Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home

11/10/2025

Sheryl R. Bieu

Sheryl (Roy) Bieu of Manchester, Connecticut, passed away on November 7, 2025, at the age of 78. Sheryl was born in Quincy, Mass, on February 16, 1947, and graduated from Manchester High School in 1965.

She was the daughter of the late Lloyd E. and Doris (Stone) Roy. Sheryl was predeceased by her husband, Richard C. Bieu, a veteran of the Vietnam conflict who passed away in 1984. Richard and Sheryl settled in Manchester and raised their two children while Sheryl cared for children in their home - some of whom are still very close to her after 30 years, as well as working as a hairdresser and then working for the Savings Bank of Manchester and American Eagle Federal Credit Union from where she eventually retired.

Sheryl is survived by her two children and spouses, Richard P. (Kevin Knapp) and T. Christian Elliot Bieu, and 2 grandchildren, Ryan Thomas and Leah Anne. Sheryl loved to make her crafts and was always crafting and baking around the holidays. She also loved to on-line shop and was always expecting a package from UPS.

Calling Hours will be held on Thursday, November 13th, 2025 from 4pm-8pm at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home located at 400 Main Street, Manchester CT. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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11/01/2025

Clyde Wilson Conrad

Clyde Wilson Conrad, Jr., 87, of Andover, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, October 26, 2025.

Born on August 28, 1938, in Hartford, Connecticut, he was the son of the late Clyde W. Conrad, Sr. and Lillian (Hiltz) Conrad.

Clyde was a hardworking and successful businessman throughout his life, known for his determination and entrepreneurial spirit. He owned and operated a Shell gas station in South Windsor and later opened and Rented bays at a service station. Alongside his brother Raymond, he also founded the New England 4 Wheelers Jeep club.

His career began humbly as a stock clerk at Popular Market, where his dedication and leadership soon earned him a management position. It was there that he met his future wife, Georgette Domingue, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and devotion.

Outside of work, Clyde found joy in the simple pleasures of life—especially bass fishing on Andover Lake or the occasional deep-sea fishing trip.

He is survived by his loving wife, Georgette Conrad; his daughter Deanne Bowen; his son Garland Conrad; and his cherished grandchildren Danielle Buckley, Chantelle Harris and her husband Tyler, and K-Lee Brousseau. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law Patricia Conrad; nieces and nephews Carrie Conrad and her husband Mike Moses and their children Alden, Emeric, and Amilia Moses. Christopher Conrad and his wife Ellen, and their children Kadie and Chase Conrad. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother Raymond Conrad, and his granddaughter Kayleigh Ann Van Brocklin.

A memorial Mass will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 30 Church Street, Hebron, CT 06248.

Clyde will be remembered for his kindness, hard work, and the love he shared with family and friends. His legacy of integrity, dedication, and warmth will live on in all who knew him.

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10/28/2025

Anton Joseph Hierl

Anton Joseph Hierl, 89, of Coventry, CT, formerly of Branchburg NJ, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at Manchester Memorial Hospital on Friday, October 24. Joe was a beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather, and was “Pop” to the whole family. He was born January 12, 1936, in Newark, NJ. He was the son of the late Agnes and Anton Hierl.

Pop loved working on cars as a young man growing up in Irvington, NJ. He served in the National Guard from 1954-1963 and worked as a machinist prior to his career as a sales manager and later starting and running his own business as an independent sales representative in the fluid-handling equipment industry. He was a proud member of the Elks. He married Carol Lavix on February 7, 1959. They travelled extensively, with a fondness for the Southwest US. They made their home in Branchburg NJ and remained there for 48 years before moving to CT in 2020 to be close to their grandchildren. Pop enjoyed providing nourishment and shelter for the many birds in the yard while combating the intruding squirrels. Pop and Mum loved their roles as grandparents, and the Patriarch and Matriarch of the family. They had a wonderful 66 years together before her passing in 2024.

He is survived by his son David and his wife Rose of Coventry, CT, who was Pop’s carer; his son James and his partner Jackie of Somerville, NJ; his 6 grandchildren: Karic, Cassandra, Aidan, Luca, Konnor, and Allie; his brother Peter and his wife Rosemary of Union, NJ; his sister Barbara Dean and her husband Robert of Bolton, CT; his sister Agnes and her husband Fred of Franklin Square, NY; and nephews and nieces.

Friends and Family are welcome to join us in celebration of Joe’s life from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Holmes Watkins Funeral Home 400 Main Street, Manchester, CT. A Mass of Catholic Burial will follow at 11 AM at St. Matthew’s church 111 Tolland Green, Tolland, CT. A burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Tolland.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude (stjude.org)

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10/28/2025

On October 10, 2025, the Connecticut teams from Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home and Manchester Funeral Home joined the fun at the Manchester Fall Fest, where costumed families enjoyed vendors, bounce houses, a Haunted Trail—and of course, candy!

Staff members from Holmes-Watkins and Manchester (at least those not afraid of the dark!) greeted hundreds of visitors with sweet treats and a peek inside the Holmes-Watkins hearse, “driven” by our very own friendly skeleton chauffeur.

We’re proud to be engaging with our community in creative and meaningful ways, and we look forward to our next event with Potter Funeral Home in Willimantic, CT on Halloween night!

10/27/2025

💗 We’re Going Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness! 💗

Today, our team proudly joined the nationwide Go Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness day to show our support for the fighters, survivors, and all those affected by this disease.

1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime — early detection saves lives. We wear pink to raise awareness, honor those we’ve lost, and stand with those still fighting. 💪🎀

10/21/2025

Ida Marie Anderson

Ida M. (Johnson) Anderson, a woman whose life was defined by love, compassion, and a tireless devotion to others, passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2025, at 88 years of age. She was the beloved and dedicated wife of the late Wayne A. Anderson. Born in Manchester, Connecticut, on September 2, 1937, Ida was a cherished daughter of the late Herman and Mildred (Berggren) Johnson. A proud lifelong resident of Connecticut, she graduated from Manchester High School in 1955 before earning her degree from the Hartford Hospital School of Nursing in 1958. Ida built a beautiful and impactful nursing career at Manchester Memorial Hospital in Labor and Delivery. Known for her caring spirit, she was not only a dedicated nurse but was also one of the hospital's first Lamaze coaches, guiding countless new families. Her faith was a constant source of strength, and she was an active, lifelong member of Emanuel Lutheran Church in Manchester, CT. In retirement, Ida and Wayne shared wonderful memories traveling together, particularly enjoying the sunny shores of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the beauty of the Maine coastline, and trips to Branson, Missouri, Las Vegas, Nevada and Nashville, Tennessee. Her greatest joy was helping care for her beloved grandchildren, and she continued her service to the community by volunteering her time at Manchester Hospital. Ida's legacy of love is carried on by her three devoted children: Christine Anderson and her partner Doreen Dower of Framingham, Massachusetts; Jeffrey Anderson of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and Deborah Gogan and her husband Shawn of Hudson, Massachusetts. She was the loving "Meena" to four adored grandchildren: Meghan, Samantha, Zachary, and Caitlyn. She also leaves behind her dear sister, Barbara Prentice of Eugene, Oregon, and her sister-in-law, Janet Acker of Statesville, NC, along with numerous extended family members, cousins, nieces, and a nephew. She was preceded in death by her sister, the Reverend Ruth M. Johnson and her brother-in-law Ron Prentice. The family extends heartfelt thanks to her Nieces and Nephews, Sara and Eryn Manela, Wendy and Rob Hand and Paul (Cheri) Acker for the profound kindness and unwavering support they showed Ida.

Calling hours will be Friday, October 24, 2025, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at Holmes-Watkins Funeral home, 400 Main Street, Manchester, CT. A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00am on Saturday October 25, 2025, at the Emanuel Lutheran Church, 60 Church Street, Manchester.

In honor of Ida’s memory, the family suggests donations be made to Emanuel Lutheran Church, Manchester CT and the Visiting Nurse and Health Services of CT, 8 Keynote Dr. Vernon, CT, both causes close to her heart. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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10/19/2025

Roy Arthur Shook, Jr.

Roy Arthur Shook Jr., 85, of Coventry, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Born February 26, 1940, in Bangor, Pennsylvania; he was a son of the late Roy A. Shook, Sr. and Sarah (Parsons) Shook. Roy is survived by his wife Orian (Handelong) Shook; daughters Laura Barnett and husband David, Shelly Seymour and husband Ronald; grandchildren Joshua Barnett, Sarah Barnett, Ian Seymour, Roan Seymour, Fiona Seymour, Kiera Seymour; great grandchildren Jace Rivera and Mia Rivera; his sister Nancy Savercool; and numerous other extended family and friends. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother Dennis Shook. Care of private funeral services have been entrusted to the Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home of Manchester. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Parkinsons Foundation www.parkinson.org

Roy’s family would also like to express their gratitude for the staff at Mansfield Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation for their compassionate care of Roy while he was in their care.

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10/11/2025

Nicholas Vernola

Nicholas Vernola, 79, of Manchester, CT, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 6, 2025.

Born on October 25, 1945, in Manhattan, New York, Nick was the beloved son of the late Thomas Vernola and Francesca Diaferio Vernola. He grew up in Brooklyn and graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School. He later earned his bachelor’s degree from New York University and a master’s degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

While living in Brooklyn, Nick met the love of his life, Geraldine Molfetto, on a blind date. Their connection was instant and profound — made even more special when they discovered their families had roots in the same small village in Italy. They married in 1968 and moved to Vernon, Connecticut, where they raised their family before settling in Manchester.

Nick had a long and distinguished career as a mechanical engineer at Pratt & Whitney, where he worked for over 40 years until his retirement in 2008. Among his many contributions, he played a pivotal role in the development and certification of the engine that was later used in the Boeing 777’s first commercial flight — an achievement he took great pride in.

Outside of work, Nick was an avid golfer and fisherman who especially cherished his time on the water in Niantic. But it was his volunteer work at the New England Air Museum that brought him the deepest fulfillment. He dedicated countless hours to the museum, forming lasting friendships with fellow aviation enthusiasts who shared his passion. Even as his health declined, those friends remained by his side, keeping him connected to the museum’s ongoing work and personally bringing him there to experience the community and legacy they had built together. Nick will be remembered as a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. His family cherishes the memory of Christmas Eve made magical by “Santa” personally delivering gifts — a tradition he lovingly continued for his grandchildren.

Nick is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Geraldine Vernola; his son Bryan Vernola and wife Kathryn; his daughter Lauren Vernola and husband Trey Malmay; his two granddaughters Arianna Vernola and Hannah Loew-Vernola, two step grandchildren Britni Malmay and Jacob Malmay, many special cousins, and numerous other family and friends.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. James Church, 896 Main Street, Manchester, CT.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the New England Air Museum at www.neam.org.

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10/09/2025

Frederick W. Young

Frederick W. Young, a lifelong member of the Manchester community, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025, at the age of 92 in the home that he built for his family. Born on December 9, 1932, in Manchester, Connecticut, Frederick's life was one marked by dedication to his faith, his work, and his unending love for his family.

Frederick was the son of the late Thomas J. Young and Mary (McCann) Young. After attending Manchester High School, Frederick enlisted in the Navy and subsequently went on to establish a successful roofing company.

He was a man who believed in the value of hard work and the importance of family. Frederick was predeceased by his beloved wife, Audrey, and their daughter, Lisa. His legacy continues through his devoted sons, Thomas and his wife Mary, Mark and his wife Linda, and David. Each of them carries forward the principles and ethics that Frederick embodied throughout his life.

Frederick's role as a grandfather and great-grandfather was one he cherished deeply. He took great pride in sharing his wisdom and love with his grandchildren, Tyler and his wife Catherine and their daughter Haven, Morganne, Shannon and her husband Steven, Brittne and her husband Jason and their sons Camden and Caleb, Andrew, Carter and his girlfriend Katie, and Julia and her fiancé Teddy. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and they will miss his love and support.

His nieces, Colleen and Barbara, will also hold dear the memories of their uncle.

Frederick's dedication to his community was evident in his life and his involvement in various associations, such as being a 32nd Degree member of the Freemasons. His leadership and entrepreneurial spirit were admired by many, and the long-lasting quality of his work stands as a testament to that.

In the hearts of his family and closest friends, Frederick will be remembered as a man who led by example and loved unconditionally. His presence will be sorely missed, but the memories he created will be treasured forever.

His was a life well-lived, and his spirit will continue to inspire all who had the pleasure of knowing him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lisa Young Memorial Scholarship (please specify) at the Manchester Scholarship Foundation, 20 Hartford Road, Manchester, CT. At the request of his family, services will be private. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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10/02/2025

Odette Pelletier Kennedy

Odette Kennedy of Manchester, CT was born on November 22, 1937 in Lac Baker, New Brunswick, Canada. She passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025. She was the beloved wife of her first husband, the late Leo Pelletier and second husband, the late Benoit Kennedy.

Odette lived her life by her faith in God and reflected His love to all whose lives she touched. Many people will remember her for her generosity, compassion and kindness. The world is a better place because she lived, and she will be sorely missed by her family and friends.

Aside from her husbands, Odette was predeceased by her son, Michael Pelletier, her brother Paul Caron, and her sisters Hermance Winshell and Georgette Laplante.

She is survived by her two sons, Gaston Pelletier (Joyce), Luc Pelletier (Pam Holmes), and her daughter Nancy Parandes (John), as well as her beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews and extended family. Odette is also survived by four brothers Clermont Caron (Jolene), Hermel Caron (Denise), Albe Caron (Sue), John Caron (Donna), and her sister Rachel Martin (Jerry).

Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main Street, Manchester, CT has been entrusted with the services. Calling hours will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025 from 9AM to 11AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow the Calling Hours at 11:15 AM at St. Bridget Church, 80 Main Street, Manchester, CT, with burial immediate after in St. James Cemetery, 368 Broad Street, Manchester, CT.

Contributions in Odette’s name may be made to a charity of your choice. To leave on-line condolences, please visit www.holmeswatkins.com.

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09/30/2025

Jane Lee Cochran

Jane (Lee) Cochran, 97, passed away peacefully at her home on September 24, 2025. Jane was born in 1927 in Cincinnati, Ohio. She grew up in Massachusetts and graduated from Mount Holyoke college with a degree in Chemistry. After college she moved to New Haven, where she worked in a research lab at Yale Medical School. It was while living in New Haven that she was introduced by friends to Larry Cochran, a young engineer at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft. Jane and Larry married in 1952, first residing in East Hartford and then moving to Manchester, where they raised their family and lived for the rest of their lives.

Jane was a faithful member of Center Congregational Church in Manchester for almost 50 years. She was an active participant in church life, serving as a deacon and member of various committees. Along with Larry, she enjoyed leading discussion groups about books, current events, and other topics relevant to their faith.

Her friends will remember Jane as a lifelong cat lover, and for her passion for puzzles, games, riddles and poems. She was especially fond of writing lighthearted poems to and about her friends, often to recount experiences they'd shared together.

Jane is survived by her daughters Virginia Stumpff of Rio Rancho, NM and Catherine Cochran Fry of Middle Haddam, CT, and their husbands. She is predeceased by her husband of 67 years, John Larry Cochran, who died in 2019, and her son John Robert Cochran, who died in 2023.

A Memorial Service will be held at Center Congregational Church, on October 18, 2025, at 11 a.m. with refreshments to follow.

Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Center Congregational Church, 11 Center Street, Manchester, CT 06040.

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

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