Julia Elizabeth Manning Dutcher

Julia Elizabeth Manning Dutcher; Matriarch of 5 generations, left her earthly life September 19, 2015 surrounded by her family. She was born March 27, 1922 the daughter of Maud and Reuben Manning. She married Donald Dutcher who predeceased her. She attended Cooley Hill School in Franklin, Windham High School, and Mohegan Community College where she completed her Medical Assistant Certificate. She was a loyal member of the Franklin Congregational Church where she held many offices. Julia was always active in her community; being a part of the Franklin Grange, a charter member in the Women's Auxiliary, Franklin Fire Department, P.T.O., Franklin Historical Society, and 4H member and Leader. She grew up in a time when entertainment was homemade and loved hay rides and square dancing. Julia worked for 23 years with Dr. Imogene Manning, she then worked for Kahn Tractor Co, and retired from the Holdridge Farm Nursery at the age of 75. She is survived by her three children; her daughter Phyllis Pierce wife of Kendall B. Pierce, her son Donald Dutcher Jr, her son Charles Dutcher and his wife Jackie Dutcher. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 7 great, great grandchildren, 28 nieces and nephews and three sister-in-laws; Edith, widow of Frank Manning, Doris Dutcher Werner, and Laura Dutcher Smalley. She was predeceased by her eight siblings; Arnold, Mildred, Nathaniel, Mary Augusta, Myron, Maud, James and Frank. And two grandchildren; Cindy and Kevin. Julia was an inspiration to all she came in contact with and truly lived up to the scripture "Let your gentleness be known to everyone." A private family burial is planned. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at 12:00PM on Saturday, October 3, 2015 at the First Congregational Church of Lebanon, Route 87 and Route 207 at 588 Exeter Rd. in Lebanon, CT. In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to: The Center for Hospice Care, 227 Dunham St. Norwich, CT 06360.