Phyllis Draper

ST. ALBANS - Phyllis L. Draper, age 80, passed away surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, October 1, 2026 at the McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester.

She was born February 4, 1946 in St. Albans to the late Noah & Mary Jane (Gardner) Lapan.

Phyllis was known for her generous spirit and welcoming heart; her home was always a haven for friends and family. With a meal always prepared and an infectious laugh that could light up any room, she made sure that no one ever left her house hungry. Unless, of course, they were too shy to take her up on her spread. Her love for cooking was matched only by her enjoyment of having a good party, where she was often found with a Bud Light in hand.

For over 20 years, Phyllis dedicated herself to her work as a housekeeper at the University of Vermont, where her attention to detail and love for cleanliness shone through in everything she did. She took pride in her role, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues. In her spare time, Phyllis found joy in playing bingo, cards, and the thrill of gambling, always looking for a little fun and excitement in life.

She is survived by her children (and beloved step-children), Rob Maskell and his wife Wendy, Starr Maskell and her significant other Robert Sweet, Wanda Doekel, Harvey "Peewee" Draper and his wife Kellie Trombley Draper, Linda Wells and her husband Rick, and Bridgette Hurd; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and a great great grandchild - too many too count!; her brothers, Noah Lapan and his wife Kathy, and Larry Lapan and his wife Joanne; and many nieces & nephews, again too many to count! In addition to her parents, Phyllis was predeceased by her husband, Maurice Draper; step-children, Todd Draper, and Johnny Draper; son-in-law, Robb Doekel; several brothers and sisters; and her beloved German Shepard, Sheeba.

Friends & family are invited to Phyllis' life celebration on Saturday, October 10, 2026 to include visitation from 10-11:00 AM followed with a memorial service at 11:00 AM at the Goss Life Celebration Home, 89 Grand Avenue, Swanton, VT. Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery in Swanton.

Phyllis' family would like to thank the staff from the McClure Miller Respite House for the excellent care she and the entire family received in her final days. For those who wish, contributions in Phyllis' memory may be made to the McClure Miller Respite House, 3113 Roosevelt Highway, Colchester, VT 05446.

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