June 2025

June Baber, 90, of Portland, passed peacefully on Sunday, June 8th, at Autumn Lake Healthcare in Cromwell. Born Nov 19th, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Ernest G. and Mary A. (Turning) Dickinson. She is survived by her son, Gary M. Baber and his wife Patty (Hocking) Baber of Acworth, New Hampshire; her daughter, Bonnie A. Baber of Portland; her two brothers, Burton Dickinson and William Dickinson, both of Portland and her sister and brother-in-law, Laura and Anthony Bystrek of Portland; three grandchildren and five great grandchildren, Samuel Baber of Killingworth; Tonya Crowley and her husband, Ryan Crowley of East Hampton; Victor Baber and his wife Stephanie of Bristol, Tai, Austin and Arielle Baber, Devon and Kailyn Crowley. She was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, Mason; granddaughter, Felicia Baber; and three brothers, Ernest Dickinson, Allen Turning, and Richard Dickinson and five sisters-in-law, MaryLou, Nora, Joanie, Carol, Gloria.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, July 11that 11 a.m. in the Swedish Cemetery, Portland. A lunch reception will follow at Farrell’s, 245 Marlborough St., Portland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Beacon Hospice.

The Portland Memorial Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Cynthia A. “Cindy” Bennett, 68, of Lebanon, passed away peacefully on June 5th, with family at her side.

Born in Middletown, CT, in 1956, Cindy was the daughter of the late Richard Dickinson Sr. and Joan (DeGraff) Dickinson of Portland. She graduated from Portland High School and later settled in Lebanon, where she and her late husband, Theodore Bennett, raised their family.

Cindy’s life was a testament to love, strength, and selflessness. Known for her big heart and dedication to family, she found joy in Sunday visits to Portland and trips with her mother and sister Denise. Her smile, laughter, and positive spirit lit up every room, even as she bravely lived with multiple sclerosis since her early 20s—never letting it dim her spark.

She retired after 42 years at Middlesex Hospital, reflecting her deep sense of compassion and tireless work ethic.

A faithful Catholic, Cindy’s strong faith guided her, bringing peace through both joyful and difficult times.

Cindy is survived by her children, Gregory Stevens (Christina) and Michelle Bennett; and her grandchildren, Brandon, Michael, and Savannah Stevens, and Jacob and Summer Schmelzer. She also leaves her brother Ronald (Carrie) Dickinson of Portland; brother-in-law Matt Cordner; sister-in-law Theresa Dickinson; and many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her husband, Theodore Bennett; her infant son; her parents; brothers Michael and Richard Jr.; and sisters Cheryl Ranno (Nicholas) and Denise Cordner.

Cindy’s legacy of kindness, devotion, and quiet strength will remain in the hearts of all who knew her. She gave more than she ever asked in return and will be deeply missed.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Church, 45 Freestone Ave., Portland, CT 06480, or to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society: https://donate.nationalmssociety.org/campaign/Cynthia-Bennett (https://donate.nationalmssociety.org/campaign/Cynthia-Bennett).

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, June 27th, at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 45 Freestone Ave., Portland, followed by burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery. A gathering will follow in the church hall to celebrate her life.

The Portland Memorial Funeral Home, 231 Main St., Portland, is in charge of arrangements.