Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home

01/12/2026

Elaine B. Barbero

Elaine Broda Barbero, age 99, passed away on Saturday, Jan 10th, 2026, at her Bolton, CT home following a long illness. She is survived by her daughter Vicki Lynn Barbero of Bolton, CT, her son, Russell Charles Barbero

(Anne) of Deatsville, AL, her two granddaughters Jennifer Lynn Fuller (Ben) of Calera, AL, and Carrie Ann Rodriguez (Joe) of Columbiana, AL, 5 great grandchildren, godson's Robert Morra Bolton, CT and Fred Goiangos, of Manchester, goddaughter Barbara Rayel of Old Lyme, CT, and grand dog Cash. Elaine was born in Queens, NY in 1926. She spent many summers in Bolton on her grandparent's farm on Clarke Rd before moving with her parents to Birch Mountain in 1935.

She met her husband Fred in 1942 and was married in 1945 after meeting at the wedding of Fred's cousin Ray Cocconi and her aunt Irma Morra (Cocconi). Elaine and Fred then moved to Manchester where they raised their two children. In 1977, they moved to Birch Mountain to take care of Fred's parents. Fred died in 2003. Elaine added 3 rooms attached to the farmhouse where she grew up and enjoyed sharing a little piece of heaven with her daughter Vicki for a number of years.

The family wishes to especially thank Elaine's long time loving caregivers, Loren, JoEllen, Ally, Sally and the Mansfield CT Hospice team. Her kind, giving and loving spirit brought great joy to all that entered her life throughout the years. She absolutely loved and embraced nature especially her birds. May she walk freely again.

A celebration of her life will be in May when the apple blossoms are in bloom.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Elaine's name to the Bolton Senior Center, 104 Bolton Notch Rd. Bolton, CT 06043.

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01/12/2026

Linwood C. Vigneault

Linwood C. Vigneault passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, in Manchester, Connecticut. Born on June 22, 1946, in Waterville, Maine, Linwood's journey through life was marked by a steadfast commitment to his family, his work, and his country. He was a beloved husband, stepfather, and grandfather, whose gentle spirit and compassionate nature left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Linwood grew up in the scenic backdrop of Maine, where his parents, the late Joseph and Phyllis Vigneault, instilled in him a strong sense of integrity and love. After completing his high school education, Linwood honorably served in the Air Force, where he not only defended the nation's values but also honed a discipline that would serve him well throughout his life.

Upon his return to civilian life, Linwood embarked on a career as a tool die maker and engineer. His sharp intellect and meticulous attention to detail made him a respected figure in the industry. Colleagues often turned to him for his expertise and guidance, and he was always willing to lend a hand or share his knowledge.

Linwood's passion for life extended beyond his professional endeavors. He was an avid skier and boater, embracing every opportunity to be amidst nature's grandeur. These activities brought him great joy and provided cherished memories for his family, who fondly recall days spent gliding down snowy slopes or navigating the tranquil waters together.

At home, Linwood was the loving husband of Debra Vigneault. Their partnership was a testament to mutual respect and devotion. He was a guiding light to his stepchildren, Christina, Andrew, and Benjamin Brookes (wife Natalia Brookes), Greg and Eric, as well as to his step-grandchildren, Jessica, Giovanni, Nicholas, Samantha, Olivia, and Ava. Each of them benefited from Linwood's wisdom, and his legacy of kindness will continue to inspire them.

Linwood's life was a portrait of a man who lived with purpose and love. His absence will be profoundly felt by his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him. His memory will endure, a guiding star to those he leaves behind, reminding us to approach life with the same intelligence and kindness that he so effortlessly embodied.

Calling Hours will be held on Wednesday, January 14th 2026 from 9am till 11am at Holmes Watkins Funeral Home, located at 400 Main Street, Manchester CT. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Hilltown Veteran Cemetery, located at 180 Hillstown Rd, Manchester, CT 06040.. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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01/11/2026

Judith A. Rohlfs

Judith A. Rohlfs, 85, of Manchester CT, passed away peacefully on Wednesday January 7, 2026.

Judy was born and raised in Pittsfield, MA. She graduated from Pittsfield High School and then UMASS with a degree in elementary education. She taught in Hartford for 2 years, Pomfret for 4 years, and Buckley Elementary School for 30 years. During this time, she continued to further her education at UCONN where she received her Master’s degree in Education as well as a Diploma of Advanced Studies.

Teaching young children was her passion. She also loved being involved with the Map Skills and Math Olympiads programs. She was an active member of the Manchester Education Association and served as President for many years. In addition, in 1992 she was voted Manchester Teacher of the Year.

In addition to her love of teaching, Judy was an avid birder, loved gardening, traveling and photography. In her travels, she visited all fifty states and also spent time camping in many of them. She absolutely loved spending time at Pleasant Pond in Maine watching and listening to the loons as well as snorkeling at St. John. She also traveled to Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

She was a big Red Sox fan and an even bigger UCONN women's basketball fan.

Judy was the third of seven children. Her sister Lucile (Cile) was stricken by MS which led Judy to become very involved with the MS walk in East Hartford. After last year's walk, Team Cile has raised close to $74,000 for MS research over the years.

Judy is predeceased by her sister Lucile and her brother Fred. She leaves her sister Linda of Vernon CT, brothers Bob of Nashua NH, Harry of East Longmeadow MA and Jim of Savage MD. She also leaves several nieces and nephews as well as many grandnieces and grandnephews.

Calling Hours will be at the Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home at 400 Main Street, Manchester CT on Monday, January 19th from between the hours of 4pm to 6pm. The Funeral Service will be Tuesday, January 20th at 11am at South United Methodist Church, 1226 Main St. in Manchester, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National MS Society, South United Methodist Church in Manchester or The Retired Teachers Association of Manchester CT. To leave an online condolence please visit www.homleswatkins.com

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01/09/2026

Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home is proud to stand alongside those who protect and serve. Thank you to the dedicated members of the Manchester Police Department for your commitment to our community!

01/08/2026

Heidi Ann Naumec

Heidi Ann Naumec, 43, of Coventry, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 26, 2025.Born on March 19, 1982, in Hartford, Connecticut, she was the daughter of the late Joseph C. Naumec and Denise A. Borst. Heidi was a graduate of Manchester High School and spent many years working for several law firms throughout Hartford County, where she oversaw mortgage matters with dedication and care.

Heidi enjoyed traveling when she was able and cherished the memories she made visiting places such as Puerto Rico and the Grand Canyon. Above all else, her greatest joy came from her family and from the love she shared with her partner, Brian Albetski.

She will be forever remembered by her sons, Mason Pacyna and Dawson Pacyna; her sister, Heather Perry; and her many cousins, aunts, uncles, and extended family and friends. Care of private funeral arrangements has been entrusted to the Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home of Manchester.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial donations be made to a charity of one’s choice.

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01/06/2026

Carl Edward Goldsnider

Carl Edward Goldsnider, 95, a lifelong resident of Coventry, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born March 9, 1930, in Manchester, Connecticut, he was the son of the late Andrew and Julia (Andersen) Goldsnider. Carl was the second oldest of five children and was predeceased by his brothers, Andrew and John, and his sister, Anna.

Carl grew up in Coventry and, during his early childhood, attended numerous one-room schoolhouses in town. He later graduated from Manchester High School in 1948. Shortly after graduation, he began working at the American Screw Company, where he remained until being drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War in 1951. Following his honorable discharge, Carl went on to work at Pratt & Whitney in the foundry manufacturing division.

Carl loved his property and his Farmall tractors and spent countless hours working on both. Maintaining his land, cutting wood, and keeping his equipment running were how he most enjoyed spending his time, often accompanied by a shot of brandy from time to time. Carl enjoyed sharing stories about the past, frequently recalling the people, places, and moments that mattered most to him—especially stories of his mother.

He will be forever remembered by his brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Gwendolyn Goldsnider; his nephew and niece-in-law, Craig and Beth Goldsnider; and his niece, Allison Goldsnider, all of whom live with Carl on the family homestead property in Coventry. He is also remembered by numerous extended family members and friends.

A private ceremony will be held with family members. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project in Carl Goldsnider’s memory.

Care of private funeral services has been entrusted to the Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home of Manchester. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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01/02/2026

Judith S. Evarts

Judith S Evarts, 86 of Manchester, CT passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, at Hartford Hospital.

Judith (Judy) was born on April 14, 1939, in Centerbrook, CT to the late Daniel W and Huldah A Spencer. She graduated from Valley Regional High School, Deep River, CT in 1957.

Judy married in 1958, lived in Clinton, CT and had two children. She and her late ex-husband raised their children in Colchester, CT. During that time she worked for many years at the Marlborough Country Barn. There she found her talent in silk flower arranging and decorating for the holidays. After her children were grown, for a short time Judy helped run an INN in Vermont, then returned to Colchester, CT.

While living in Colchester she worked at the Colchester Mill Fabrics store for 24 years, retired and moved to Manchester, CT Judy lived out her life laughing, sewing for her family, going to the beach, watching the Hallmark channel, doing crossword puzzles, and reading Agatha Christie books.

She will be forever loved and remembered by her son Daniel Evarts, of Lebanon, CT, daughter Lynn Rose, her husband Brian Rose of Manchester, CT and her grandsons Kyle and Kurtis Rose. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, including very close non-related nieces Heather and Ally.

Judy will be dearly missed by all that knew and loved her. Per her wishes there will not be any funeral services. Memorial donations may be made in Judith's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital www.stjude.org

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01/02/2026

Bruce Matson

Bruce Matson, known to many by his longtime nickname "Ollie", died on December 25, 2025. He was born on August 16, 1946, and lived a life defined by quiet strength, independence, and a deep connection to the natural world. Bruce was a lifelong resident of Manchester, graduating from Manchester High School in 1964.From an early age, Bruce was hardworking and self-sufficient. He began his working life as a newspaper carrier for the Hartford Courant, encouraged by the example of his father, Henry, who was employed there for 40 years. He later worked at the Red Sox Dugout Billiard Hall in Manchester, Connecticut, where he was known for his reliability and steady presence. Bruce went on to build a long and respected career as a Class A sheet metal mechanic, working for several firms over the years, including Ward Manufacturing in Manchester. He took pride in his craft, believed in doing work carefully and correctly, and earned the respect of those he worked alongside.In 1966, Bruce was drafted into the United States military and served during the Vietnam War. He carried this experience with quiet resolve and a strong sense of duty. Though he rarely spoke about his service, it shaped his resilience, self-reliance, and appreciation for a simple, mostly solitary life.A lifelong outdoorsman, Bruce found his greatest peace in the forests, rivers, lakes, and farmlands of Connecticut. He spent countless hours hunting and fishing local waters, especially treasuring time at his brother's cottage on the Salmon River in Haddam, Connecticut, as well as outings on Long Island Sound with his brothers. He particularly enjoyed archery hunting in the farmlands of eastern Connecticut, where early mornings and quiet observation brought him satisfaction and connection to the land.He also valued time spent with close friends Gary and Dan, gathering at Dan's cabin in western Connecticut.Though Bruce preferred solitude, these friendships were meaningful and enduring, marked by shared outdoor time, simple meals, and quiet understanding.Those who knew Bruce remember a man of few words, a dry sense of humor, and a calm, steady presence. He chose to live a simple life, avoiding our technology absorbed world. Owning no computer, only a simple cell phone and most recently, no television, he gathered information and entertainment through a simple desktop am/ fm radio. Bruce was occasionally characterized as a cranky curmudgeon, though those who knew him best also recognized his warmth, loyalty, and quiet kindness. Conversations were sincere and unpretentious, often shared over a beverage after a long day outdoors. His well-worn hunting and fishing gear told the story of a life lived close to the land.Bruce was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Ursula Matson. He is survived by his siblings Stephen Matson and his wife Lois Matson of West Hartford, Connecticut; David Matson and his wife Joanne Matson of Niantic, Connecticut; and Mary Matson and companion Monique Burns of Rockport, Massachusetts. He is also survived by five nieces and nephews, Jessica Brand and husband Matt, Erin Matson and husband Tom Keating, Alisha Avarista and husband Dante, Samantha Chapell and husband George, Nick Matson and was especially cherished as "Uncle Brucie" by his grandnieces and grandnephews, who will remember his quiet kindness and steady presence.A celebration of Bruce's life will be held in the spring of 2026 for family and friends. Details will be shared at a later time. Those wishing to honor his memory are encouraged to spend time outdoors-walk a wooded trail, cast a line into a quiet river or Long Island Sound, or pause in stillness-in remembrance of a life lived simply, honestly, and on his own terms.

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01/02/2026

Gloria Marie (Bellows) Melendy

Gloria Marie (Bellows) Melendy, 88 of Vernon CT, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2025.

Born on October 26, 1937, Gloria was the daughter of the late Henry “Raymond” Bellows and Pearl Lewize Baxter. Raised in Columbia, CT, Gloria was the youngest of five brothers: Raymond, George, Douglas, David, and Donald.

Gloria and her beloved late husband of 54 years, Robert “Bob” Walter Melendy were married in 1956. Together they raised their three children, Julie, Gary and Terry in Manchester, CT. Gloria had worked at Procter and Gamble, Brass Key, Cigna and waitressed at various restaurants. During the winter, Gloria, Bob, and her favorite dog, Lily enjoyed vacationing at various campgrounds in FL. Gloria spent most of her adult life as a Jehovah’s Witness.

Gloria is survived by her children, Julie Thurston, Gary Melendy and his partner Patricia Jablonski, and Terry Melendy; her sister-in-laws, Shirley Bellows, and Mary Ann Melendy; as well as many extended family members and friends.

A private Funeral Service will be held at a later date. To sign the online guestbook please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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12/31/2025

Ward Moore Edgerton

On December 27th, 2025, Ward Moore Edgerton, 89, laid down the working tools of life and passed onto the next life. He was born January 23rd, 1936 in Hartford, Conn. He was the son of late Samuel A. and Ruth Moore Edgerton.

He leaves behind his wife Harriet Risley Edgerton. They were married on June 28th, 1958 at Trinity Church, Torrington. He also leaves behind a sister-in-law Joyce J. Edgerton of Ocala, Florida; two sons, David Risley Edgerton and his wife Laurie B. Edgerton of Manchester and Alan Moore Edgerton of San Diego, CA and his husband Craig Long; two grandsons Todd Alan and his wife Sarah G. Edgerton of Manchester and Jordan Risley Edgerton and his wife Mandy L. Edgerton of South Windsor; a great grandson Matthew J. Edgerton, great grandson Noah Edgerton and great grand-granddaughter, Sofia Edgerton, and a sister-in-law Carolyn A. Haley of Centereach, L.I., NY.

Ward graduated from Glastonbury High school in 1954. He attended Trinity College, graduating in 1958 with a bachelor of science degree. In 1972 he received a Masters degree in Computer Science from RP1's Hartford Graduate Center. His professional career was with United Technologies Research Center for 35 years, retiring in December, 1991. He also worked part time for 10 years for Callahan's Flower Shop, retiring in December, 2005.

His various accomplishments and interests include the following: He was a Boy Scout in Glastonbury, attaining the rank of Eagle Scout in 1952. He belonged to the Order of DeMolay of Charter Oak Chapter and was Master Councilor in 1956. He also belonged to the Masonic fraternity and was a member of Daskam Lodge number 86 in Glastonbury and then Columbia Lodge number 25 in S. Glastonbury for a total of 66 years. Shortly after his retirement in January, 1991 he became involved in the construction of the sets used in the plays put on by the Little of Manchester. He enjoyed exercising several mornings a week at the P&WA as a member of the Manchester Community College Organization of Active Adulte (MCC-OAA).

He was a founding member of the Astronomical Society of Greater Hartford. His greatest involvement was with his church, All Saints' Episcopal Church of E. Hartford. He was a member for over 64 years. During that time, he was Treasurer for 60 years and a member of the Vestry. He and his wife founded and ran the All Saints' Nursery School for 38 years until it closed in 2005.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, January 9th at 10am at All Saints’ Episcopal Church located at 444 Hills St, East Hartford, CT followed by a burial at Silver Lane Cemetery, located at 1280 Silver Ln, East Hartford, CT. In lieu of flowers, a donation made in Ward's name to the Alzheimer’s Association or your favorite charity would be appreciated. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com

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12/30/2025

As the New Year begins, we renew our gratitude to the communities we serve. Your trust and connection make our work truly meaningful.

Wishing you peace and comfort in the year ahead. Happy New Year from all of us.

12/23/2025

John S. Backer

John Scott Backer, 84, of Manchester, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 20, 2025.

Born on September 20, 1941, in Selma, California, John was the son of the late Francis Henry “Mike” Backer and Elizabeth Alice Scott. He was a graduate of California State University, Fresno, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics.

John met his future wife, Sharon (Mincy) Backer, on a blind date arranged by friends. They were married in 1963 and together raised two children, Scott and Janet. In 1972, the family relocated to Vernon, Connecticut, following John’s career with Aetna Insurance. They later settled in Manchester, where John continued his professional career with Aetna, and for a time at Travelers Insurance, until ultimately founding his own consulting firm, Mc B Associates.

Deeply committed to his community, John served as a past president of the Manchester Lions Club and was actively involved with Talcottville Congregational Church. He was especially known for his gifted hands—an accomplished woodworker and a true jack-of-all-trades, always willing and able to fix just about anything.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon Backer; his children, Scott Backer and his wife Jill Backer of Shelby Township in Michigan and Janet Ewald and her husband Tom of Ellington, Connecticut; his beloved grandchildren, Emily and Kyle Backer, and Jake and Natalie Ewald; as well as numerous extended family members and dear friends.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, December 26, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main Street, Manchester, CT 06040. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Talcottville Congregational Church, 10 Elm Hill Road, Vernon, CT 06066.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Manchester Lions Club, P.O. Box 614, Manchester, CT 06045-0614.

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