Obituaries

Clifford J. ‘Bucky’ Douglas, 82, of Addison

CLIFFORD J. DOUGLAS

ADDISON — Clifford J. Douglas, 82, of Addison, Vt., known to many as Bucky, Bucket the Clown, or Santa, passed away peacefully on the morning of Jan. 26, 2025, at the University of Vermont, surrounded by his children and granddaughters.

He was born May 13, 1942, in Rutland, Vt., to Clifford G. and Amelia (Amoriello) Douglas. He attended grade school at Christ the King in Rutland and graduated from Rochester High School class of 1960.

Bucky served in the U.S. Navy from 1964 to 1972 as a Machinist Mate aboard the U.S.S. Austin, stationed in Norfolk, Va. He married Kathleen Senesac of Vergennes, Vt., on June 26, 1965, and together they had three children.

After his military service, Bucky worked for over 20 years as an agent with John Hancock Insurance Co. He was an avid collector who had many hobbies. As a skilled accordion player, he not only taught many students but also found joy in sharing his music with patients at Helen Porter Nursing Home. His passion for music brought happiness to those around him. His greatest delight was bringing smiles to others, whether as “Santa’s helper” or as Bucket the Clown with the Shriners.

Bucky was an active member of St. Peter’s Parish in Vergennes, the Dorchester Lodge, the American Legion, Vergennes Rotary, Shriners, and the Vergennes City Council.

He is survived by his three children, Michelle (Todd) Chamberlain, Michael (Heather) Douglas, and Matthew Douglas, as well as his six grandchildren: Grace, Adrian, Madison, Mackenzie, Vincent and Eliza, and his brother Ronald (Debra) Douglas. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Stephen.

His partner of 34 years, Effie Cole, passed away on the same day, hours apart, at the Vermont Respite House, surrounded by her family. They are also survived by her children, Cevin (John) and Charles (Karen), and her six grandchildren, CJ (Rachel), Andrew (Nikki), Justin (Madison), Karlaysia, Karwan and Joe’l, and great-granddaughter Isabella.

Visiting hours for Bucky & Effie will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 5, at Brown-McClay Funeral Home in Vergennes. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 6t at St. Peter’s Church in Vergennes followed by a reception at the American Legion in Vergennes. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Vergennes Area Rescue Squad. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.brownmcclayfuneralhomes.com. ◊

 

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