Joanne Myers Lavallee, wife of Edward Lavallee, passed away after a long illness on Holy Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on July 18, 1935, in Burlington, Vt., Joanne was the daughter of Theodore and Helena Beauchemin and spent her childhood in the Burlington area. She graduated from Cathedral High School, where she was known for her warm smile and kindness.
Joanne embarked on a successful 25-year career in banking, beginning with Howard Bank, where she worked for 12 years, and later with Chittenden Bank, where she spent 13 years and played a key role in opening the Shelburne branch. She continued her career at GE for 12 years and later at Blodgett, retiring after decades of service.
Outside of her professional life, Joanne was deeply involved in her community. She was affectionately known as the “Grandmother Elf” at the Christmas Loft in Shelburne, where she took great joy in spreading holiday cheer. She also embraced the Halloween season, dressing as a witch each year to entertain children and families. For many years, Joanne and Ed volunteered with the Salvation Army, preparing and serving meals for those in need as part of St. Catherine of Siena Church’s community dinners.
Joanne’s faith was at the center of her life. As a devoted Catholic, she found great fulfillment in serving as a eucharistic minister, distributing communion to the elderly, the needy and residents of local nursing homes. It was a role that brought her immense joy and gave her the opportunity to connect deeply with others. She also worked as a secretary at Bishop Booth Conference Center, where she and Ed hosted elder hostels for several years. Through these educational programs, they met fascinating people from around the world and enjoyed trips, including a memorable visit to St. Joseph’s Oratory and Fort Chambly in Canada, where Joanne’s Canadian heritage was celebrated.
One of Joanne’s greatest joys in life was fulfilling her dream of riding in a hot-air balloon. In 2016, she checked that final item off her bucket list, an adventure she cherished for the rest of her days.
Joanne is survived by her four children: David Myers and his wife, Shelle, of Georgia, Vt.; Carolyn Palmer of Hinesburg, Vt.; Steve Myers and his wife, Sue, of Jericho, Vt.; and Angie Myers and Jeff St. Cyr of Milton, Vt. She is also survived by her stepfamily: Cindy Carey of Worcester, Mass.; James Lavallee and his wife, Lynne, of Boylston, Mass.; and Melissa Sweeten and her husband, Tim, of Holden, Mass. Joanne was predeceased by her brother, Bob, but is also survived by her siblings Gloria King of Florida, and Susan Underwood and her husband, Ralph, of Arizona. Joanne leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews and friends who will miss her deeply.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses in the Brookside section of Christopher House for their exceptional care, especially Elsie, Martha, Jessica and many others. Their compassion and kindness made Joanne’s final days comfortable and filled with love. Special thanks also go to hospice nurses Marjorie and Katherine for their dedication and support.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Catherine of Siena Church in Shelburne on May 19, 2025, 11 a.m., followed by a reception at St. Catherine’s Hall. All who knew and loved Joanne are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joanne’s memory to St. Catherine of Siena Church in Shelburne, Vt., which she cared deeply about and supported throughout her life.
Joanne found comfort in the words from the Dolors of Mary: “I found him whom my soul loves. I held him; I will never let him go.”
This article appears in Apr 30 – May 6, 2025.