Winona May (Peck) Gadapee

Winona May (Peck) Gadapee passed away peacefully in the loving company of her family at the age of 91 on June 24, 2026 at the Northeastern Vermont Reginal Hospital in St. Johnsbury. Winona persevered through many health challenges throughout her life. Her determination was matched by her positive attitude and gratitude which inspired a love of life.

Winona was born in St. Johnsbury on March 12, 1935 to Reginald and Mabel (Bryer) Peck. She grew up on the family farm in Danville with her younger brother Ronald (Joe) and younger sister Nancy. She graduated from Danville High School in 1953 and went on to earn her teaching degree from Lyndon Teachers College in 1957. She married the love of her life, Arnold Gadapee on June 21, 1958. She and Arnie enjoyed an active and fun-filled marriage of 56 years. They lived a year in Northfield, VT where Winona gave birth to her first child, Laureen. Then they moved to Mesa, AZ for a year hoping to improve Winona’s health, but missing home, they returned to Danville, VT where they lived out the rest of their life. Winona taught in many positions during her career. She gave her heart and soul to her students and cherished those relationships her whole life. In 1968, Winona and Arnie welcomed their second daughter Kimberly to the clan. Together, the family enjoyed many camping trips and other fun adventures which always included great laughter, fun and wonderful memories. Arnie and Winona traveled in all but three states; they also visited the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Maritime Provinces during their life together.

Winona believed in service to others. She was an active member of the Danville Congregational Church where she served on numerous committees. Music was an integral part of her life. She loved to play the piano and sing and was often asked to perform for dances, graduations, funerals, weddings, or other social events. She volunteered at the St. Johnsbury Health and Rehab Center for many years and the Canterbury Inn playing and leading sing-a-longs which earned her national recognition at an awards ceremony in Nashville, Tennessee. She later became a Saturday night regular at the Danville Inn playing oldies and requests. This was a highlight of her week until at 88 her declining health required her to retire.

Winona was known for her kind heart and loving character. She sent cards weekly to friends and neighbors. When she was able she would visit or call to check in on old friends, homebound acquaintances, or connect with new neighbors. She always made time to stop and chat no matter where she was or whether she knew you. Every human had value in her eyes. Her compassion and empathy ran deep. She always rooted for the underdog and saw the very best in each person she encountered. She was penpals with several inmates and stayed in touch with many friends, relatives and new friends she made on every outing she attended. Winona would be thrilled if all who knew her carried on her commitment to caring for and accepting everyone.

Winona was predeceased by her parents; Reginald and Mabel, her in-laws: Leonard and Pearl Gadapee and her husband Arnold as well as his brothers; Donald and Wayne (Butch), and her own brother, Ronald (Joe).

Her pride and joy was her family. She is survived by her sister, Nancy (Peck) Jones of Bradford, VT, daughters, Laureen Pollard and husband Martin, Kimberly Larose and husband Robert, all of Danville. Also surviving her are grandchildren and great grandchildren: Benjamin Pollard and wife Erin and son, Arnie of Farmington, Conn.; Christine (Pollard) and Steven Mendozzi of West Warwick, RI and their children Ralph, Maggie, and George; Jennifer Pollard and Justin Guibord of Monroe, NH and sons; William, Ryker and Huxley; Amanda (Pollard) and Josh Willey of West Burke. Chantilly Larose of Goffstown, NH, Celine Larose of Manchester, NH and Logan Larose in Norfolk, VA.

The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at NVRH, Canterbury Inn, and St. Johnsbury Health and Rehab for their stellar care and for making Winona’s days enjoyable and comfortable.

Visiting hours will be held at Sayles Funeral Home, 525 Summer St, St Johnsbury, VT on Friday, July 17th from 5-7pm. Celebration of Life will be held at the Danville Congregational Church on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 11:00 am followed by a reception in the fellowship hall. A burial at the Danville Green Cemetery will take place at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Danville Congregational Church, 87 Hill Street, Danville, VT 05828.

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