Alice Abraham, 64, Music Librarian
Alice June Abraham
June 19, 1961 – June 28, 2025
Of Jamaica, Vermont, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, June 28, 2025, following a traumatic accident at the age of 64.
Alice was born on June 19, 1961, in Washington, D.C., to the late Hilda Mary Wenz Abraham and George Abraham. She grew up on Westover Drive in Washington and attended the Canterbury School in Maryland, where her lifelong love of music first blossomed.
A gifted violinist, Alice played with the D.C. Youth Orchestra and went on to study music composition at Bennington College in Vermont, where she composed Kaeru for the Sage City Symphony. She later earned a Master of Library Science degree from Simmons College in Boston, and she interned in the Music Division of the Library of Congress.
From 1990 to 2011, Alice worked as a Music Librarian at WGBH in Boston, where she was a respected member of the staff and served as Vice President of the AEEF union. She continued her professional journey as Projects Manager for nine years at The Collaborative, a Vermont nonprofit dedicated to empowering healthy youth, families, and communities. In all her roles, Alice was known for her dedication, creativity, and talent for clever
wordplay—earning her the unofficial title of “resident punster.”
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alice was a vibrant force in her community. She served on the boards of the Jamaica Memorial Library, Senior Solutions, and the Jamaica Historical Foundation, volunteering her
considerable talents in planning, organizing, and creative problem-solving.
Alice is survived by her beloved wife of 28 years, Christina Healy, whom she married on June 7, 1997; her stepsons Patrick Paquette (and wife Wendy), and Charles Paquette; her daughter-in-law Rochelle Paquette; and her daughter-like figure, Tricia Van Straaten. She is also survived by her brother, Dr. Edward “Ted” Abraham; sister Dorothy Abraham; sister-like cousin Betsy Rubin; and cousins Kathy Tarsa, Diane Racine, Steven Bowie, April Brahinsky, and RJ Abraham, as well as many extended family members in the U.S. and
Ireland.
She was predeceased by her parents; her sister Anne Abraham; and her stepson Ronald Paquette.
Alice’s life was defined by music, compassion, wit, and service to others. She brought warmth and flair to every room she entered and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her.
Family and friends are welcome to gather and remember the love and friendship Alice shared with so many others in the Mary Catherine Chapel of Brasco & Sons Memorial, 773 Moody Street, WALTHAM on TUESDAY July 8th from 3pm until 7pm. From 3-5 pm, visitors can mingle informally. From 5-7pm, services will provide words of comfort and the sharing of memories in celebration of Alice’s life. Parking Attendants will
be on duty.
A second service will be held at the Jamaica Town Hall, Route 30, Jamaica, VT on Saturday, July 19, from 1-5 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to The Collaborative or Jamaica, VT Fire and Rescue.
I’m so sad to hear of Alice’s passing. She was a dedicated colleague and a key member of the music team for many years. My condolences to Chris and all the family.
Alice fought for the staff. She was always willing to help those who needed it. I will miss her.
I’m saddened to learn of Alice’s passing and send deepest condolences to Chris and to all the extended family. Alice was smart, funny and oh, so good hearted! Missed by many, many fine folk. Rest in peace, Alice.
Very sad. Alice was a talented, kind co-worker. May her memory be a blessing.