Berlin, VT Rheta Marie (Marquis) Bird passed away very peacefully, February 11, 2012 at the home of her daughter where she had lived for the past 3 years. Rheta was born on April 10,1925 in Beecher Fall, VT to Adelard and Flora (Chaloux) Marquis. Most of her childhood was spent in Barre, VT where she attended St. Monica's Graded School and Spaudling High School. She moved to Montpelier in 1941 and graduated from Montpelier High School. Rheta was married to Phillip Bird on December 10, 1942. He passed away on January 1, 1984. Rheta worked for many years at the Vermont Department of Agriculture, leaving to become a full time Mother in 1953. She did a great amount of volunteer work over the years including the Benefit Shop and the Soup Kitchen at St. Augustine's Parish. Rheta is survived by her daughter, Susan LaValley and her husband Robert of Berlin, two grandchildren, Peter LaValley of Springfield, VT; and Carrie "Blaise" Smith and her husband Martin of Berlin, VT; two great grandchildren, Elaina and Dallas Sulton'el as well as Martin's daughter, Claudia Smith. She is also survived by her sister, Jeanine Henderson of Bantam, CT; sister-in-law, Evelyn Bird of Northfield, VT as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In keeping with Rheta's wishes there will be no calling hours. Rheta has donated her body to UVM medical school. A memorial will take place at the convenience of the family. The family wishes to thank the Berlin and Northfield Emergency personnel, Brian Hoar of Berlin Police Department, and Paul Guare for their assistance and compassion. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Rheta's memory may be made to the Vermont Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired, 37 Elmwood Ave, Burlington, VT 05401-4390 or St. Augustine's Parish, 16 Barre Street, Montpelier, VT 05602. Those wishing to send on line condolences may do so at www.guareandsons.com and go to Rheta's obituary