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Judith Vaill-Lombardo Obituary
Born in Norton, Ohio on Nov. 10, 1950, Judith spent 30 wonderful years with her husband in their beloved 150-year old Vermont home, raising her two daughters, seven cats, incredible flowers and vegetables, and an occasional chicken.
In addition to her immediate family, she leaves behind two brothers, Jim and Don Himmelright; several cousins, nieces and nephews; and many devoted friends.
She was predeceased by her father, Donald Himmelright; and mother, Evelyn (McWhorter) Himmelright.
Judy loved teaching and reveled in the success of her students, devoting more than 30 years to her classes, the last 25 at Middlebury (Vermont) Union High School. She was a voracious reader, devouring an average of four books a week, ranging from Dostoevsky to the Dartmouth Bible. Even after her retirement from teaching in 2005, she continued to communicate with and advise dozens of former students.
She was a passionate and devoted friend, continuously sharing her love of food and travel, especially with her wonderful friends, Kate, Marianne, Candace and Donelle. No one cooked a better meal than Judith, whether it was a 12 course holiday dinner or a gourmet mac ‘n cheese. She shared a love for new places and people and food with her husband, as together they travelled to dozens of countries, including her favorites: Cambodia, Kenya, and Poland.
She had many other joys in her life: kayaking the Niantic River with Mia; preparing a gourmet meal with Merissa; discovering a new land with Jim; trying a new champagne with a Vermont friend; discussing the latest episode of Downton Abbey; watching the Sunday Pittsburgh Steelers game; receiving in the mail the latest Clive Cussler novel; sharing a travel story with her dear friends, Alan and Sonia, from Toronto; caressing a new bloom in her incredible flower gardens. And she joyously doted on her many cats, especially Boris, Millie, Petey, Jeremy, and Lilly.
Most of all, she loved her girls. She was so proud of Mia for her dedicated work in Kenya and Swaziland, and her pursuit of a new career in nursing. She bragged about Merissa's many artistic endeavors, from film production to interior design to home restoration. She would travel anywhere to share a joyous event with one of her children: Louisville, Kenya, Pittsburgh, Vermont.
Judith was a powerful woman who will be deeply missed.
A celebration of her life will take place on Saturday, July 26, at McCooks Beach Park, Niantic. The gathering will begin at 4 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Judith's friends make a donation to Animal Rescue League of Western Pennsylvania, 6620 Hamilton Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206; or to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in memory of Judith Vaill to support cancer research and patient care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, P.O. Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or via www.dana-farber.org/gift.
Please visit www.fultontherouxniantic.com for photos, tributes, directions, and more service information.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Judith Vaill-Lombardo
Melanie Dunn
June 8, 2015
Jim Merissa Mia
Just now heard the news of Judy's passing. My heart goes out to you and your family. I was blessed to have had Judy as a neighbor and friend (Pittsburgh) I have such wonderful memories of her. I'll never forget all the fabulous recipes she would have me taste. I've always admired her free spirit. She had such a passion for food, life, traveling, her cats but none more than her family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.
The Dunn family (Rosemont)
Janet Houghaboom
May 11, 2015
I remember your daughters with great fondness. I always admired your strength and zest for life! Healing thoughts are sent to your wonderful family ~ i am so happy to have known you all.
Janet Houghaboom
Sonia Niester
August 1, 2014
Dear Jim, Merissa and Mia;
Our deepest sympathy and condolences on Judy's passing. We were devastated to hear the news. Judy was a strong, enthusiastic, intelligent and adventurous woman, and a very dear friend. She will be sorely missed by us all. We have many fond memories of Judy throughout the years through our visits and holidays together. We will always be there for you. We can only hope that with the passing of time, that you, too, will find comfort and peace in the beautiful memories of your life together.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Love,
Sonia, Alan, Simon and Jeremy.
July 28, 2014
Dr. Lombardo - This is Cathy Zora, 4th - grade teacher, at Eisenhower in Upper St. Clair. I attended a conference with you in Chicago several years ago. I was saddened to receive the news of your wife's passing. Although I did not have the pleasure of meeting her, the obituary spoke volumes of her compassion, generosity, and joy for life. Knowing you and the beliefs you held for education when you were at Upper St. Clair, my heart tells me that you were a great team. May loving memories live on in your heart and those of your family forever. Cathy Zora
Stephanie Green
July 27, 2014
Sending your family my condolences. Judy changed us all for the better.
MUHS Class of '84
john wasbes
July 26, 2014
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Jo Gossens
July 25, 2014
To Judy's family I am so very sorry to hear about her death and wish you strength in your time of healing. I knew her as Vaill because she was my HS English teacher. She was one of the most amazing people I have ever known. She changed my life forever in how she taught me to love who I was and who I would become. I regret not contacting her earlier as I think of her VERY often and with the fondest of memories. I miss her sense of humor and how she kept me humble with her fun jokes and wonderful laugh. Vaill you will be greatly missed by all those you have ever come in contact with especially me.
Jerry Miller
July 21, 2014
To Judy's family
My deepest sympathy to you all. I was a high school classmate of Judy and remember her as being very free spirited and compashionate to others. She will be missed by many
Norton High School
Class of 1969
Jeff Render
July 21, 2014
My condolences. I lost track of many classmates after graduation. It was a pleasure to reconnect with her after all the years. She had a zest for life. She will missed.
Dick Bondy
July 20, 2014
Jim, Just now heard the tragic news. So sorry. It's apparent that Judith was a wonderful, accomplished and marvelous woman. The loss must be unbearable for you and your children. I wish you strength and courage in the days to come. With heartfelt sympathy,
Dick
July 20, 2014
Please accept our most sincere sympathy. In reading all the wonderful tributes I can see she was a truly unique and well loved person who touched the lives and hearts of so many. May memories of happy times ease your sorrow. We are truly sorry for your loss. Your cousin Barbara and Frank
Martha Santa Maria
July 19, 2014
Judith was a challenging, effective, and passionate teacher. She demonstrated keen insight, inner strength, and true grit that inspired all, especially young women. I am sorry for your loss.
James Mendillo
July 19, 2014
Jim,
After reading the volumes of wonderful tributes to Judy, I am even more saddened for you and disappointed as well that I never made the opportunity to meet her.
Of course it is no surprise to hear what a terrific partner you have had all these years or that your collective friends, relatives, co-workers and acquaintances would be so eloquent in recollecting and describing their impressions, experiences and feelings for you both.
My sincere condolences; I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers; and I look forward to getting together soon!
Jim Mendillo
Geoff Lawrence
July 18, 2014
Jim,
I was saddened to read of Judith's passing. Just recently I had recounted to a colleague the joy of pouring Kir Royales before stepping into your backyard for your wedding. Thanks for that memory, as well as many others when we were young. Take care. Geoff "DH" Lawrence
July 16, 2014
Merissa and family
I was so very sad to hear of the passing of your Mom. With deepest condolences at this time. Susan Goldstein ( Alyssa Tomasi's Mom)
Frank Burkle
July 16, 2014
Judith was a woman warrior, with the heart and soul of a poet. She influenced thousands of young people with her creative flair, her brilliant mind, and her dedication to their individual needs. Jim, Merissa, & Mia - please know that she will ALWAYS be remembered !
She always called my wife, Candace, her "sister." They were so much alike, in many ways. Judy got Candace in trouble a lot, with her shenanigans, in various cities around the country. As kindred spirits, they cherished each other. Along with all the other reasons, I loved Judith for this.
Travel well, dear Judith. Your "sister" Candace will greet you in the world of pure spirit. There, you will play and love again.
Dear woman, I am grateful for your years on this planet...
July 16, 2014
Jim, Mia , Merissa. We will never forget Judith !!! She touched so many lives in such a good way. She is riding a big pink cloud in heaven for sure. The agony in your hearts finds an echo in our own. Warmest wishes and lots of love coming your way. Gail Jette and Chuck Martin
Ginnie and Dick Ashley
July 16, 2014
We are saddened toi learn of Judith's passing, Jim. You and she were among our favorite people at MUHS those many years ago (31+). What an incredible woman Judith was, not only in the classroom, but in all walks of life. You will surely have many memories on which to go on in life without Judith. Our sincere best wishes go out to you in your time of sorrow.
Rachel San Pedro
July 15, 2014
I am very sorry for your loss, Mia. If you need to vent, just call or email. With sympathy. Rachel from RN school
July 15, 2014
Mia and Family,
We are sorry for your loss. Your mother was such a beautiful, creative woman. She was an incredible cook and so fun to be around. We will miss her dearly. Sending your entire family lots of love and support.
xoxo
Cindy, Erik, Viv, and Finn
Daryl Goodro
July 15, 2014
My sympathy to your family. Our son Brian gave Judith credit for his writing skills throughout his college years. She was a great help and encouragement to our Sasha Rasovic. Judith was a real advocate for her numerous students.
July 15, 2014
Jim & Girls,
Life is full of surprises, and not all of them are good. Surely you will support each other as you adjust to this major change in your lives. My thoughts are with with each of you.
Bev Landon, New Haven VT
Jennifer Phleb from NLCC
July 14, 2014
Jim, I am so sorry and saddened to hear of Judy's passing. I've only known you both a short time but long enough to know what a wonderful person she was and how much she will be missed. I, well a bunch of us at NLCC, have often wondered about her and have missed seeing the 2 of you. I again am so so sorry. Hold all of your wonderful memories tight in your heart and may they bring you comfort when you most need it. Take care Jim...You and your daughters are in my thoughts.
Courtney Webb
July 13, 2014
Ms Vaill was one of my favorite teachers at MUHS. I was very shocked and sad to hear the news. I had a rough time in high school and she really changed my life. She was so full of life and always willing to help people. I'll never forgot her English 220 class and study hall. Her memory will live on. She'll always have a place in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
July 13, 2014
Dear Jim, Marissa and Mia: The girls and I were very sad to hear of Judy's passing. We will always remember the wonderful Christmas's, sauerkraut making and all of the other great times together. Judy was indeed one of a kind and will always be remembered by our family. I will light a special candle on the Christmas Tree this year in memory of Judy. All our love, Penny, Annmarie and Jennifer.
Joel Vestrich
July 12, 2014
Ms. Vaill didn't just teach me about creative writing and literature. She taught me to recognize my own potential. In high school, I often struggled to find ways to express myself. But with the help of her wisdom, guidance, and genuine encouragement, I was able to find my voice. She was an extraordinary teacher and an extraordinary human being. My condolences to her family, friends, and all the other students who had the unique pleasure of being in her presence.
Christa Powers Gowen
July 12, 2014
Oh my, so sad to hear this news. To say Ms. Vaill changed my life would be an understatement. She pushed and inspired me to be the person I am today, and for that I will remain ever grateful.
I will never forget her giggling until she fell out of her chair watching 'Cane Toads,' rewinding and making us watch and re-watch, and re-watch the scene from MacBeth where his head rolls down the stairs, or the monkey-head on her desk full of treats. She expected excellence and somehow knew how to tease it out of you until you had done your best.
Someone else mentioned it, and it's true - the books on my shelves stuffed full of sticky notes and scribbles are a constant reminder. My deepest condolences to her family.
Barry DeCarli
July 12, 2014
Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. Although I met Judy while I was teaching in the DO Program, it was the many times we ran into each other at garage sales and flea markets that I remember most. She was always excited to show the bargains she had found. Her sense of adventure was evident even in the hunt for a hidden find at a yard sale. Those brief weekend interactions were always fun and pretty comical. I will always remember her wonderful smile and sense of humor.
Melissa Bush
July 11, 2014
Ms. Vaill, as a young student, embodied what I thought a women should be. She carried herself with such inner and outer beauty, as she seemed to effortlessly glide down the hall. She spoke to each student as an equal, giving time, and never made a student feel as if they were a burden. And, she taught with passion. The world has lost an amazing, outgoing, engaging, beautiful women. To her family and friends, my deepest sympathy. Thank You Ms. Vaill for the gifts you gave Middlebury Union High School and every student you touched in one way or another.
Melissa Sargent Bush (Class 1993)
Michael Desjadon
July 11, 2014
I will always remember her making dress as an 80 year old woman in a skit. Michael - class of 1990
Jamaica Burns
July 11, 2014
I have the fondest memories of Ms. Vaill's English class at MUHS: tales of her rock n' bowl adventures, her love of puns . . . did Jamaica mistake on your homework!? She said that if she had had a son she would have named him Noah so that letters would come To Noah Vaill. She wanted to open a bowling alley in Middlebury called the Spaghetti Bowl . . . and serve spaghetti. I know that she was a favorite and most memorable teacher to so many. I'm so sorry to hear of this loss. My deepest sympathy to her family.
Joe and Barbara Mingo
July 11, 2014
Thoughts and prayers to guide you through this difficult time.
Megan St. Peter Ablondi
July 11, 2014
Jim, Merissa, and Mia - I was so very saddened when I heard of Ms.Vaill's passing. She was such a wonderful, energetic teacher - one of the best to walk MUHS hallways. Her classes challenged me to prepare for college and life, and the zest she put into organizing the Young Writers' Conference was unparalleled. I loved her passion and enthusiasm. My entire family sends their deepest sympathies.
Jim Calder
July 11, 2014
So sorry to learn of Judith's passing. I remember her well in the C-3 teachers room and always seeming to eat a grapefruit for lunch and nothing else. She always worked hard for each and every student she had. She will be missed by many. Take good are Jim, Marissa and Mia. Jim Calder
Michele Sullivan
July 11, 2014
Great teacher and a high passion for life and made an impact on many. - Michele class of MUHS 1988.
Gil Gallant
July 11, 2014
The teachers of East Lyme very saddened by the loss of Judith Vaill-Lombardo. Our sympathies go out to Dr. Lombardo and his family at this very difficult time.
Laura Lopez
July 11, 2014
Ms. Vaill had a huge impact on my life and was one of my all-time favorite teachers. Very sad to hear of her passing. Sending lots of love to her family.
Carol Seibert
July 11, 2014
Sending my Deepest Sympathy to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Carol Seibert
Lisa Newton
July 11, 2014
I am saddened to hear of the passing of Ms. Vaill, as I knew her in the late '80's while at MUHS. I was just thinking of her a few weeks ago while at a concert. My first memory of her was when she told us about how she used to be an assistant to bands and singers, like Devo and Fleetwood Mac - and how quickly tired she became of fulfilling special requests, like finding a pink cadillac for Stevie Nicks. She knew how to get a high school student's attention very quickly, and knew that her special calling was teaching English (and not catering to rock stars, luckily for us at MUHS). She was such a neat, lively person and great teacher. I will cherish those memories of her.
I am thinking of your family at this sad time.
Shirley and John Carlson
July 11, 2014
A phenomenal teacher adored by her students and their parents! What an impact she had on so many lives!
Kathy and Craig Newton
July 11, 2014
We were very sorry to hear of Judith's passing. I know from listening to my Sarah and Mia chatting that Judith was a special individual
Walter Odell
July 11, 2014
“And Peter laughed, and when he did, all the Devils grinned, because Peter's laugh was a most contagious thing.” Brom - The Child Theif.
This quote sums up the carefree teacher I knew from MUHS, not only was her laugh contagious but everything about her was contagious. Her smile, her carefree attitude, her love of teaching and her wonderful stories that entertained a generation of students at MUHS. She always seemed so full of life and in my eyes she was a female version of Peter Pan, always young at heart. You will truly be missed Ms. Vaill-Lombardo.
Nancie Dunn
July 11, 2014
So very sorry for you all. Nancie Dunn and Bruce Baker
Tiffany Moricette
July 11, 2014
I'm sorry to hear but sending hugs & kisses but I heard what happened but We all here loves you, Rest & Peace Dear?
Ty Emanuel
July 10, 2014
Ms. Vail was one of those special teachers whose lessons did not stop after leaving the classroom. I continue to learn from the things she told me, not all of them related to English, literature, and composition. She'll be greatly missed.
Laura Sears
July 10, 2014
I minored in Theater at UVM due to Mrs. Vaill and her enthusiasm, she made me speak my mind, stand up for myself, and identify my inner strength...it hurts my soul, knowing she is no longer among us. To Jim, Merissa and Mia..Your mom and wife were gifts, we are so happy to have her in our lives. I truly owe her my ability to be who I am...peace
Elizabeth Gomez
July 10, 2014
I truly adored Ms. Vaill. She was a wonderful teacher and an amazing person. I am so sorry for your loss. I remember how much she adored you girls, Mia and Merissa - you were so young when your mom was my teacher! Elizabeth (Barkell) Gomez
July 10, 2014
Dear Jim,
We are so very sorry to learn about Judy's passing. Our condolences to you, Marissa and Mia.
Rick and Mary St. Peter
Lynn Patterson
July 10, 2014
I'm very sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time.
Heather Hoxsie-Seeley
July 10, 2014
So very sorry to hear of Judith's passing. I enjoyed her classes at MUHS. I wasn't ever much of an English student but her encouragement and support always brought out my best work. She will be missed. Thoughts to her family at this difficult time.
Kelley Wilson
July 10, 2014
Ms. Vaill was my favorite English teacher at MUHS. Her class was always interesting and fun. She had such an out going personality you couldn't help but be drawn into her orbit. Back in the day I was known to cut a class or two - but I never missed a class with Ms. Vaill. She greatly enriched the lives of every student she taught. She will be fondly remembered and greatly missed. My sincerest condolences to her family and those who loved her.
Betsy McPhail Donovan
July 10, 2014
Ms. Vaill taught one of the most demanding and the most fun classes at MUHS. Being in her AP English class was an adventure! Years later, I still have shelves of books full of sticky notes.
annie wilson
July 10, 2014
I am sorry to hear of your loss, Mr. Lombardo and family. Thinking of you and sending prayers for comfort and peace.
With sympathy,
Rebecca Terk-White
July 10, 2014
Ms. Vaill was an inspiration to me as a student at MUHS. After 26 years, I still have the copy of a novel she allowed me to "appropriate" after encouraging me to mark up the text with my thoughts and questions. I went on to earn a Master's in English, and I attribute my love of language and literature largely to her. What an amazing and fun person and an incredible asset to the community.
Chris Staats
July 10, 2014
So so sad to hear of this. My thoughts to Mia, Merissa and Jim.
July 10, 2014
Ms. Vaill was my teacher at MUHS. I loved her. I am shocked and saddened by her passing. I will never forget her.
Gregory Martin
July 10, 2014
I'm saddened to hear about Ms. Vail's passing & my thoughts and prayers are with her family. She inspired us with her teaching and made learning fun! I also will forever be indebted to her for going the extra mile for me during some difficult times. She is one of a handful of amazing educators that I can sincerely thank for directing me to my own path in working with students.
Wendy Emilo-Giard
July 10, 2014
Very sad to read of Judith's passing. I was fortunate to have had her as a teacher for 2 of my English classes at MUHS. More importantly, I felt privileged to be a babysitter for Merissa. Sending my love to the Lombardo family.
Laura Lass
July 10, 2014
Ms.Vail was one of my favorite teachers at MUHS and I still talk about her style of teaching today. She taught me how to write an excellent paper and I will always think of her. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family during this time.
Heather Hamilton
July 10, 2014
Ms. Vaill was one of my most favorite teachers at MUHS. Everything about her was fun! Her modern media class was my favorite! She will be missed! My deepest condolences to her husband, daughters and family. She always seemed to be such a free spirit! Sincerely, Heather Booska-Hamilton
Pat Dunkis
July 9, 2014
Dear Jim,
We were very saddened to learn of Judith's passing. Her vivacious personality is something we will always remember. We send our most profound condolences to you and your daughters.
With deepest sympathy,
Pat Dunkis and Joe Werlinich
Cheri Meier
July 9, 2014
Dr. Lombardo: While I didn't know your wife I do remember several occasions during the Rotary Galas that the two of you danced like crazy and enjoyed the evening with each other. It seems you've lost a wonderful life partner.
I am very sorry for your loss and for your family especially your girls. I hope that in time your memories of Judith will bring you smiles and sweet rememberances about your years together.
Know that friends, family and your community support and care about you.
July 9, 2014
Dear Dr. Lombardo and Family,
Judith had a short, but very full life that touched many. The following quote from Geraldine Ferraro seems appropriate at this time:
"Every one of us is given the gift of life, and what a strange gift it is. If it is preserved jealously and selfishly, it impoverishes and saddens. But if it is spent for others, it enriches and beautifies."
With heartfelt sympathy,
The East Lyme Administrators' Association
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