Holly Wheeler

Holly Wheeler

Topsham, VT - Holly Eggleston Wheeler, beloved educator, devoted mother, cherished Mimi, sister, and dear friend, passed away on November 30th at the Jack Byrne Center in Lebanon, NH, in the company of her two loving daughters. She was born on January 13th, 1949, in Barre, Vermont.

Holly's first love was teaching, a passion she pursued with unwavering dedication. After graduating from Lyndon State College with a degree in education, she devoted over 30 years to shaping young minds at Union 36, which later became Waits River Valley. Her students were always at the heart of her work, and her compassion, passion, and empathy made her an exceptional teacher. In recognition of her efforts and impact, Holly was honored with the Teacher of the Year award. While she taught various grades throughout her career, her fondest memories were of team-teaching first and second grades alongside her dear friend and colleague, Jessica Bates Lamphere.

Holly was married to Robert Wheeler, who passed away in 2017. She is survived by her daughters, Kristin Wheeler Emerson and her husband Barry Emerson of Topsham, VT, and Amy Caryn Wheeler and her wife Cristina Costa of Marlborough, MA. Holly adored her daughters and always cheered them on, supporting them in any way she could. She cherished her grandchildren, Jacey Smith, her husband Greg Smith, Andrew and Ethan Emerson, and her three great-grandchildren.

When her grandchildren were young, she and Robert loved taking them for rides, reading to them, telling them stories, and attending their outdoor sporting events. When Holly moved out of her longtime home in Waits River, she became neighbors to her grandsons Andrew and Ethan, a change that brought her immense joy. She loved listening to them talk about anything they wanted and soaking up the precious time spent together.

Holly was predeceased by her husband, Robert Wheeler; her parents, Ernest and Olive Eggleston; Her sister Alice Payne and her husband Kenny, brother-in-law Larry Wheeler, brother in law Steve Davis; close friend and neighbor Margaret Batten; and her special friend Paul Hodge.

She is survived by her brother Gary Eggleston and his wife Linda of East Barre, VT; sister Carole Partington and her husband David of Danville VT; sister Pam Partington and husband Bob of W.Topsham VT; brother Ernie Eggleston and his wife Cheryl of W.Topsham VT;, sister Robin Davis of N. Haverhill NH; sister in law Linda Ducharme and husband Felix of White River, VT; brother in law Roger Wheeler and wife Denise of E.Calais, VT; adopted brother in law Charlie Pilban of Cabot, VT and several nieces and nephews. She cherished the frequent phone calls from her niece, Emily.

Holly was a good listener and a best friend to many, always ready to lend an ear and offer support.

An animal lover, especially of cats, Holly not only leaves behind family and friends but also her beloved cat, Jessie, who brought her love and comfort with her purring and affection.

She will be remembered not only for her professional achievements but for the warmth and kindness she extended to all who knew her. She touched countless lives and leaves behind a legacy of love.

To respect her final wishes, there will be no services.

Donations can be made to the Potter's Angels Animal Rescue, in loving memory of Holly. Checks can be mailed to the facility at Potters Angels, 504 Mekkelsen Rd, Barre, VT 05641

To offer the family an online condolence, please visit www.rickerfh.com

Ricker Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Woodsville is assisting the family with arrangements.