Jeffrey Messier

FRANKLIN/MONTGOMERY - Jeffrey Charles Messier, age 66, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans.

Jeffrey was born on February 13, 1960 to James F. Messier and the late Sylvia (Benjamin) Messier at Kerbs Memorial Hospital. He was a member of the Franklin United Church.

Jeffrey grew up on a dairy farm in Franklin. During high school, he donated a kidney to save his mother's life. He developed a passion for forestry after enrolling in Ross Morgan's forestry class in the MVU agriculture program. He earned a Vermont FFA proficiency award in forestry. As part of his training he had a work placement in his grandfather's sawmill, Olin Benjamin. Jeffrey operated the sawmill after his grandfather passed. Later, he spent time as a self-employed woodsman and also worked with Wilson Lumber.

Jeffrey was a respected logger and woodsman. When cutting logs and firewood, he always followed accepted practices and would "leave that tree" if it served as a habitat for birds or other wildlife. He was well known as a man who could cut and split a cord of wood in one hour.

Jeffrey is survived by his father, James Messier and his wife Ronna. He was predeceased by his mother, Sylvia Benjamin Messier; his brothers, Michael James Messier, David Olin Messier, and Daniel Thomas "Boone" Messier; and his long-time companion, Sandy Banks.

Jeffrey's family would like to thank his friends, Jeff Goyne, the Lumbra family (especially Penny), Robert and Dennice Perry, Will Moses, and other friends that have helped Jeffrey over the years.

According to Jeffrey's wishes, there will be no memorial services. Jeffrey will be laid to rest with his mother and brothers in the East Franklin Cemetery.

For those who wish, contributions in Jeffrey's name may be made to the Cold Hollow Career Center FFA, Forestry Program, P.O. Box 530, Enosburg Falls, VT 05450.

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