Shelburne Falls & West County Independent

08/07/2026

Anita M. Wall

SHELBURNE — Anita M. Wall, 88, formerly of Dragon Hill, Shelburne, died July 23, 2026 at the Legacy House of Centennial Hill in Las Vegas, NV.

She was born in Chicopee on Nov. 15, 1937, the daughter of Lillian (Petkus) and Rene Moineau. She was a graduate of Chicopee High School.

Anita married James K. Wall and enjoyed 56 years of a loving marriage. Together they owned and operated The Outpost on the Mohawk Trail. She enjoyed being active in the Mohawk Trail Association.

She was predeceased by her husband, James; sister, Bunny Frances; and her daughter-in-law, Bonnie (Thompson) Wall.

She will be missed by her daughter, Deborah; her partner, Arthur Connelly; her sons, Lawrence, Steven, and his wife, Melinda Connors; grandchildren, Eric and Kelsey, and two great-grandchildren.

She also leaves brothers, Rene, Donald, Robert and Anthony, along with several nieces and nephews.

A memorial graveside service will be held by the family at the East Shelburne Cemetery at a future date.

08/07/2026

Update: 2D8T (two districts, eight towns) sustainability project

BUCKLAND — Throughout the summer, the Mohawk Trail–Hawlemont Sustainability Initiative has maintained steady momentum, with significant progress occurring across several key areas.
On July 1, the Mohawk Trail and Hawlemont regional school districts formally launched their partnership with the Mass. School Building Authority (MSBA) about the creation of appropriate elementary space at Mohawk Trail Regional School.
As part of the initial “eligibility” phase of the process, the districts will form a building committee composed of building professionals, local officials, representatives of the districts, and other stakeholders.
The Committee will work closely with the MSBA as the process proceeds.
The work of the Educational Visioning Advisory Group is virtually complete and a draft vision for what education in a consolidated district could look like was presented to the project Steering
Committee in July.
Visioning work began early in 2026 and has included
focus groups, interviews, an educator survey, and an all-day “visioning” event that gathered the ideas and perspectives of community members, educators, and caregivers.
"The work is not done," says School Committee Chair Martha Thurber. "Input from stakeholders will continue to shape and sharpen the vision in the coming months."
Additional community outreach will ramp up in Aug./Sept. and will include community meetings/information sessions and meetings to update Selectboards.
For project updates, reports, resources, and meeting dates, visit
http://2districts8towns.org.

08/01/2026

Hurrah for Davenport’s!

We were pleased to nominate Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School for the ExxonMobil educational Alliance Grant to be used for math and science programs. Thank you vice principal Joseph Moynihan for taking the time to accept it.

08/01/2026

Stephen Daniel Morganelli
Jan 10, 1951 — Jul 26, 2026

Stephen D. Morganelli, 75, of Venice, Florida, passed away peacefully in his sleep after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Stephen was the beloved son of the late Samuel D. Morganelli and Jennie (Nicolini) Morganelli. He was raised in Canton, Massachusetts, where he attended Canton Public Schools and graduated from Canton High School in 1968. He went on to earn a Master's Degree in Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, beginning a lifelong vocation dedicated to teaching and inspiring young people.

Following college, Stephen settled in Deerfield, Massachusetts, and began his teaching career at Mohawk Trail Regional High School in Shelburne Falls, MA. He later taught at the Academy at Charlemont in Charlemont, MA, before moving to Caledon, Ontario, Canada, where he served as a religious education teacher at the St. Francis Center. Stephen eventually made Venice, Florida, his home, where he continued teaching science and math at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School until his retirement.

Teaching was never simply a profession for Stephen—it was his calling. He devoted himself wholeheartedly to his students and their families, organizing school events, leading fundraising efforts, and creating unforgettable experiences, including Disney trips that became cherished memories for countless students. His classroom extended far beyond four walls, and the relationships he built with students and their families lasted a lifetime. His kindness, patience, and unwavering encouragement touched generations of lives, leaving a legacy that will continue through all those he inspired.

Stephen also treasured his family and friends. He had an adventurous spirit and a love of travel, and he especially looked forward to spending summers on Cape Cod, where time with loved ones created memories that will be cherished forever. He was the family historian as he had a love of sharing stories and retelling vivid memories of the past. His generous heart, thoughtful nature, gentle sense of humor, and genuine compassion made everyone around him feel welcomed and valued.

Stephen is survived by his loving mother, Jennie Morganelli of Venice, Florida; his brothers, Alan Morganelli of Venice, Florida, Ronald Morganelli and his wife, Joanna, of Hanover, Massachusetts, and Richard Morganelli and his wife, Diane, of Stoughton, Massachusetts; and his sister, Carol Kelly and her husband, Thomas, of Raynham, Massachusetts. He also leaves behind several nieces and a nephew, along with many great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom will miss him dearly.

Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Wednesday, August 5, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Farley Funeral Home, 265 Nokomis Avenue, Venice, Florida. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, August 6, at 11:00 a.m. at Epiphany Cathedral, 310 Sarasota Street, Venice, Florida. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation https://www.npcf.us/donate/

Stephen's life was defined not by the years he lived, but by the countless lives he touched with his compassion, generosity, and unwavering dedication to others. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, former students, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Use a credit card to donate now directly to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation to support the fight against pancreatic cancer.

07/30/2026

Joseph M. Scelsi

ASHFIELD – Joseph Maria Scelsi passed away in his family’s arms at his home in Ashfield on July 15, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born on July 13, 1961 in Pittsfield, Joe was the only child of Anthony D. Scelsi and Carmella (Polcaro) Scelsi, who both predeceased him.

He attended Pittsfield schools in early years and later graduated from UMass/Amherst with an undergraduate degree in business and an MBA from the Eisenberg school.

To all that knew or met Joe, it was apparent how even-tempered, kind, and sincere a person he truly was. He was always accepting of people and a man who never spoke poorly of anyone. Joe was ever-caring to his family and a fair, considerate coworker to those he collaborated with and managed in various roles over 40 years.

Joe started his working career as a young teenager apprenticing in his parent’s self-made business, the C. Scelsi’s Berkshire Bakery. In this busy, loving atmosphere Joe cultivated his craft of baking and developed his passionate work ethic, paving his way into managing bakeries for Price Chopper Supermarkets in Amherst and Pittsfield in subsequent years.

Upon completing his MBA, he held positions in finance, working for Berkshire Life and later as finance director for the Words & Pictures Museum. Words & Pictures was a nonprofit, graphic art gallery and educational facility curated and owned by Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle co-creator Kevin Eastman in downtown Northampton. This position at the comic museum introduced him to the world of sequential art, for which he developed a lifelong appreciation, leading his son, Tony, along the journey with him.

During Joe’s final decade of employment and prior to developing early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, he worked as the general manager of the Berkshire Mall, then as operations manager for the Lee Prime Outlets.

Joe is survived by his wife of 44 years, Karin Abderhalden and his son, Anthony Scelsi, and wife, Jennifer (Pride) Scelsi, and their daughter, Jolene (Jo), of Greenfield. Additionally, he leaves his brother-in-law, William R Abderhalden, II, of Lee and several nephews, niece, and cousins.

All are welcome to attend a vigil service on Tuesday, Aug. 4 with calling hours from 9-10:30 a.m. at Flynn & Dagnoli-Bencivenga Funeral Home, 5 Elm St., Pittsfield, followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Community, 489 Main St., Dalton, with burial following in the family plot at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Pittsfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Highland Ambulance EMS, 12 Williams Dr., Goshen, MA 01032 or in Joe’s memory to Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice, PO Box 329, Northampton, MA 01061-0329.

To add to the Book of Memories, visit flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.

07/30/2026

Joseph M. Scelsi

ASHFIELD – Joseph Maria Scelsi passed away in his family’s arms at his home in Ashfield on July 15, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born on July 13, 1961 in Pittsfield, Joe was the only child of Anthony D. Scelsi and Carmella (Polcaro) Scelsi, who both predeceased him.

He attended Pittsfield schools in early years and later graduated from UMass/Amherst with an undergraduate degree in business and an MBA from the Eisenberg school.

To all that knew or met Joe, it was apparent how even-tempered, kind, and sincere a person he truly was. He was always accepting of people and a man who never spoke poorly of anyone. Joe was ever-caring to his family and a fair, considerate coworker to those he collaborated with and managed in various roles over 40 years.

Joe started his working career as a young teenager apprenticing in his parent’s self-made business, the C. Scelsi’s Berkshire Bakery. In this busy, loving atmosphere Joe cultivated his craft of baking and developed his passionate work ethic, paving his way into managing bakeries for Price Chopper Supermarkets in Amherst and Pittsfield in subsequent years.

Upon completing his MBA, he held positions in finance, working for Berkshire Life and later as finance director for the Words & Pictures Museum. Words & Pictures was a nonprofit, graphic art gallery and educational facility curated and owned by Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle co-creator Kevin Eastman in downtown Northampton. This position at the comic museum introduced him to the world of sequential art, for which he developed a lifelong appreciation, leading his son, Tony, along the journey with him.

During Joe’s final decade of employment and prior to developing early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, he worked as the general manager of the Berkshire Mall, then as operations manager for the Lee Prime Outlets.

Joe is survived by his wife of 44 years, Karin Abderhalden and his son, Anthony Scelsi, and wife, Jennifer (Pride) Scelsi, and their daughter, Jolene (Jo), of Greenfield. Additionally, he leaves his brother-in-law, William R Abderhalden, II, of Lee and several nephews, niece, and cousins.

All are welcome to attend a vigil service on Tuesday, Aug. 4 with calling hours from 9-10:30 a.m. at Flynn & Dagnoli-Bencivenga Funeral Home, 5 Elm St., Pittsfield, followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Community, 489 Main St., Dalton, with burial following in the family plot at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Pittsfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Highland Ambulance EMS, 12 Williams Dr., Goshen, MA 01032 or in Joe’s memory to Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice, PO Box 329, Northampton, MA 01061-0329.

To add to the Book of Memories, visit flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.

Flynn & Dagnoli Funeral Home has served families in Berkshire County since 1928. Trust us for compassionate funeral and cremation services.

07/30/2026

Niles Gene LaValley

HAWLEY — Niles Gene LaValley of Hawley passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at Baystate Franklin County Medical Center at the age of 39. The cause has not yet been determined.

Born on Oct. 5, 1986 in Greenfield, Niles lived a life defined by service, courage, laughter, and an extraordinary capacity to love others. Although his time here was far too short, the impact he made on his family, friends, coworkers, and community will be felt for generations.

Niles dedicated his life to helping others. He proudly served as a firefighter/paramedic with the Westfield Fire Department, Fire Chief of the Russell Fire Department, and as a paramedic for several ambulance services throughout western Massachusetts, including AMR Ambulance of Holyoke, RAM Ambulance of West Springfield, and ACTION Ambulance of Pittsfield.

He also served as President of Westfield Firefighters Local 1111, always advocating for those beside him. Fellow firefighters often described him as a "bull" of a firefighter — fearless, dependable, and exactly the person you wanted by your side when everything was on the line. He was also known as an incredible and knowledgeable paramedic, never afraid to do what was right.

Yet those who knew Niles best would tell you his greatest strength wasn't his courage, it was his heart. He was endlessly generous, fiercely loyal, wonderfully goofy, and always ready to make someone laugh. He had an unforgettable presence. Again and again, those who reached out after his passing shared the same sentiment: Niles was the kind of person who changed lives simply by being himself.

"As big as he was, it was his heart that was biggest of all."

Niles was a devoted husband and father. He often called his wife, Jennifer, the love of his life and best friend, and his son, Theo, the greatest gift. Theo lit up the moment he saw his Dad, calling out, "DaDa!" before running into his arms. Niles treasured tractor rides with Theo, taking him swimming, letting him "help" fix things in the garage, and dreamed of the day they would spend hours fishing together. He embraced fatherhood with the same wholehearted love that he gave to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer Jason; his son, Theo LaValley; his loving mother, Arlene LaValley; his sister, Eastyn LaValley; and his uncle, Dana Coya, who was raised alongside Niles. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his father, Gene LaValley; his brother, Tanner LaValley; and his uncle, Raymond Howell, who lived with the family.

Like many first responders, Niles quietly carried burdens and trauma that were often unseen and he had been working hard toward healing.

His story reminds us that even those who spend their lives rescuing and serving others sometimes need help themselves.

As we remember him, may we all take to heart the lessons he strove to live by: reach out when you're struggling, do not fear talking, and know that asking for help is a sign of strength.

Fire/EMS Helpline: Call 1-888-731-3473 for 24/7 confidential support dedicated to firefighters and EMTs.

COPLINE: Call 1-800-267-5463 for a 24/7 confidential peer support hotline for law enforcement officers and their families.

Safe Call Now: Call 206-459-3020 for a 24/7 confidential crisis referral service for all public safety and emergency personnel.

Crisis Text Line: Text "BADGE" to 741741 for free, confidential text support.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 8 from 1-5 p.m. at Stanley Park, 400 Western Avenue, Westfield at the Pavilion Annex behind the rose garden.

Niles will be remembered for the lives he saved, the lives he fought for, the laughter he shared, the kindness he gave so freely, and the immense love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in every person who was fortunate enough to know him.

07/27/2026

Nancy Peck

CHARLEMONT — With heavy hearts, the family of Nancy May Peck announces her peaceful death at home on July 23, 2026, at the age of 89.

Born April 30, 1937 to W. Payson and Grace (Stacy) Stafford, Nancy grew up in a multi-generational home that instilled in her the values of compassion, hard work and kindness. She now joins her parents and her only sibling, William H. Stafford, in their eternal rest.

While Charlemont was her official childhood home, she spent a great deal of her youth in Heath, a place she loved dearly, with her Dickinson relatives and her families by love, the Landstroms and Burringtons.

Nancy was the beloved wife of Harvey E. Peck, with whom she shared 63 years of marriage. They were wed on June 30, 1963 at the Charlemont Federated Church, marking the beginning of a partnership filled with mutual respect, unwavering support, and countless cherished memories.

She was a devoted mother to two daughters, Barbara Giguere and her husband, Roland, and Janet Cross and her husband, Michael. She also leaves her bonus daughter by love, Mary (husband Randy) Jordan.

Nancy’s legacy lives on through her 11 grandchildren: Joseph (partner Alysha Renaud), Alexander (wife Korin Albert), Heather, Donald (fiancée Corrinne Peters) and Kasey Giguere, Mark (partner Michelle Garland) Overton-Giguere, Tiesha (partner Michael Lainey) Sweeney, Lauren (husband Joseph) Reed, Benjamin Veaudry, Nathaniel and Ivy Cross. She also leaves 12 great grandchildren who brought joy to her life. Many other children lovingly knew her as Daycare Grandma when Janet had a home daycare. In addition, she leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Nancy always valued the education of women. Her own educational journey took her from the basement of the Charlemont school to the top floor (as each grade moved higher in the building), then on to Northampton Commercial College, where she earned an associate degree.

Her first job was in the accounting department at Monarch Insurance in Springfield while residing at the YWCA and later she worked at Northfield School for Girls, which eventually became part of Northfield Mount Hermon.

When she became pregnant with her first child, her focus shifted to prioritizing parenting. As her girls grew, Nancy took on roles at Valley View Orchards, the family farm. Whether packing apples, being “Miss Nancy” or “Boss Lady” to the many Jamaican workers, getting up early so Harvey had his breakfast before early morning spraying, or being home at exactly 12 noon to feed him lunch, Nancy always supported Harvey in every way she could.

Her dedication to community and faith was evident through her membership at the Charlemont Federated Church and later, the First Congregational of Shelburne.

She was also a proud member of the Shelburne Grange, contributing her time and talents to community initiatives. In her youth, she participated in 4H and attended Camp Howe. She then went on to become a 4H leader of the Shelburne Magic Thimblers 4H Club, teaching many children how to sew.

Nancy was an avid crafter, baker, and cook, possessing a remarkable talent for sewing, quilting, and knitting. Her home is adorned with her creations, each piece reflecting her talent and her love for her family. She found joy in sharing her talents, often gifting her handmade treasures to loved ones, especially knitted baby booties to every new baby she knew. She baked homemade goodies for the family and delivered many meals to friends when they were laid up or had a death in the family.

Her crafting became a business, Grandma’s Clothesline, in her later years, first as she made clothes for 18” dolls and later potholders, decorative towels, and quilted wall hangings to sell at craft fairs and then at the Apex Orchards Farm Store just up the hill from her home.

Her funeral will be held on Sunday, Aug. 9 at 1 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, Shelburne.

In lieu of flowers in Nancy’s memory, donations may be made to the First Congregational Church of Shelburne, 21 Common Road, Shelburne, MA 01370, attn: Treasurer.

As we celebrate Nancy’s life, we remember her as a loving wife, a devoted mother, a proud grandmother, and a cherished friend. Her legacy will forever be held in the hearts of those she touched.

We would like to thank Pioneer Valley Hospice and Palliative Care, and The Eventide Singers for the care and comfort they provided in Nancy’s final days.

May she rest in peace surrounded by the love she so generously gave.

07/27/2026

Ellen R. (Levine) Kaufmann

SHELBURNE FALLS — Ellen was born in Brooklyn, NY, on Nov. 2, 1942, the second of three daughters, to Gert and Jon Levine.

She graduated from Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn in 1960 and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English literature at New York University in 1964.

In 1970, she earned a Bachelor of Science in physical therapy at Columbia University Medical School. She used her degree in a variety of ways:

She worked under a grant at St. Luke’s Hospital, using dance in physical therapy with patients who had long-term motor challenges. She taught anatomy and kinesiology to dancers at both the Dance Notation Bureau in New York City and at the Hartford Ballet teacher training program.

She worked with pre-school children in the Buckland-Shelburne School District, then at the REACH program with newborns up to age 3.

Later in her career she worked with homebound adults and children for visiting nurse groups. Her last job, from which she retired at age 70 and called “very satisfying,” was as the weekend physical therapist at Baystate Franklin Medical Center.

Other projects that Ellen was involved with included “Reel World,” which involved screening documentaries usually not found in mainstream media, often filling the basement of Arms Library, in Shelburne Falls. For a number of years, she also submitted documentary films for local public access viewing.

She was a member of the Buckland Town Energy Committee. She was a local coach for the Massachusetts Solarize Program, and worked to establish a community solar project in 2020.

In Ellen’s words:

“I leave a most loving family – my husband Marc (married in 1980) and two magnificent children, Sarah (Andy Robinson) and David (Willow Jones.) I am so proud of who they are and the lives they have chosen. I leave two grandchildren, Keel and Elsa; my sister, Phyllis Linda; and my brother-in-law, Bennett Dubiner. I am also grateful for my extended family: nieces, Amy and Jena; nephew, Ben; and cousin, Amy, as well as their spouses and children. I was sadly predeceased by my sister, Betsy, as well as my mother-in-law, Elaine.

I am deeply, deeply grateful for the life I was given – safe, and free from want. I wish that everyone on this planet can have something close to the security of the life I was privileged to have. I wish I was brave enough to take more chances and to be more dedicated to the work for peace and equality.

My greatest dream was to see humanity evolve toward world peace, shared wealth, and freedom for all. I hope and do believe that another world is possible for all our grandchildren. I can see the image clearly.”

Graveside services will be observed on Tuesday, July 28 at 11 a.m. at Greenfield Hebrew Cemetery, Log Plain Road, Greenfield, with Rabbi Simcah Halpert-Hanson of Temple Israel officiating.

At the conclusion of the services, a reception will follow at Temple Israel, 27 Pierce Street, in the social hall, to be followed by an observance of shivah at 3 p.m. Subsequently, shivah will be observed at the Kaufmann residence, 68 Main Street, Shelburne Falls, on Wednesday and Thursday evenings at 7 p.m.

Donations may be made to relevant funds of the donor’s choice, or to ACLU, AFSC, or Jewish Activists for Immigration Justice in Northampton, MA.

McCarthy Funeral Homes of Greenfield and Turners Falls have been entrusted with Ellen’s care and arrangements. Expressions of remembrance maybe directed to Ellen’s Tribute Wall at mccarthyfuneralhomes.com.

07/23/2026

Marjorie A. (Bellor) Porrovecchio

CHARLEMONT — Marjorie A. (Bellor) Porrovecchio passed away at Baystate Medical Center surrounded by family on July 19, 2026, at the age of 88.

She was the daughter of Philip Bellor and Sadie (Galvin) Bellor and one of six siblings - Marion (Bellor) Lagerberg, Richard Bellor, Robert Bellor, Marilyn “Lynn” (Bellor) Kelsey, and Margaret “Peggy” (Bellor) Compehos.

Marge was born in Heath. Growing up she lived in Heath and Colrain. She graduated from Arms Academy. During her years there, she was a twirler and all through high school she worked at Scott’s Garage as a soda jerk. After high school, Marge worked at Kendall Mills in the office and at Mohawk Trail Regional School as audio-visual aide.

Marge had a sense of adventure and a love for the outdoors. Whether it be horseback riding with her friend Joan, taking the Cub Scouts hiking or swimming, loading up the family to go on vacation, skiing, snowmobiling, or a day on the lake, she was there and ready to go. Many times this involved her driving her beloved Oldsmobile Cutlass convertible.

Her home was always open for people to stop by. She was a wonderful cook and there was always room for one more at the table. When not adventuring, Marge was a seamstress, knitter, a collector of teddy bears, avid reader, and master of jigsaw puzzles.

Marge loved her alma mater, Arms Academy. She was active in the Alumni Association, serving in various officer positions and an organizer of the 5-year all-class reunions. She was honored to serve as grand marshal of the most recent one. She also served and held officer positions on the Carl Nilman Scholarship committee, Charlemont Finance Committee, Council on Aging, and many other organizations.

On April 11, 1958, Marge married Lewis Porrovecchio (deceased), her husband of 68 years, and made their home in Charlemont. Lew and Marge had four children: Charlotte Ann Porrovecchio (predeceased Marge); Wayde Porrovecchio; Karla O’Byrne; and Scott Porrovecchio. Family was everything to her. She was happiest when all her family were around her. Because she was such a loving and warm person, everyone around her found comfort in her presence and she became a “mom” to many more.

Marge is survived by her children, Wayde and his husband, Cornell Marshburn; Karla O’Byrne and her husband, Paul, and Scott and his wife, Dianne; her grandchildren, Noah Porrovecchio, David O’Byrne, Kadie O’Byrne and Austin Porrovecchio — all of whom were her whole world. She is also survived by her sisters, Marion, Lynn, and Peggy, and multiple generations of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visiting hours will be Monday, July 27 from 5-7 p.m. at Smith-Kelleher Funeral Home, 40 Church St., Shelburne Falls.

The funeral service will be Tuesday, July 28 at 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Leavitt Cemetery, Charlemont.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Mary Lyon Foundation in memory of Marjorie Porrovecchio for the Arms Academy Scholarship and mailed to the Mary Lyon Foundation, PO Box 184, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370, or online at marylyonfoundation.org.