Lyons Funeral Home

10/12/2026

Robert Gagnon

Robert Gagnon (Better known to many as Bigfoot) October 18, 1955 – June 30, 2026

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Gagnon, who passed away on June 30, 2026, at the age of 70.

Robert was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Janet Gagnon, and a proud father to his daughter, Shelia Gagnon and stepdaughter, Lynn Famiglietti. He was also a loving grandfather to his cherished grandson, Chase Duntz, who brought him tremendous joy.

Robert was a hardworking man who truly loved to work. As the proud owner of Gagnon Lawn Care, he built his business through dedication, determination, and an unmatched work ethic. He took great pride in providing for his family and serving his community through years of honest, dependable work.

Outside of work, Robert had a special place in his heart for animals, especially his pet cows. They brought him peace and happiness.

Robert will be remembered for his strength, unwavering dedication to his family, and the love he poured into everything he did. His legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply and the many lives he touched along the way.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janet Gagnon; his daughter, Shelia Gagnon and stepdaughter, Lynn Famiglietti; and his beloved grandson, Chase Duntz. In addition to his immediate family, Robert leaves behind many cherished brothers, sister, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends whose lives he touched.

A celebration of Robert’s life will be held on October 24, 2026, at 1pm, at the Thomaston Fish and Game Club.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Robert’s memory may donate to the Thomaston Police Department and its Explorers Program, a cause that was meaningful to him and his family.

Though he is no longer with us, Robert’s love, hard work, and memory will remain in our hearts forever.

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10/02/2026

Kenneth R Avery

Kenneth R. Avery, 81, of Torrington, Connecticut, passed away on September 26, 2026. He was born on February 10, 1945, in Brattleboro, Vermont, to Charles Avery and Vera Jasienowski.

Ken was known for his quick sense of humor, infectious smile, and unwavering optimism. He had a way of making people laugh and bringing a positive energy to the people around him. Even during an eight-year battle with cancer, his outlook never wavered. He continued to face each day with the same humor and optimism that had always been a part of his personality.

Ken proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he began a 34-year career at Rexam in Thomaston, where he worked as a Quality Manager. He was well respected by his coworkers and took pride in his work and the relationships he built throughout his career.

Outside of work, Ken enjoyed golf and bowling. He participated in bowling leagues throughout most of his life and enjoyed the camaraderie and competition that came with the game. He also appreciated the simple pleasure of spending time with the people he cared about and was always ready with a joke or a smile.

Ken was predeceased by his parents, brothers, Paul, Robert and David and his beloved wife of 30 years, Rosaleen Avery, who passed away on April 1, 2026. He is survived by brothers Arthur, Pat and Everett; sisters Barbara, Vivian and Joyce; his sons, Christopher (Lori) Avery and Jason (Lonnie) Avery; his stepchildren, Caolan (Kristen) Scott and Conor (Laura) Scott; and his eight grandchildren, Camryn Avery, Sarah Avery, Evan Avery, Brayden Scott, Cayce Scott, Shayne Scott, Abigail Scott, and Riley Scott.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, October 12, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Lyons Funeral Home, 46 High Street, Thomaston, Connecticut.

Burial services will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 12:00 PM at the State Veterans Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown, Connecticut.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Smilow Cancer Hospital, in New Haven, CT

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10/01/2026

Rose Marie St. Denis

Rose Marie Juliano St. Denis

Rose Marie (Juliano) St. Denis, 93, of Thomaston, Connecticut, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 27, 2026. Rose was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, on August 29, 1933, the daughter of the late Rosa Campobasso and Pellegrino Juliano, proud immigrants from Sassinoro, Italy.

Rose was married to her beloved husband, John St. Denis, for 62 years until his passing in 2017. Together, Rose and John raised four children and built a life centered on family, work, faith, community and service. For decades, they worked side by side running their building business in Thomaston, thoughtfully constructing dozens of quality homes for families in town. After retiring, they devoted much of their time to volunteer work and giving back to their community. They restored the Seth Thomas House, helped with the Thomaston Opera House Restoration, The Thomaston Public Library and the John St. Denis Senior Center Pool Hall and supported many building, fundraising and service-oriented events at St. Thomas Church.

First and foremost, Rose was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, aunt, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was the proud mother of four children, grandmother of nine and, as of this year, great-grandmother of 16. Her family was the center of her life, and the generations that followed her became her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. She took genuine pleasure in bringing people together, creating and sharing meals, celebrating milestones and creating a warm, welcoming home where family and friends always knew they belonged.

Rose carried within her the deeply emotional and enduring traditions of her Southern Italian and Catholic heritage—a culture rooted in family, passionate love, faith, hospitality, sacrifice and devotion across generations. She shared that heritage not through strictness, but through example: by welcoming others to her table, honoring family bonds, keeping faith at the center of daily life and showing that love is expressed through patience, generosity and steadfast presence. She understood that traditions live not only in prayers and celebrations, but also in the meals prepared, stories remembered, lessons quietly offered and values practiced every day. She was never rigid or judgmental; instead, she led with warmth and humility, giving her family a living example of how to remain faithful to one’s roots while meeting the world with compassion and an open heart.

Rose will be remembered for her serene yet courageous nature, calm presence, wonderful sense of humor, blissful silent laugh, and deep empathy for others. She faced life’s challenges with quiet strength and grace while meeting each day with kindness, patience and abiding faith. She was thoughtful and generous, always ready to listen, offer encouragement or lend a helping hand above and beyond the call of duty. Her life was filled with family, faith, friendship, food, laughter and service. She had a remarkable ability to care for people and make them feel loved, valued and welcomed. Her gentle spirit, warm smile and steady devotion to those around her left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She created a vast community where her values will live on. Her presence will be eternal. We ask all who knew her to see Rose’s qualities in themselves and to nurture those gifts for those who follow us.

Rose was predeceased by her husband, John St. Denis; her parents, Rosa and Pellegrino Juliano; and her siblings, Florence Cialela, Pasqualina Juliano, Mario Juliano, Louis Juliano and Johnny Juliano.

She leaves her beloved sister, Lucille Ferrari, another role model of boundless love, as well as her four children, Gary Saint Denis (Joanie Saint Denis), Linda Saint Denis Hartnett (Christopher Hartnett), Sandra St. Denis Cross (Jack Cross) and John (Jack) Saint-Denis, Jr. (James Favaro); her nine grandchildren; her 16 great-grandchildren; and many dear nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends whose lives she touched throughout her 93 years, and whose devotion to Rose was equally a miracle for us all.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday October 5, 2026 at St. Thomas Church 19 Electric Ave. in Thomaston beginning at 11:00 AM. Everyone is asked to meet directly at the church. Burial will follow in St. Thomas Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Visit www.lyonsfuneralhome.com for online condolences and directions.

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09/24/2026

Jessica Tammy Fairchild

Jessica Tammy Fairchild

June 24, 1994 - September 19, 2026

Jessica Tammy Fairchild passed away at her family home on September 19, 2026.

Born on June 24, 1994, Jessica grew up in Northfield, Connecticut with a love of nature and love for animals. Jessica loved the outdoors, weather spending time with her fur babies, planting wild flowers, or relaxing in her hammock. She enjoyed spending time on the beach, camping and hiking with her beloved dog Riot. Jessica was an accomplished equestrian in her childhood.

Her kind loving spirit shined brightest in her writings. Whether writing her thoughts in a journal, a short story, or a note in a card. Jessica's writings could bring a smile to your face, laughter to your heart, or a tear to your eye.

Jessica graduated from Wamogo High School in Litchfield, Connecticut and was a graduate of Northwestern Connecticut Community College in Winsted, Connecticut. She received the Veterinary Technology Award for her graduating class. Jessica was a Certified Veterinary Technician and was employed by Urgent Vet in New Britian and ConneCT Veterinary Care in Farmington, Connecticut. Jessica trained her dog, Riot, to be a Certified Service Animal with Mutts Mending Mankind in Bantam, Connecticut.

Jessica is survived by her parents, Mark and Linda (Beaudoin) Fairchild of Northfield, Connecticut her brother Zachary Fairchild, future sister-in-law, Jenny Famiglietti and a niece, Emma Fairchild. Grandparents Thomas and Leigh Beaudoin and Grandmother Lillian Fairchild, as well as, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Preceded in death by her Grandfather John Fairchild, her Aunt Tammy Fairchild, her Uncle Jeffrey Fairchild and Cousin Brooke Fairchild.

Jessica, our hearts are so heavy, our only comfort is knowing you are now at peace in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. You were always loved, will never be forgotten and forever missed. Rest in Peace our precious daughter.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Lyon's Funeral Home in Thomaston from 10:00 to 12:00 with a prayer service immediately following led by Pastor Chris.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Jessica at the Watertown Golf Club, 246 Guernseytown Road, Watertown from 1:00 to 3:00.

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09/15/2026

Donna Lyga

Donna Cynthia Lyga, 73, passed away peacefully at Saint Francis Hospital, surrounded by her loving niece, Lauren.

Donna was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, to Harry and Elizabeth (Liz) Lyga. She graduated from Thomaston High School with the Class of 1971. She attended Central Connecticut State University, earning her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1975. She began her career as a teacher in Nebraska before returning to Connecticut, where she continued her education at CCSU and earned a degree in computer science.

Donna spent 39 years working at Epicor, where she built a long and successful career as a senior support analyst and formed friendships that became a meaningful part of her life. She cared deeply about the people around her, and her kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others touched countless lives.

Giving back to her community was simply part of who Donna was. She generously volunteered her time with the Thomaston Library, Thomaston Opera House, and Thomaston Fire Department. She also spent countless hours baking for community events, always happy to share her time and talents with others.

Donna had a special love for dogs, who brought her great comfort, companionship, and joy throughout her life. She especially adored her Welsh Terrier, Jiminey, who was her devoted companion and held a very special place in her heart. The bond they shared was truly precious, and Jiminey was a cherished part of Donna’s life. Her love for him reflected her caring nature.

Donna was a woman of many talents and interests. She had a natural gift for sewing and was a talented seamstress. She also enjoyed playing tennis as a hobby and treasured the time she spent on the court. She loved her garden and spent her summers tending to it, always proud to have fresh tomatoes on hand to share.

Donna especially loved the holidays—not only for the traditions, but for the opportunity to bring people together. Her home was always warm and welcoming, and her holiday dinners were filled with good food, laughter, and family. For Donna, being together with the people she loved was what mattered most.

Those who knew Donna will remember her beautiful smile, her warmth, her generous heart, and the way she made everyone feel welcome. She had a quiet way of making a difference in the lives of others, never seeking recognition for all that she did. She gave her time, her talents, and her love freely.

Above all, Donna treasured her family. She especially cherished the time she spent with her great-nephew, Alexander Lapp, who brought her tremendous joy. Her love for her family was evident in all that she did, and the memories she created with them will be treasured forever.

Donna is survived by her sister Elizabeth and brother-in-law, Michael Cerwinka; her sister Joanne Lytle; and sister-in-law, Marty Lyga; nieces Lauren Lyga, Jessica Lyga, and another niece who wishes to remain anonymous; nephews Seth Lytle, Craig Lytle and his partner Danielle Robinson, and Justin Lyga; great-nephews Carter Lytle and Alexander Lapp; her best friend since first grade, Bev Aubrey; and many other loving family members and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, Harry and Liz Lyga; her brothers, Peter and Harry Lyga; her brother-in-law Frank Lytle and her nephews, Mark Lytle and Paul Lyga.

Donna leaves behind a lifetime of kindness, laughter, friendship, and love. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her, but so will the warmth of the memories she gave us. Her smile, generous spirit, love of family, and caring heart will remain with us always.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in our hearts.

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09/11/2026

Brenda Doris Pinette

Brenda Doris Pinette, 64, of Thomaston, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026, surrounded by her immediate family as she entered into the loving arms of heaven.

Born on July 30, 1962, to the late Lucien and Doris Pinette, Brenda was the loving wife to Steven Synott, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Brenda was also a devoted member of St. Thomas Church in Thomaston.

Brenda was the life of the party, always talking to someone, bringing plenty of laughter and good times wherever she went. She always made sure that every holiday or birthday party that she attended was special, often bringing thoughtful gifts that made each person feel important. She loved shopping, and could always find a deal and something that she had to have. She especially cherished her summers by the pool, surrounded by family and friends, and, of course, sipping on one of her famous frozen margaritas.

Brenda always knew how to have a good time, especially when surrounded by the people she loved the most. Full of energy, laughter, and life, she made every moment together one to remember. The memories of her vibrant spirit will be treasured by all who knew and loved her forever.

She leaves behind her husband, Steven Synott of Thomaston, her sister Rena Bailey of Torrington, her god-children Angelle Bailey and Brandon Durham of Torrington, many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly, as well as countless friends who held a special place in her heart.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 17th, at Lyons Funeral Home in Thomaston from 5 to 7 p.m., with a Prayer Service immediately following, led by Father Crowley.

Burial will be private.

There will be a gathering at a later date for family and friends to share memories of Brenda and celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Thomaston Volunteer Ambulance Corps, 237 South Main Street, Thomaston, CT.

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09/10/2026

Sirena Alyse Rice

Sirena Alyse Rice, age 39, passed away unexpectantly, August 30th, 2026.

Born on July 9, 1987, Sirena grew up in Watertown, Connecticut, where she excelled as a gifted soccer player, earning a scholarship for her skills on the field, and later brought that same competitive spirit to a local Frisbee team, where she was affectionately known by teammates as “Sticky Rice.”

Sirena was a graduate of Watertown High and went on to graduate from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. It was there that she met the love of her life, and together, they began to build a beautiful life.

Sirena was fiercely loyal, witty, charming, and had an energy that was contagious. She had a genuine warmth that made people feel comfortable, and young people in particular seemed to sense it, gravitating toward her like she was a safe harbor. She was also incredibly creative and artistic. She loved sharing it with the world.

Everything Sirena did, she did with immense passion, always pouring 100% of her heart and soul into her endeavors. She took great pride in her work and possessed a rare gift for building deep, meaningful relationships wherever she went.

Her professional life was defined by her desire to connect and uplift: she thrived while creating memorable experiences at the University Club and she later dedicated herself to making a profound difference in the lives of students within the Central Falls School District.

Above all, Sirena was defined by her capacity to love. No one loved harder than she did, and everyone fortunate enough to have been touched by her life knew and felt that love completely.

She is survived by her father, William E Rice, III, her sister Chelsea (Jason) Smith, her brother Damian (Shirley) Ellis, nephew Damian (Heather) Ellis, nieces Aurelia, Alyse, Mia, Vayda and Lilie, several aunts and uncles and a huge family of cousins, a host of deeply devoted family members, colleagues, students, teammates, and friends whose lives are forever brightened by her memory. She is preceded in death by her fiancé Ryan Doyle, mother Bonnie Rice and both her maternal grandparents Harold Ellis and Oneita Barnett and paternal grandparents William E Rice, Jr and Margery Rice, along with her aunt Marcia Hathaway and uncle Allen Rice.

Calling hours will be held at Lyons Funeral Home, 46 High Street, Thomaston, CT on Saturday October 17th from 9-11am.

Committal Service will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 56 Hinman Rd, Watertown, CT

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09/03/2026

Lois E Lyons

Lois E. Lyons, 49, of Plainville, passed away peacefully at home on August 28, 2026, after a courageous fight with cancer. She was born on December 8, 1976. Lois was surrounded by her long-term boyfriend, Russell, during her final moments.

Lois was a loving mother, daughter, family member, and friend. She will be remembered for the love she had for her family and the special place they held in her heart.

Lois's greatest pride was her three sons. She loved them deeply, and they will carry her memory with them always. She will also be missed by the many family members and friends who were fortunate enough to have her in their lives.

Lois was predeceased by her mother, Cindy Hubbard.

She leaves behind her father, Jeffery Lyons of Terryville; her three sons, Robert, Arthur, and Ricardo, all of Torrington; her boyfriend, Russell; her aunt, Tina; and her cousins, James and Chris, who meant the world to her. She also leaves behind several other aunts, an uncle, and cousins.

In keeping with Lois's final wishes, there will be no services.

She may be gone, but she will never be forgotten.

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05/26/2026

Today, we remembered our fallen heroes with gratitude as we raised a fresh flag with the KoC Council 18.

04/29/2026

Donald David Fuller

Donald David Fuller, 71, left this world too soon in the early morning hours of April 27, 2026 with his family by his side. He was the beloved husband of Brenda Fuller, and was also known as Papa, Juano and Freddy.

Raised in Thomaston, Don lived much of his life in Waterbury. At his passing, he resided in Oakville with his wife. They met at a newspaper party in 1991 and hit it off. It was a 35 year love affair.

Don possessed a dry wit. A lexophile, he loved books, and read voraciously, sometimes reading several books in a week. He had a passion for golf as well as sports including basketball, following the UConn Husky men's and women's basketball teams ,and rooting for the Mets. During the 1990s he helped run the first winter recreation basketball league in Thomaston. He also played in a golf league at Western Hills for many years.

In his youth, he worked at the family business, Fullers 5 & 10 in Thomaston. After graduating from Eastern Connecticut State University, he drove a cab in Las Vegas for five years during what he called “Jimmy Carter's recession.”

He spent most of his career working as a fifth grade teacher at Driggs School in Waterbury. Don also enjoyed teaching driver’s ed for The Next Street driving school during his retirement, being paid to tell people how to drive.

Don got his undergraduate degree in English from Eastern and a Masters of Teaching at Sacred Heart University.

He was also a lover of music, and he enjoyed many concerts. He especially liked musicians Tom Waits, Merle Haggard and Commander Cody.

He was funny and loyal and kind, the type of person people gravitated to.

Don and his wife traveled to Ireland, Iceland, Nova Scotia, Quebec, California, Maine and Seattle. He also joined his friends on golf trips to Hilton Head, Miami and Vermont. But his greatest joy was being home in Connecticut surrounded by his family and friends.

He also truly enjoyed being a grandfather to Jake and Layla, both of whom he was so proud.

Don was predeceased by his father, Revilo Fuller, his mother, Beatrice (Cunningham) Fuller, and his older brother, Peter, who passed away earlier this year. Besides his wife, he is survived by his stepson, Jason Soper (Krystal), his sister, Susan Fuller, his sister Margaret Protzman(Donald), his brother, Timothy Fuller, (Stacey) his sister in law, Joan Fuller, his grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, cousins and friends too many to count including, Ken Yaffee, Robert Stack and Robert DeRose, who all showed up for him as his health declined.

Don lived many years with alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency, an inherited disorder that contributes to COPD, a lung disease. Even as his health declined, he never complained and tried to live as normal a life as possible.

Visitation will be at the Lyons Funeral Home, 46 High Street, Thomaston, May 12th from 5 to 8 pm. A funeral Mass will be held at 10 am May 13th at St, Thomas Church, 1 East Main Street, Thomaston. Please meet directly at church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to National Public Radio www.npr.org/donations/support

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