Nan Mears

Nan Mary Mears, 91, a longtime resident of School St. in Bennington, VT died Sunday, April 23, 2023 at the Centers for Living and Rehabilitation in Bennington. She was born in Bennington, VT December 14, 1931. She was the daughter of Kenneth and Catherine (Coyne) Chapman. Nan received her education in Bennington, graduated from St. Francis de Sales Academy and was a 1951 graduate of Bennington High School. In earlier years Nan had been employed at Noons Clothing Store. She also worked at Fishman’s Department Store, the Charleston Mill Sweater Shop and General Cable. In 1980 Nan moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico to help take care of her brother Tom. While in New Mexico, Nan worked as a nanny. Following the death of her brother, she moved back to Bennington. She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America and had served as Vice President of the Bennington Eagles Club. She was a former member of the YMCA Auxiliary. In 1951 Nan was a ping pong champion at the YMCA in Bennington. She loved her dogs Tippy, Mike and Tuffy and her cats Rascal, Cinnamon and Julian. Survivors include a son, Michael (Melissa) Mears of Bennington. Her grandchildren, Nigel (Tom) Mears, Rachel (Kevin) Atwood, Samantha (Eli) Adkins and Timothy and Tighe (Kendra) Stratton. Her great-grandchildren Emme and Tatum Stratton along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was pre-deceased by a daughter, Debra Stratton, two sons, Peter and Scott Mears, three brothers, Robert, Thomas and Wells Chapman and a sister Jean LaFlamme. There will be no calling hours or funeral services. A graveside service will be held on Friday, April 28, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the family lot at Park Lawn Cemetery in Bennington. If friends desire contributions in memory of Nan may be made to Mothers Against Drunk Driving or the Second Chance Animal Shelter through the office of the Mahar and Son Funeral Home 628 Main St. Bennington, VT 05201. Guest book condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net