- Date Of Birth: March 9, 1935
- Date Of Death: July 20, 2023
- State: Pennsylvania
Vivian Eloise Clark Kacey, aged 88, lovingly known to those around her simply as Viv, a cherished family member, admired educator, and passionate gardener, peacefully transitioned from her earthly life to her eternal rest on July 20, 2023 in West Chester, Pennsylvania.
Born on March 9, 1935, in Berlin, New Hampshire to the late Clarence Bernard and Myrtle Pearl (MacFarlane) Clark.
Vivian moved back to Bath, Maine at the age of 2 years with family. Her early life was shaped by her upbringing in Bath, Maine alongside her now late siblings Clarence Bernard Clark, Jr., Ruth Janet (Clark) Collins, and Shirley Ann (Clark) McPhail.
Vivian attended local Bath schools graduating from Morse High in 1953. Following her dream to teach, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Gorham State Teachers College in 1957. Furthering her education while teaching, Vivian acquired a Master’s in Education from the University of Maine. Orano in 1967.
With a commitment to helping young minds bloom, Vivian started her teaching career in the fall of 1957 in Augusta, Maine teaching Grade 1 for a year followed by the next year in Phippsburg, Maine also teaching Grade 1. She moved to Cheshire, Connecticut in 1959 to secure a permanent teaching position. She dedicated herself to teaching the first few years in Grade 2, eventually moving to Grade 3 until retirement in 1995.
Vivian’s profound love for her profession was evident in her ability to remember her students’ names even after retirement – a testament to the impact made by her loving and adventurous spirit on everyone she came across. In the words of the great C.S. Lewis, “A teacher affects eternity; she can never tell where her influence stops.” This quote stands as a remarkable summation of Vivian’s life; her contribution to generations of students will continue to echo for years to come. Vivian has left behind a beautiful legacy of love, dedication, and vibrant life that will continue to inspire those who knew her.
Vivian’s passion for nurturing extended beyond the classroom and into her home in Cheshire where she meticulously cared for the beautiful gardens surrounding her home and inground pool. Our beloved Viv was the recipient of the award from the Cheshire Garden Club that is awarded each month during the growing season for the best garden in Cheshire. Viv won this award twice in two different spring seasons, illustrating her commitment to create beautiful surroundings for herself and loved ones, were among her most treasured spaces. Viv was an active member of the Cheshire Garden Club a community she held dearly and an enthusiastic advocate to the saying by Audrey Hepburn, “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”
Vivian’s sense of adventure fueled a love for travel, from trips to her beloved Maine to Canada, New York, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Texas, Florida, Vermont, and Bermuda. Journeying via plane, bus, car, all done with the love of her life, her late husband James Matthew Kacey of 53 years. They were avid UConn Girls Basketball and Red Sox fans. Viv never failed to speak so highly about her teams, a testimony to her undying spirit. Vivian also enjoyed shopping, whether within the walls of a physical store, garden shop, or catalogs. She loved both the simple and grand aspects of life from reading to bowling, an evening game of Scrabble with Jim, or movies with good friend Jan Edwards. One trait that her friends can attest to is Vivian’s contagious laugh, echoing her vibrant spirit and bringing joy to those around her.
Vivian’s life, indeed, was a journey that inspired and enriched, one reminding us much like Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children… to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” Today, as we bid adieu to Vivian Eloise Clark Kacey, we remember an exceptional woman whose life was marked by love, laughter, and adventure. The lasting impression she left on all those who knew her will truly never be forgotten. Vivian’s legacy will continue to inspire and resonate, etched into the hearts and minds of her family, which included numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews, all held a special place in her heart. Apart from her family, she also leaves behind many great friends from teaching and garden club communities. Here’s to a remarkable woman who lived a full, vibrant life, lighting up the world with her radiant spirit. Vivian Eloise Clark Kacey will always be remembered and deeply missed.
