Jean McKinstry

St. Johnsbury, VT: Jean Elberta McKinstry, age 85, formerly of Bagley Street/North Ave, died Sunday evening July 8, 2018, at the Pines Health & Rehab center in Lyndonville, VT.

Jean was born in Morrisville, VT, on October 20, 1932, daughter to the late Hiram and Gladys (Griswold) Hale.  She was raised and educated in Morrisville and, as many did at that time, began working at an early age. She married John Elton McKinstry on March 27, 1951 and shared 25 years together at the time of his passing on June 14, 1976.  Over the years Jean worked at Littleton Shoe Company, Burndy’s in N. Haverhill, Palmer’s Cleaners, Lincoln Street School and St. J Academy.  She also worked in the cafeteria as a cook for both Canterbury Inn and Sunset Homes.  Her hobbies included fishing, sewing and embroidery.

She is survived by her 3 children: Reginald McKinstry and fiancée, Deb Griffith, of Lyndonville, Randall McKinstry of Lyndonville and Priscilla Kleespies and husband, Robert, of Lyndon, 7 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Jean was predeceased by a daughter: Pamela Roberts; sisters: Norma Hale, Doris Hale, and Evelyn Noonan; and her lifetime companion: Roger Roberts.

There will be a gathering on Thursday, July 12, 2018, 2-4PM at Sayles Funeral Home on 525 Summer Street in St. Johnsbury, VT.

Burial will be on Friday, July 13, 2018, 11AM at Riverside Cemetery in Waterford, VT.

Donations can be made to assist the family with funeral costs directly to Sayles Funeral Home at 525 Summer Street, St. Johnsbury VT  05819 or click here .

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.saylesfh.com.