Paulette, beloved wife, mom, sister, “Nana” and friend, passed away peacefully at home on August 23, 2026. She was born on September 21, 1949, in Middlebury, Vt., and grew up in New Haven, Vt., and her generous warm heart touched the lives of many no matter where she was.
She graduated from Beeman Academy in 1967, graduating top 10 in her class, which not many of us can say. (The class size was 10). Paulette married Paul Leclair on August 31, 1968. Their love created three children, who were primarily raised in Shelburne. In 1989 they purchased land and built their current home in Monkton. Over the years, they developed many deep life-lasting, loving friendships.
Paulette’s journey through life began as a homemaker and caregiver to their three children. She extended her caregiving to others by operating her own daycare. Additionally, over the years, Paulette watched all of her grandchildren, which she enjoyed immensely, taking them on field trips to local farms, playgrounds and every place in between. Those memories are cherished and will be remembered by them always. Paulette was an incredible parent and grandparent who never missed an opportunity to express how proud she was of each and every one of us. Paulette also claimed that the best job she ever had was being a mom and Nana!
She was a strong, independent and at times stubborn woman, too, but no one can argue that Paulette had a big heart and was undoubtedly a generous, caring and loving individual who thought of others before herself. Her bond with her sisters-in-law kept the families together through countless gatherings that included her homemade spaghetti sauce and rigatoni, which is now fondly named “Nana’s Rigatoni” and will be enjoyed for years to come. In her leisure time prior to her declining vision, she enjoyed running the roads, especially in her Mustang. She found joy in simple pleasures such as visiting family and friends, sightseeing, taking long drives, and being a collector of Indian artifacts and bells. Paulette belonged to and participated in her faith at the New Haven Congregational Church, along with being a member of the Ladies Union. Her love of all music, whether on the radio or playing her vinyls, included favorites such as Elvis Presley and Barry Manilow. She would sing and dance as well — or at least try … as the phrase goes … with two left feet.
Paulette held a special place in her heart for her four-legged feline kids that came into her life by choice or by accident. They brought her immense companionship, everlasting joy and love which was undoubtedly reciprocated.
She leaves her husband, Paul, of Monkton; daughter Melissa Boutin and partner Shawn Juaire of Grand Isle, Vt.; son, Steven Leclair, and wife Shannon of Shelburne, Vt.; daughter Rebecca Kilburn and husband Shawn of Vergennes, Vt.; brothers Richard Higbee and wife Suzanne of New Haven, John Higbee and partner Sue Crawford, Mark Higbee and wife Donna, and Michael Higbee and wife Stacie, all of Florida; her grandchildren and great-grandson; along with several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews. Paulette was predeceased by her parents, Amos and Evelyn (Carrie) Higbee.
Paulette will continue to surround us with her love as we will continue to find comfort in our treasured memories and keep her in our hearts that will love her FOREVER.
Please join us in celebrating the life of Paulette, with visitation on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, 5 to 7 p.m., at the New Haven Congregational Church (NHCC); a service on Thursday, September 10, 2026, 11 a.m.; and a burial at the Evergreen Cemetery on Town Hill Road. There will be a luncheon following at NHCC that all are welcome to attend.
The family would like to thank Dr. Grenoble and her staff at Hinesburg Family Health; Dr. Everett and her staff at UVM Medical Center; along with her nurse, John and all staff at Addison Home Health & Hospice.
For those who would like, donations may be made to Homeward Bound, Addison County Humane Society located in Middlebury, as one of Paulette’s final wishes.
This article appears in September 2 • 2026.
Sorry for your loss. Our toughts and prayers are with you during this painful time. To my cousin Paul et his children and all the family.