Brenda Lee LeClair

Brenda Lee LeClair, 61, of Middlesex, Vermont, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, after a yearlong battle with cancer. In her final months, Brenda received loving and dedicated hospice care from her sisters Diana and Cynthia, her significant other Jim, her stepdaughter Chassidy, and her niece Kirsten. Their constant presence and compassion brought her comfort, dignity, and peace during the most vulnerable stage of her journey.
Brenda was born on April 22, 1964, in Burlington, Vermont, the beloved daughter of Hector Joseph LeClair and Norma Jean (Gordon) LeClair.
Brenda grew up in Fairfax, Vermont, and graduated from Bellows Free Academy in Fairfax in 1982. She built a career shaped by dedication and genuine connection. For nearly two decades, she worked in sales with Food Science Corporation, managing major accounts across multiple states and earning a reputation as one of the company's top performers. Her success often led her into new territories that needed rebuilding, a challenge she met with determination and skill.
She later embraced her entrepreneurial spirit and founded her own business, Clean Connection, which she operated for ten years. Brenda also continued to grow her knowledge through independent study, completing coursework at Ashworth College in paralegal studies as well as in Nutrition, Diet, and Health Sciences, areas that reflected her curiosity and commitment to learning.
One of Brenda's greatest accomplishments was the creation of her beloved home she shared with Jim, that she named Sage Mountain, set on a peaceful piece of land in Middlesex, Vermont. Sage Mountain was the home she envisioned, designed, and brought to life, a sanctuary that reflected her independence, creativity, love of beauty and nature.
She is survived by her three sisters: Diana Cain and her husband Carl Cain, Sherry LeClair-Brooks and her husband Dennis Brooks, and Cynthia LeClair-Maertens and her husband Peter Maertens. She leaves behind eleven nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Nicole (Alberelli) LeClair, the widow of her brother Ricky LeClair, who predeceased her. She was also predeceased by her parents, Hector and Norma LeClair. Brenda also carried deep love in her heart for her two angel babies, whom she tenderly named Brianna and Dakota.
She also leaves behind her stepdaughter Chassidy King, her husband Daniel King, and Chassidy's son Javin Sheperd, all of whom held a meaningful place in Brenda's heart. Throughout her adult life, Brenda shared many years of companionship with James Kemp. Their relationship reflected the long history and connection they built together. Brenda had a lifelong love of animals, especially cats. Over the years, she cared for many, each one cherished. She leaves behind her three adored cats, Cooper, Zoey, and Callie; the last of whom she lovingly took in after her mother passed. Recently, Brenda and Jim welcomed a new puppy, Kodie, who brought joy and companionship into her life.
Brenda's caring, empathetic nature made her a close and loving friend. She maintained friendships from as far back as first grade, extending her love and care to the families of her friends as well. Brenda's friends cherished her, both for her open, loving support in bad times, and for her sense of fun and wonder that made even the smallest of good times into a magical adventure.
Brenda will be remembered for her sensitivity, her resilience, and the tenderness she carried beneath her strong exterior. She faced life with courage, loved deeply, and found her greatest joy in the beings, both human and animal, who were closest to her. Her memory will be held with love by all who knew her.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the McClure Miller Respite House for their exceptional care and compassion. A special thank you to Mo Beaudroin, Madde Fan, Debbie Barron, and Kristie Stolgitis, whose kindness and support meant so much and brought comfort during this time.
A celebration of Brenda's life will be held on her birthday, April 22, 2026, beginning at noon at Hope Cemetery in Barre, Vermont, followed by a reception at Sage Mountain in Middlesex, Vermont. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to extend an act of kindness to someone in need, a gesture that honors Brenda's spirit and the compassion she carried within her. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Brenda, please visit our Tree Store.