EAST MIDDLEBURY — Jean Helen Burfoot, 77, died peacefully at home on April 10, 2026, surrounded by her family. Jean was born and raised in a small village outside of Nottingham, England to Eric and Hilda Burfoot.

At the age of nineteen, Jean moved to London where she received training as a nurse at Guy’s Hospital. It was during this time that she became interested in Hospice, which would remain a significant part of her life. After working as a nurse, Jean attended the London School of Economics, where she received a degree in Sociology. Thereafter, she moved to Los Angeles, Calif., where she attended UCLA as a graduate student in Sociology specializing in social theory and the study of death and dying. Her dissertation focused on the history and development of Hospice movement.

During her time at UCLA, she met her husband of 46 years, Burke Rochford. Together they raised two children, Holley and Ian, who in turn, gave “Grammi B” three terrific grandchildren, Evan, Luna, and Rocky.

After coming to Vermont in 1986, Jean directed the hospice program in Middlebury and taught part-time at Middlebury College. Ongoing medical issues, however, forced her to discontinue her career aspirations. Thereafter, Jean dedicated herself to her family. She found joy in caring for others even in the face of the numerous medical challenges she faced. Jean was always about lifting other people up, offering compassion, humor, and steady support to those around her. She was recognized by those who knew her as an understanding and truly good person.

The family will not be holding a public service. We offer our sincere thanks to the many wonderful people who helped us through Jean’s final days, most especially those at Home Health and Hospice who offered both medical expertise and emotional support so needed and always appreciated. Thank you. ◊