Melissa Anne Phelps, age 33, of Hebron, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 23rd. Born in Manchester on November 3, 1987, she was the daughter of Benjamin and Candace Phelps. Melissa grew up in Hebron and graduated from RHAM High School in 2006. She was employed at Cottage Gardens where she worked as a baker. She was a truly beautiful soul who touched the lives of everyone she came in contact with. Known to be kind and loving, Melissa found great joy in helping others and would never say no to working events in town, at church or anywhere else she was needed.

​

She was well known within the community for all the volunteer work she has done over the years. Melissa was an active communicant of Church of the Holy Family, where she often volunteered as a greeter and would help at special events. Melissa was always happy. She loved music and simply could never resist dancing whenever she heard her favorite songs playing. She enjoyed watching game shows with her family, especially "The Price is Right", "Jeopardy" & "Wheel of Fortune." She was heavily involved with the Special Olympics, where she was a member of Team RHAM; she competed in track, softball and basketball. She was also involved with the Glastonbury Friday night club and the Eastern CT Buddies Group. She also belonged to the "Bowling Socialites" bowling league. Melissa was one of a kind and will never be forgotten.

​

Left behind to cherish her memory are her parents, Benjamin and Candace Phelps of Hebron; her brother, Adam Phelps of Hebron; her beloved 4-legged companions, Holly & Haley; many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members; as well as so many cherished friends. Walk through calling hours utilizing face coverings and social distancing will be held on Tuesday, December 29th from 3-7pm at Aurora McCarthy Funeral Home, 167 Old Hartford Rd, Colchester, CT 06415. Since Melissa loved Christmas, her family would like to encourage guests to wear their favorite bright & festive holiday attire when attending. Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Melissa's funeral mass will be private, however a large celebration of her life is being planned for the future. In lieu of flowers, donations in Melissa's memory may be made to the Special Olympics, Team RHAM c/o Rose Kalisz 35 Hemlock Rd. Marlborough, CT 06447. For online condolences, please visit www.auroramccarthyfuneralhome.com

Waterford - William Bennett "Billy" Lewis passed away peacefully Jan. 8, 2021, at Lawrence and Memorial Hospital in New London, due to complications from COVID-19.

Billy made his grand debut March 28, 1964, and had the unique ability to love everyone unconditionally. His compassion was truly genuine, and he embraced life with an unbridled passion that few dare dream.

After attending Waterford schools, Billy enjoyed a long career with Seabird Enterprises doing landscaping, woodworking, and other jobs. His fun-loving nature was irresistible, and his smile was contagious. Billy's warm spirit infused everything he did. He won oodles of medals in the Special Olympics, rode horses at High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center, participated in ARC social gatherings, and was the life of every party he attended. Billy was known for his off-the-cuff speeches at weddings, and he was always thrilled to see a dance floor.

Billy is survived by his parents, Isabelle Corey Lewis, William F. Lewis (Dorothy); siblings, David Lewis (Anne), Tammy Lewis McIntyre, Christine Perry (Phil), Tricia Keilty, James Keilty (Jessica); Aunt Marion Beebe; and all his nieces and nephews, Lauren, Ally, Liam, Nikki, Jackie, Matt, Joshua, Emma, Ryan and Matthew.

The family would like to express deep gratitude to those who played a vital role in Billy's life. They would like to acknowledge Billy's second family, the staff from the Pepper Box and Broadway group homes, his job coaches, and those at L+M who cared for him in his final days.

Billy's graveside service will be private; however, a celebration of life will be planned for the future.

To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Published in The Day on Jan. 14, 2021.

Both Melissa and Bills presence and hard work they accomplished at Cottage Gardens will be forever missed by everyone at Seabird, but may they live on forever in our hearts and memories. 

We are happy to announce that Seabird Enterprises now has its own YouTube channel! Make sure you hit subscribe to stay up to date with staff videos from our sites and from home!

Fiscal Year Calender 2020 -2021

 Handicapped accessible planting boxes at Cottage Gardens!