ALBION R. DUDLEY
BENTON – Albion R. Dudley, 87, passed away Monday, October 25, 2021, at Northern Light Continuing Care Lakewood, in Waterville. He was born October 19, 1934, in Augusta, the son of Albert and Mary (Brawn) Dudley.
He spent most of his 40-year career as a caretaker/ groundskeeper for affluent families in western Connecticut, later, returning to Maine and finishing his work at the University of Maine Augusta campus.
Albion is survived by sons, Richard A. Dudley and wife Barbara, of Lincolnton, North Carolina, Steven M. Dudley and wife Debbie, of Skowhegan; daughter, Tammy M. Dudley, of Beacon Falls, Connecticut; sister, Joyce Mcelravy, of Fairfield.
He was predeceased by sons, Bruce A. Dudley, Robert P. Dudley, Albert “Danny” G. Dudley II, and Timothy J. Dudley.
A graveside service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.
In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Albion’s memory to Northern Light Continuing Care Lakewood, c/o Northern Light Inland Hospital, P.O. Box 2917, Waterville ME 04901.
RICHARD O. PULLEN
BENTON – Richard O. Pullen, 75, passed away on Saturday, October 30, 2021, at Northern Light Hospital, in Bangor. He was born October 21, 1946, in Waterville, the son of George Pullen and Marilyn Hafford.
Richard went to school in Winthrop. Following school, he served in the U.S Navy. Richard was married to his wife Lorraine Pullen, and celebrated 43 years of marriage in July. Richard was a tribal member of Penobscot Nation and Big Buck Club.
Richard enjoyed hunting, fishing, and his camp in Eustis.
For anyone who knew Richard knew he was a stubborn man, liked things his way, and never wanted help. He always had a cup of coffee in his hand. He enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren grow up.
He enjoyed spending any extra time at his camp by the fire, making loud bangs, being on his four- wheeler, or as a snowbird in Florida.
He was predeceased by his father George Pullen and Abraham Neptune, mother Marilyn Hafford, brothers, Terry Neptune and Edward Neptune, children Dana Legere and George Legere Jr.
Richard was survived by his wife Lorraine Pullen, of Benton; children Lorena Smith and spouse Roland, Darlene Veilleux and spouse David, Kenneth Baggallay, Becky Wentworth and spouse Kenny, Cindy Witham and spouse Alan; grandchildren Timothy, Melissa, Amber, Joey, Anthony, Jade, Jarred, Terrez, Kamrin, Jessica, Zeke, Maysee, Zane, Megan and fiancé Devin; siblings Dawn Minoty, Charles Manter, Paula Hook, Linda Gordon, Penny Bubier, and Vernan Childs; as well as many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
There will be no services or burial. Celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.
RICHARD T. LaFOUNTAIN
WATERVILLE – Richard Thomas Lafountain Sr., 88, passed away on Monday , November 1, 2021, at home. He was born in Starks, to Foster and Nellie (Duley) Lafountain.
Richard enlisted in the U.S Army in 1956 and spent time as a reservist. He met his wife, Mary, in 1958. They were married after just six months of dating and would have celebrated 63 years of marriage in December.
Richard was known for his friendly demeanor and would make friends everywhere he went. With his wife by his side, he spent many years involved in nursing home ministry reaching out through music. He loved music and loved to sing.
He was predeceased by his parents, a brother Gordon, who died in childbirth, brothers George Lafountain and Wallace Lafountain, as well as his sisters Dorothy Heald Helen Goodrich and Violet Marquis.
He is survived by his wife, Mary (Blodgett) Lafountain, of Waterville; his sons Richard Lafountain Jr. and wife Brenda, of Vassalboro, and Jeff Lafountain and wife Denise, of Oakland; daughter Darlene Barber and husband Thad, of South China; nine grandchildren, Jessica Poulin and husband Paul, of Shawmut, Matthew Lafountain and Justin Lafountain, of Vassalboro, Evan Lafountain and Caleb Lafountain, of Oakland, Sydney Weymouth and husband Nicholas, of Clinton, Nick Barber, Julia Barber and Tyler Barber, all of South China; several great-grandchildren; one sister, Gloria Chick, of Augusta; nieces and nephews. A service is planned at Riverside Assembly Church in Fairfield on Friday, November 19, at 11 a.m.
DORIS A. OLIVER
FAIRFIELD – Doris A. Oliver, 98, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 1, 2021, at Augusta Center for Health and Rehabilitation. She was born in Caribou on May 21, 1923, the daughter of the late Winfield and Annie (Drake) Brawn.
Doris was employed for many years with the Red Star Laundromat as well as with Colby College, both in Waterville.
She had a great life. She and her husband, Rodney enjoyed traveling around the state, and talking with friends on the CB radio.
Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Rodney Oliver; her son, Kenneth Wakefield; her granddaughter, Rhonda Wakefield; and her daughter-in-law, Mary Wakefield.
Doris is survived by her children, Theresa Wakefield, Richard Wakefield, and Kempton Wakefield; her grandsons, Kempton Wakefield, Jr. and his wife, Debra, Michael Wakefield, Jacob Wakefield, Matthew Wakefield, and David Wakefield; her great-grandson, Brock Wakefield; her great-granddaughter, Marissa Lyshon and her husband, Devin; her great-great-granddaughter, Isabella Lyshon; and her great-great-grandson, Jordon Lyshon.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., on Saturday, November 20, 2021, at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, in Fairfield. Burial will follow at Tozier Cemetery, in Fairfield Center.
Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St. Fairfield where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, 383 US Route One, Suite 2C, Scarborough, ME 04074.
JAMES R. GRANT
CHELSEA – James R. Grant, 77, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. James was born January 4, 1944, in Vassalboro, son of the late Henry and Jean C. (Boggs) Grant.
He was a resident of Chelsea, previously residing in Windsor.
James had a career as a watchman for the State of Maine’s Capitol Police before retiring. He was a very creative, good natured, quiet and passionate man who enjoyed home cooked food, going out to eat, and particularly visiting the Chinese buffet with family and friends. He also enjoyed eavesdropping on emergency and public safety radio communications with his scanners and talking on his CB.
In addition to his loved and devoted life-partner Gloria, James is survived by his three children, Nathan Grant, of Brunswick, Mason Grant, of Bath, and Melissa Rizer, of Auburn; Gloria’s family, Virgil Simmons, Sue Chipman, Bonnie Augustine, and friend Todd Austin.
James was predeceased by his sister, Maple Christie.
In honor of James’ wishes, services and burial will be held privately.
Arrangements are in the care of the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church St. Augusta where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
MADELINE BOYNTON
JEFFERSON – Madeline “Marie” Boynton, 97, of Jefferson, passed away Wednesday, November 3, 2021, at home. Marie, as she was known by all, was born November 13, 1923, in Jefferson, the daughter of Charles and Hattie Weaver Feyler. She attended Jefferson School and on June 13, 1941, she married Pearl Boynton.
She was a homemaker most of her life and raised nine children which was a full-time job. She did work for a short time at Health Tex, Renys, and ran a blueberry crew with her husband for many years.
She was known in town for her baking and for always having her door open and feeding anyone who needed it.
She was a lifetime member of the United Baptist Church, of South Jefferson, and an over 50-year member of the Jefferson Grange and the State Grange. She also was on the board of directors of the Trask Lawn Cemetery for years.
She enjoyed having her family visit, cooking, and friends stopping by to visit. She loved to crochet gifts for her family while sitting on her front porch watching the traffic go by.
She was predeceased by her husband of 52 years, Pearl Boynton; sons, Frances, Roger, and Dennis; and a daughter, Pauline.
She is survived by her sons, Linwood and wife Bobbie of Hertford, North Carolina, Robert and wife Deanna, of Chelsea, Lawrence and Ramona, and Earland and Marion, of Jefferson; and daughter, Margaret Boynton, of Winslow. She had a total of 78 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
A graveside service was held on Thursday, November 11, 2021, at the Trask Lawn Cemetery in South Jefferson.
Arrangements are entrusted to Funeral Alternatives of Augusta.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to MaineGeneral Hospice of Maine.
PETER A. BITHER
CLINTON – Peter A. Bither, 72, of Clinton passed away on Saturday, November 6, 2021, at Augusta Center for Health and Rehabilitation. Peter was born in Linneus on October 20, 1949, the son of the late Alan and Lois (Stewart) Bither.
He attended many day programs throughout his life. He attended Ken-A-Set, and Sebasticook Farms; and later in life he attended the Muskie Center, in Waterville. His favorite place to be, was always at home. Everyone whoever met Peter loved him. He was always very social; and fun to be around. Peter loved the holidays, especially his birthday, and was always the life of the party.
Peter enjoyed his retirement, and loved staying home with his cousin, Kim, her daughter, Emily, and two very good friends, Mary, and Karen. He loved playing “Grampa” to Connor, and Owen; and loved his “babies” as he called the cats.
He enjoyed watching TV; his favorite show was The Price is Right. His favorite pastime was sitting on the deck hoping to catch sight of “Mama deer” and her babies. He spent many hours sitting in his favorite chair on the deck. He loved to feed the hummingbirds and watch the squirrels playing in the trees.
Peter will be sadly missed by his cousin, Kathy Ware and her significant other, Carl Clarke; his best friend, and cousin, who helped care for Peter for many years, Russell Young; his cousin, Kimberly, and children, Cody, and Emily McKenna; Dan and Sue Dow; Chelsea, and Austin Davis, and sons, Connor, and Owen Davis.
A graveside service will be held in the spring at Town House Hill Cemetery, in Clinton.
Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St. Fairfield where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
ERNEST A. GAUER
WATERVILLE – Ernest A. Gauer, 85, passed away unexpectedly Monday, November 8, 2021, in Waterville. Ernest was born in Madison, Connecticut.
He attended Hand High and Colby College. He also received his masters degree from the University of Southern Maine. He retired with the rank of captain from the U.W. Air Force and was stationed at length in Japan.
Ernest was a loved and well respected teacher for Waterville Junior High School for over 25 years, where he shared his vast knowledge of U.S. History. He also shared his work force talents with C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, Dunham’s of Maine, and Laverdiere’s Drug Store, all in Waterville, and Duratherm, in North Vassalboro.
“Ernie” enjoyed golfing at Natanis Golf Course, in Vassalboro, gardening, and traveling the country with Patricia, who he married in 1966. More recently he formed many friendships at the Waterville Elks Lodge #905.
He was predeceased by his mother and father, Helen and Ernest L. Gauer, his sisters, Marlene and Helen, and his wife Patricia, who passed away in 2009.
He is survived by his children: Paul Gauer and his wife Hope, Karen Bulley and her husband Mark; and four grandchildren, Paige, Josh, Taylor and Gunner.
Graveside service was held November 17, at the Maine Veterans Cemetary (Mount Vernon Rd), in Augusta.
A service of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville, Maine 04901. (207) 872-7676.
In Lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Vassalboro Public Library, or the Waterville Elks Lodge #905.
GORDON BILLINGTON
SIDNEY – Gordon (Gordy/Bibi) Billington passed away comfortably in his homeon Tuesday, November 9, 2021. Gordon was born on December 13, 1940, in Portland, to Woodrow and Alma Billington.
He grew up in Standish and graduated as Salutatorian from Standish High School in1958. He attended the U. S. Air Force Academy, in Colorado, and graduated as a second lieutenant in 1962. He completed flight training in Texas the following year. In 1964, he earned his master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Arizona while stationed in Clovis, New Mexico. He served in the Air Force until 1991, rising to the rank of colonel.
During a combat mission in Southeast Asia, Gordon was forced to eject from his jet above the Indian Ocean. He also bailed out during a routine training mission in the United States. He flew such aircraft as the F-100, F-105 and F-4 jet fighters while stationed at multiple locations worldwide. He had the privilege of commanding jet fighter organizations until his retirement at the beginning of The Gulf War. He loved flying so much that he also bought a Cessna Cardinal RG airplane for his own personal use during his time stationed at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia.
Upon his retirement in 1991, Gordon returned to Standish where he earned his second master’s degree in public policy and management from the Muskie Institute in 1995, earned a new Microsoft certification, and built his and Carol’s new house and barn next to their parents.
Following an internship in Governor Angus King’s office, he joined the Maine Department of Labor as the Director of Operations. During this period, he also became a Standish Town Councilor serving as chairman in 1999. Gordon became Town Manager of Standish in 2001 and served as the chairman of The Greater Portland Commission of Governments until he retired in 2018.
He and Carol shared many endeavors together while improving and developing his cherished hometown. These included creating public parks, designing a new town hall, developing a public beach, new roads, and a subdivision called Shadow Woods. Another shared adventure was the breeding and showing of Samoyed dogs. Over the many years they bred three Samoyed litters, showed several from the bunch, some even becoming champions. In recent years Gordon became very interested in their ancestry and discovered that he is the 14th great-grandchild of John Billington, and Carol is the 14th great-grandchild of Elizabeth Tilley, both of whom were passengers on the Mayflower.
Gordon also had passions for spending quality time with family, sharing cocktails, smiles and laughter, as well as golfing and traveling. He never missed an opportunity to talk politics, inevitably ‘stirring the pot’. One of his favorite summertime activities was terrorizing his grandchildren while pulling them on the tube as the driver of Livet-Up, his and Carol’s ski boat. He also loved cheering on the New England Patriots!
He was predeceased by his parents Woodrow and Alma Billington, his brothers John and Dennis Billington and his son-in-law Chris Hamler.
He is survived by Carol, his wife of 47 years; five children, 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, which include Geoff and Stephanie Billington and their children Peyton and Caleb; Scott Michael Billington; Kristin Hamler and her children Marleigh and Tyler Hutson and their son Callan, James and Julia Fox, Austin and Morgan Hamler; Kelly Gillian and her children Jade, Chloe and Grace Gillian and Olivia McKenzie; Sean Robert Billington and his partner Sandra Bennett and his children Karaline, Colin and Kevin Billington; his younger brother Gilbert Billington and his wife Debra.
After retirement, Gordon spent time reflecting and embracing his spiritual beliefs and had become a valued part of his church and community in Sidney.
A viewing for Gordon was held on November 13 at Lawry Brothers – Wheeler Funeral Home, located at 26 Church Street, Oakland, ME 04963. Directly following was a military-honored funeral service at Oak-Sid United Methodist Church, located at 20 W School Street, Oakland, ME 04963.
An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements are by Wheeler Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 26 Church St., Oakland.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Gordon’s honor to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758540, Topeka, KS 66675.
ROSE M. PARLIN
JEFFERSON – Rose Marie Parlin, 79, passed away on Thursday, November 11, 2021, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. She was born February 15, 1942, a daughter of William and Gertrude (Esancy) Ring.
Rose grew up in China, and was a graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China. On June 18, 1960, she married Wendell F. Parlin and they settled in Jefferson. Rose had strong family values and made sure to teach her sons the importance of respect and compassion for others.
During Rose’s early years she was employed at the South China Telephone Company when connecting calls required changing wires on a switchboard. She was later employed at Grant’s Department store, in Augusta. She then began her career with the State of Maine as a data processing clerk for the Department of Health and Human Services. She was employed at the department for over 25 years until her retirement in 1997.
Rose was a faithful member of the United Baptist Church, of Jefferson, since 1980. She was a member of the choir, and held roles on the Fellowship Committee, missions, and clerk. Her church family was an integral part of her life and she faithfully attended services every Sunday morning and Bible Study on Wednesday.
In her younger years Rose enjoyed going dancing with her husband Wendell, snowmobiling, talking on the CB, and camping at various campgrounds with their many friends and family. Rose was a very social person, and in later years after Wendell passed, Rose found lots of friends at Moody’s Diner, in Waldoboro, where she could be found visiting almost every day for supper. In her retirement she also kept busy helping friends and family by driving them to their various appointments and events.
Rose will be remembered for her generosity as well as her strong, outgoing and independent personality. The family will miss their loving and caring matriarch.
Rose was predeceased by her husband of 52 years, Wendell F. Parlin Sr., in 2012; her grandson, Steven W. Parlin, in 2013; and her siblings Herbert, Ethel, Roger, and Hazel.
She is survived by her sons Wendell “Skip” Parlin Jr. and his partner Christine Richardson, and Mark Parlin and his wife Kathy; her grandchildren Shannon Parlin and her partner Kevin Long, Courtney Parlin, Benjamin Parlin and his wife Alison, and Tyler Ormonde; her great-grandchildren, Jacob Parlin, Shelby Parlin, Tucker Morton, Wyatt Long, Lyra Parlin, and Graeson Parlin; her brother, Charles Ring and his wife Lenore “Babe” Ring; many nieces and nephews.
No visiting hours will be held.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 19, at 10 a.m., at the United Baptist Church of South Jefferson, 495 S. Clary Rd., Jefferson, ME 04348.
Burial will take place following the service at Shepherd Cemetery in Jefferson.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor.
Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Rose’s name may be made to the United Baptist Church of South Jefferson, c/o Treasurer, 138 Atkins Rd., Jefferson, ME 04348.
JOHN C. BROWN
WATERVILLE – John C. Brown, 82, passed away on Thursday, November 11, 2021, at Androscoggin Hospice House, in Auburn. John was born November 23, 1938, in Bristol, Connecticut, the son of Norman Brown and Hilda “Hinton” Brown.
John graduated Winslow High School class of 1957. Following high school John served in the U.S Army. John was married to his wife, Frances L. “Judkins” Brown. They celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary in September.
John was a genuine person, who loved spending time with family and friends. Always willing to lend a hand, John spent many nights out in the cold working on someone’s car so they could go to work in the morning.
He was a lifelong member of Elks Lodge #905, in Waterville, serving in many positions up to exalted ruler, a position in which he was very honored to serve.
John owned his own business for more than 30 years, Auto Radiator Repair. When he retired, John took on the position of secretary at the Elks Lodge.
He was predeceased by his father, Norman Brown, mother, Hilda Brown; and sister, Norma Brown; in-laws Robert and Beatrice Judkins.
John is survived by his wife, Frances L. Brown; four sons, Robert and his wife Liza, Patrick, Michael, and Peter; grandchildren Chad, Cody and his wife Izzy, Morgan, Brandon; and great-granddaughter, Jordyn; and brother, Richard Brown and wife Kathy.
Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services, 445 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan. There will be a graveside service Saturday November 20, at 10 a.m., at the Pine Grove Cemetery, in Waterville.
Directions: Start on Grove Street, head towards Water Street, turn onto Oakwood Avenue, next turn right on Ravine Avenue. Site is ¾ down Ravine Avenue on the left.
DAVID C. SMITH
SIDNEY – David Charles Smith, 83, of Sidney, passed peacefully, on Thursday, November 11, 2021, at the Togus VA hospice. David was born October 1, 1938, to Charles W. Smith and Drusilla (Clark) Smith, on West River Road.
He attended two different one-room elementary schools, then graduated from Waterville High School in 1957 as a valued member of the cross-country team.
Early jobs included picking green beans and milking cows; he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1958 and used his GI benefit to attend Bailey’s Technical School, in St. Louis, Missouri. In 1964 he started his 34-year career as a Carman for Maine Central Railroad, in Waterville. After a seven-year school-kid courtship, the success of his 61-year marriage to best friend Gail (Woods) Smith came as no surprise. Together they raised their son William C. Smith and daughter Sidney (aka Anita Smith) Woods, who followed their father’s life-long curiosity about the natural world. Will and David shared a fascination with wild birds, and with human flight.
After Sid created her home in Wyoming, David and Gail made several trips to the Rocky Mountains, including an early hike with Sid’s pack llamas — which sparked David’s second career as the Llama Man of central Maine. For 15 years he and Gail traveled to schools, nursing homes, libraries, churches and more with their team of social llamas, and entertained many visitors at their Sidney pasture.
Together with his wife he was awarded a Spirit of America award for years of voluntary social contributions, ranging from dragging snowmobile trails and caring for both the Springer and Bangs cemeteries, being a founding member of the Sidney Historical Society, to simply mowing and plowing for neighbors in need. He was also a founding member of the Sidney Snowmobile Club and a member of the state organization as well. “Think Snow” was a favorite saying, right along with “Eat Dessert First, Life is Uncertain.”
He was honored that the Wiscasset, Waterville and Farmington Railroad accepted his train memorabilia for the museum, and that the Sidney Historical Society will add his USMC uniforms to their museum.
Along with the family mentioned above, he is survived by his older sister Shirley Fenlason, of Oakland, and his younger brother Tim (Patty) Smith, of Florida, and the families of their children, along with Will’s son Adrian Morgan and grandson Dominic Rogers. David was a favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews, including those of his sister Jean and her husband Pete, who preceded him in death.
Adventures with his wife’s family included great memories at the Woods’ cottage on McGrath Pond, in Oakland/Sidney, with the families of Peg (David) Gustafson (pre-deceased), Madeline (Walter) Durham (pre-deceased), and Blanche (Harold) Sanborn. David counted Sheryl Palmer, Will’s fiancé, and his daughter’s long-term Wyoming partner Corrie Barbero as family as well.
A life celebration will be held in the future.
Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, where memories and condolences may be shared with the family at http://www.lawrybrothers.com.
In honor of the many beloved four-legged family members who shared his life, please consider making memorial donations to the Humane Society Waterville Area, online at https://hswa.org/donate/, or through the mail, 100 Webb Rd, Waterville, ME 04901, or other organizations of your choice.
GERALD E. GILBERT
WATERVILLE – Gerald Eugene Gilbert, 86, of Waterville passed away on November 5, 2021. Gerald was born on April 23, 1935, in Fairfield, to the late Leonard and Edna Gilbert.
Gerald proudly served his country in the United States Army for 25 years and 5 months. He was a member of Forrest J. Pare American Legion Post #5, in Waterville.
Gerald was predeceased by his parents and by his brothers Bernard, Frederic and Arthur.
Surviving are his children, Carol Anne McElgunn (husband Kevin; grandchildren, Francis “Pat”, Mary Catherine, and Anne Marie) Leonard J. Gilbert, (wife, Melissa); his brother Ronald J. Gilbert.
In lieu of flowers, donations, in his name, may be made to the American Cancer Society.
A memorial Mass will be held 11 a.m., on Saturday, November 27, 2021, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street Waterville.
Memories and condolences may be shared at directcremationofmaine.com.
PRISCILLA M. OAKES
FAIRFIELD – Priscilla M. Oakes, 94, of Fairfield passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 7, 2021.
She was born in Portland on March 14, 1927, the daughter of the late Alton and Lelia (Look) Brown.
Priscilla graduated from Deering High School, in Portland.
She was employed by Union Mutual Insurance Company, and by Sears and Roebuck Company for many years. Priscilla was a member of the First Baptist Church in Fairfield, and coached cheerleading for the PAL program.
Her greatest enjoyment was spending time with her children, and grandchildren.
Besides his parents she was predeceased by her husband, Walter E. Oakes who passed away in 2013; her daughter, Muriel MacLean; her two sisters; and one brother.
Priscilla is survived by her children, Karen Gilbert and her husband Louis, of Fairfield, Gary E. Oakes and his wife Jeannette, of Waterville, and Brian C. Oakes and his wife Tamara, of Fairfield; her grandchildren, Bobbi-Jo Semans and her husband, Brian, Gary W. Howard, Shaun Gilbert, Melissa Laskey, Jamie Crawford and her husband Sean, Amber Oakes, Brian M. Oakes and his wife Renee, Cameron C. Oakes, Brian P. MacLean and his wife Nicole, and Joanne C. MacLean; her great-grandchildren, Jonathan Barrows, Brian Semans II, Justin Semans, Emma Laskey, Isabelle Crawford, Aiden Crawford, Addison Crawford, Kallan R. Oakes, Koen R. Oakes, Morgan McKenney, Ian McKenney, and Aria Cadance MacLean; her son-in-law, Kent MacLean of Fairfield; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.
Visiting hours were held on Monday, November 15, at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield.
Private family burial will be at Raymond Hill Cemetery, Raymond.
Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St. Fairfield where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Priscilla’s memory may be made to Meals on Wheels, Muskie Community Center, 38 Gold Street, Waterville, ME 04901.
MARY ANN GERRY
UNITY – Mary Ann Gerry, 67, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 12, 2021. She was born February 21, 1954, the daughter of Ernest and Eva (Lacombe) Rule.
She grew up in a large family in Meriden, Connecticut, and attended Platt High School. It was in Meriden where she met the love of her life at just 15 years old. She and Robert married just two years later in 1971. In 1985 they left Connecticut, and moved to Unity where they spent the rest of their lives raising their family. She worked several jobs including as a nurse’s aide and was proud of them all, but the job she loved the most was staying home with her family.
Mary loved playing in her gardens, scrapbooking, sewing and going for scenic rides. She loved treats in the form of coffee from Dunkin’ Donuts and for several years met her friends there every afternoon at 3 p.m.
She was a longtime and faithful member of her church for more than 30 years. She taught Sunday school, helped lead Vacation Bible School in summers, and directed several Christmas and Easter plays. There wasn’t a costume she couldn’t sew or a prop she couldn’t make!
In addition to her parents, Mary was predeceased by her husband Robert, her brother Charles “Artie” Rule, brother Robert “Bobby” Rule, and brother Ernest “Ernie” Rule.
She is survived by her sons Robert and wife Helen, of Troy, Daniel and his wife Amanda, of Searsmont; daughter Christine and partner Ted, of Unity; six grandchildren, Robert, Johnathan, Hannah, Joshua, Eva, and Lylli; several nieces, nephews, cousins.
Mary was a very giving and genuine soul who will be missed by many. We hope you join us in finding peace that her absence in the body means present with the Lord.
Services will be held Saturday, November 20, at 11 a.m., at Palermo Christian Church with reception to follow. A live online option will be available for those who are unable to attend.
Healthy, sparkling citrus fruit will be delivered to your door as early as Thanksgiving, if you order right now. To get it by Christmas, the deadline is December 15, and you can send it anywhere in the continental U.S.A. Great fruit is guaranteed, and is picked, packed, and shipped within 24 hours. No matter what size box you order, shipping is only $6.95 a box, and contact-free. You can also ask your social media friends and families to order, and proceeds of the sale will still help the Living Communities foundation support the Palermo Food Pantry and the Community Center.
