Edward (“Ted”) Wright Lavery died peacefully at his home on May 12, 2016, in Spafford, N.Y., at the age of 81.Ted is survived by his wife Linda Carson Lavery, his children, Amanda Robinson ( Dr. Dean), Edward W. Lavery Jr. (Susmita), Benjamin Carson Lavery (Maura) and Nagulinie Shukla (Ravi); as well as seven grandchildren, Gage, Chandra, Celia and Carson Lavery, Julia and Ian Robinson and Sachin Shukla.
Ted was born on Dec. 9, 1934, in Keene, NH, to Ferdinand and Evelyn Wright. Lavery. He graduated from St. Bernard’s High School, Fitchburg, MA, and Middlebury College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science in 1958. Ted’s life changed when he met Linda, his wife and best friend, at Middlebury College. After they married in 1960, Ted completed law school at Boston University, graduating in 1962.
The couple moved to Skaneateles in 1962 where they raised three children and Ted began a private law practice.  In his adopted village Ted served as the village attorney for 21 years, He was instrumental in working to protect Skaneateles Lake as well as improve infrastructure, such as the wastewater treatment facility there. Ted also worked to improve the park system and recreational opportunities by working on the Austin Park rink and the village gazebo. He was an original driver for SAVES and put his name, along with that of the then mayor, on a note to buy the first ambulance.
Ted was an active member of St. James Episcopal Church serving as a Sunday school teacher and member of the vestry.  In his later years Ted volunteered on a mission to Haiti and was a regular volunteer at the Samaritan Center in Syracuse, NY.  He was a former member of the Lion’s Club of Skaneateles.
Ted loved to travel, and had a passion for speaking to local students about prospects for advancing their education and opportunities for life experiences.  A life-changing trip to Nepal in 1980 left him compassionate toward the people and culture of the Nepalese.
Memorial service was scheduled 11 a.m. Saturday, June 4, at St. James Episcopal Church , Genesee Street , Skaneateles, with a reception to follow at the church.  All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ted’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Samaritan Center in Syracuse, NY or the Episcopal Development and Relief Inc, (to benefit Nepal).
To send condolences visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.