Obituary of Esther Collins Wyeth

West Woodstock, Esther Collins Wyeth of Perrin Road, Woodstock, CT, died Monday February 1, 2010 at Westview Nursing Care. She was born September 7, 1915, daughter of the late John and Emma Collins of New Sweden Road, Woodstock. She was predeceased by her husband of 32 years, Paul K. Wyeth in 1996; her first husband, Clarence Fairfield, in 1983, sister Sylvia Marcy, and brothers, Spencer, Sigfred, John and Conrad Collins. Esther was a graduate of Woodstock Academy in 1933. She worked as the cook at Taylors School in Woodstock, and was also employed at the American Optical in Southbridge, MA and the Stillwater Mills in Woodstock. In later years, she managed Westwind Kennels at Perrin Road. A lifelong resident of Woodstock, Esther loved her family and her home, and living in New England. She enjoyed her gardens, her cats and dogs, and the beautiful woods near her house. She was naturally creative and artistic and in her youth drew sketches of the fashions of the 1930's. In June of 1938, Esther travelled to Sweden to visit relatives. She was a wonderful cook, and had a gracious charm and hospitality. Esther loved to visit with friends and family around the warmth of her fireplace. She baked cookies, pies, and breads for neighbors and family, for the volunteer firemen's barbecues, and other occasions. She was known for her quick wit and gentle sense of humor. Esther was generous, encouraging and a great listener. She enjoyed history, antiques, reading, and working crossword puzzles. Esther was a loving daughter, wife, mother, sister, and aunt. She leaves a son, Steven Fairfield and companion, Kitty Koss of Woodstock, CT; a daughter, Melody Dunlop and her husband, Charles of Asheville, NC; a sister, Juliette Christensen of Asheville, NC and many nieces and nephews. She leaves a legacy of gentleness, humor, and grace. The family wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the caring people at Westview Nursing Center who helped Esther in so many ways. Calling Hours will be from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, Saturday, February 13, 2010 at the Smith and Walker Funeral Home, 148 Grove Street, Putnam, CT 06260. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in her memory to the Bungay Volunteer Fire Department, Bungay Fire Brigade, 1256 Route 171, West Woodstock, CT 06281 or the CT Humane Society, 169 Old Colchester Road, Waterford, CT 06385. To share a memory, "Light a Candle" at www.smithandwalkerfh.com