GEORGIA -- Vernon Leroy Gaudette, 59, a life long resident of Georgia passed away unexpectedly Sunday, May 14, 2000 in Northwestern Medical Center following a tragic accident at his home.

He was born on January 28, 1941 in St. Albans, the son of the late Paul and Ethel (Bessette) Gaudette.

He was involved with the meat packing business in Georgia for over fifty years. In 1984, he opened Georgia Auto Parts with his brother. Vinton Gaudette. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and looked forward to his annual hunting trips to Anticosta Island, Penn., and Maine.

Vernon was family to everyone and everyone's friend. He will be sadly missed by all of those who had the pleasure to know and love him. He is survived by; his loving wife, Shirley (Vanslette) Gaudette of Georgia, two sons; Larry Gaudette and Jennifer McGregor and her daughter, Miranda of Georgia; Kerry Gaudette and Shannon Hill and her son Nicholas of Georgia; four brothers, Victor Gaudette, and his wife, Sandra, of Swanton, Vance Gaudette and Betty Kaumeyer of Williston, Vinton Gaudette and his wife, Janice, of Georgia, Paul Gaudette and his wife, Peggy of Milton; one sister, Paula Cadorette and her husband Richard of Milton; one grandson, Jessup Gaudette of Georgia. Several aunts, uncles, many nieces, nephews and cousins. A special "adopted" daughter, Jennifer Nichols of Fla.; a special "adopted" son, Christopher Gaudette of Georgia, a very special long time childhood friend and fishing and hunting partner, Arthur Bugbee of Georgla; and Vernon's favorite beagle, "Chipper".

Visiting hours will be held in the Hayes-Rich Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 17, 2000 from 6-9 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 18, 2000 at 9:30 a.m. in Saint Ann Church, Milton, with the Reverend Donald J. Roy officiating.

Burial will follow in Sanderson Corners Cemetery, Fairfax.

Arrangements are by Hayes-Rich Funeral Home, 1176 Main Street, Fairfax.

Published in the St. Albans Messenger.