Lois Tefft Van Deusen

The families of Avalonia Land Conservancy were sad to learn that Lois Tefft Van Deusen passed away on September 21, 2017.

Lois was a founder and incorporator of the Mashantucket Land Trust (now Avalonia Land Conservancy) in 1968. She served loyally on Avalonia’s Board of Directors for many years as secretary and membership chair and was recognized for her dedication by being named a lifetime honorary director. A longtime supporter of land conservation, when a 77-acre Girl Scout camp enjoyed by generations of scouts and families came up for sale in North Stonington, Lois had the vision to purchase the land to preserve it from development. She named it Tefftweald at Birchenturn  and donated it to Avalonia in 1994 so many more generations could enjoy it.

Our deepest condolences go out to her many friends and family. She will be greatly missed at Avalonia. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Avalonia Land Conservancy or the Center for Hospice Care Southeast Connecticut in memory of Lois.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, at the Allingham home, 182 Old Jewett City Road, Preston. For more information, read The Day’s obituary.