BRANDON - Harriet Bristow Lea, age 83, began her very full life on October 26, 1931, in Philadelphia, PA, and went to be with God and her husband in heaven on June 18, 2015.

She was predeceased by her parents Charles and Lillian Irene (Wiest) Bristow; brothers Charles, Quentin, Richard and James; and her husband, John H. Lea Jr. She is survived by her three children John H. Lea III of Arlington, VA, Elizabeth L. Quigley of Brandon, VT, and Irene L. White of Muncie, IN; 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Harriet attended school in Bensalem Township, PA, and graduated from East Stroudsburg University with a degree in General Science and Physical Education. She taught at Delhaas Senior and Junior High Schools in Bristol Township, PA, where she coached varsity field hockey and softball.

August 27, 1955, she married the love of her life, John H. Lea, Jr. In 1957, her son, "Jack," was born, and then, 2 years later, in 1960, her daughter, "Betsy," was born. In 1962, the Lea family moved to Brick, NJ, from Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Later, in 1969, a second daughter, Irene, was born.

Harriet lived in Ocean County for 30 years where she was very involved in Scouting, local politics and her church. In 1993, she moved to Vermont, where she was a consistent volunteer at the Thrift Shop, blood drive, the St. Mary's annual sidewalk sale and greeter for the Stephen A. Douglas home. She participated in the Lillie's at the Forest Dale Wesleyan church, the Bone Builders and was a supporter of the Brandon Free Public Library.

A celebration of her life and faith will be held at the Forest Dale Wesleyan Church at 11 a.m. June 30, with a private internment at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA where her remains will join her husband's.

She leaves behind a loving family and a circle of devoted friends who will cherish her memory always. Donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the Forest Dale Wesleyan Church, 1887 Forest Dale Road, Brandon, VT 05733.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Miller & Ketcham Funeral Home in Brandon. -