The Vero Beach community pauses to remember the lives and legacies of local residents who have recently passed away. From dedicated public servants and educators to beloved family matriarchs and business leaders, these individuals left an indelible mark on Indian River County.
Betty Rollins (1940–2025)
A long-time resident since 1964, Betty Rollins, 85, passed away on December 10, 2025. Rollins was a pillar of the local community, known for her energetic service and leadership. She served as the Executive Director of the American Red Cross, where she implemented vital programs, including the Association For The Blind. However, she was perhaps best known for her 22-year tenure working with the Dodgers at Historic Dodgertown.
One of the General Manager’s once remarked that he was not really the one in charge—Betty was! All Vero Beach Dodger fans knew Betty!
Rollins was also a charter member of Westminster Presbyterian Church and remained active with organizations such as St. Francis Manor, Habitat For Humanity, The Source, and ARC. She was predeceased by her husband, Bob Rollins. A visitation is scheduled for Friday, December 19, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home, followed by a memorial service on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Westminster Presbyterian Church.
Bartholomew “Bart” William McDonnell (1935–2025)
Bartholomew McDonnell, 90, passed away on November 24, 2025. A former Marine Corps officer, McDonnell built a distinguished career in publishing, retiring as the Eastern Manager for National Geographic after 24 years. In Vero Beach, he and his late wife, Jackie, were members of the Vero Beach Yacht Club. A devout Catholic, he was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church and the Knights of Malta. Services include a wake on December 8 and a Mass of Christian Burial on December 9 at Holy Cross Catholic Church.
Norma Blanchard Whitman (1922–2025)
Centenarian Norma Blanchard Whitman, 103, passed away on December 2, 2025. A former educator with a Master’s degree from Columbia University, Whitman spent her career teaching in Connecticut before retiring to Vero Beach. Residents at Indian River Estates knew her for her artistic talents, including piano playing and painting, as well as her “rapier wit” and intellect. A Celebration of Life will be held at Indian River Estates.
Cecilia “Sue” Perreault (1936–2025)
Cecilia “Sue” Perreault, 89, passed away on December 2, 2025. After retiring from a career as a medical secretary in Connecticut, Perreault embraced the active Florida lifestyle in Vero Beach. She was a familiar face at the Yacht Club and enjoyed tennis and golf. She is survived by her four children and her companion of 13 years, Donald Hubbard. Burial services will be private in Connecticut.
Georgia May Epperson Carlen (1942–2025)
Georgia May Epperson Carlen, 82, passed away on December 11, 2025. Born in Illinois, she is survived by her children in Sebastian and Fort Pierce. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion to her family, including five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Arrangements for all noted services are under the direction of Cox-Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home. Residents wishing to share condolences may visit their website.
