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Adrienne's obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Adrienne "Annie" Lisette Lees, a radiant beacon of kindness and generosity, born on September 21, 1941. Mom leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience. A beacon of light that will continue to guide those who were fortunate enough to share in her journey of 82 years. Known by many as Annie (earlier Cookie).

Beloved wife of the late Richard Lees and born into the loving arms of Irene Heinig Bushman and Carlton Bushman, who have predeceased her, Adrienne also spent a wonderful childhood with her brothers, Allan, and Ronald Bushman, who have sadly passed before her. She is survived by her sister Lynn Owens (Auntie Lynnie).

Her remarkable spirit lives on through her children: Mary (Charles) Smolenski; Alphonse Basilicato, Anthony (Kari Ann) Basilicato; Robert (Dee) Basilicato; Joseph (Nicole) Basilicato; and Michael (Christine) Basilicato and Jon Lees. She leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many cousins.

A woman of simple tastes, Adrienne found joy in the sweetly comforting taste of strawberry milkshakes, shrimp cocktail, hot dogs, coffee, and the thrilling unpredictability of game shows like Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. An avid crafter, wreath making was one of her cherished arts. Her fondness for local culture was evident in her frequent visits to Blue Grass Festivals sometimes spending weeks in her camper. She will be remembered by her well attended “Pickin Parties” where people gathered to play, sing, dance and celebrate life. Mom often joined in to sing and play her ukulele. She hosted at her home in Cuttingsville, VT.

Adrienne's personality shone as brightly as a summer's day, her sweet, caring and giving nature made her a beloved figure in the community. Her sage advice to "put one foot in front of the other, and keep on truckin", and to accept that sometimes "it is what it is", will continue to guide those who knew her.

Picking parties at her home, her stunningly beautiful wreath making, and her distinctive sugaring are some of the many accomplishments Adrienne left behind, but her true legacy is her unbounded kindness and generosity. No doubt, her absence will be deeply felt by her family and her many friends, especially Crystal, Sue, Kathy, and Doris, who visited her often and have been like family to her.

A special note of gratitude to those who watched over her in end of life from the family to Hospice and Springfield Health and Rehab and especially Holly who was her constant caregiver.

Join us as we reminisce the beautiful journey Adrienne embarked upon and fill our hearts with the warmth of her love. As we mourn her passing, let us also celebrate the love, care, and joy she spread in her lifetime. Adrienne will be sorely missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all those she touched.

A celebration of life will be held in the summer. Further details will be announced closer to the date.

Mom genuinely loved Vermont so In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree in her honor for a symbol of spiritual nourishment, resurrection, and everlasting life. https://onetreeplanted.org/pr…

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In loving memory of our dear Mom, Grandmom, Sister, and Friend,

Her kindness warmed us,

Her caring embraced us,

Her genero…

In loving memory of our dear Mom, Grandmom, Sister, and Friend,

Her kindness warmed us,

Her caring em…

In loving memory of our dear Mom, Grandmom, Sister, and Friend,

H…

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Adrienne "Annie, Cookie," Lees