Weathersfield Bow, VT – Elwin Elbert Smead, Sr., died at his home in the early hours of Sunday, November 9, 2025. Elwin was born on July 17, 1939, in Brookfield, VT, his family moved to Weathersfield Bow when he was young, and he lived the rest of his life on the same property. He served in the Vermont National Guard as a tank commander for more than a decade, rising to the rank of sergeant.

His love of farming and tinkering began when he was young and throughout the years, he was the caretaker of both dairy and beef cattle. He had a gentle and kind approach to his herd; each one was special to him, had a name, and he knew their personalities, likes and dislikes.

He met the love of his life, Norma Jarvis, by chance one day while riding his motorcycle in Windsor. Smitten, the pair dated for four years before marrying on July 1, 1962. Together as equal partners they raised a family, worked the farm, and worked at Goodyear together. Their family life, with a foundation in love, kindness, and humor brought them immense joy.

Elwin and Norma enjoyed dancing together, often until the early hours of the morning. Their summers were spent visiting with the animals and watching tractor pulls at as many local fairs as possible and trips to Old Orchard Beach in Maine.

Elwin had a lifetime passion for watching and following wrestling. When his children were young, he adored taking them in person to the local high schools to see the wrestlers from TV in person. Over the years, the wrestlers may have changed, but the enjoyment of cheering the heroes and jeering the villains endured for him.

Elwin is survived by his wife Norma L. Smead of Weathersfield Bow; three children Elwin Smead, Jr. and wife Yavonne of Benson, VT, Patricia Fluette and husband Benny of Claremont, NH, and Scott Smead and wife Terry of Weathersfield Bow; two siblings Jane Kidder of Ascutney, VT and Richard Smead and companion Shirley McNutt-Greenwood of Weathersfield Bow; 6 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, and other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter Lori Ann, and two siblings Harold Smead and Edith Stillson.

A visitation will be held from 5:30 pm until 7:30 pm on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Knight Funeral Home in Windsor, VT. A Funeral Service will be held at the funeral home on Friday, November 14 at noon, followed by burial in the Weathersfield Bow Cemetery and then a gathering at Martin Memorial Hall in Ascutney. Memorial donations are appreciated to Springfield Humane Society.