Lindsay P. Behne

Lindsay "Lyn" Pyle Behne, 88, of West Hartford and Waitsfield, VT, a loving wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully during her afternoon nap on November 13. Born in Harrisburg, PA, and raised in Summit, NJ, Lyn graduated from Skidmore College in 1957 with a BA in English. She began her career as an editor for Henry Holt in New York City, where her passion for literature took root. In the summer of 1963, Lyn met John Behne at a beach party, and after confirming Lyn could ski, John proposed. They were married the following May and later settled in Riverside, CT, to raise their family. Together, they embraced skiing, from Vermont to the Rockies, a joy they shared with their children and grandchildren. Lyn dedicated much of her time to community service in Riverside. A leader with the Junior League, she started the TEFOL program and the Festival of Trees. Her volunteer work at the Parrot Library and Planned Parenthood left an enduring impact on those around her. She continued her career at several companies, retiring from Listening Library in 2001. However, she never stopped correcting her children’s and grandchildren’s grammar. In retirement, Lyn and John moved to Niantic, CT. Lyn continued her service, volunteering with her local library, serving on its board, and lending her warmth to the St. John’s Episcopal Church community. They became members of the Niantic Bay Yacht Club, enjoying time by the water. Lyn adored her role as a grandmother, cheering her grandchildren on from the sidelines at many sporting events in Connecticut and Colorado. Lyn and John loved traveling, exploring the U.S. and abroad each fall, particularly enjoying river cruises through Europe. Compassionate and gentle-hearted, Lyn was a steadfast source of comfort to friends and family, often the first to lend an ear in times of need. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Lyn is predeceased by her parents, William and Marianne Pyle, and her brother-in-law, Linn Smith. She is survived by her beloved husband of 60 years, John, her sister Susan Smith, and her brother Jack Pyle (Ellen). She will be deeply missed by her daughters, Pam Gentry (Glen) of Colorado and Katie Rose (Jeff) of West Hartford, as well as her grandchildren, Tommy Rose of West Hartford, Maggie Rose Jeffers of Indianapolis, Ellie Gentry of California, and Charlotte Gentry of Colorado. Visitation and a celebration of Lyn’s life will take place on December 23rd from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Molloy Funeral Home, 906 Farmington Ave, West Hartford, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lyn’s memory may be made to Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) or Planned Parenthood.

Lindsay P. Behne

November 13, 2024