Mary-Lou Rene (Chaffee) Lapierre, 71, of Jericho, Vt., passed away surrounded by her family at the University of Vermont Medical Center on July 24, 2026. She was a cherished wife, mother, Mimi and friend who dedicated her life to caring for others, guided by her boundless love for children, family and friends. Anyone fortunate enough to know her was immediately welcomed by her warm, generous spirit and made to feel like part of her family. Affectionately known as “Mama Lou” to so many, she became a second mother and steadfast source of love, comfort and encouragement.
Mary-Lou was born in Burlington, Vt., on June 26, 1955. She was the oldest of four children and was the only daughter to Raymond and Barbara (Sweeney) Chaffee, who predeceased her. She was raised in Jericho and attended Mount Mansfield Union High School, Class of 1973.
On May 21, 1977, she married the love of her life and soulmate, Lucien Henry Lapierre of Shelburne, Vt., who survives her. They were happily married for 49 years. While living in Jericho, they were blessed with two children: Shawna Rae Lapierre and Danielle Lapierre Goodrich. They were also blessed with three loving grandchildren who cherished her: Thackery Lapierre, Emmett Lapierre Goodrich and Avery John Goodrich; and two sons-in-law, Matthew Lapierre and John Paul Goodrich.
From 1988 to 2017, she served as the manager of the food service program at Jericho Elementary School, where her caring nature touched the lives of countless children. Over the course of her nearly 30-year career, she proudly served more than 1.2 million lunches, believing that every child deserved a warm meal and a welcoming smile. She intentionally chose a career that allowed her to be present for her own children, never missing a softball game, school play or band concert. Whether caring for the students she served each day or cheering on her family from the sidelines, her life was defined by kindness, generosity and an unwavering commitment to those she loved.
Throughout her life, Mary-Lou found great joy in serving others. Whether volunteering her time, supporting her community with fundraisers like Jericho Together or quietly helping someone in need, she was always among the first to step forward and the last to leave. She enjoyed volunteering at the Dairy Center, scooping ice cream at the fair every summer for over 45 years, and even while volunteering her time, she faithfully collected tips to donate to charitable causes, reflecting her generous spirit and belief that even the smallest acts of kindness could make a difference.
Mary-Lou delighted in finding the perfect gift for any occasion, creating thoughtful goodie bags and finding ways to brighten someone’s day. She celebrated every holiday with so much heart, decorating with festive flags, socks, earrings and mailbox coverings. It’s no surprise that Christmas was her favorite season. She loved decorating her tree with ornaments collected over the years, each one holding a treasured memory; carefully setting up her beloved Christmas village; baking traditional family recipes; and filling her home with the sounds of Christmas music. She poured her heart into handcrafting special ornaments and stockings for family and friends, gifts that continue to adorn their homes and Christmas trees. Her enthusiasm for the season knew no bounds, even celebrating Christmas in July. Through her thoughtfulness, creativity and love of giving, she made every Christmas feel magical for those fortunate enough to share it with her. Her special ornaments will keep her love and Christmas spirit alive each holiday season.
In retirement, Mary-Lou treasured every opportunity to spend time with her family, friends and beloved pugs. She found joy in crafting, watching Hallmark movies and trying new recipes, but her greatest happiness came from creating meaningful memories with the people she loved. One of her favorite traditions was gathering with her Crafty Memories family to make Christmas ornaments, enjoy a movie, or participate in one of the many fun activities she thoughtfully planned, always complete with goodie bags and prizes for everyone. She especially cherished time with her grandsons, whether cheering them on at sporting events, laughing through water gun fights, watching movies or simply cuddling together while reading a favorite book.
Mary-Lou’s legacy is one of unconditional love, selfless generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends and community. She will be remembered not only for the countless lives she touched through her kindness and compassion but also for the joy she created in everyday moments: a thoughtfully chosen gift, a homemade ornament, a warm meal, a cheering voice from the sidelines, a comforting hug when it was needed most or a phone call just to check in. She taught those around her that life’s greatest purpose is found in caring for others, and her love will continue to live on in every act of kindness, every family tradition, every Christmas ornament hanging on a tree and every heart she welcomed as her own. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit will forever remain a guiding light to all who were blessed to know and love her.
In addition to her devoted husband, beloved children and cherished grandchildren, Mary-Lou is survived by her three brothers, Craig Chaffee, Brian Chaffee and Derek Chaffee, all of Jericho; her chosen brother, Glenn Willette of Milton, Vt.; her sisters-in-law and brother-in-law; and countless cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends who became family.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at St. Jude Parish, 10759 VT Route 116, Hinesburg, VT. The eulogy will be read at 1 p.m., with a reception to follow. There will be a private graveside service later that day.
In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation in her memory to the Vermont Foodbank or donating to your local food shelf. Additionally, in honor of Mary-Lou’s love of Christmas, carry on her spirit by listening to a favorite Christmas carol as you decorate your Christmas tree. As each ornament is placed, may you think of Mary-Lou and the joy, generosity and love she shared so freely, keeping her Christmas spirit alive in your heart and home.
A favorite photograph of Mary-Lou, taken at Danielle and John’s wedding, is included. It captured a moment when she felt especially beautiful, and Lucien was captivated by her beauty.
The family thanks you for your support and asks that you share this memorial with anyone who was touched by Mary-Lou’s life. Please visit her online tribute page at vtfuneralhomes.com to leave a message of condolence or share a favorite memory or photo.