Elizabeth Winch Bayley

Elizabeth Winch Bayley, 90, of Freeville passed away on September 26, 2015. She was born July 15,1925 in Alburg, VT to Harvey and Bernice Winch.

Liz grew up in South Hero, VT on the Champlain Islands. She graduated from Burlington High School in 1944 and then spent two years at Burlington Business College. (now Champlain College) For a time she was the telephone operator in South Hero where she worked the old style switchboard. She had some interesting stories from the time she spent doing this.

On March 6, 1948 she married Luther P. Bayley. They lived in Vermont until 1954 when they moved to Ithaca, NY and in 1955 to Freeville, where Bill worked at the Park It Market Grocery Store. They became active members of the community where Liz was a Brownie scout leader, Sunday school teacher, member of the Fireman's auxiliary. She was able to remain in the home they purchased in 1955 almost to the end. A fall and a stroke put her in Groton Nursing Home where she received the best of care from their wonderful staff.

Liz loved nature and all it provides. She was a bird watcher and gardener. When she discovered she was an artist she painted the natural things that inspired her, old barns, creeks, trees and lakes. She joined the Groton Senior Citizens art class in the mid '70s and chaired their August art show for over 2 decades.

Liz is survived by her brother Guy Winch of South Hero, VT, daughter Patricia Derocher of Freeville, son Charles Bayley (Barb) of Brooktondale, grandchildren Bryon Hurlbutt of Freeville, Daniel Hurlbutt (Vickie) of Sterling, VA, Thomas Hurlbutt of Freeville, Rachelle Derocher of Oconto, WI, and Justin Derocher of Freeville. She is predeceased by her sister Patricia Arey, Baldwinsville,MA. Her grandson Tom has stayed with her which had allowed her to remain in her home.

Liz will be buried in Willow Glen Cemetery at the convenience of her family. No service has been planned. Perkins Funeral Home assisted the family.