Jean E. Mankowsky-Upham, 56, died January 16, 2009 at the Central Vermont Hospital after a brief illness. She grew up in Vernon, VT and Greenfield, MA, the daughter of Leon C. and Alma (Dunklee) Mankowsky. She leaves her parents and brother, Dennis L. and his wife Mary Ann Mankowsky of Vernon, VT; her husband of 32 years, Dennis C. Upham of Adamant; her daughter, Matana of Los Angles, CA; son Zachary Hughes of Montpelier. She also leaves many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and brothers and sisters-in-law throughout the country. Jean was a graduate of Pioneer Valley Regional High School in Northfield, MA, as well as Greenfield Community College and the University of Arizona with a degree in Rehabilitation and Psychology. After graduation Jean, with her husband moved to Vermont where she worked at the Vermont Center for Independent Living in Montpelier; first as a peer advocate counselor, then administrative coordinator as well as 3 years as Executive Director. Her work at VCIL also allowed her to serve persons with disabilities on numerous national, state and local boards and committees. Jean was a pioneer in the Independent Living Movement testifying in Washington D.C. before the senate subcommittee on Employment of Persons with Disabilities as well as the Civil Rights Restoration Act which later became known as the Americans with Disabilities Act. Jean was also a strong advocate for the Independent Living Movement believing in the civil rights for all persons with disabilities. Her interests also include horticulture or nithology, graphic design, the beauty of nature and the environment. One of her greatest pleasures was watching her daughter dance as well as seeing her son achieve independent living. Memorial donations may be made to the Vermont Center for Independent Living, 11 East State Street, Montpelier, VT 05601 or the Central Vermont Humane Society, PO Box 687, Montpelier, VT 05601-0687. A memorial mass will be held 10:00 am on Saturday, January 24, 2009 at Blessed Sacrament Church, 221 Federal Street, Greenfield, MA. A celebration of Jean's life will be held at a later date in the spring in Vermont.