Adams Cremation

01/18/2026

Simple Direct Cremation - $690
( Cash Advances Additional)
Preplan online at www.adamscremationct.com or call us at 860 465 7402.

Adams Cremation in Willimantic, CT provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services in Willimantic and the surrounding areas.

01/17/2026

Bradley Alexander Daniels, 84, of Norwich passed away Thursday January 15, 2026.

Services are private. www.adamscremationct.com

01/13/2026

It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bernard “Bear” Perry, age 49, who lost his six-month battle with Burkitt’s Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.

Bear was born on April 25, 1976, at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital in New London, Connecticut. He passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at his family home in Uncasville, Connecticut.

He was the beloved son of the late Bernard “ Bernie” L. Perry II and Elaine (Francis) Perry. Bear is survived by his cherished daughter, Amiah Skye Perry of Norwich, Connecticut; the love of his life, Kristen Beers of Lebanon, Connecticut; his sister Kim Mahoney and brother-in-law Mitch Lawson of Plainfield, Connecticut; his sister Bernice Perry and brother-in-law Kevin Brackett of Perry, Maine; his niece Patricia Barber and grandnephew Zayvion Hayes of Norwich, Connecticut; and his nephew David Barber and wife Lexy Lowen of Fort Wayne, Indiana; and former brother -in-law Donald Barber. He is also survived by aunts, an uncle, countless cousins, and many beloved and devoted friends.

Bear, a member of the Passamaquoddy Tribe of Perry Maine, will be remembered for his deep love of family, animals and his beloved dogs over the years, Bud, T***s, Baine, Blood, Diesel, and Asia whom he considered his family. He was incredibly funny, with a mischievous sense of humor, and took great joy in pulling pranks, dressing up in costumes, and playfully scaring those around him—always with a grin and a laugh to follow. He was known for his boundless energy, zest for life and adventure. He had a lifelong love of swimming, fishing, automobiles, and motorcycles, and was a daredevil from childhood—earning the nickname “Evel Knievel.”

Throughout his chemotherapy treatments and extended stays at Hartford Hospital’s acute medical oncology unit, Bear’s warmth, humor, and spirit left a lasting impression on those who cared for him. The nurses affectionately referred to him as “Care Bear” or “Teddy Bear,” a testament to the comfort, laughter, and kindness he brought to others even in the most challenging moments.

Bear also had a deeply compassionate and sensitive heart. He was profoundly affected by those who were downtrodden by hard times, loss, grief, adversity, or illness. He carried the pain of others with him and felt deeply for those struggling through sickness or suffering of any kind. Always concerned for the poor and the indigent, Bear would give his last dollar to anyone in need. Helping others came naturally to him, and his generosity, empathy, and quiet acts of kindness touched many lives, often without recognition.

Bear deeply valued his family and friends, and his presence, laughter, and larger-than-life spirit will be profoundly missed by all who truly knew and loved him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Norwich, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bear’s memory to the Lymphoma Research Foundation, in support of Burkitt’s Lymphoma research. https://share.google/wkRSw65uofg8ULh36

01/07/2026

Dennis A. Dubay, 65, of Wauregan, CT., husband of Mandy (Pepin) Dubay passed away Tuesday January 6, 2026 at Backus Hospital. He was the son of the late Arthur and Dorothy (Levasseur) Dubay.

Dennis was born on December 6, 1960 in Norwich, CT and has resided in the Plainfield area his entire life. In his younger years he worked for the Plainfield Greyhound Association as a lead out and training/kennel assistant as well as various other local jobs. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family and was an avid fan of the New England Patriots and the Boston Redsox. He also enjoyed watching car racing and most all sports. He liked to listen to classic rock music and watch crime dramas on TV, long car rides with his wife Mandy and going to the local fairs.

Besides his wife Mandy, he is survived by his sisters, Nina Barnett of Brewer, ME and Debra Marquis of Plainfield, CT. His nephews, Jason Parker, Scott Rainey (Sherry), Ron Rainey (Jenn), and his niece Nicole Lindberg (Burke). He is also survived by great nieces, nephews, his sister-in-law Kerry Payne, as well as aunts, uncles and many cousins and friends, and his cat Ashley whom he loved very much.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Carol Rainey, brother Arthur (Tyke) Dubay, nephew, Erik Lindberg, brothers-in-law Jean Yves Marquis, Howie Barnett and sister-in-law Cindy Henry.

Burial will be private and at the convenience of his family. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.adamscremationct.com

01/05/2026

Ruth B. Laneri of South Glastonbury Connecticut passed peacefully on Sunday January 4, 2026, at the age of 104. Born to Ivar and Tekla Bergstrom, in New Britain Connecticut, Ruth was the eldest of three girls. The family moved to Water Street in South Glastonbury, CT when she was a young girl. Ruth had many fond memories of ice skating on Pond Pasture and swimming in the colorful waters of the mill at Cotton Hollow. She made her life there, raising two children, Robert Laneri of East Haddam, CT and the late Cynthia M. Cavanaugh of South Glastonbury, CT. Ruth had three grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren, all of whom brought her enjoyment and laughter.

Ruth worked as a secretary for Dobin, Austen, and Barry before retiring from Royal Insurance in Glastonbury, CT. Ruth was a long-time member of the Congregational Church in South Glastonbury. She served for many years in the Ladies Aid group, knitting prayer shawls for those in need of comfort. She also worked in the church office helping to make and fold the Sunday service bulletins. Ruth had many hobbies. She was a talented seamstress, quilt maker, master of the knitting needle, and baker. Ruth was an avid gardener and could often be found pulling weeds and tending her flowers, always with a glass of iced tea nearby. Ruth enjoyed tap dancing with the ladies at the East Hampton Senior Center in CT where their performances brought light and joy to those in senior living. Through her activities in the community, she formed many meaningful and long-lasting friendships. Ruth loved animals and took delight in riding and caring for horses with her daughter and granddaughter. She always had room in her lap for one of her beloved Dachshunds or Corgi's.

We will remember Ruth as a life lived to its fullest. One in a million.

To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.adamscremationct.com

01/04/2026

David “Bobby” Hernandez

David Hernandez, 46, of Hebron, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, leaving behind a life remembered for his warmth, strength, and devotion to his family. Known affectionately as “Bobby,” he was a loving presence whose kindness and steady spirit touched all who knew him. Bobby was a devoted husband and father who valued family above all else. His quiet strength and dependable nature allowed his loved ones to always lean on him. He will be remembered for his loyalty, compassion, and the love he shared so freely with those closest to him.

Bobby was born on November 18, 1979 in Santurce, Puerto Rico. He resided in Hebron, Connecticut, for the last eight years of his life with his beloved wife and family. He graduated from Central Connecticut State University with an associate's degree in social work. Bobby enjoyed time in nature, walking with his family and dogs on rural trails in Connecticut.

He is survived by his wife, Corin Parade; his sons, Davion and Eli; his daughter, Flora; his mother, Norma Almodovar; his brothers, William Hernandez and Elliot Hernandez; his sister, Maritza Hernandez; his mother-in-law, Cindy Parade; his father-in-law, Steven Parade; and leaves behind a very large and loving family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to his children’s educational fund at https://go.fidelity.com/zkozms

A memorial service will be held at Maranatha Hispanic SDA Church, 447 North Main St Manchester, CT 06042 on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Bobby’s memory will live on through the love he gave and the lives he touched. May his memory be a blessing.

01/01/2026

Laura Marie Bergman-Nielsen, 49, of Columbia, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Backus Hospital, surrounded by love, after a courageous year-and-a-half battle with cervical cancer. Laura faced her illness with remarkable strength, resilience, and grace, never losing her warmth or her love for those closest to her.

Born on November 30, 1976, in Denver, Colorado, Laura spent much of her life in New Jersey before moving to Columbia, Connecticut, in 2016. Wherever she lived, Laura formed deep connections and lasting friendships. She was known for her strong work ethic, adaptability, and determination, holding many roles throughout her life including gymnastics coach, cosmetologist, pharmacy technician, hotel manager, accounts payable and payroll specialist, HR manager, bookkeeper, and property manager. No matter the position, Laura brought dedication, care, and pride to everything she did.

Laura’s greatest joy came from time spent with family, friends, and the animals she loved so dearly. She found peace riding her horses, Denver and Shorty, and happiness in simple pleasures like playing bingo, camping, roller skating, and crafting with friends. She especially cherished trips to Lake George, New York, days spent at the beach, and making memories filled with laughter and love. Laura had a generous heart, a caring spirit, and a way of making people feel welcomed, supported, and truly loved.

She is survived by her devoted fiancé, Ryan Messier; her beloved daughters, Ashley and Samantha Nielsen; and her precious granddaughters, Sky Celeste and Maeve Noelle, who were the light of her life. She also leaves behind her cherished dogs, Cooper and Tater Joe, along with many other family members, friends, and loved ones who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

Laura is now resting peacefully with her father, Thomas Strickland; her soon-to-be father-in-law, Mike Messier; her grandmother, Jean; and Ryan’s grandmother, Kay
Bonor.
The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Backus Hospital for their compassionate care and support during Laura’s journey.

A Celebration of Life honoring Laura will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Columbia Congregational Church Parish Hall, located at 325 Route 87, Columbia, Connecticut 06237. All who knew and loved Laura are welcome to attend and celebrate a life filled with love, strength, and unforgettable memories. Please feel free to share memories and kind words. Laura will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.

To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.adamscremationct.com

12/12/2025

Richard R. Rushford passed away on December 7, 2025 at Backus Hospital in Norwich, CT.

Rich was a hard-working and lovable man who embodied responsibility, respect, and showed up in the world always prepared, and with lighthearted humor. His belly laughs were as quiet as he was. He was a man of VERY FEW WORDS, but with a cool, calm demeanor, his presence was warm and safe. He had a wonderful life, full of the things he loved- his family, German Shepherd dogs, fishing, s***t shooting and supporting the Taftville VFW.

Rich was born on October 5, 1947 to the late Theresa (Rivers) Rushford and Ralph Rushford in Norwich, CT. He graduated from NFA in 1965, followed by 2 years of Windham Tech before enlisting in the Marines for 5 years, serving 2 years in Vietnam. After the war, he worked as a machinist for United Nuclear before they closed, then 20 years as an officer in the Department of Correction (at Gates & York C.I.), retiring in 2011. In 1998, he married the love of his life, Gail Rushford, and thoroughly loved the home and life that they created together. He loved his grandson Liam more than anything in the world, from the minute he saw him on the day he was born.

Rich is survived by his wife, Gail Rushford , his daughter, Neiley Rushford-Snide, son-in-law, Ricky Snide, Jr., and grandson, Liam Snide, and step-children Maria and Ben Seneco and their families. He leaves many cousins and dear friends. Rich will missed by so many. He was truly a great man.

A celebration of life will be held at the Taftville VFW post #2212 on January 18, 2025 from 1-4. 36 Pratte Avenue Taftville, CT 06380. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.adamscremationct.com

12/05/2025

Sandra A. Brunsdon, 69, of Moosup wife of Dennis Brunsdon passed away Thursday December 4, 2025 at home surrounded by her loving family.

Born on October 18, 1956 in Norwich, CT she was the daughter of the late Henry Jr. and Barbara (Peterson) Kempesta. She lived in Moosup for most of her life and was an avid lover of animals, especially horses and dogs.

Besides her husband, she is survived by her sister, Sharon Tetreault of Sterling; a sister-in-law, Mary Brunsdon of Moosup; nephew, Keith Tetreault and his son Luke and nephew, Dylan Tetreault. She was predeceased by her brothers, Keith Kempesta and Charles Kempesta and by her sister, Rose Kempesta.

A Mass will be celebrated on Thursday Dec 11, at 1PM at All Hallows Church 126 Prospect St, Moosup. Refreshments will follow the Mass in the lower level of the church. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.adamscremationct.com

11/18/2025

Melva K. Blanchard, 79, of Central Village joined her late son, Dennis, the morning of Saturday November 15, 2025.

Melva, or Kaye as she was known by many, was born on July 11, 1946 to the late Lee and Emma Cravens, in Decatur, IL. She lived in Central Village, CT where she made her home. She was known for her big heart, caring nature and love of clocks, nutcrackers and her family.

She is survived by her four children, Dawn, Robert, Michael and Bradlee. As well as her ex-husband, Bob, 17 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Kaye will be remembered as a strong, caring and hard-working woman who was the thread that held her family together. The world is a much duller place without her light in it.

A Celebration of Life will be held privately and arranged by the family.

To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.adamscremationct.com