Former Vermont House Rep. Noel A. Neely, 82, was found dead Saturday at her home on Douglas Hill Road in Norwich, prompting what the Vermont State Police is describing as a “suspicious death” investigation.

Neely’s death “occurred under potentially suspicious circumstances,” police said Saturday. Police identified her today, Monday May 11.

Police said officers responded at about 10 a.m. for a welfare check at the residence at 48 Douglas Hill Road. “The initial call was at about ten o’clock for a welfare check,” Norwich Police Chief Matthew Romei said Saturday afternoon in a report on Daybreak, a Windsor County news outlet. 

State police were called in and have controlled the investigation scene at the large, distinguished home in a wealthy neighborhood in one of Vermont’s most affluent towns. According to Realtor.com, the home is valued at $1,279,532. slightly above the average home value in that area. Located on a 10.3 acre lot, the home has four bedrooms, and 3,494 square feet.

State police later identified the deceased woman as Neely, a resident of the home and a former member of the Vermont House of Representatives. According to the website maintained by her husband, Hanover orthodontist Donald Neely, Noel Neely served three terms in the Vermont House representing the towns of Pomfret, Sharon and Royalton. 

Legislative records indicate she served in the Orange-Windsor district from 1977 to 1982. She also served on the the Vermont State Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights in 1980.

Investigators said the case remains open and active. State police said they are working closely with the Windsor County State’s Attorney’s Office.

Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to contact the Royalton Barracks at 802-234-9933 or submit an anonymous tip through the Vermont State Police tip portal⁠.