Online Obituaries

Geraldine “Gerry” Stebbins passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at the age of 92. A lifelong resident of Chicopee, she spent her entire life in the cherished family home where she was born in Chicopee Falls. Gerry was predeceased by her devoted husband of more than 70 years, Lionel Stebbins, with whom she built a life rooted in love, hard work, and family. Together, they raised their children and helped build their homes and the foundation of a close-knit and supportive family. One of her greatest joys was supporting her husband and children, taking immense pride in being there every step of the way. A trained barber, Gerry learned the trade from her father and practiced it with skill and pride for many years. Later, she became a beloved fixture at Dickinson’s Farms in Granby, working until she was 91 in the pick-your-own berry fields and apple orchard. She was perhaps best known to many in the community from her decades of work at LaFlamme’s Garden Center in Chicopee, where she delighted in helping customers brighten their gardens with vibrant flowers. Her warm, welcoming presence and love of flowers left a lasting impression on all who met her. Family was at the center of Gerry’s life. She had a large extended family whom she cared for deeply and kept close. She is pre-deceased by her husband Lionel, her son Daniel, and her siblings Philippe, Jeanne, and Robert. She is survived by her sons Kenneth (Lynn) and Lionel (Jennifer), both of Belchertown; her daughter-in-law Susan; her grandchildren Nathan, Jessica (Scott), Grant (Julie-Anne), Brooke (Kody), Paige (Kevin), Christopher, and Ashley; and her great-grandchildren Grayson and Milo. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law Kathy Alarie, many beloved nieces and nephews—including Lynne and Suzanne—grand and great-grand-nieces and nephews, including Tami Hozepma and family, whose unwavering support and care brought her great comfort and joy throughout her later years. She was also blessed with many dear friends, especially the Laflamme family, who held a special place in her heart. The family will hold a service at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery Chapel in Agawam, Massachusetts, at 9 AM on Friday, April 18, 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gerry’s memory to the Berkshire Hills Music Academy in South Hadley, Massachusetts. The family invites you to honor Gerry by treating yourself to a piece of candy or a hot fudge sundae—simple pleasures she always enjoyed and warmly shared.