South Barre, VT – Lynn Thompson Gage died on April 15, 2026 at the UVM Medical Center, unexpectedly. She was born July 14, 1939, in Teaneck, New Jersey to Gordon Thompson and Elizabeth McGairy.
She attended Dumont High School and was a standout cheerleader. Lynn then attended Montclair State University. While at Montclair Lynn was active in gymnastics, cheerleading, dance, modeling, and track. She had very fond memories of college and stayed in touch with several of her professors.
While in college she met and married E Charles (Chuck) Welch in 1961. They welcomed Gordon (Gordy) and Kerry to their family. Both Lynn and Chuck taught school in New Jersey.
In 1970, the “beckoning country” advertisement for Vermont brought them to Brookfield. Lynn’s various talents landed her at Brookfield Elementary School, ultimately teaching physical education, art and library. Lynn and Chuck divorced in 1976.
In 1978, Brookfield School hired a new principal named Clayton (Kit) Gage. After working together for a year, they started dating and married in 1983. This started a team that worked together for 18 years at Brookfield and then 5 years at Thetford Elementary School, where Lynn was just the librarian. No more three preps! Both Lynn and Kit retired in 2002.
Lynn was a very diverse and talented woman. She was a seamstress, a portrait artist, a dancer, and a jewelry designer. She illustrated two books for people suffering from severe arthritis, and one about movement education. She took great pleasure in embellishing birthday cards and paper currency.
While at Brookfield School, she took the annual spring concerts to a new level. With the help of Lillian Miller and Susan Rule, the concerts became magical for many, many students. Lynn composed the school song “High on a hilltop…” and many of her students still sing it today. Lynn was instrumental in making BES the outstanding elementary school in the area.
Lynn was preceded in death by her parents and an older brother, Gordon.
Lynn is survived by husband Kit, sons Gordy (Mary) and Kerry, sister Gayle (Horia), stepchildren Kristie Costa (Gilmar), Trista Gage (Philippe), Jeremy Gage, grandchildren Odin, Alessio, Logan, Tais, Nadine, Madison, Eli, and extended family Aly, Donny and especially Maite. Also many nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as her favorite non-humans Sophie and Tucker.
As per her wishes there will be no service or viewing. A celebration of life will be scheduled for this summer.
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