ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. – Barbara L. Hermes, 82, formerly of Stillwater, died peacefully, Dec. 15, 2005, after a long illness. She was born Oct. 14, 1923, in Stillwater, the daughter of Luther and Myrtle A. (Sawyer) Lewis. Barbara graduated from Farmington State Normal School and the University of Maine at Orono with a B.S. and M.S. in elementary education. She began her teaching career in Lincoln, before settling into the Old Town school system. There she taught first and second grade for more than 30 years and was beloved by her students. Barbara was a life-long member of the Stillwater Federated Church, a member of the Annie Mathews Society and of the Maine Retired Teachers Association. Barbara is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Mary and David Harmon of Essex Jct., Vt.; a nephew and his wife, Bruce and Patricia Smith of Stillwater; daughter-in-law, Laura Kinney of Paul Smith, N.Y.; three grandchildren, Katharine and Sarah Harmon of Essex Junction, Vt. and Christopher Kinney Hermes of Paul Smith, N.Y.; several nieces and nephews, as well as many close friends who faithfully wrote to her during her stay in Vermont. Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Raymond P. Hermes; her son, Joel L. Hermes; a brother, George A. Lewis; sisters, Agnes L. Finley and Marguerite L. Smith; and many close friends. Friends are invited to join her family in a celebration of her life 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, at the Stillwater Federated Church with Pastor Ron Chaffee, officiating. Internment will be at Lawndale Cemetery, Old Town. In lieu of flowers, please remember Barbara with a gift to the Stillwater Federated Church, P.O. Box 386, Stillwater, ME 04489 or to the charity of your choice. Please join the family for refreshments immediately following the service at the church.
BARBARA L. HERMES
