Bethel, VT – Mildred (Milly) L. Durkee/Rhoades, 86, of Bethel, VT, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at her home. She was born on October 20, 1939, in Claremont, NH, the daughter of John Durkee and Mary Nutting. She was the bookkeeper for the family owned business, L.W. Rhoades & Sons Logging & Gravel until 2025 when the business officially closed. She also spent some time in real estate, in home care for the elderly, photographer for the Randolph Herald, and subbing at local schools. Milly volunteered at the Gifford Medical Center Thrift Shop and at the Bethel Food Shelf.
Milly was a beloved sister to James Durkee, John Durkee, David Durkee, Henry Durkee, Joan Potter, Patricia Gray, and Vivian Pratt. She was predeceased by sisters Mary Haggett and Minnie Craig, as well as brothers Alfred Dyer, Raymond Dyer, Woodrow Dyer, Frank Durkee, Herbert Durkee, and John Durkee Jr.
She was predeceased by her husband of 65 years, Lawrence (Larry) Rhoades (2024). Milly and Larry wed on June 20, 1959 after graduating from South Royalton High School and returning from a brief time at Penn State University. She was a proud, supportive mother of three children, son Frank Rhoades, his partner Angela, his daughter Brittany, his son Bradley, son Rick Rhoades, his wife Lynne, his daughter Taylor and granddaughter Ava, his daughter Teagan and grandson Easton, and son John Rhoades, his wife Annette, their daughter Ashlyn.
She leaves behind, not only family, but a vast network of chosen family and lifelong friendships. Milly and Larry treasured their time spent camping, snowmobiling, and attending special dinners with other couples. They enjoyed the adventures to Nashville, Las Vegas, Outer Banks and many more with friends. Milly shared countless stories about the “Girl Cruises” and “Girl Weekends” she attended during hunting season.
Milly had a love for life that was infectious. It started as a cheerleader in high school. Up until her last day she spread cheer at local high school sporting events and theater productions. She would travel countless miles to cheer on her children, grandchildren, and extended family members. She would be willing to go watch sports anywhere as long as she could get a ride. She wouldn’t walk by anyone without a greeting or statement of encouragement.
In her adult years, Milly had two passions. She started running on December 26, 1985 at the age of 46. If you have ever driven Rte 107 in Bethel, you would probably have seen her running on any given day in all types of weather. After running for only a few months, Milly ran her first of fourteen Boston Marathons on April 21, 1986. She had a run time of 4:51.16. Milly ran over two hundred road races and several triathlons in her life. She was a member of the Lowell, MA Running Club. She ran her last race at the age of 81 on October 31, 2020. Next, Milly was a 5th degree black belt in Blue Wave TaeKwonDo where she trained into her late 70’s. She earned several medals competing in tournaments.
All are welcome to attend a graveside service which will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 11am at the Methodist Cemetery located at the intersection of Old Hill Road and North Rd Barnard, VT. Following will be a celebration of life held at the Barnard Town Hall Barnard, VT.
The Boardway and Cilley Funeral Home, Chelsea, VT is in charge of arrangements. A private message of sympathy for the family can be shared at www.boardwayandcilley.com.
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