The stars shone brightly as Zaela Lea (Stimets) Strong began her peaceful journey to the heavens on the early morning of August 26, 2026. Born on July 9, 1940 in Hanover, NH to Charles Amsden Stimets and Leona Louise (Bates) Stimets, Zaela was deeply proud to call Woodstock, VT her home for 86 years.

Zaela began her career as a Telephone Operator at New England Telephone and Telegraph Company in Woodstock at age 16. She continued with the company after her graduation from Woodstock Union High School in 1958, and remained a dedicated employee for 34 years as the New England Telephone Company evolved into AT&T.

Although she felt there was no nicer place on earth than Vermont, Zaela enjoyed spending winters in Bradenton, Florida early in her retirement years and loved the sounds and smell of the ocean. She had a deep love of animals, especially her cat, “Ouisey”, who she shared her days with at Woodstock Terrace. Zaela loved to sew, knit, crochet, read Amish novels, sit by the campfire, and watch soap operas. She loved watching Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots games, going out for lunch and driving along the backroads of Vermont. Zaela valued her independence and maintained her pursuit of excellence in all that she did.

Above all, Zaela cherished her family. Along with her former husband of 24 years, Bernard “Bunny” Strong, she lovingly raised her daughter, Julie Strong Ramsey of Woodstock. She adored her two granddaughters, Anna Ramsey of East Hardwick, VT and Kristin Ramsey of Ballard, WA. When emailing them, she would often close with “I’m so proud of you, LOL!” - which to her meant “Lots of Love!”

In addition to her daughter and granddaughters, Zaela is survived by her cousin, Roy Bates (Joanne) of Woodstock, cousin, Ann Dupuis (Ron) of Farmington, NH, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and one sister, Joan Stimets Kurjiaka.

The family is grateful for the care Zaela received from Woodstock Terrace, Bayada Hospice and Cabot Funeral Home. Per her wishes, there will be a private family service. In lieu of flowers, please take a loved one out to lunch.