Our History
GOING BACK IN TIME
Our History
Shea Family Funeral Homes has been a trusted part of life in Bennington, Arlington, Manchester, and Wilmington for generations. With roots dating back to 1884, our funeral homes have grown alongside the communities we proudly serve, carrying forward a long tradition of compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to families.
1884: The Walbridge Company Begins
The story begins with J.E. Walbridge, who founded the Walbridge Company in 1884 at 525 Main Street in Bennington. His livery and horse-drawn coaches were housed at the old Walbridge Estate in Walbridgeville—today known as Paper Mill Village. His dedication to serving local families set the foundation for more than a century of community care.
1920s: A Family Legacy Continues
In the 1920s, Roy Paddock joined Mr. Walbridge in the business and later married his daughter, Edith. After Walbridge’s passing, Roy and Edith continued the legacy and, in 1927, moved the funeral home to 500 Main Street, expanding the facilities to better serve the community.
A New Chapter: Dean Hanson & Expansion
With no children to carry on the business, the Paddocks sought a successor. In 1955, they invited Dean F. Hanson to join them. Hanson purchased the firm the following year and soon recognized the need for a larger, modern facility.
In 1958, he acquired the historic home at 213 West Main Street, built in 1867 and stewarded by the Holden family for nearly 70 years. This location became a cornerstone of the Hanson-Walbridge tradition.
1984: Bob Covey and Regional Growth
As Hanson faced health challenges, his colleague Bob Covey stepped in to assist with operations. In 1984, Covey assumed ownership and expanded the firm, operating Hanson-Walbridge, Covey & Allen in Wilmington, the Arlington Chapel, and Brewster Funeral Service in Manchester—forming the foundation of today’s Shea Family Funeral Homes network.
2004: Passing the Torch
In January 2004, Bob Covey passed ownership to Mark and Lisa Shea, longtime employees deeply committed to continuing the tradition of family leadership and community service.
Serving Our Communities Today
Today, Shea Family Funeral Homes remains dedicated to upholding the highest professional standards across all four locations. We also proudly operate Vermont Cremation Service and Shea Monument Company, further supporting families with comprehensive care.
For more than 140 years, families throughout Southern Vermont have trusted us to provide dignity, compassion, and personal attention—and we remain honored to continue that tradition for generations to come.
