As the sun went down on Sunday, September 8, 2024, Helen Jackson Bigelow, 86 of Middlebury, passed away surrounded by family at the UVM Medical Center.
Helen, also known as ‘Tootie’ by those who knew her in her formative years, was the daughter of Walter and Ruth (Bennett) Jackson. She was raised on the Jackson family farm in Panton. She graduated from Vergennes High School in ’56 and earned her LPN license at the Bennington Hospital School of Nursing in ’58. Helen married the love of her life, Cleon, in November of 1957. Together they raised their family and became valued members of the Middlebury community. She worked as a nurse at Porter Hospital and in private practice for many years. Helen then was employed by the National Bank of Middlebury where she developed many fond friendships over the years. She retired from the National Bank of Middlebury in 1992.
Helen was an early volunteer with the Middlebury Volunteer Ambulance Association from ’72 thru ’79. In 1973 Helen became a charter member of the Addison County Hospice as well as RSVP. She served on both agencies until 1978. From ’92 to present she has served as a critical volunteer and board member with Neat Repeats Resale Shop. She was also active in the American Legion Auxiliary and the Middlebury Lions Club holding various positions within both groups over the years.
Helen and Cleon were both recognized by Middlebury College with the Citizen’s Award in 2019. Besides caring for her family and others, Helen enjoyed gardening, being outdoors, and quality time spent with family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy.
She is survived by her husband Cleon Bigelow; three children, Cherie DeVarney (Bob) of Milton, Cindy Atkins (Jerry) of Weybridge and CDR Randall Bigelow, USN (RET) of Addison, VT. She is also survived by her dear grandchildren Megan (Mathew) Curran of Middlebury, Jacqueline Atkins (Nolan) of South Burlington, and Spencer McHenry (Kari Jo) of Milton. Helen also leaves behind five great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brothers Ara Jackson and George Jackson.
A celebration of life will be celebrated 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 29th at American Legion Post #27 in Middlebury.
Helen will be remembered as a person who was always serving others; she will be greatly missed.
