Elaine J. Bushey

Elaine Joyce (Kearns) Bushey of Grand Isle passed away peacefully at home on April 23, 2026, surrounded by the love she spent her lifetime giving to others.

Elaine was born in Burlington, Vermont, on October 7, 1932, and grew up there. Burlington is also where she met her forever love, Robert Bushey. They married in 1948 and went on to raise seven children together, building a life centered on family, hard work, and love. Later, they moved to the lake in Hinesburg, where they lived in the home Robert built in 1974—a place filled with memories, laughter, and generations of love.

Elaine spent more than 30 years working for the Visiting Nurse Association, with her final 10 years devoted to hospice care. This work was truly Elaine’s calling. She had a big heart, was endlessly giving, and always put the needs of others before her own. Her compassion, strength, and selflessness touched countless lives.

Elaine wore many hats in her life, which meant she was known by many names: Elaine, Rainy, Mother, Mom, Grandma, Gramma, and GiGi. No matter what you called her, anyone who met her instantly fell in love with her kind heart, generosity, and lack of judgment. She was constantly smiling, strong in spirit, and the backbone of her family. Her comforting presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Her happiest moments were spent with her children at camp in Warren, Vermont, a place that brought her so much joy. She also loved shopping and, most of all, spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she adored.

Elaine is survived by her seven children: John Bushey and his companion Lisa Bevins, Carlene (Joe) Mackey, Gail Horne, Kenny Bushey, Robin Bushey, Danny Bushey, Ronnie Bushey, and former daughter in law Holli Bushey, her sister Carlene Lemieux; along with her twelve grandchildren and twenty-three great-grandchildren. Her love lives on through each of them, a true legacy.

She was predeceased by her husband, Robert Bushey; her son-in-law, Mark Horne; her son-in-law, David Heindel; her daughter-in-law, Rose Ann Bushey; and her brother, James Seeley.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to P.A Rick Dooley and Julia Jacques of Thomas Chittenden Health Center, as well as the hospice team, for the kindness, compassion, and exceptional care they gave Elaine.

A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday May 9 from 1PM to 3PM in the Lighthouse Restaurant in Colchester.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Grand Isle Rescue PO Box 79 Grand Isle, VT 05458