Geraldine M. Messick

Geraldine Margaret (Rivers) Messick passed away at 75 in peace on June 28, 2026.

Jeri was born on September 21, 1950 in Burlington, settling in Milton in 1976 where she raised her children: Shawna and Shawn. Also helping take care of her grandchildren, especially during snow days and school vacations. They were her pride and joy.

She graduated from Winooski High School, going on to serve as an EMT alongside her husband of 34 years: Sidney Messick, together they proudly delivered a baby. She also drove school buses for Mountain Transit for 40+ years, though at this time she was known as Mrs. Flanagan, and one did not misbehave on her bus!

Her hobbies were puzzles, card games, uno (somehow she always won), scratch off tickets, shopping, and bingo. Jeri was also an avid gardener. Her flower beds at her house were abundant and colorful. She loved spending time outdoors! She and Sid in their younger years spent lots of time camping with dear close personal friends, Anna and Bruce DeLorme.

Travel was always to Wells Beach, Maine, with her husband and at times her grandkids; swimming in the ocean, lobster rolls, and lots of dessert! There wasn’t a dessert she said no to.

She was a passionate animal lover owning many cats and three special pups: Angel, Juliette, and Shilo. All bringing her joy and companionship.

She is survived by her daughter Shawna Palmer (Dwight), son Shawn Flanagan, partner Kathy Fitzgerald; granddaughter Rebecca Palmer, partner Collin Smith, grandson Kyle Palmer, granddaughter Courtney Kleppinger. Step children Jennifer Messick and Sidney Messick Jr.. Her cherished sister Nancy Brisson. In laws, Myron Messick (Chrissy), niece Miranda and sister-in-law Linda Messick. Nephews Jonathan Brisson and Tim Brisson (Robin), great nephew Ryan Woods (Karen), kids Nathaniel and Abigail. Great nephew Connor Brisson and partner Fatima Hernandez. Great nephew Kiernan Brisson. Niece Wendy Brisson-Derby; great nephews Andrew Derby and Riley Derby (Katherine).

She is predeceased by her husband and soulmate Sidney Messick, her parents Gisele and Gerald Rivers, step father Gilles Deslauriers, and brother-in-law John Brisson.

A heartfelt thank you to her life long friend Paula and to her closest friend Anna - her touchstone. Special thanks to caregiver and friend Tina Menard, the staff and doctors at UVMMC and Chris Hebert M.D.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Diabetes Association or your local humane society. Visiting hours will be held July 10, 2026 at Minor Funeral Home from 5-7pm. The funeral service will also be held at Minor Funeral Home on July 11, 2026 at 11am. Online condolences may be made to www.minorfh.com.