Hattie R. Durgin, 84, of East Derry, NH died Saturday, December 23, 2006 at her home where her daughter Patricia Durgin lovingly cared for her for the past 18 months. She was born in Warner, NH on August 12, 1922, the daughter of Gideon and Mildred (Nichols) Valley. Hattie was a “wonder woman” of sorts, born on a farm with three brothers and four sisters. Hattie later married Roger F. Durgin and worked hard to raise her family of four. Hattie and Roger moved their family to East Derry and resided there for more than 50 years. Their daughter, Barbara, injured in an automobile accident by a drunk driver, was left in a coma for many years. Hattie faithfully visited her, encouraging all family members to do the same. This was all made possible by Former State Trooper Dennis Davies who was instrumental with NH Legislature in bringing Barbara back to NH. Hattie was an honorary member of the Derry Police Department, finding strength and support from the Derry Law community. She was also a faithful supporter of the State Troopers of NH. In years past, Hattie also found time to be a wonderful caregiver to many of the older folks of East Derry. She also loved “her boys” at the East Derry Fire Department. Hattie was a wonderful Mom and a fantastic Grandmother, always there with a ready ear and a strong shoulder. She will be remembered as a kind woman who would share your pains and sorrows and even took pleasure in a practical joke or two. The family would like to thank all the doctors, nurses, hospice and caregivers who gave Hattie the best of care and a special thank you to Rev. Chester Ham.
She is survived by her beloved daughters Patricia Durgin, Linda Bruno, her sons, Raymond Gosselin and Clayton Glover, many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews as well as many more family and friends that loved her dearly. She was predeceased by her husband, Patrolman Roger Durgin and her daughter Barbara Buzzell in 1997.
Burial was in the Forest Hill Cemetery, East Derry. A memorial service will be held in the Spring with a date and time to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Derry Police Department, Fire Department or the NH State Troopers. The Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch St., Derry, is handling arrangements.