Eric Archibald Stern, 61
Eric Archibald Stern (Plumer), passed away unexpectedly at home in Littleton on December 6, 2025, at age 61. From his early days in Acton to his later years living independently in Bedford, Eric possessed a curiosity about the world and a passion to find his place in it. Despite an early autism diagnosis, with the help of his family, Eric worked hard to rise above his challenges and earned a high school diploma from the Gifford School in Weston.
Eric’s mother, Marcia B. Stern (Marty), was his primary advocate and successfully campaigned for the Massachusetts Chapter 766 law that allowed tax funding to be used for specialized education. With the passage of this law, Eric gained access to educational opportunities and benefited from assistance from a long list of caring professionals who, together with his family, helped him live an independent and productive life for over 40 years.
Eric resided for more than 35 years at Bedford Village in his tidy apartment and held several jobs, working at Applicon as an electronics inspector, at Tufts University in its food service program, and, most recently, at Verrill Farm in Acton in the café and produce co-op.
Eric was the consummate gentleman, always polite and interested in everyone he met. He prided himself on his “old school” manners and values and often wondered if he should have lived hundreds of years ago when times were simpler. He was an excellent driver. Taking great pride in his Toyota, he was always careful and courteous. To Eric, the speed limit was not a suggestion. He was also a great artist, rendering extremely detailed architectural drawings from an early age. He continued drawing throughout his life.
A constant in Eric’s life was his love for his family. His mother was the beacon in his world. She spent much of her life keeping him on a track of healthy independence until her death in 2012. Eric’s grandparents Davenport and Sue Plumer opened their home and hearts to him when he attended the Woods School in Pennsylvania. Eric traveled with his father Davenport “Mike” Plumer to see more of the world. His stepfather Ernest Stern guided Eric’s path with a wealth of outdoor camping and hiking. His adoptive sister and brother Cary Plumer Frye with her husband Gary, and Douglas Plumer with his wife Cathleen Sheehan and their son Marshall, continued their mother’s legacy of advocating for Eric. His stepsisters Jessica Stern, Sara Stern, Hillary Stern, and Jennifer Stern; brother-in-law Ted Chavez; half-sister Annie Plumer; and their families all played important roles in Eric’s ability to thrive.
In later years, Eric experienced some health setbacks, but with the assistance of Eliot Community Human Services, he transitioned to independent supported living and then to group home living, where he happily participated in daily community programs. He enjoyed holidays with his family, outings for meals with his brother and brother-in-law, and visits to the beaches of Maine with his sister Cary.
Eric’s life was not easy, but with his determination and the strong support of his loving family and others, he rose above expectations and enjoyed a rich life. He was loved and will be missed by many.
A memorial service in celebration of his life will be held on May 16 at 11 a.m. at First Parish Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at namiboston.org/donate.
