Barbara Sweet Mayotte dies at age 91 BFA Class of 1950

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Barbara S Mayotte, 91, passed away on October 5, 2023, following a brief illness, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her family. Born in Fletcher VT on September 3, 1932, to Raynold and Marguerita (Tinker) Sweet, Barb lived her entire life in Fletcher. Upon graduation from BFA Fairfax, Class of 1950, Barb worked at TJ McGovern Stores in Cambridge VT from 1950 to 1959. While working at McGovern's Store, she met David. They were married in October 1959 and spent 64 years together, raising a family and running their two businesses together. They operated a jersey dairy farm from 1959 to 1997. After that they continued working side by side and ran a very successful business selling maple sugaring equipment and supplies, until retiring in 2013.

Barb leaves behind her husband David, son Richard Mayotte and Sandy of Fletcher, daughter Debbie Davis and Dave of Underhill, 2 granddaughters Anna Gabaree and Kyle of Fletcher, Colleen Butler and Kohlton of Underhill, 3 great-granddaughters, Maya and McKenzie Gabaree of Fletcher and Marina Butler of Underhill, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, brother and sister in law, Ernest and Catherine Sweet, and nephew Robert Sweet.

Barb loved to watch the many varieties of birds that would come to her feeders, all throughout the year, taking beautiful pictures of them. She loved being outside and taking care of her flowers, and mowing her lawn. She spent many hours on her lawn mower every summer, including last summer at the age of 90.

Barb was incredibly proud of her family and treasured the times when the family was together. She had many fond memories of taking Anna and Colleen on special summer vacations when they were young, teaching them so many of life's lessons along the way. She and David attended countless softball games for them both, giving their support and encouragement. Special times with Maya and Mckenzie were spent after school when they got off the bus at her house, and she often had a special task or project she would engage them in, passing along her patience and guidance to them also. She got to enjoy nearly the entire first year of Marina's life, watching her grow, and always had a big big smile when Marina was in her lap. She taught all of us the true meaning of love and kindness, and had a gentleness that we will treasure forever.

The family would like to express a very special sincere thank you to close family friend Nancy Cardinal for her care and support during Barb's final days. Also to Franklin County Home Health.
Per Barb's wishes, services will be private for immediate family.

In Barb's memory, contributions may be made to the Binghamville United Methodist Church in Fletcher, and can be sent to Charles Tinker, 629 Fairfax Rd, Cambridge VT 05444. Please visit awrfh.com to share your memories and condolences.