiff Teddy Bears and loved antiquing.

Barbara and Howard moved for a brief time to Crystal River, Florida where they were happy to be out of the cold weather of CT. Barbara and Howard were married 57 years when Howard passed in 2013. Barbara then moved back to CT to be with her family.

Barbara's presence was a quiet one, but her impact on those around her was profound. She possessed an understated wisdom, a gentle sense of humor. Her legacy is one of enduring love, steadfastness in the face of life's challenges, and a deep-seated altruism that manifested in countless small acts of generosity.

In keeping with Barbara's life and values, her final arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the town that she loved and called home. Her passing is not an end, but a transition to a place of eternal peace, as promised by her faith. Her family would like to thank the many aides, nurses and special Social Worker Kate, at Kimberly Hall, North, who cared for Barbara for 7 years with love, compassion and care. We celebrate Barbara's journey on this earth and honor the indelible mark she has left on the hearts of many.

Calling Hours will be held on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026, from 9am till 10:30am at Holmes Watkins Funeral Home located at 400 Main Street, Manchester CT. A Funeral Home Service will take place between 10:30am and 11am with a burial to follow at Buckland Cemetery on Wednesday February 25th, at 11am located at 1210 Tolland Turnpike, Manchester, CT. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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