Obituary of Regina S. Vance

Gina Vance, age 69, of Mystic, CT passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving husband, David of 46 years, and her four children Tricia Keiller, David Vance, Christopher Vance and Mary Baveghems. Gina is survived by her beloved sister Rita Schreiner, her four grandchildren Delaney Vance, Dawson Vance, Camden Baveghems, and Reggie Keiller and by her daughter-in law Hillary Vance, and sons-in-law Clive Baveghems and Ian Keiller. She is also survived by her niece Dawn Christiana, and nephew Raymond Schreiner and other nieces, nephews and cousins, Uncle Alfred Hurley and sister-in-law Kay Vance. Gina loved being with her family especially on the beaches of the Jersey Shore and Watch Hill, RI. Gina was born in Bayonne, NJ daughter of Rita Marie and Patrick O’Reilly. She met her husband David in 1969 while attending graduate school at Michigan State University. Gina and David moved to CT in 1984. In 1985 Gina began a long career in the Glastonbury School System, first as the Director of Special Education for 8 years, then principal of Hebron Avenue School for 8 years and then spent her last 9 years as the Assistant Principal at Gideon- Welles retiring in 2011. Gina was a beloved school administrator totally devoted to the children and teachers. No call from a teacher or parent ever went unanswered regardless of the time or day. Gina was one of the founders of the Special Olympics in Glastonbury, which recently celebrated their 25th year. She was also active in the CT Association of Schools, serving on many committees, and was chair of the Elementary Board for three years. Gina’s first battle with cancer was with breast cancer in 1994 and then in the fall of 2012 she was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer. She was very devoted to the Relay for Life and chose to have her retirement party at the Relay to help raise money for cancer research. Due to the wonderful staff at Yale’s Smilow Cancer Hospital, the loving compassionate care from the Masonicare Hospice team and the love and prayers from so many family friends and colleagues she was able to extend her illness well beyond the normal time line. For that we have been most blessed. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Smilow Cancer Hospital for Pediatric Oncology. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Dunstan Church, 1345 Manchester Rd., Glastonbury on Monday, March 13 at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, Glastonbury. Calling hours will be held from 2:30 – 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 12, at Mulryan Funeral Home, 725 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury. For online condolences please visit www.mulryanfh.com.