Deirdre Lynn Zele

LINCOLN:

Deirdre Lynn Zele passed away peacefully on August 11, 2025, at her home in Lincoln, at the age of 58.

Deirdre was born in Torrington, Connecticut, on September 26, 1966, to Joseph and Patricia (Michna) Zele. She grew up on Isle La Motte, Vermont, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Political Science with a minor in Business from SUNY Plattsburgh in 1980s.

A long-time resident and active member of the Lincoln community, Deirdre was a member and past Deacon of the Lincoln United Church, where she was deeply involved in church activities and community service.

Deirdre served as a central staff member at the Lincoln Community School/Lincoln School District for nearly 20 years. She initially worked in the school’s front office, where she welcomed staff, students, and families with a warm smile each day. Later, she assumed the critical role of Business and Human Resources Manager in the newly established Lincoln School District. In addition to her work at the school, Deirdre was a long-time fitness instructor at Bristol Fitness (BFIT). She taught fitness classes before and after her school hours and is fondly remembered by BFIT members, who credited her support and encouragement for helping them maintain their fitness journeys.

Of all the roles Deirdre held within her community—whether at church, school, or the gym—none was more significant to her than raising her two daughters, about whom she often expressed immense pride.

Deirdre is survived by her two daughters, Kalvyn Langford of South Burlington and Skylar Langford of Boulder, Colorado; her partner, Geoffrey Booth of Lincoln, Vermont; and her brother, Robert Zele of North Carolina. She was predeceased by her parents.

Upon hearing the news of her passing, the Lincoln community gathered at the school on August 17th to celebrate Deirdre's life. Nearly 300 people of all ages attended, highlighting the significant impact she had on so many within the community.

A memorial service titled “In Celebration of Her Life” will be hosted by the family on Saturday, October 25th at the Lincoln United Church at 11:00 am. 

Arrangements are being handled by Miller & Ketcham of Brandon.