Christina (Chris) H. Trudo

Christina (Chris) Hall Trudo (95) died peacefully at home surrounded by devoted family and caregivers, and the love of many friends, following a lengthy period under hospice care. Born July 31, 1926 in Hamden, CT, she was the child of Scottish immigrants, Hugh Hall and Christina (Petrie) Hall. (She was predeceased by two brothers, Hugh and Murray, in early childhood). She married her beloved Vern (Vernon Trudo), on July 12 1945, and predeceases him. They have been known throughout their remarkable 76 years together as an extraordinarily devoted couple. After moving to Amherst in 1969, they were deeply involved in the community and at the Congregational Church of Amherst, and were jointly named the town’s “Citizens of the Year” in 1990. Chris is survived by her children: David Trudo, of Weare, and partner Erin Headley; Christy Trudo of Amherst; Laurie Howard of Milford; and Scott Trudo of Milford and his wife Jan Trudo; grandchildren Andy Trudo of Milford and Hanna Trudo of Washington DC; their mother Pandora Trudo; and Jan Trudo’s daughter Jenna Cohen. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Margaret Williams of Suffield, CT, and nephews Richard and Bruce Williams and their families. She was predeceased by Laurie’s husband Wayne Howard, David’s late wife Janis Headley Trudo, by nephew Robert Williams, and by sister-in-law Gwendolyn Trudo. She is remembered in Amherst as a longtime teacher at Clark School, and later its principal and guidance counselor. Teaching was her vocation and passion. Her career began after she returned to college as a young mother in Connecticut, and continued as she relocated to Amherst in the late 60’s.. She was a lifetime learner and earned a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education at the University of New Hampshire and a degree in School Counseling at Rivier College, where she also gained a certificate in Education Administration. Post retirement she taught classes at Rivier College and mentored students in their school placements. She was also cofounder of the Preschool in the Village. Chris was widely read with an avid curiosity. She was a person of deep faith, and an active member and leader of the church, where she has served with creativity and zest throughout her life. A lively conversationalist, she enjoyed many strong friendships among churchgoers, teaching colleagues, women of diverse backgrounds, neighbors and others. A memorial service will be held at the Congregational Church of Amherst at a date to be announced. Memorial contributions can also be made to that congregation, or to Home Health and Hospice, SHARE, or Family Promise of Southern New Hampshire (serving homeless families).