Lynn Vestel

Remembering Lynn ~ Video Tribute:

Lynn Vestel

of Nichols

Lynn (Carolyn) Vestel departed from her body on December 18, 2024, on her terms. Having great faith in Jesus' forgiveness, grace, and mercy, she anticipated a heavenly welcome and joyous reunion with family and friends who went ahead of her. She had an incredible life of 84 and a half years, sharing the last 49 years with her beloved husband, William S. "Bill" Vestel, who will miss her until he sees her again in heaven.

Born to M. Erwin Hutchings and Martha (Heywood) Hutchings on June 2, 1940, in Yonkers, NY, Carolyn was followed by siblings Gail and Guy before they all moved to Winchester, Massachusetts. Carolyn adopted the nickname Lynn in high school for distinction among friends with similar names. She enjoyed acting in community theater plays such as Blythe Spirit and The Princess and the Pea. In her first marriage, she gave birth to Kimberly (Gerald) Guild, Kevin C. (Marguerite) Vestel, MaryBeth (Kevin) Lynn, and Michael J. (Leora Broydo) Vestel.

As a military wife in both marriages, Lynn traveled extensively. She moved from Massachusetts to Texas, California, New York, Alabama, The Philippine Islands, South Carolina (where she met Bill), California again, Virginia, and Rhode Island, and finally settled in Nichols with her children and husband. She met Bill in South Carolina, where they worked together, and she knocked his socks off. He convinced her to marry him, with her four children and all, in 1975. She was the love of his life. He thought of the song, "Loving Her was Easier" (than anything I'll ever do again) by Kris Kristofferson, immediately after her departure to heavenly realms.

Lynn worked as a florist in Virginia and Nichols, among other jobs over the years, including town clerk deputy in Nichols, but was primarily a mother and community volunteer. As an active member of the Nichols Ro-Ki Club, she was instrumental in organizing the Old Home Day activities. Her partnership with her dear friend Norma Engelbert led to the creation of the "Goin' Country" Variety Show, and together they established an annual Flag Day program and Easter egg hunt that became beloved traditions in Nichols. Lynn's support for the Community Care Network of Nichols (CCNN) was crucial in developing and editing the CCNN newsletter. She worked for the Salvation Army and wrote the Nichols News, which was published in area papers. She was a vital part of the Nichols United Methodist Church, The Church at Lord Hill and Abide in the Vine in Owego, and the Nichols Presbyterian Church, singing as a member of both Nichols church choirs. Lynn enjoyed participating with the Red Hatters, and other opportunities to get together with friends, including Barbara Moore and Joann Caloroso. Lynn and Bill fostered children in several locations, both an older teen and younger children. The people who have known Lynn in her various seasons and services have spoken of her kindness, generosity, support, and love. Her family members have also used the terms spunky, feisty, cheeky, and dedicated to describe her.

Lynn and Bill were blessed with grandchildren Alec W. (Stacey Walker) Missel, Paige M. (Nathan) Rutz, Mitchell C. (Heather) Vestel, Collin M. (Natasha) Vestel, Elijah D. Lynn, Joyanna R. Lynn, Mira Vestel, and Zev Vestel, as well as their great-grandchildren Maya, Willow, and June. Lynn leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and cousins, who will miss her deeply.

Lynn was predeceased by her parents, sister-in-law Charlotte Vestel, and more recently, her sister Gail Green, whose husband Lyman has regularly stayed in touch and visited from Connecticut.

Abiding by her wishes, no services will be held. Lynn will be laid to rest in the Nichols Cemetery. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting her guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com The family suggests that memorial contributions be directed to the Nichols Presbyterian Church, PO Box 146, Nichols, NY 13812; The Nichols Presbyterian Church - The Med Shed (Checks issued to Nichols Presbyterian Church and place The Med Shed in memo line) PO Box 146, Nichols, NY 13812; or Stray Haven, 194 Shepard Rd., Waverly, NY 14892 in loving memory of Lynn Vestel.

Lynn's legacy is one of love, community, and faith. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive by the countless lives she touched. She was a dear friend to many and will be greatly missed. Lynn's life was a testament to the impact one individual can have on a community, and her spirit will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

Caring assistance is being provided by the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols.