Tag Archives: Class of 1966

Randall Lee Barnard ’66

Randall (“Lee”) Barnard of Bluffton, SC passed away peacefully at his home in Sun City on November 27, 2024, at age 76.

Lee is survived by his brothers Wayne (and Jackie) Barnard of Ellenton, Florida, and Chris (and Ellen) Barnard of Rock Hill, South Carolina, as well as his many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. Lee was predeceased by his parents Robert and Frances Barnard of Summerville, South Carolina.

Lee was a one-of-a-kind, reliably independent person. Never married or a parent, he lived the traditional baby boomer life in reverse – traveling extensively first, then settling down to a working career.

Lee was born August 6, 1948 in Rochester, New York. After being raised in Connecticut, he graduated from Tulane University in 1970 with a degree in biochemistry. He then worked long hours at a factory in Fairfield, Connecticut in order to save enough money to start on what would become a decades long international exploration. From late 1971 to 1982, Lee traveled throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and most of southeast Asia. He stayed in hostels, under the stars with fellow wanderers, and enjoyed a long two-continent tour in a used VW bus he bought in Europe.

In 1982, Lee had a 42 foot yacht built to his specifications in Taiwan. He then spent the next 14+ years sailing around the world – literally. He circumnavigated the globe twice, including two solo passages through the treacherous Straits of Magellan at the southern tip of South America. During this journey, he would at various times stop for months to earn some money – including at a water treatment plant in South Africa, at a sheep ranch in New Zealand, and at a tuna processing plant in Indonesia (he built housing for the factory workers). Not wanting to upset his mom Fran, he waited until his stateside return to share with his family his maritime experiences fending off icebergs, submerged shipping containers and Cambodian pirates.

Then, after 25 years, Lee decided that he had had enough of world travel and the seafaring life and so returned to the USA in 1996, settling in Beaufort, South Carolina (where his parents then lived). Shortly after his return, he put to use his college degree by joining the Hilton Head Public Service District (PSD) as a laboratory chemist. He worked for PSD for 24 years, retiring in 2022 as the Laboratory Manager.

Lee moved from Beaufort to Sun City in 2007. Although he was not a golfer or tennis player, Lee enjoyed Sun City and was always ready to help friends and neighbors (having owned a yacht for many years, Lee could repair any and all things). Being a single fellow, he would often volunteer to be on duty at the PSD on holidays, so his co-workers could spend Thanksgiving or Christmas with their families.

Some will say that it was a shame that Lee passed away alone at his home. But his family knows this is exactly how Lee wanted to move on to his next adventure – no fuss or bother. Lee died without ever owning a smartphone and with a 17 year old car sitting in his garage.

The family will arrange a memorial event in Lee’s honor at a future date.

Thomas Crosby ’66

Thomas Crosby of North Marshfield, MA, passed away unexpectedly, on July 22, 2025, at age 77. Tom is survived by his wife, Judy Crosby; and his daughters, Amy Remling and Kerri Bouchard. He will be deeply missed and forever loved by his family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday. Burial will be at a later date. Donations in Tom’s memory may be made to MGH and Clift Rodgers Library.

Michael Chan ’66

Michael Chan passed away in his home in Dover, New Hampshire, on December 2, 2024, at the age of 80, shortly after being diagnosed with cancer. Born Chan Tin Foo on September 21, 1944, in Hong Kong, Michael was part of the Tan lineage.

Michael’s educational journey began at the Diocesan Boys’ School in Hong Kong. In 1965, he was sent to the United States to study at Williston Academy in East Hampton, Massachusetts. He later graduated from the University of New Hampshire, where he pursued a degree in hospitality, ultimately leading to a long career in the restaurant business. In 1999, he proudly became a naturalized citizen of the United States relinquishing his British citizenship.

Michael served as the general manager in Brockton for the well-known WeyLu establishment prior to coming to the Seacoast region to make his permeant home and owning his own restaurants. His commitment to excellence in hospitality was matched only by his unwavering work ethic and thriftiness, values he held throughout his life.

Michael was not only hardworking, but lived simply, and was generous to those around him. His heart was especially tied to the Nicolson family of Enfield, NH, who ‘adopted’ him during his time as a young student. Michael cherished the years spent with John and Karin Nicolson, celebrating holidays, and creating lasting memories with their children and family; John Nicolson III ’70 (deceased), Robert Nicolson and Karin Tarring. Though his parents predeceased him, their love and influence remained in his life.

He leaves behind a close circle of friends, including Amy Sherwood of Amesbury, MA, Lori Lander of Cape Coral, Florida, and Anne Sy and Eddie Ng of Dover, NH. No services are planned. His desire was to be cremated and rest in a beautiful place.

Gordon M. Henry ’66

Gordon Montagu Henry, 75, passed away on December 16th, 2024, with loved ones by his side. The youngest son of Otis and Barbara Henry, he was born and raised in Bermuda with his brother, Thornton (Tim) ’62.

He attended the Roger B. Chaffee School on the Kindley Air Force Base and graduated from Williston Northampton School in Massachusetts (1966). He earned his BA in History from Washington and Lee University in Virginia (1970) and then studied Hotel Administration at Cornell University. Gordon soon returned to the island he loved to build a life-long career rooted in service and hospitality.

To know Gordon was to know a true Bermudian – warm, welcoming and fun-loving. He loved a good party and loved to dance. He loved to garden, cook and entertain. He was proud of his TWO holes-in-one on the golf course, most recently this past summer at Turtle Hill. He kept busy and active – often found walking for miles along South Shore. Most recently, he loved to help his team win Quiz Night on Mondays with his vast knowledge of U.S. history. He was a life-long member of Mid Ocean Club, and also a member of Coral Beach & Tennis Club and Christ Church in Warwick.

He is survived by his loving partner, Pamela Sawyer (Bolton, CT); his loving daughter, Melissa Henry Fisher, and son-in-law, Todd Fisher – and his two grandchildren, Chase and Henry Fisher (Sudbury, MA), his former wife, Linda Henry, former sister-in-law, Sally Childs, sister-in-law, Ann Henry (West Palm Beach, FL); niece, Ruth Keyes and nephews, Brad and John Henry – and their families. He also leaves behind many dear, lifelong friends who were like family and will miss him greatly.

A special celebration of Gordon’s life will be held at a later date TBD. Please honor Gordon’s memory by thinking of him and appreciating the beauty of Bermuda each time you pass by or take a swim in Harrington Sound – a cherished childhood place where his ashes will soon be scattered. Rest in Peace, Gordy (to his Bermudian friends) / Gordo (to his grandchildren).

Ross J. Prossner ’66

Ross James Prossner, born on Feb. 4, 1948, in Rome, New York, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, surrounded by family at his home, “Hidden Hill,” in Cazenovia. He was the youngest son of Leslie and Evelyn Prossner and brother to Terrance (deceased) and David.

Ross spent his formative years in Rome, New York, and attended Williston Academy in Northampton, Massachusetts, where he excelled in swimming, earning All-American honors in the 100-yard backstroke. He graduated in 1966 and continued his education at Syracuse University, where he was a dedicated member of the varsity swim team for four years and a proud member of the Psi Upsilon fraternity, Pi chapter, graduating in 1970.

Ross embarked on a career in banking, beginning with a brief tenure at Lincoln Bank before becoming president and CEO of Carrier Federal Credit Union. Under his leadership, the institution transitioned to Beacon Federal Credit Union and ultimately Beacon Federal Savings and Loan. His time at Beacon was marked by the formation of lasting friendships that continued into his retirement.

Ross embraced a variety of interests, including motorcycle riding, snowboarding, sailing, gardening, welding, reading, birdwatching and volunteering at The Boys and Girls Club. He was also a long-time board member and friend of The Abbey of the Genesee. Ross will be remembered by those closest to him as charismatic, creative, generous, and one of a kind.

Ross’s memory is lovingly carried on by his children, RJ and daughter-in-law Colleen, Whitney and son-in-law Jon, Samantha and special friend Justin, and Jake ’17 and special friend Erin; his grandchildren, James, Rosemary, Lia, Wyatt, and Grace; his brother, David; and his beloved canine companions, Sky and Bugsy.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, December 13, 2024, in St. James Church, 6 Green St. in Cazenovia, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Boys and Girls Club of America online at bgca.org.

Philip Bergson Jr. ’66

Philip Bergson Jr., age 76, of East Orleans, Massachusetts passed away peacefully at his home after a short illness on Tuesday, May 9, 2023.

He was born in Washington D.C. He was the son of the late Philip and Marjorie (Copelof) Bergson.

Philip was passionate about sunrises, gardening, pets, wildlife, woodworking and fine art plein air oil painting. His days were filled with expressing his love and caring nature for his family, friends and loving dog Brioche. He had a “quiet, gentle soul” with a “witty” sense of humor that was loved by all who knew him. Philip pursued his passion as an artist after retiring as a custom homebuilder. He found great joy traveling and visiting galleries for small art works that he referred to as “gems” (a large landscape captured in a small frame).

A graduate of Williston Academy, Easthampton, Massachusetts class of 1966 and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, class of 1970.

Philip leaves behind his wife Catherine Bergson, stepdaughter Cheryl Keefe, son-in-law Darren Keefe and step-grandchildren Cole Keefe and Cody Keefe. Brother Peter Bergson, Sister Patricia (husband Kenmore) Commoss, nieces, and nephews. He was the husband of the late Joanna Cook Chess Bergson.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Beacon Hospice Care, Hyannis, Massachusetts or Santos Complete Home Care, Orleans, Massachusetts for their loving compassion with helping Philip on his journey and loving support for his family who will deeply miss him.

David Stevens, Jr. ’66

David Stevens of Bocabec, New Brunswick and Easthampton, Massachusetts, passed away after a brief illness on April 28, 2023, in the Saint John Regional Hospital in Saint John, New Brunswick. Dave was born in Salem Massachusetts on May 14, 1948; he was the son of the late David Stevens and Virginia (Van Den Noort) Stevens and later his stepmother Ruth Berry Stevens. He leaves a brother, Daniel Stevens and wife JuJu Stevens of Gulfport, Florida, a step brother, Thomas Cross ’68 and wife Frances Cross ’70 of Dunnellon, Florida and numerous cousins.

As a young boy he had a passion for minerals which carried through into his later years when he turned to prospecting to make his living. He attended Williston Academy in Easthampton and later the University of Massachusetts where he edited the Yahoo Magazine. He did light shows for major rock and roll bands including J.Giles Band, Jethro Tull, and the Allman Brothers. During this time he was also an outspoken political cartoonist. His involvement in his local Bocabec area community included talks at local schools regarding minerals to be found locally and their history, working with a local hockey team and as a representative for the province at national mining symposiums and finally as a cartoonist for local papers with hard line opinions on various political stances. He was the New Brunswick prosecutor of the year multiple times. Dave was an opinionated man with simple needs and he felt at home in his community.

By David’s request there will be no visitations and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations to Ella Richardson Fund c/o Pastor Dunfield or a charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by the family.

Clifford L. Sterrett ’66

Clifford Loucks Sterrett, 76, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 2, 2023, with his loving family by his side after a long illness. He was the devoted husband of Barbara (Blaisdell) Sterrett for 51 years this August. Born January 28,1947 in New Haven; the son of the late Harold Reid Sterrett, Jr., and Elizabeth “Betty” (Loucks) Sterrett.

Cliff attended Williston Academy, Class of 1966, in Easthampton, MA and graduated from Drew University, Class of 1970, in Madison, New Jersey. At Williston, Cliff was an outstanding varsity athlete who was twice elected to the school’s athletic Hall of Fame for football and lacrosse.

He then worked from 1971 – 1975, being an instrumental part of the Thomas J. Meskill gubernatorial campaign both as Assistant Campaign Manager and then, once elected, one of several Administrative Assistants to the Governor.

In 1975, Cliff served as an Insurance Agent for Northwestern Mutual, then founder and Managing Director of the Northwestern Mutual Office in Canton from 1978 – 2015. He had much success in this office, mentored many individuals, helped countless clients and enjoyed working with fellow agents for many years especially his brother and business colleague, Rollie Sterrett.

Cliff had a passion for politics and once again served as Campaign Manager in the 1986 Republican nominated Julie Belaga gubernatorial campaign. She was the first woman ever nominated and won the Republican primary by a landslide with Cliff’s guidance.

He enjoyed snow skiing, water skiing and boating. He always dreamed of doing these things with his grandsons. While that dream changed, he still treasured spending time with them and hearing of them carrying on these interests, along with football and lacrosse. He was an avid golfer and loved socializing with friends. Cliff was also a loyal Green Bay Packers fan along with UCONN Men’s and Women’s Basketball and football. He had season tickets for many years. Cliff would often be found relishing a sunny day, with the top down, driving his red TR6 British sports car.

Cliff was very civic minded and was actively involved in his communities of both New Hartford and Sunapee, NH. In New Hartford he served as Chair of the Republican Town Committee. He treasured this role because he loved leading his community and he represented the Republican party with great enthusiasm. While he believed deeply in the party’s agenda, he welcomed educated debate with those who disagreed with him and always did so in a positive manner. Friendship and values always came first during his leadership. He also served as a two term President of the Granliden Community Association in Sunapee, NH where he had a second home. He treasured the Annual Memorial Day Golf Tournament and befriended the General Manager and treasured his fellow community members. He and his wife loved spending time with family and friends in New Hampshire whether winter or summer.

Despite Cliff’s illness, he worked hard to continue a life full of vibrancy and activity. His loving and devoted wife, Barbara, helped him to follow through on these wishes. Even before Cliff’s illness, they were always together and loyally committed to each other’s hopes and dreams.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his beloved daughter, Melissa Massett and admired son-in-law Kevin of Newtown; two cherished grandsons, Charles Massett and William “Billy” Massett, both of Newtown; loving brother Rollie Sterrett ’61 and wife Karen of Simsbury; sister-in-law, Carol Slauenwhite of Southington; several dear nieces and nephews; Kimberly (Sterrett) Ragnow of Guilford, Reid Sterrett ’91 of Farmington, Andy Yorkin of Salt Lake City, UT, and Tim Yorkin of Belmont, MA. He was predeceased by niece Korey Yorkin of Simsbury. Lastly, he is survived by his long-time best friend, Starr Barnum IV, his wife Deborah, and many other close knit friends.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff at Valerie Manor as well as his special aides at home over the last few years, for their care and kindness during his illness, especially Michelle Schmitt and Jaimie (Bennett) Sulek.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, July 8. 2023 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 51 Church Street N, New Hartford at 11 AM. Montano-Shea Funeral Home, 5 Steele Road, New Hartford has care of arrangements.

Memorial donations may be made to: Office of Advancement, The Williston Northampton School, 19 Payson Avenue, Easthampton, MA 01027 or to: Valerie Manor Resident Council Fund, Attn: Tracy Hoskins, 136 Torringford Street, Torrington, CT 06790.

Schuyler W. Sweet ’66

Schuyler Wallace Sweet, age 74, passed away unexpectedly on June 14, 2022 at Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor, Maine. Schuyler was born in Utica, N.Y. on Sept. 25, 1947 to the late Wallace Schuyler Sweet and Janis Jones Sweet. He graduated from the Williston Academy in 1966 and attended Syracuse University and Utica College. Sky was Vice President and President of Central NY Coach Lines, Inc. and President of BEQ, Inc. in Yorkville, N.Y. He also served on many boards including Union Bank and the Indium Corporation. Schuyler was honored to serve on the Board of Directors of the Indium Corporation for over 50 years, and most recently as the Chairman of the Board. He was very active in his community and served on what seemed like every non-profit or advisory board that he could help with. Sky served as director of the Littleton Area Chamber of Commerce, President of the Littleton Rotary Club Charitable Fund, Member of the Littleton Industrial Development Corp, Chair of the Northern Region Advisory Board for the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, President of Ammonoosuc Community Health Services and Trustee for The Mayhew Program which helps at-risk boys. As a lifelong duck hunter and fly fisherman, Sky was very involved with Ducks Unlimited and with Trout Unlimited; he served on local and national boards for both organizations. In 2015, Sky was appointed to the Littleton Select Board to fill a vacancy and was then elected to a three-year term as Selectman. He also served a three-year term as Littleton Water and Light commissioner from 2018 to 2021. Sky was returning from a fly fishing trip, having caught the biggest trout in 10 years of fly fishing trips in Maine when he suddenly fell ill. His family is comforted knowing that he was doing what he loved to do with his long-time friend, Ron Thomson shortly before he passed. Schuyler enjoyed maple sugaring in New Hampshire first with his late wife Deborah Sweet and in later years with his good friends, especially Chris Knapp the last few seasons. Schuyler is survived by his two children, Jolyn (Jeff DeStefanis) Sweet of Saratoga Springs, N.Y. and Wallace (Emily) Sweet of San Diego, California, and five grandchildren, Avery DeStefanis, Clara Sweet, Alexa DeStefanis, Annelise DeStefanis and Harrison Schuyler Sweet. He is also survived by his sister Sandy Partlow and brothers Brent Sweet and Stephen Sweet, nieces Janis Randolph and Heather Sweet and his nephews Colton Partlow, Harrison Sweet, Jarrett Sweet and Bryant Sweet. Upon Sky’s direction, his ashes will be scattered in his maple grove in Littleton, N.H. and in the St. Lawrence River at a later date. There will not be any funeral services. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Ducks Unlimited or buying a bottle of pure New Hampshire maple syrup to support the locals.

Ellen Clifford McGuire ’66

Ellen Clifford McGuire, 73, of East Longmeadow, MA, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Holyoke and raised in South Hadley, Ellen was the only child of John Clifford and Mary Long Clifford. After her father’s death in 1961, Ellen and her mother lived with her aunt and uncle, Margaret and Arthur Higgins, and their daughters, Carol and Margaret. While attending the Northampton School for Girls, Ellen lived with her beloved aunt and uncle, Helen and Pat Padden. Ellen earned her bachelor’s degree from Newton College of the Sacred Heart and a master’s degree in education from American International College.
A lifelong educator, Ellen began her teaching career at Blessed Sacrament in Holyoke. Ellen would later teach at Peck Middle School also in Holyoke, and spent decades as a children’s reading tutor, a role she truly relished.
Speaking of relish, you may know Ellen from her popular food column, The Readers Exchange, which she first edited and then authored in this paper from 1988 until the column’s retirement in 2020. Ellen was a talented writer and self-taught cook, and The Readers Exchange proved the perfect forum to share both of those gifts as well as her love for the community, as the recipes she highlighted were often requested and/or submitted by readers. She also authored two cookbooks. Her columns and featured recipes were approachable, and, well before the emergence of today’s cooking blog, imbued with entertaining and honest personal anecdotes. The Reader’s Exchange may live on eternally thanks to the power of the internet, and Ellen’s family encourages you to try summertime favorite, cold soup, or perhaps J.P. McMahon’s Irish beef stew.
Ellen wore many hats, and she wore them all well. In addition to teaching, she worked as a real estate agent for nearly three decades. Based in Longmeadow, where Ellen settled to raise her daughters, she was often seen driving to a house showing with her beloved poodle in the front seat. Ellen loved the role she played helping families find their home and community. Countless relationships that began as generic “fellow agent,” “buyer,” or “seller” acquaintances evolved into deep and long-lasting friendships that continue today.
While real estate, teaching, and writing all kept Ellen busy, her top priority and true source of light and love was her family and her friends. Ellen leaves behind her loving husband, Dr. Arthur T. McGuire. Ellen and Art married in 2003 and shared an intellect and sense of humor and an enthusiasm for new ventures, including international travel, Italian lessons, and ballroom dancing.
Ellen is survived by her two daughters, Molly Kenney and her partner Joseph O’Brien IV of Brookline and Longmeadow, and Bevin Kenney and her husband Scott Davidson of Jamaica Plain, and their two children, Neve and Desmond Davidson, adoring fans of their “Nani.” Through her very nature, Ellen impressed upon her girls the truly important things in life, beginning with kindness, humor, love, and acceptance, including of oneself. Ellen and her girls were and will forever be a unit, a package deal.
She leaves behind four stepsons, Timothy, John, Mike (Amanda), and Matthew (Kara) McGuire, as well as 11 McGuire grandchildren: Maggie, Frank, Maureen, Justin, Elizabeth, Mabel, Joe, Ellen, and Charlotte, Ted, Gus, all of whom Ellen adored. She will be dearly missed by a vast community of friends and family.
The family would like to thank her care teams at Baystate Medical and Kind Hands, both of which provided exceptional care and support. Calling hours for Ellen will be Tuesday, June 14th from 4-7PM at Forastiere Smith Funeral Home, 220 N. Main St., East Longmeadow. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 15th at 10:30AM at St. Michael’s Church, 128 Maple St., East Longmeadow. The family appreciates if masks can be worn. Interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Springfield. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Michael Steingart Endowment or D’amour Center for Cancer Care, both at Baystate Health Foundation, 280 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA, 01199.