Colleen Sears

WEST SWANTON- Colleen Kay Sears, age 59, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, October 22, 2023 at the UVM Medical Center in Burlington.

She was born in Colorado Springs, CO on March 11, 1964 to the late Robert and Gerda (Saur) Thibault.

Colleen's journey began in Swanton, Vermont, where her family settled in 1972 after her father's military career. Growing up in Swanton, she attended Swanton Elementary School and graduated from Missisquoi Valley High School in 1982. During her time in high school, Colleen discovered her passion for drawing and shone brightly as the head cheerleader. It was at a 4th of July party in 1982 that Colleen's path crossed with her soulmate, Alan Sears. Their connection was undeniable, and they embarked on a beautiful journey together, exchanging vows on July 16, 1983. Their marriage blossomed into a true partnership filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.

Throughout her life, Colleen held various roles, each leaving an indelible mark on her compassionate nature. She served as a ward clerk at Kerbs Memorial Hospital and dedicated herself to the students as a paraeducator at Swanton Elementary School. Driven by her nurturing spirit, Colleen found her calling as a case manager at Northwestern Counseling & Support Services, where she served for over 26 years. She was always a steady presence, offering unwavering support and assistance to those in need, particularly on the crisis team. Colleen's dedication and calm demeanor in the face of adversity inspired all who had the privilege of working with her.

Outside of work, Colleen found joy in simple pleasures. Her favorite pastimes included visiting casinos and trying her luck with scratch tickets. She found solace in sitting on her front porch, her "Happy Place", surrounded by the beauty of her meticulously cared-for flower beds, watching breathtaking sunsets that painted the skies with vibrant hues. Her wanderlust took her to sandy beaches, cruise ship adventures, the Bahamas, and the shores of Old Orchard Beach. Colleen also nurtured her creative side as a talented baker, spending cherished moments baking cinnamon rolls and German Christmas cookies with her granddaughters.

Colleen's compassionate nature extended beyond her personal life as she volunteered with the Special Olympics, bringing joy and support to athletes of all abilities. Her selflessness and ability to make others smile were the essence of her character.

Colleen will be remembered for her quirky charm, infinite patience, and ever-present smile. She consistently put the needs of others before her own, reflecting her generous and nurturing spirit.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Alan Sears of West Swanton; daughter, Jessica Stearns and her husband Patrick of St. Albans; grandchildren, Trey, Samantha and Sabrina Sears, and Gage Stearns; siblings, Sonja Cox and her husband Kelly of Swanton, Tanja Garrow, and Michael Thibault and his wife Kate; mother-in-law, Eleanor (Sweeney) Sears; siblings-in-law, Bonnie Sears, Brenda Sears, Peter Sears, Ricky Sears, and Betsey Sears; nieces and nephews, Brent, Tiffanie, Daniel, Tatiana, Aidan, Mya, Catherine, Jenny, Michael, Bronson, Javen, Ophelia, Race, and Bannon; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and countless friends she made throughout her life. In addition to her parents, Robert and Gerda Thibault, Colleen was predeceased by her father-in-law, Marshall Sears.

Family and friends are invited to Colleen's life celebration events on Monday, October 30, 2023 to include visitation from 2-4:00 PM with a memorial service to begin at 4:00 PM at The Goss Life Celebration Home, 89 Grand Ave., Swanton, VT 05488.

For those who wish, contributions in Colleen's memory may be made to any cause or charity that supports child services.

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com