Elaine Clarkson

Elaine Jennings. Clarkson, a devoted educator, passionate dog enthusiast, and accomplished amateur photographer, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, at the age of 97.

Elaine was born on March 17, 1928, and graduated from Middlebury College in 1949 with a degree in history. She earned the distinction of graduating Cum Laude and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. Later, she pursued her passion for literature by earning a master’s degree in English from Montclair State University.

Elaine dedicated over 30 years of her life to teaching, leaving a lasting impression on countless students. After retiring, she fulfilled a lifelong dream by relocating to her beloved Vermont, where she immersed herself in the world of dog obedience through the American Kennel Club (AKC). With her three much-loved Shetland Sheepdogs, she achieved the highest levels of obedience competition and later became an AKC obedience judge, sharing her knowledge and love for the sport with others.

In retirement, Elaine also developed a keen interest in photography. Her work earned recognition in several Vermont competitions, showcasing her eye for detail and the beauty of everyday life.

Elaine is survived by her daughter, Carolyn Dickson of Kirklin, Indiana; Son-in-Law; Alexander Dickson; two granddaughters, Kimberly Davis in Pasco, Washington and Meghan Mertz in Lebannon, Indiana; and four great-grandchildren: Zachariah, Ashleigh, Kierstin, and Blaine. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched through teaching, her contributions to the dog sport community, and her artistic vision.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Elaine’s memory may be made to Middlebury College or the Emily Dickinson Museum in Amherst, Massachusetts.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.