April Drolette (Sabourin), 80, of Williston, Vermont, and a longtime resident of Milton, Vermont, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Windsor, Vermont, April lived a life defined by faith, family, friendship, and unconditional love. She was the beloved wife of Donald Drolette, and together they shared 60 years of marriage filled with devotion, laughter, partnership, and countless cherished memories.

For more than 50 years, April worked as a hairdresser, a career perfectly suited to her warm and social nature. Blessed with what family and friends affectionately called "the gift of gab," she could strike up a conversation with anyone and often did. Many of her clients became lifelong friends, and anyone who knew April knew there was a good chance she had a pair of scissors nearby, always ready to give someone a quick trim or haircut. For April, hairdressing was never just about hair—it was about people, connection, and friendship.

While she took pride in her work, the true center of April's life was her family and her Catholic faith. Her faith guided her daily life and shaped the way she cared for others—with kindness, compassion, and unwavering love. It was reflected not only in what she believed, but in how she lived.

April found happiness in the simple things that made life beautiful. She loved spending time in her gardens, tending her flowers, and enjoying the beauty of every season. In her younger years, she loved dancing with Don. Their special song, Anne Murray's "Could I Have This Dance," remained a lasting reminder of the love story they shared throughout their lives.

As a mother, April was her children's biggest supporter. No matter the activity, event, or milestone, she was there. Whether cheering from the sidelines, keeping score, running the clock at a field hockey game, or simply offering encouragement, her family knew they could always count on her love and support.

Nothing brought April greater joy than being Nana. Her grandchildren, Jacob and Lola, were among the greatest blessings of her life. She treasured every moment spent with them and took immense pride in all they accomplished. Whether attending their events, celebrating their successes, or simply spending time together, she made them feel deeply loved. The memories they shared and the love she gave so freely will remain in their hearts forever.

April also cherished her many friendships. She was blessed with a close circle of lifelong friends who shared in life's joys and challenges through the years. Loyal, caring, and dependable, she was the kind of friend who was always there when needed.

She was predeceased by her parents, Leo and June Sabourin.

She leaves behind her beloved husband, Donald Drolette; her daughters, Wendy Drolette and her lifetime partner, Chris Walker; Dori Fredette and her husband, Tom Wojeck; and Melanie Racette and her husband, Eric Racette; her grandchildren, Jacob Fredette and his fiancée, Emma Longe, and Lola Racette; and her great-grandchildren, Kayleigh and Carson. She is also survived by her sisters, Bernadette Sheppard and her husband, Ron; MayEllen Munger and her husband, Reg Matot; and Marsha Sabourin; her brothers, David Sabourin and his wife, Diane; and Rodney Sabourin and his wife, Marge; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

April's greatest gift was the love she gave to others. She will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her generous heart, her loyalty to family and friends, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she shared and the example she set will continue to live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Her family finds comfort in knowing that the faith that guided her throughout her life now carries her home to eternal peace.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of McClure Miller Respite House for the loving, thoughtful, and dignified care they provided to April. Their compassion, kindness, and support brought comfort not only to her, but to her entire family during a difficult time, and for that we will be forever grateful.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, June 25, from 5pm to 7pm at LaVigne Funeral & Cremation Service, 132 Main St., Winooski. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 26, at 11:00am at St. Ann's Church, 41 Main St. Milton, with burial to follow in St. Ann's Cemetery.