Tragic Story Unfolds: Bestselling Author’s Spouse, an Esteemed Educator, Tragically Killed on Idyllic Vermont Trail

Vermont State Police are urging the public, businesses, and hunters near a state university campus to review their surveillance systems following the tragic death of a retired dean and professor. Honoree Fleming, 77, of Castleton, was found shot to death on a rail trail this week. An autopsy showed that she died from a gunshot wound to the head. The incident occurred on the Delaware & Hudson Rail Trail, about a mile south of the Castleton campus of Vermont State University. The campus was subsequently closed.

“The campus will reopen Monday morning, providing a supportive environment for those who wish to come together,” stated Vermont State spokesperson Sylvia Plumb via email. As a result of the incident, some events were canceled, but regular class schedules are expected to resume on Tuesday. The police have received a witness report of a possible suspect on the trail after the sound of gunshots. However, security camera footage has not been particularly helpful in the investigation. State police Maj. Dan Trudeau stated in a news conference that they are continuing to search the area. Trudeau also requested hunters with game cameras in the woods to check their footage for any leads.

Fleming was a highly esteemed retired dean of education and researcher, known for her numerous published papers. She was married to best-selling author Ron Powers, who co-wrote the book Flags of Our Fathers. Tragically, Fleming passed away just days before their 45th wedding anniversary. Powers paid tribute to his late wife online, describing her as having a “sterling heart and soul.” He expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “She has taken far more than half my own heart and soul with her.”

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