Our History

Shea Family Funeral Homes has been serving Bennington, Arlington, Manchester & Wilmington area families for years. We are honored to be a part of the rich history of this community and plan to be a part of it for many years to come.

Founded in 1884: J.E. Walbridge

Founded in 1884 by J.E. Walbridge, the Walbridge Company was originally located at 525 Main Street. Mr. Walbridge kept his livery and horse-drawn coaches at the old Walbridge Estate in Walbridgeville, now commonly known as Paper Mill Village.

1920s: A Family Legacy Continues

In the 1920s, Roy Paddock joined J.E. Walbridge and married his daughter, Edith. After Mr. Walbridge’s passing, Roy and Edith committed to continuing the business and, in 1927, moved the funeral home across the street to 500 Main Street, allowing for expanded facilities dedicated to serving the community.

A New Chapter: Dean Hanson and the Expansion

The Paddocks never had children and, as they grew older, recognized the need to find a successor for the Walbridge Company. In 1955, they invited Dean F. Hanson to join them at 500 Main Street. Mr. Hanson purchased the business the following year and, within several years, saw the need for a larger facility to better serve the community. In 1958, he purchased the property at 213 West Main Street, across from St. Francis de Sales Church, from the Holden family. This lovely historic Bennington home was constructed in 1867 and had been maintained from 1890 to 1958 by the Holden family, who were prominent Bennington entrepreneurs, benefactors, and socialites.

1984: Bob Covey and the Next Chapter

When Mr. Hanson began experiencing health problems, he turned to his longtime professional associate, Bob Covey, to assist with the management and operation of the funeral home. In 1984, Covey assumed ownership of Hanson-Walbridge and operated the firm in conjunction with his family funeral home, Covey & Allen, in Wilmington, as well as the Hanson-Walbridge Arlington Chapel and Brewster Funeral Service in Manchester.

2004: Passing the Torch

In January 2004, Bob Covey passed ownership to Mark and Lisa Shea, longtime employees of his, continuing the tradition of family ownership.

Serving Our Community Today

Today, Shea Funeral Homes continues to uphold high professional standards across all four locations. In addition, we operate Vermont Cremation Service and Shea Monument Company. Our dedicated staff is always ready to serve the needs of our community.

A Community Steeped in History

The Bennington area holds some of the richest history in the state of Vermont. From the Battle Monument and nearby Bennington Battlefield to our historic buildings, covered bridges, and museums, the region is full of stories recounting the pre-Revolutionary activities of many notable figures who helped shape our nation’s history.



Equally rich in heritage are our community institutions, including the Hanson-Walbridge Funeral Home. In 2008, Hanson-Walbridge was honored by the State of Vermont for 124 years of continuous service to the community.