BARRE-Holly Beth Pelkey (George), 70, of Barre, Vermont, passed away peacefully at her home, on September 7th surrounded by her beloved cats, whom she lovingly referred to as her “babies.” She was cherished by her son, family, friends, coworkers, and the many people whose lives she touched. Her presence will be deeply missed.

Holly was born in North Adams, Massachusetts, in March 1956 to William H. George and Harriett Ames. The family later moved to Pownal, Vermont, where her mother was born and where Holly spent part of her childhood.

In 1978, Holly married Harold Lewis Jr. (J.R.) in East Montpelier, Vermont. Together, they welcomed their son, Harold Lewis III (B.J.), in 1980.

Holly dedicated 41 years of her life to working at Dunkin’ Donuts in Barre, Vermont. Over the years, she held many different positions, including finisher, porter, baker, and waitress. She was especially known for her dedication as the overnight, or “graveyard shift,” baker, working while much of the world slept.

Those late-night and early-morning hours gave Holly the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. She had a special ability to connect with her customers and became a familiar and memorable face throughout the Barre community. Many knew her simply as “Holly from Dunkin’ Donuts”—a woman you probably didn’t want to get too out of hand around if you stopped in for some late-night food after a night out downtown.

To those who didn’t know Holly well, she could appear tough and strong on the outside. But once she opened up to you, you discovered one of the sweetest, kindest, and most caring people you could ever meet. Beneath her tough exterior was a huge heart and a genuine concern for the people she loved.

Holly’s strong work ethic and dedication to her career were an important part of who she was, but she also had a deep appreciation for nature and the beauty of the outdoors. She loved spending time in the mountains and often spoke fondly of the places that brought her peace.

Holly also had a passion for photography and loved documenting her travels throughout the Northeast. Flowers, landscapes, and sunsets were among her favorite subjects. Through her photographs, she captured not only beautiful places, but also the memories and moments that meant the most to her.

For many years, Holly dreamed of moving away from Vermont. In 2003, she and J.R. found the courage to make that dream a reality and moved to Florida. There, Holly enjoyed the sunshine, the beaches, a slower pace of life, and being closer to her son, B.J. She eventually returned to Barre, Vermont, where she had resided since 2010.

Holly will be remembered for her strength, independence, incredible work ethic, caring heart, sense of humor, and the unique way she connected with the people around her. She leaves behind countless memories that will live on in the hearts of may, nieces, family, friends, coworkers, customers, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She is survived by her nieces, Darci Pelkey and Erica Reil of Barre, Vermont, and Sara George of Seattle, Washington. She was preceded in death by her parents, William H. George and Harriett Ames; her siblings, Bill George, Lee George, Kevin George, Claudia Pelkey, and Ginger Shields-Brady; her husband, Harold Lewis Jr.; and her son, Harold Lewis III.

Holly will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Burial will take place at Eaton Cemetery in Marshfield on October 10 at 3:00 p.m., where Holly will be laid to rest with her husband and son. A celebration of Holly’s life will follow at the Barre Elks 10 Jefferson St, Barre, VT from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at: www.pruneaupollifuneralhome.com