Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford, NH (2026)

02/02/2026

Clarence S. Wood

Clarence S. Wood, 97, longtime resident of Mont Vernon, NH, died at the Southern NH Medical Center, Nashua, NH, on January 24, 2026.

He was born on November 1, 1928, in Randolph, VT, a son of the late Frank and Alida (Hyzer) Wood.

Clarence was raised and educated in Randolph, VT.

He worked for many years as an electronics engineer for Sanders and Lockheed Martin. Clarence enjoyed time spent with his family, woodworking, listening to music, and watching SiFi. He was a longtime member of the Mont Vernon Congregational Church and was a trustee for the church for many years.

Survivors include his two daughters, Cynthia J. Wood of Mont Vernon, NH, Jodilee Tremblay of Nashua, NH, his three grandchildren, Tarah L. Mann, Christina Tremblay, Elizabeth Topia, his four great grandchildren, Aiden Nault, Authemn Marshall, Lillian Mann and Finly Mann.

SERVICES: A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM in the Mont Vernon Congregational Church, Mont Vernon, NH. Burial will be in the spring in Randolph Center Cemetery, Randolph, VT.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers donations be made in memory of Clarence to the Mont Vernon Congregational Church.

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02/01/2026

Joseph J. Nohelty

Joseph J. Nohelty, resident of Milford, NH, passed away after a valiant battle with cancer. He was only 59 years old, leaving us far too soon.

A master mason by trade, he was known for his incredible work ethic, taking immense pride in the structures he built – a true craftsman who left his mark on the world. But above his craft, his love for his family was his greatest accomplishment. Predeceased by his loving wife, Doreen Nohelty, he now leaves to honor is memory his children, Sara Nohelty, Amanda Nohelty, Joseph P. Nohelty, John Nohelty and Jaqueline Nohelty. His loving eight grandchildren, and two great grandchildren who knew him as “funny”, fun-loving grandpa who loved to play. He also leaves behind his two sisters, Colleen Fernandez, Melanie Nohelty, and numerous nieces and nephews, and his faithful cat, Allie. Known for his charismatic personality and loving heart, Joe could light up any room. He will be greatly missed.

He believed in working hard and playing harder, ensuring his family never went without. His legacy of love, laughter, and hard work will live on in all who knew him.

SERVICES: Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford, NH. A funeral service with take place at 1:00 PM in the funeral home. Burial will conclude in the Riverside Cemetery, Milford, NH.

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

01/29/2026

Robert A. Rood

Robert A. Rood, 74, resident of Milford, NH, died at his home on Saturday, January 24, 2026.

He was born on January 3, 1952, in Nashua, NH, a son of the late Fred and Claire (Rood) Fitts.

Robert was raised and educated locally and had worked for many years as a laborer for many local quarries.

He enjoyed his family, camping, being outside and traveling the backroads listening to music.

Robert is survived by his three daughters, Sherry and her husband Shawn Johnson of Milford, Shiloh Rood of Milford, Bobbie-Jo Rood also of Milford, his eleven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

SERVICES: Cremation has taken place and services will be held privately for his family.

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01/29/2026

Jean M. DeMilia

Sadly, Jean DeMilia of Amherst, NH, formerly a longtime resident of Stow, MA passed away peacefully of January 20, 2026 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH. She was the beloved wife of Richard M. DeMilia for 69 years until Richard’s passing in 2024.

Jean was born in Waltham, MA on January 24,1933, daughter of the late Anthony and Raphael (Pesce) Carbone. She was a graduate of Watertown High School and went on to earn a degree from the Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene in Boston. After working several years as a dental hygienist, she worked in the Stow school system. She had many accomplishments throughout her life however, her true passion was her family. Jean was also blessed with many dear friends and was a role model for many.

Jean was a devoted wife, proud mother of six children, loving grandmother and great grandmother. She found happiness in the company of her large family and was always a part of countless celebrations for birthdays and holidays. She always recognized her family members’ accomplishments with cards and gatherings.

She enjoyed crocheting and over the years, making many afghans, baby items and prayer shawls. She enjoyed cooking and baking for others, arranging fresh cut flowers, watching the birds visiting her feeders and later in life, doing word search puzzles.

She lived a faith based life and was an active member at St. Isadore Catholic Church in Stow and the Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Harvard, MA. Her giving spirit was evident in her many years of volunteer work in Stow and received the Unsung Hero Award in 2006.

Jean was predeceased by her son Robert DeMilia, grandson, Michael DeMilia and husband, Richard DeMilia. She will lovingly be remembered by her surviving family members Richard DeMilia Jr and wife Beverley, Janice Bock and husband Robert, David DeMilia, Gail Foley and husband Michael, Michael DeMilia and wife Michelle, her 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren, brother Richard Carbone and wife Lynne, and brother Paul Carbone.

A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on January 31st at the Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Harvard, MA. A private burial at Brookside Cemetery in Stow, MA will occur at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her memory to Stow Friends of the Council on Aging (S.F.C.O ) P.O. Box 97 Stow, MA 01775. The Community Hospice House 210 Naticook Rd Merrimack, NH 03054. Stow Food Pantry P.O. Box 437 Stow, MA 01775. Stow Community Chest P.O. Box 392 Stow, MA 01775

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01/29/2026

Thelma A. Waugh (Schaerer)

Thelma A. Waugh, 89, resident of Milford, NH, died at the Crestwood Nursing Center on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

She was born on July 21, 1936, in Groton, MA, daughter of the late Harold and Helen (Eliades) Schaerer.

Thelma was raised and educated in Groton, MA; in her youth, she worked at her parent’s ice cream stand on Groton Farms. After High School, Thelma worked as a secretary to the Superintendent of Schools in Groton until she married in 1959. She spent many years as a homemaker, while also volunteering at the Nashoba Hospital and as a cub scout den mother. When her children were older, Thelma worked as a reporter for the Time Free Press Newspaper in Pepperell, MA and managed a variety store in Ayer, MA for several years.

She enjoyed time spent with her family most of all. Thelma loved animals, especially horses and dogs. She was an avid gardener and cultivated beautiful flowers, especially roses. Thelma was a big sports fan, most notably of the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. She had a beautiful smile that warmed many hearts.

In addition to her parents, Thelma was predeceased by her husband, Jordan F. Waugh and her son-in-law, Robert L. Duquette.

Survivors include her two children, Heather Duquette of Nashua, NH and Jonathan Waugh of Milford, NH.

SERVICES: Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford, NH. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home at 1:00 PM. Her burial will be in the Riverside Cemetery, Milford.

View Thelma A. Waugh (Schaerer)'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/23/2026

Joyce G. King

Joyce G. King, 82, resident of Milford, NH, died at her home after a period of declining health. She was born on February 13, 1943 in New Bedford, MA, a daughter of the late Edbon and Mary Lucy (Amaral) Rogers.

She is survived by her husband Ernest Crandall of Milford and her sister of Maine.

SERVICES: In accordance with her wishes burial will be private in Bedford, NH.

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01/23/2026

Vivian E. Horne

Vivian E. Horne, 94, resident of Concord, NH, died on January 19, 2026, after a period of declining health. She was born on June 9, 1931, in Lyndonville, VT, a daughter of the late Vernon and Lois (Bradley) Dunn.

Vivian graduated from Laconia High School class of 1948. It was there she met her future husband, Lawrence Horne. Larry and Vivian were married on April 24, 1949. The couple moved to Milford in 1962 and made their home there for many years till they moved to Concord in 2011.

She worked in the kitchen at the Milford school system for many years. Vivian enjoyed painting, reading, family, bingo, gambling down at Mohegan Sun, knitting and baking.

In addition to her parents, Vivian was predeceased by her three brothers, her son Michael and her husband Lawrence.

Survivors include her two daughters, Debra and her husband Gary Blanchard of Stockton Springs, ME, Wendy-Jo and her husband Neil Tullis of Ft. Myers, FL, grandchildren, Shannon Kirk, Ryan Blanchard, Jenna Stevens and Michael Tullis, great-grandchildren, Ashley Riley, Tyler Tullis, Colby Collins, Jackson Bower, Aidan Kirk, Hailey Blanchard, Zoe Kirk, Lily Blanchard, Ronan Tullis and Ava Tullis and great-great granddaughter Lillyanna Riley.

SERVICES: A funeral service will be held on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM in the Smith & Heald Funeral Home, followed by Burial in Riverside Cemetery, Milford. Celebration of Life gathering to be held at Giorgio’s in Milford at 12:30.

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01/22/2026

Ethel M. Long

Best friend and Mum, Wife and companion, Grammy and Auntie, Ethel Long of Brookline, NH rejoined the Lord Saturday, January 17, 2026 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH. Born February 16, 1954 to the Charlote and Victor Minghalla of Woburn, MA she was the eldest of 4 siblings.

An avid cook, Ethel will be remembered for her joy in preparing meals for friends, family and the community. She could frequently be found puttering about in her Garden. In later years she enjoyed traveling - annual summer trips with friends, family vacation weeks with her grandchildren, cruising and trips to the casino. For many years she was part of the Brookline Community Church and took much joy from taking care of its Kitchen and Kitchen supplies as well as serving with the Outreach Committee. She enjoyed quilting with her best girl buddies and gathering with friends for good conversation and laughter.

Ethel is survived by her loving husband Ron, daughter Vicki, stepdaughters Denise and Jennifer, and Grandchildren Angie, Matt, and Aurora as well as her sister Lori and brothers Ronald and Victor and all of her nieces, nephews.

Memorial visiting hours will be held on Friday, January 30th from 5:00-7:00pm in the Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford, NH. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 31st at 11:00am in the Brookline Community Church, 2 Main Street, Brookline, NH. A reception to follow in the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Community Hospice House, c/o Home Health & Hospice Care, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054.

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

01/20/2026

John W. Cass Sr.

****Due to inclement weather, the funeral service has been rescheduled to Tuesday, January 27th at 11:00am at Pine Grove Cemetery, Manchester, NH.****

John Wesley Cass Sr., 77, resident of Milford, NH, died on January 16, 2026, at the Community Hospice House, Merrimack, NH after a 7-year battle with Parkinson's.

He was born in Plymouth, NH on November 6, 1948, a son of Robert P. and Margaret S. (Jenness) Cass. John grew up in the Bridgewater/Ashland, NH area. He became a devoted member of Boy Scout Troop 50 which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. John graduated from Newfound High School in Bristol, NH, Class of 1966 and went on to earn his Bachelor of Education from Keene State College, Class of 1970.

After working for MacMillan Construction for two years after graduation, he became an employee of Al Melanson Roofing Co. in Keene. He worked out of the Keene site before transferring to the Bow, NH division. After 47 years of dedicated loyal employment to Melanson, he retired in January 2019.

On February 19, 1972, he married Patricia (Pat, Patty) Ritzenthaler. They moved to Milford in 1972, where they raised their children, Jaime and John.

His love of the Boy Scout program continued as his son joined Boy Scouts. He became active in the Boy Scout community in Milford. He was Cubmaster of Pack 4 and Scoutmaster of Troop 4. John enjoyed working with the Scouts, especially camping at Camp Carpenter, Woonsocket and Greenfield State Parks, and at many Camporees throughout the years. He also volunteered to be a Badge Counselor and guided several Scouts in their quest to earn their Eagle Awards. John also served as co-coordinator with Pat of the food drive hosted by Souhegan Valley Scouting for Food each Fall. On the Saturday of pickup, he could be seen at the collection site: packing, sorting, and loading boxes of food stuff into the trucks of the local food pantries.

While his children were in school, he could be found on the sidelines enthusiastically cheering them on in all their activities – whether it be football, soccer, basketball, volleyball, track, marching band, or dance. He also volunteered with the MCAA as a soccer and basketball coach.

He continued to be a cheerleader for his grandchildren – at soccer, track, and volleyball games, dance recitals, and orchestra concerts.

John loved the time he spent with his family during the annual one-week vacation to the Laramie Cottage on Crystal Lake in Enfield, teaching his grandchildren how to fish, canoe and kayak. He loved showing the kids all NH has to offer as he took them on “side trips” – Santa’s Village, Storyland, Clark’s Bears, The Flume, and Mt. Washington. They also enjoyed trips to Niagara Falls, Washington, DC, and Disney World together.

John had several medical issues throughout the years. In 2001 he endured a 10-hour cancer reconstruction surgery. Although the future was not certain, he was a true fighter who faced the procedures head on. Because of this attitude, he was a cancer survivor, which gave us twenty-five more years of his presence and love. We watched him fight valiantly once again over the past seven years as Parkinson’s overtook him.

He will be remembered for the strength he showed us all during those difficult times, his loyalty, devotion, and support and love at all times.

He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees, never leaving home without his NY Yankees cap, which inevitably drew comments from those he encountered wearing the opponent’s cap. John enjoyed this back-and-forth banter with the opposition. He also enjoyed our annual trips to Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, where the Yankee spirit was evident everywhere.

John was predeceased by his mother, Margaret S. Cass; his brother, CPL Frank L. Cass (March 1971 KIA South Vietnam), his sister, Diana L. Cass (March 1971) and several aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Patricia (Pat, Patty) Ritzenthaler Cass; daughter, Jaime Perez (Mike) of Oxford, MA; son, John W. Cass, Jr. of Wilton; grandson, Michael W. LaFlash of Worcester, MA; and granddaughter, Emily (his “PJ”) LaFlash of Tampa, FL; a brother, G. Brian Cass (Donna) of Shelter Island, NY; and sister, Brenda D. Cass-Grace and her significant other Phil Bourgeois of Canaan, NY; an aunt and uncle, and many cousins.

Visiting hours are on Friday, January 23rd from 3:00-6:00pm in the Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 27th at 11:00am in Pine Grove Cemetery, 765 Brown Ave (entrance at 450 Calef Road) Manchester, NH. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Share Outreach, Inc., 1 Columbus Avenue, Milford, NH 03055 or to Community Hospice House, c/o Home Health & Hospice Care, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Heald Funeral Home. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please go to www.smith-heald.com

View John W. Cass Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/19/2026

Anne K. Bergeron

Anne K. Bergeron, 85, resident of Nashua, NH, former longtime resident of Milford, NH, died peacefully in the company of her family early Friday morning, January 16th, 2026, at the Hunt Home, Nashua, NH.

She was born on October 24, 1940, in Manchester, NH, a daughter of the late James and Ruth (Walsh) Quinn.

Anne was raised and educated in Wilton, NH, she graduated from Mount Saint Mary Seminary in Nashua NH and was a proud alumna of Keene State College, where she earned both her undergraduate degree, and later her master’s degree in education.

Teaching was not just her profession, but her passion. Anne was a long-time teacher in the Milford School District and took great pride in her students, often recalling them by name and fondly sharing memories of their time in her classroom many years later.

She married Normand R. Bergeron, who was the co-owner of Greenville Construction in Milford and a member of the Milford Rotary. Together they made their home in Milford, where they built a life centered on family, service and community.

Above all else, Anne prioritized her family. She deeply adored caring for her grandchildren and took great joy in making sure everything was “just right” for those she loved. Throughout her life, she was always willing to step in and help whenever she was needed. In her later years, Anne enjoyed volunteering at the Hunt Home, continuing her lifelong commitment to caring for others.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her loving husband, Normand in 2004, and her two brothers, James Quinn and Thomas Quinn.

Survivors include her two sons, Timothy and his wife Brenda Bergeron of Manchester, NH, Norman and his wife Joanne Bergeron of Hudson, NH, four grandchildren, Haley McCarthy, Lexie Trudeau, Tyler Bergeron, Katelyn Bergeron, her four great grandchildren, Anthony Bergeron, Mason McCarthy, Estella Trudeau, and Leo Trudeau.

SERVICES: Calling hours will be held on January 29th from 5:00PM to 7:00PM in the Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford, NH. A funeral service will be held on Friday January 30th at 11:00AM in the Smith & Heald Chapel, with Father Dennis Audet, of St. Patrick’s Church officiating. Burial will follow in the Riverside Cemetery, Milford.

In lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to the Boy’s and Girl’s Club of Milford, NH 03055. https://svbgc.org/support-the-club/">https://svbgc.org/support-the-club/

View Anne K. Bergeron's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/14/2026

Patricia B. Spagna

Beloved Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, and Friend

Pat Spagna, a source of love, compassion, and unwavering strength, left us on Monday, January 12th at the wonderful age of 94.

She had a boundless love and selflessness that made her a wonderful person to be around. Pat always prioritized her children's needs, providing comfort and guidance during challenging times. Her love shaped them profoundly.

Pat’s role as a grandmother to Marissa, Kristen, Lauren, Alex, Ryan, Anthony and Alyssa brought her immense joy. She showered her grandchildren with love, creating cherished memories they will forever hold dear. In her last few years of life, she also was able to bond with her Great Grandchildren, Scarlett, Greyson, Nora, Adrian, Gianna, and Archer.

Beyond being a mother, Grandmother, and Great Grand Mother she was a dear friend to many. Her kindness and empathy touched so many lives, offering support and wise counsel. Her presence always brought comfort to those in need.

Pat is survived by her son John Spagna, (Robin), and daughter Christina Spagna Hill (Tina), (Kevin).

Grandchildren - Anthony Spagna, (Rachel), Alyssa Spagna Altmen, (Jacob), Marissa Hill Knowles, Kristen Hill Cilley (Joe), Lauren Hill Quintiliani (Nick), Alex and Ryan Hill

Great Grand Children - Scarlett Knowles, Greyson and Nora Cilley, Adrian Hill, Gianna Quintiliani, and Archer Spagna.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years Dr. Neno John Spagna and multiple siblings.

We will gather to celebrate Pat’s life on Friday, January 16th, 2026. An additional Celebration will be in Naples, FL in the Summer of 2026. More details to follow.

“Though the pain of parting may be great, the love we shared will forever remain In our hearts”

View Patricia B. Spagna's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

01/14/2026

Louis L. Brodeur

Louis L. Brodeur, 82, resident of Milford, NH, died on January 11, 2026 at his home.

He was born on January 13, 1943 in Lowell, MA, the son of Albert Brodeur and Antoinette (Trudel) Brodeur. Louis was raised and educated in Lowell.

Mr. Brodeur was a US Navy Veteran, having served from 1960-1964. He would later serve in the United States Naval Reserves and the Army National Guard.

Louis had worked for the Bricklayers Local 3, Boston, MA for over twenty-five years.

He enjoyed roller skating, playing softball, bowling, traveling in the RV and most especially spending time with his family.

Louis was predeceased by two siblings, Alice Lemay and Normand Brodeur.

Family members include his loving wife, Laura (Prudhomme) Brodeur of Milford, NH; three children, Richard and Deborah Brodeur of The Villages, FL, Diane and Gary Anderson of Nashua, NH, Michelle Prine and Russ of Clermont, FL; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild; a sister, Jeanette Wagner and Phillippe of Wells, ME; a brother, Roland Brodeur and Mary Ann of Dracut, MA; his beloved extended family, Richard Mattson and Michelle of Huntington Beach, CA., David Mattson of Port Richey, FL and Tamara Mattson-Sabo and Todd of Blairsville, GA; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A memorial mass with military honors will be celebrated Friday, January 23rd at 10:00am at Saint Patrick’s Church, 34 Amherst Street, Milford. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Home Health & Hospice Care, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054 or to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post # 662. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please go to www.smith-heald.com

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