03/24/2026
Lawrence Leon Wight, 85, passed away on March 23, 2026 surrounded by his family after a long and meaningful life defined by curiosity, creativity, learning, and a deep love for the natural world. He was born on August 19, 1941, in Claremont, New Hampshire, to Mildred (Coffran) and Leon Wight. He graduated from Steven’s High School class of 59’ and attended the University of New Hampshire, pursuing studies in forestry and education, two passions that guided much of his life.
One of Larry’s favorite narratives was his belief that his soul was split between Alaska and Vermont. After marrying his high school sweetheart, his adventurous spirit and curiosity led him to move across the country, settling in Girdwood, Alaska where he taught middle school and spent years exploring the wilderness with his family, always eager to share his experiences with his students. Larry kept meticulous records of every single fishing, hiking, camping, and hunting trip he took while he lived in Alaska. He said it was because he did not want to forget anything and toward the end of his life, it was those memories that remained the most vivid.
Larry devoted many years to education and the students and communities he served. In the mid 70s, his wife convinced him to move back to New England. They purchased their dream home on Route 5 in Weathersfield, Vermont, where they remained for close to 50 years. Larry spent the next 30+ years in the public school system teaching science and history courses and holding numerous administrative positions throughout Vermont and New Hampshire. He retired for the third time (yes, you read that correctly) in 2010 as principal of Springfield High School.
Larry was often remembered by former students as an educator who recognized when someone needed guidance, validation, or a renewed sense of purpose. He often went out of his way to support students who needed a little extra encouragement or who struggled in some capacity. His family hopes that if anyone takes something away from his life, it is his example of compassion, believing that people are capable of change, and the willingness to help others find their worth.
Larry was an artist, photographer, woodworker, writer, avid reader, fisherman, historian, hunter, auctioneer, business owner (he and Dottie owned and ran Ladeau’s Furniture in Claremont, New Hampshire for 12 years), explorer, antique finder, and lifelong learner. He was a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, mentor, and friend to many. He loved his family, his home, his land, countless hunting dogs, and the quiet beauty of nature and wildlife.
Larry had a wonderful sense of humor and animated expressions that those close to him will never forget. His creativity shined brightest in his detailed carvings of decoy ducks and fish, handmade fly fishing flies, scrapbooks, and in his infinite photographs. Fishing was one of his greatest joys; he could often be found in his fishing boat on the Connecticut River, black coffee in hand (and probably a sweet treat of some sort), with his wife by his side (more than likely betting that she’d catch the bigger fish—which she usually did).
He was known for his generosity, steady guidance, and a heart always open to helping others. He was wonderfully stubborn and remained so until the very end. His love story with his wife, Dottie, spanned more than 70 years and was a source of pride and joy throughout his life.
Even as parts of Larry’s memory faded, the moments that mattered most—his love for family, his humor, and his spirit—remained present. His family is grateful for the time they spent with him and for the opportunity to help care for him in his final years.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Dottie Wight (Duval); their daughter Shelley Alflen (Wight) and her husband Robert (Bob) of Weathersfield, Vermont; his granddaughter Kayla Staples (Wight), formerly of Springfield, Vermont, her husband Graham, and their children Exelia and Gauge; his granddaughter Kaidance Craig of Windsor, Vermont, and her fiancé Ryan; and his niece Jennifer Johnston of Nashua, New Hampshire.
He was predeceased by his mother Mildred; his father, Leon; and his younger sister, Brenda Wight.
His family extends sincere gratitude to the staff at Summercrest Senior Living in Newport, Hanover Terrace Long-Term Care, and Bayada Hospice for the care and compassion they provided over the past four years.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Wildlife Heritage Foundation of New Hampshire so that other young minds may discover beauty and purpose in the outdoors or to the Alzheimer’s Association so that the research can continue.
Larry’s wishes were not to have a service and for all who love him to go fishing. A celebration of life may be held in the future.
We hope you catch all the fish, read all the books, and eat all the donuts in your afterlife. Save us a spot on the river. We love you.
Lastly, a quote from one of your most favorite books: “…and the turtles of course, the turtles are free…as turtles and maybe all creatures should be.” - Dr. Seuss
Please view Larry's guest book at the link below:
https://www.davismemorialchapel.net/obituary/lawrence-wight
