MARIE L. LeBLANC

WATERVILLE – Marie Loraine Alice (Giroux) LeBlanc, 88, passed away on Friday, May 9, 2025, at MaineGeneral Medical Center – Thayer Campus, in Waterville. Loraine was born in Winslow, on November 13, 1936; the daughter of Royal Giroux and Yvette (Jolin) Giroux.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1954.

For the past 10 years, Loraine has lived at Mount Joseph, in Waterville. Offering friendship and an infectious laugh to all who knew her. Over the years, Loraine worked in various places, including the Silent Woman restaurant, C. F. Hathaway Shirt Co., Sears, and JCPenney. She also sold Avon for a time. As a member of Corpus Christi parish, in Waterville, an avid churchgoer and activity attender, Loraine was a dedicated person to her community.

She belonged to the Rosary Solidarity and devoted herself to the Blessed Mother. She was a lifetime member of the Ladies Auxiliary to the MacCrillis-Rousseau Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #8835. When the Ladies Auxiliary had blood drives, Loraine volunteered to hand out the snacks to the donors. Reading newspapers, word search puzzles, going to the beach, attending parades, and playing bingo were some of the activities Loraine enjoyed.

She is survived by her daughters, Janet LeBlanc and Rebecca (LeBlanc) Yong; grandchildren Michelle Hussey, Jared Bouchard, Jeremy Bouchard, and Alexander Yong; her sisters, Shirley (Giroux) Aube, Therese (Giroux) Helliksen, Esther (Giroux) Scott; and brother David Giroux; and many nieces and nephews.

Her son Gary Bouchard; brother Robert Giroux; and sisters Lucy (Giroux) Goodno and Jeannette (Giroux) Bilodeau predeceased her.

Loraine’s Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, in Waterville. The burial followed at Saint Francis Catholic Cemetery.

Services are under the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

PEARL A. DAWES

SKOWHEGAN – Pearl A. (York) Dawes, 85, passed away peacefully at Redington Fairview Geneeral Hospital, on Tuesday May 13, 2025. Pearl was born in Athens on July 28, 1939, the daughter of Millard and Bernice (Corson) York.

She attended Skowhegan area schools.

She was a happy homemaker, who was always willing to lend a hand to anyone. Pearl loved cleaning and caring for others. She attended Starpoint Church online faithfully.

Pearl loved hanging out with family, watching cooking competition shows, and doing her sticker by number books. She was a proud mom and nana who loved her family dearly and would drop everything to help them. Pearl was an extremely strong woman overcoming a lot in life.

She was predeceased by her parents, Millard and Bernice, her husband and love of her life Rodney Dawes, her sisters, Effie Hayden and Gertrude Sheaff, her brother Millard York Jr., and special friend Ruth Corson.

She was survived by her daughter Shelly and husband Luke; her granddaughter Sasha; her sisters Ethelyn and Phyllis; her brother-in-law Ernie; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service will be held at Mt. Rest Cemetery, in Athens, on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 1 p.m. There will be a Celebration of Life at Tewksbury Hall, in Skowhegan, immediately following.

Please visit Pearl’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/pearl-dawes where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

LINDA R. WITHERS

WATERVILLE – Linda Ruth Withers, 76, passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. Linda was born in Moscow, on February 15, 1949, the youngest daughter of Randall and Leone (Brown) McLaughlin.

Linda was the heart of her family; she took pride in nurturing others in both her personal and professional life. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and caretaker of her cherished cats and dogs. She was also a hard-working and caring nurse, first as a CNA and then as an LPN at Togus Veterans Medical Center, where she worked the night shift providing care for dementia patients. She received multiple awards and recognitions for her dedication to her patients and applied her salary to help put both of her children through college.

Linda was the wife of Gary Withers for 55 years. She was a loving mother and cherished grandmother to their two children and their families: son Bradley Withers, of Bowdoinham, and his wife, Melissa; daughter Lesley Withers, of Mount Pleasant, Michigan; and grandchildren, Aubrey and Elise.

In addition to her immediate family, Linda is survived by five siblings, Mavis Malloy, of Bingham, Avis Clark, of Gray, Betty Smith, of West Gardiner, Donna McLaughlin, of Oakland, and Gary McLaughlin, of Moscow; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, her twin brother, and brother James McLaughlin.

MAXINE L. AUSTIN

SIDNEY – Maxine Louise Austin, 86, passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2025, as the result of Alzheimer’s. She was born in Dover-Foxcroft, on November 2, 1938, to Walter Lougee and Alberta (LaGross) Lougee.

Maxine was a graduate of Foxcroft Academy, class of 1957, and the Waterville School of Automation. She also attended the University of Maine at Augusta.

Maxine worked several jobs and climbed the professional ladder to a very successful career. Some positions she held include telephone operator, stitcher for Dexter Shoe Company, and a data entry clerk for the Department of Public Safety, a skill she also taught others. In 1978 she joined Digital Equipment Corporation, in Augusta, where she started as a computer board assembler, then took classes at UMA to earn a promotion to Accounts Payable Supervisor, then Purchasing Manager, and eventually a Software Consultant for Electronic Data Interchange. She retired from Digital in 1992, but then rejoined the workforce as Assistant to the Controller at Valmet Corporation, with duties including accounts payable and receivable. From there, she became Purchasing Manager at Edwards Manufacturing, in Pittsfield, from where she officially retired in 1996.

In retirement she worked part-time at State Cable TV, in Augusta, and Mung Bean gift shop, in Boothbay Harbor, while spending summers at Shore Hills Campground with her husband. Maxine was past president of the Maine State Employees Association, Kennebec Chapter. While serving as a member of the Council for MSEA in the 1970s, she was a member of the negotiating team for the first employees’ contract for state workers and received a commendation from Governor James Longley for her dedication to the State of Maine.

Maxine enjoyed needlework, jigsaw puzzles, reading, attending her grandchildren’s and nieces’ sporting events, and spending time with family and friends, often putting her sharp wit and sense of humor on display. She spent many summer days at the Popham Beach with her daughter and grandchildren searching for sand dollars and seashells. Maxine was a lifelong athlete who enjoyed golfing, bowling, and basketball. She was Maine State Foul Shooting Champion in 1956.

Maxine was a talented seamstress who made all of her daughter’s prom dresses among other creations. She was also a great cook who managed to always have a home cooked meal on the table for dinner during her very demanding working years, and helped make her grandchildren’s homemade character birthday cakes, which they enjoyed immensely. You could often find Maxine at craft shows selling her wares as a gifted tole painter. She was a member of the Tole ‘n Me Chapter of the Society of Decorative Painters, where she served as vice president, and was a member of the Artistree Association.

Maxine also volunteered as an usher (Angel) at the Waterville Opera House for several years.

Maxine was predeceased by her parents, her husband Dale Austin, brother Malcolm Lougee, stepdaughter Polly Austin, and stepson Timothy Austin.

She is survived by her daughter Renee Page and husband Richard, of Farmingdale; two grandchildren, Avery Pag of Portland, and Elijah Pag of Farmingdale; brothers Walter Lougee, of Williamsburg Township, Onie Lougee (and wife Martha), of Harmony; stepchildren Janet Desjardins, of Augusta, Sharon Soble, of Florida, Shari Austin, of Virginia, David Austin (and wife Linda), of Albion; 10 step-grandchildren; 16 step-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service at Reynolds Hill Cemetery, in Sidney, will be held on Thursday, June 5, at 1 p.m.

ELIZABETH L. ROSSI

WATERVILLE – Elizabeth L. “Liz” Rossi , 79, passed away peacefully on Wednesday May 14, 2025. Liz was born on September 10, 1945, in Gardiner, the daughter of William and Mary O’Meara.

She grew up in West Gardiner and graduated from Kents Hill in 1962.

After high school, Liz fulfilled her career working as a Registered Nurse. She graduated from St. Joseph’s College and then went on to start her nursing career in the ER at the Gardiner General Hospital. After that, she then moved on to the Central Maine General Hospital and then onto the Augusta Hospital in the ER. Liz then expanded her role into Mental Health where she worked at the Augusta Mental Health Institution and then moved on to Kennebec Behavioral facilities in both Waterville and Augusta.

Liz’s biggest love in life was for cats. Whether the cat was hers or the neighbor’s cat she spoiled them like they were her own. Her hobbies included reading a good book, listening to her favorite Blues music, and watching the birds at her feeder. Liz also cherished her friendships and visits with her sister, Julie and her friends Lisa and Sue.

Liz was predeceased by her parents William and Mary O’Meara; and her brother, Michael O’Meara.

Liz is survived by her sons, Christopher Russell and his wife Cindy Russell, of Caratunk, and Matthew Russel, of Charleston, West Virginia; and her grandchildren Wyatt and Joslyn Russell, of Greenville, North Carolina; her sister, Julie O’Meara, of Farmingdale.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers: donations can be made in her name to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, as this organization was near and dear to Liz’s Heart.

REGINALD G. MICHAUD

SMITHFIELD – Reginald Gilman Michaud, 84, passed away on the morning of Thursday, May 15, 2025. Reginald was born in Waterville on April 30, 1941, the son of Albert and Mary (Cyr) Michaud.

He attended Waterville schools, graduating from Waterville High School in 1961. He then served in the United States Navy on the USS Forrestal Aircraft Carrier from 1961-1965.

Reggie was briefly employed as a machinist after serving in the Navy. In 1978, in a one-car garage, he opened American Glass Company, on Main Street, in Waterville, later moving to 153 College Ave. and then expanding to Skowhegan. He was a member of Corpus Christi Parish, in Waterville, as well as the Waterville Elks Lodge #905.

On April 4, 1964, Reggie married the love of his life, Marilyn Gilbert. They raised their family in Waterville then moved to Smithfield where Reggie used his accomplished carpentry skills to build their dream house by the lake. He loved woodworking and also crafted some of the furniture for the house.

An adventurous spirit, Reggie found joy in traveling, SCUBA diving, snowmobiling, and “Tuesday Night” card games with friends. But above all, he loved fishing, always in pursuit of the legendary “Walter” on countless trips with family and friends. His greatest joy, however, was spending time with his grandsons – whether fishing, tubing on the lake, or cheering them on at sporting events, he was a constant presence in their lives, celebrating every milestone and achievement.

Reggie was predeceased by his parents; and his brother, Ronald.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Marilyn (Gilbert) Michaud; his three children, Sue (Michaud) Roop and husband Matt, Jim Michaud and wife Kelly, and Todd Michaud and wife Cathy; his six grandchildren, Chris, Nathan, Lucas, Aaron, Alex, and Justin; and his five great-grandchildren; his brother, James Michaud and his wife Cheryl; and his sister, Diane (Michaud) Anderson; many nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, June 19, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St.,
Waterville.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4 p.m., at the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, 76 Industrial Drive, Waterville, following the visitation.

A graveside service with military honors will be held on Tuesday, June 24, at noon, at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta.

An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Reggie’s name to The Travis Mills Foundation, 647 Castle Island Rd., Mt. Vernon, ME 04352, or at http://www.travismillsfoundation.org.

ALLEN E. MUSIC

CHINA – Allen Edward Music, 81, passed away at home on Thursday, May 15, 2025. Allen was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on April 20, 1944 to Sarah and Louis Music.

When Allen was quite young, they moved to the Washington D.C. area and opened a grocery store where Allen helped in any way he could before and after school and on weekends. While some might assume that Allen growing up as a white, Jewish boy in a predominantly Black neighborhood would be challenging, those who knew Allen are well aware that race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity in no way influenced who he befriended from those early years as a young boy to the day he left us. Everyone loved Al and he loved everyone.

More than anything, in elementary and secondary school he wanted to be in the band. When choosing an instrument, he ultimately selected the trumpet as it had only three keys, therefore he would only need to learn three notes. When he discovered how notes were truly made on a trumpet he was not deterred and put everything into it and became a phenomenal trumpet player, eventually forming a band and also singing vocals. The ultimate entertainer in any setting! One could say that with his moniker, he was born into it!

For Allen, the performing arts were not limited to making music, he loved acting. At first it was just acting-out and entertaining friends, but then he got more serious and became active in high school theater and eventually community theater for many years in D.C. and Maine.

Where did every aspiring actor go? L.A. baby! He gave it a go but when L.A. just wasn’t ready for an actor of his calibre, he headed back east in 1983 to the D.C. area where he met the love of his life, Janet, at the Chevy Chase Café where she and a friend often dined after their late nursing shift. While waiting in line for seating, they were invited by Allen and his friend to occupy the empty seats at their table and enjoyed a delicious breakfast at midnight together. He asked her to accompany him to a movie the following night, and ended up installing a new showerhead for her which sealed the deal because he never left her side again. They married three years later in 1986.

Allen held a number of positions at banks, insurance, and financial service firms that really just got in the way of him doing all the things he loved, but paid the bills. He also dabbled in writing scripts and stories.

In 2005 Allen retired and he, Janet and their beloved Jazzy (black lab mix) moved to rural China, to a lovely house on China Lake. He always said that moving to Maine was the best thing they ever did. Clean air and quiet, friendly people and most refreshing, there was no traffic! He loved walking around the lake and all the dogs flocked to him like kids to an ice cream truck because Allen never left the house without a pocket full of dog treats.

He volunteered at the soup kitchen with his good friend Don Reny and his staff for several years. He always enjoyed talking to the homeless and offered them a kind word, a warm meal and nobody left without giving up a few chuckles since Allen’s outgoing sense of humor livened up any setting. He always volunteered for China Community Days and became a popular DJ showcasing his incredible music collection. He loved having visitors to the house in Maine and took on the role of tour guide shuttling guests to the Maine coast and showing the beauty of the area.

Allen and Janet started a quilting guild with a couple other people, and he thoroughly enjoyed the attention he received being the only male member of the group. Picture a room full of ladies and then Allen, hunched over his sewing machine fully concentrating on carefully feeding his fabric through the needle.

Allen was adored by many in the community but none more so than all of the dogs he lived with or befriended over the years.

Allen was predeceased by his brother Stanley Music and leaves behind the love of his life, his wife of 39 years, Janet Whittier-Music; his brother’s wife Natia and family; by Jim Gibney and family, of Gaithersburg, Maryland; Janet’s siblings and their families.

There is no service scheduled at this time.

PRISCILLA A. MILLER

FAIRFIELD – Priscilla Ann Miller, 78, passed away on Friday, May 16, 2025, peacefully in her home. Priscilla was born on April 26, 1947, in Fort Fairfield, to Burton and Ester Caldwell.

She attended schools in Caswell and Limestone. Later in life she attended Thomas College, in Waterville, earning her degree in real estate.

Priscilla’s passion was helping the elderly and spending time with her family. Priscilla has worked as a waitress and sold Tupperware and Avon. She also worked at Laverdiere’s Drug store, in Fairfield. Priscilla enjoyed selling homes to families while working for Perkins Realty, of Waterville. She had Also worked for Rich Food Co. traveling the state. Later Priscilla worked for Walmart, where she enjoyed raising money for the MDA and CMN. Before retiring Priscilla worked for Senior Spectrum in Waterville.

On December 25, 1982, Priscilla married her love William T. Miller. Priscilla enjoyed being active with her five children and later her grandchildren. Her love for her family was clear. Priscilla loved taking them on trips to Santa’s Village, the zoo, and up the top of Mt. Washington, there were many trips with the children. Priscilla was involved with Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, again spending time with her grandchildren. In the ‘80s Priscilla helped organize the Ladies Auxiliary to support the Fairfield fire department to raise money for uniforms and drinks while on scene where her husband and sons were members.

Priscilla was predeceased by both her parents, Burton and Ester Caldwell; her husband William T. Miller; her granddaughter Jamie Marie Lounsbury; and great-grandson Liam Potter.

Priscilla is survived by her twin sons, Michael Macarthur, of Fairfield, and Mitchel MacArthur, with his partner Valarie Brown, of Benton; her daughter Lillian Webb, of Augusta; her son Robert with his wife Patricia Macarthur, of Fairfield; and her daughter Valarie Potter, of Fairfield; 18 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren; brothers, Robert Calwell, of Caribou, and James, of New Sweden; sisters, Patti Burgess, of Caribou and Rosalyn Caldwell, of Fort Fairfield; as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the Fairfield United Methodist Church, at 37 Skowhegan Road, Fairfield, at 11 a.m. Burial will be held at a later date in Limestone.

Please visit Priscilla’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/priscilla-miller-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

MERVIN C. GREENE JR.

CLINTON – Mervin C. Greene, Jr., 69, passed away at home on Friday, May 16, 2025. Mervin was born in Waterville on May 24, 1955, the son of Mervin C. Greene Sr. and Nancy M. Greene (Morrison).

He attended the Fairfield schools and resided in Clinton for much of his life. He was married to Loretta R. Greene (Pelotte) until their divorce; they shared 41 years together. He remarried in 2017 to Dottie Dickinson-Greene.

Mervin drove truck for several years of his employment but did spend many years working at local dairy farms in the ’70s and ’80s. He gained knowledge with heavy equipment from Vincent Thibodeau, who took him under his wing until Vincent’s tragic passing in 1995. He tried a few other jobs in junkyards, mills, tree work, etc., during this time, though he did not find the same happiness he found operating large equipment and machinery.

After Vincent’s passing, Mervin knew he was meant for trucking. He went on to work for Nevell’s Pallets, in Sidney, where he got his endorsements to drive truck. He moved on and worked for A.W Chaffee, in Clinton, for several years hauling wood chips and logs to mills within the state and often Canada. When he wasn’t in the truck hauling wood, they had him working on the trucks in the shop. He enjoyed this, but his happiest place was in the “big truck.” His last place of employment was BDS, where he retired in 2015.

Mervin was always tinkering in the garage. He spent a lot of time in his garage working on his pulling machine “Lil’ blue bird.” He pulled in tractor pulls in memory of his friend and brother-in-law, Vincent Thibodeau. This was a hobby he spent many years doing with Rick Thibodeau, son of Vincent. He spent much of his time with Rick who he shared an incredible bond with.

He eventually switched gears and started racing at Unity Raceway. He shared his love for the racetrack with family members, especially his daughter and brother-in-law Ed. Any time he could spend with his daughter he would. Sometimes it was just working on the racecars in the garage, attending antique tractor events, fishing, hunting or camping. He also had a special bond with his grandchildren. They spent many days together playing ball outside but especially loved it when they took interest in his tractors.

He was predeceased by both his parents; daughter, Ann Graf and her husband Steve Graf; mother-in-law, Roberta Dickinson; sister, Jane Shorey and her husband Robert Shorey, and close brothers-in-law Vincent Thibodeau and Edward Williams.

Mervin is survived by his wife, Dottie Dickinson-Greene; daughter Casandra “Sandy” Quirion (Greene) with her husband Brandon Quirion, of Canaan and their children Brandy and Nolan; granddaughters Harley Quirion and Savana Wilson (Quirion) – daughters of Ann; great-grandson, Sawyer – son of Harley; great-granddaughters Willow and Serenity – daughters of Savana; siblings Susan Clark with her husband George, of Fairfield, Sharon Williams, of Fairfield, James Greene with his wife Debbie, of Fairfield, Hawley Greene with his wife Debbie, of Waldoboro, Trudy Greene with her significant other Ron, of Fairfield and Jean Morang, of North New Portland; as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews.

There will be no formal services at this time.

Please visit Mervin’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/mervin-greene-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

FAITH E. FURBUSH

OAKLAND – Faith Elizabeth Taylor Furbush, 86, passed away on Sunday May 18, 2025. She was the daughter of the late James Taylor and Evelyn Snell Taylor. She was born in Waterville on December 5, 1938.

She graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland, in 1957. She married Frank A. Furbush Jr. on February 21, 1959.

She worked for the State of Maine, Bureau of Public Improvements for 38 years, retiring on June 30, 1995.

She was a member of the Blessed Hope Advent Christian Church, in Waterville, and served several years as Church Clerk and a member of the Diaconate Board. She was a member of the choir for years. She was active in the 50’s-plus club at the church and the Morning Out Bible Study Group. She was a Hospice Volunteer for a short time.

She was predeceased by her parents; husband; and son, Michael.

She is survived by her daughters Vickie L. Veilleux and Rosalie A. Doucette; grandchildren Christopher Cole and Dennis Cole and wife Angel, Charity LeHay and husband Willie, Michael Veilleux and wife Andrea; great-grandchildren, Seth Cole, Zachary LeHay, Parker LeHay and Cameron Veilleux; and several cousins.

There will be a graveside service at the Smithfield Village Cemetery on, Saturday, May 31, at 2 p.m.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Oakland, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at https://wheelerfh.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Blessed Hope Church, P.O. Box 473, Waterville, ME 04903-0473.

GARY P. RICHARDS

CLINTON – Gary Paul Richards, 79, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Maine Medical Center – Portland. Born July 11, 1945, in Waterville, to David and Hildred (Shores) Richards, in Benton.

Gary grew up in Benton, on his parents’ dairy farm. He graduated from Lawrence High, in Fairfield. He then went on to attend The University of Maine at Orono and graduated with an associate degree in Dairy Science.

Gary was married to Barbara Pottle on December 7, 1971, Over the years he was a truck driver for Homes Swift, milked cows for his brother Mert, at Riverside Farm, and was a bus driver for Maine Central Institute, in Pittsfield, and MSAD #49, in Fairfield.

In 1981 Gary and Barbara purchased the farmhouse, in Clinton, and started his dairy farm, Alderwood Farm. Gary was a dedicated farmer at heart. He was the happiest milking cows or on a tractor.

Gary will be remembered for his smile and his joke telling, and showing cattle in 4H. His high school basketball days and time served on the MSAD #49 school board, as well as being one of the Clinton town selectmen. Along with many trips to Canada to look at cattle, Gary loved spending time with family, working on the farm, watching basketball and wildlife shows and would never say no to having a milkshake and burger.

Gary was predeceased by his parents and his brother’s Mertin, Winthrop, and Lawson.

Gary is also survived by his wife of 53 years, Barbara Louise (Pottle) Richards; along with three children, his son, Greg Richards and partner Jennifer Butler, daughters Beth Brown and husband Travis, Kelly McKenzie and husband William; his grandchildren, Garrett, Victoria, Cassandra Richards, and Caroline, Laurel, Cal Brown, and Dugan, Brody, Jeremiah McKenzie; his three great-grandchildren; his brother Roger and his sister’s Affie Mitchell, Grace Additon, Lorraine Goodwin, Sherry Randall, and Linda McMullin.; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service was held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 10 a.m., at Albion Cemetery #04, 279 Unity Rd, Albion. A Celebration of Life followed.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux, Redington and Lawry Brothers Funeral Home 8 Elm St., Waterville, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at https://www.vrlfuneralhome.com/.

Services

JOAN PHILLIPS-SANDY

WATERVILLE – Please join us at the Waterville Opera House for a celebration of life on Sunday, August 3, at 11 a.m. A casual reception at the Schupf Center will follow. Per Joan’s request, it’ll be a great show!

BETTY PAGE

MADISON – A celebration of life was held at the Madison VFW Hall, at 58 Preble Street, in Madison, for Betty Page, on Saturday, May 24. A service was held at the Forest Hill Cemetery, in Madison.

MAURICE MITCHELL

WINDSOR – Maurice Mitchell, 80, passed away on Sunday, April 27, 2025, in Windsor. Born on July 20, 1944, in Portsmouth, Virginia, Maurice lived a life marked by service, resilience, and unwavering devotion to his family.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Maurice served with distinction during the Vietnam War. He attained the rank of Sergeant First Class and faced the harsh realities of combat with courage and strength. During his time in Vietnam, he was exposed to Agent Orange – an exposure that would have lasting effects on his health and ultimately contribute to his passing. Despite these challenges, Maurice never let hardship define him. Instead, he became a source of strength for those around him.

After returning home from military service, Maurice continued his commitment to public service by working for the United States Postal Service for 17 years. His dedication and work ethic left a lasting impression on colleagues and community members alike.

He inspired those around him not only through words but through action – his son Michael followed in his footsteps by serving in the U.S. Army, a testament to Maurice’s enduring influence.

Maurice had a quiet joy for life’s simple pleasures. He loved watching game shows like Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, often challenging himself with puzzles that spanned thousands of pieces. Ever patient and kind-hearted, he welcomed help – even when it meant misplaced pieces or delays – because what mattered most was sharing time together.

His humor was dry but never unkind; he could shift the mood of a room with just one glance or quip. Those who knew him will remember not only his strength but also the way he made them feel seen and understood.

Though he spent many years in Maine, Maurice always carried Virginia – his home state – in his heart.

Maurice Mitchell was strong and kind – a man who made the best out of difficult situations and brought light into every room he entered. His memory will continue to bring comfort to those who loved him.

Maurice’s legacy lives on through his family. He is survived by his wife Norine; his three children, Monique (and her spouse Justin), Michael (and his spouse Pamela), and Christopher (and his spouse Bridget); and his grandchildren, Felix, Akela, and Noah; his niece Crystal Blair.

A graveside service will be held on July 18, 2025, at 2 p.m., at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave, in Augusta.

CARROLL HARDING

WINSLOW – Carroll Harding, 89, of Winslow, passed away peacefully at MGMC on Monday April 28, 2025. He was the husband of Audrey Drake Harding. He was born in Albion, on February 28, 1936, to Carroll and Della (Higgins) Harding.

He graduated from Besse High School, in Albion, in 1954, and graduated from Thomas College, in Waterville, in 1956. Upon graduation he went to work in the office of A.P. Wyman. On March 16, 1958, Carroll married Audrey Marilyn Drake, at the Albion Christian Church. In 1959, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served most of his time in Alaska. When he was discharged, he went back to work for A.P. Wyman. After A.P. Wyman closed at the end of 1963, he went to work at Cascade Woolen Mill, in Oakland, as office manager.

When his father passed away unexpectedly in July 1977, he decided to buy his father’s milk truck, hauling milk to Oakhurst Dairy. His son, Jeffrey, joined him in the business in July 1988 and they had six trucks. When he fully retired from the milk business in 2000, due to declining health, they had 10 tanker trucks.

While he was at Cascade Woolen Mill he belonged to the Waterville Industrial Management Club serving a stent as president. He was also involved with United Way. He served as treasurer of the Winslow Congregational Church and also as a trustee.

Carroll was a very quiet soft spoken man and was all about family. He loved spending time with his wife, children, grandsons and extended family. When his grandsons were growing up, he spent many hours playing croquet, crazy eight and cribbage with them. He also attended all of their school functions.

He was a handy man and did his own electrical, tile work and painting when building their house. He loved his garden every summer. Carroll had just put fertilizer and lime on his garden for this year. He and Audrey did many tours in the United States and in Canada including Hawaii, Alaska and the Canadian Rockies. He also played many games of bridge with friends and cribbage at home. He enjoyed reading, walking and lots of Sudoku.

Carroll was predeceased by his sister, Maxine Duplessie; nephew, David Duplessie; and by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Janice and Hank Dyer.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Audrey; daughter, Debra Shuckrow and husband Lee; son, Jeffrey Harding and wife Vicki; grandsons Lee Shuckrow and Nickolas Shuckrow and wife Sarah; brothers-in-law, Everett Drake and wife Gail, Hilton Drake and wife Cindy; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 17, at 11 a.m., at Howard Cemetery, in Winslow, on the Augusta Road, with a reception afterward at the Harding home. The family asks you to “be kind” to one another to honor Carroll for a life well lived.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

NANCY A. KELLEY

ALBION – Nancy A. (Worrall) Kelley, 95, died at home, in Albion, on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Nancy Ann Worrall was born on June 8, 1930, to Kathryn M. (Haines) Worrall and Albert E. Worrall, in Lynn, Massachusetts.

Nancy loved family time with her sister, Norma Jean and four Haines cousins, Ted, Patty, June and Jack. Nancy was active in Rainbow Girls, played the saxophone in the Swampscott (Massachusetts) High School marching band and worked in her grandfather Haines’ ice cream shop, in Lynn. Nancy received the Phillips Medal for superior scholarship and graduated with honors from Swampscott High School in 1948.

Following in her father’s footsteps, Nancy went on to attend Rhode Island State College. She majored in mathematics. Once again, Nancy was active in the marching band and was a member of the Student Senate. She was invited to join Phi Kappa Phi, an honor society founded to “recognize and encourage superior scholarship.” The college became the University of Rhode Island in 1951. Once again, Nancy graduated with honors in 1952.

Nancy married Norbert Kelley, of Albion, in November 1952. Their daughter, Kathleen was born in 1953. Nancy and Norbert purchased the old red brick house on Hussey Road, in Albion. She was active with a wide circle of friends from the University of Maine’s Cooperative Extension. She became a member of the Albion Christian Church and maintained that membership for decades. The Kelleys lived in Albion until 1961 when Norbert enlisted in the U.S. Army. Norbert loved to travel, and Nancy made a home for him as they moved around the country, living in eight states, including Alaska – twice – and Korea. Nancy had the ability to make new friends wherever she lived while cherishing friends she left behind, especially in Albion. Nancy worked out in the community on many occasions. She taught at Besse High School, in Albion, Coburn Classical Institute, in Waterville, and Haverhill High School, in Haverhill, Massachusetts. She worked with native Alaskans at the Bureau of Indian Affairs, in Fairbanks, Alaska, in the 1960s and was the Vice President of Personnel at the First National Bank, of Fairbanks, acquired by Key Bank, in the 1980s.

After they retired, Nancy and Norbert spent 25 years as snowbirds, spending summers in Albion and winters in Leesburg, Florida. Nancy was active with friends from their retirement community and friends at their church. Nancy joined the East Benton Christian church and made new friends and continued her longstanding friendships with many ladies from Albion.

Nancy was predeceased by her husband, Norbert; her parents, Kathryn and Albert Worrall; and her sister, Norma Jean (Worrall) Gendreau and her son-in-law Randy Crawford.

Nancy is survived by her daughter, Kathy (Kelley) Crawford, of Albion; her grandchildren, Kelley Crawford, of Richmond, Nancy Crawford and Dan, of Albion and Joshua Crawford and Jenn, of Albion; her great-granddaughter, Victoria Crawford; two first cousins; and seven nieces and nephews.

There will be a remembrance service led by Rev. Timothy Murdoch, at Maine Veteran’s Cemetery, in Augusta, on June 5, 2025, at 1 p.m. Friends are welcome to gather after the service at 441 Hussey Road – Nancy’s home – to share memories and ice cream sundaes – one of Nancy’s favorite foods.

Services are under the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

MAXINE L. HILL

FAIRFIELD – Maxine Louise Hill (Champine), 87, of Fairfield, died peacefully on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Togus VA Hospital. She was born November 7, 1937, to the late Clarence and Beatrice (Murray) Champine.

Maxine attended Fairfield schools and graduated from Lawrence High School, Class of 1955. Following school, she enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in France. She later met George Hill and married in 1960. She was the mother of two children, Blair and Karen.

Maxine worked in the cutting room at C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, then later worked at Oak Grove and Willows Nursing Homes as a CNA. Maxine was an avid reader and enjoyed swinging in her swing overlooking the Kennebec River. She loved walking and walked over a mile every day with Blair and her friend, Muriel, until last fall.

Maxine is survived by her sister; Joyce Goldrup, of China; her son, Blair Hill and wife Kelly, of Waterville; her grandchildren, Sarah Vitello and husband Jon, of Jaffrey, New Hampshire, Michael Pomerleau and wife Samantha, of Northport, Krystal and Neal Mecum, of North Yarmouth, Dustin and Sarah Lacombe, of Brunswick; and great-grandchildren Rainey, Janelle, Ethan, Julia, Emryn, Riley, Ellie, Parker, Grayson and Azalea; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Maxine was preceded in death by her daughter, Karen Nightingale; her father and mother; sisters Elaine Poulin and Lucille Champine and brother Lawrence Champine.

A graveside celebration will be held at St. Francis Cemetery in Waterville to be determined.

Services are under the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville. Maine. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com. Service date and time will be shared online.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Travis Mills Foundation (travismillsfoundation.org) in Maxine’s honor.

GERALD M. POLLARD

PALERMO – Gerald M. (Jerry) Pollard, of Palermo, passed away at home on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Jerry was born in Providence, Rhode Island, a son to Edward Sr, and Helen (Dwyer) Pollard.

He grew up in Warwick, Rhode Island, and went to Tollgate High School, where he excelled in gymnastics and playing goalie in hockey

In 1976, after graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy. During basic training an old hockey injury flaired up and he had to be honorably discharged. Jerry then decided to move to his family’s farm in Palermo, where his brother Edward (Skip) lived. He worked on Stanley Foster’s farm for a few years, then moved on to work for Mitchell’s Roofing.

Jerry met his wife to be, Stephanie Shorey, at Marshall shores, in Liberty, in 1987. They were married in 1989. Their pride and joy, Isaac James, was born in March 1990. Later, Jerry began his career at Togus VA, where he worked maintenance and grounds until his retirement in 2019.

Jerry’s passions lay in the outdoors. Many days were spent with his son Isaac, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and motorcycling. During this time he became a Maine Guide.

On October 29, 2022, Jerry’s world was devastated. He and Stephanie lost there beloved son, Isaac. Still struggling with this loss, his brother Skip passed away two years later. Jerry’s health was failing over the last few years, and though he and Stephanie were no longer together, they had a strong bond and she was there for him till the end.

Jerry was predeceased by his parents, Edward Sr. and Helen, his son Isaac, and his brother Edward Jr.

He is survived by Stephanie Pollard; his brother Wayne and wife Marjorie; his sister-in-law Anna Pollard; nephew Edward III; nieces Allison, Kelly and Lindsay; and several great-nieces and -nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Sheepscot Fish and Game Club, 1579 Rte 3, in Palermo. Burial will be private at a later date.

ANN N. CHILDS

PALERMO – Ann Nelson Childs, 83, passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at her home in Palermo, following a brief illness. Ann was born to Ruby (Candage) and Maynard Nelson on June 20, 1941.

She lived a life full of love, faith, and generosity. Known as “Mémè” to an untold number of people, she had the rare gift of making others feel delightful in her presence. Each person to walk through her door was greeted with a smile, an endearment, and most likely a baked good of some sort. She collected people to love throughout her life, ready to praise the smallest accomplishment and to help with every problem. The impact of her life radiates far beyond her small town and her lifespan; she leaves behind both a large hole and great legacy of a life lived in service to her family and community.

After the untimely death of their father, Ann and her five siblings grew up with their mother and beloved stepfather, Henry “Al” Elliott. Ann graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, before working for the state, staying home with her three young children while running a large at-home poultry farm, and eventually making a career as a well-loved lunch lady at Erskine Academy for 27 years. As a charter member of the Palermo Christian Church, Ann was instrumental in the establishment of the church and went on to teach Sunday school and Vacation Bible school, organize and implement Senior Dinners, serve in the clothing exchange shop, be an active participant on the prayer chain, and cook or bake for nearly every event held on church property. Ann lived her deep faith in action: nurturing, comforting, and uplifting everyone she possibly could with the skills, resources, and time given to her.

Ann met the love of her life, Stephen “Stevie” David Childs, when they were 16 years old, after her mother mentioned seeing an “awful cute boy” working on a road construction site as she drove to work each day. Ann took to working in her aunt Bertha’s garden at the time of day Stevie would drive home in his ’35 Chevrolet, while Stevie took the long way home to drive that particular route in hopes of catching sight of Ann. Ann and Stevie’s mutual friends conspired to formally introduce the two, and a great love story spanning 67 years was born. Ann and Stevie dated for two years, often going on double dates with Stevie’s brother Dana and Ann’s friend Jewel, before marrying on October 2, 1959.

Ann and Stevie worked hard throughout their life together, often working multiple jobs and long hours to provide a stable life for their three children, many foster children, and later grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The love and friendship that built their marriage never wavered, but grew and deepened over time; theirs was a lasting, steady devotion that showed up best in small ways – holding hands in the car while listening to their favorite music, a quick, never forgotten kiss on the way out the door, quiet evenings watching their shows at night. It became hard to believe one ever existed without the other; it is equally hard to believe it is possible now. The respect, admiration, and care Ann and Stevie showed for one another will “go down in history; when they want to see how true love should be, they’ll just look at us.”

With the exception of seasonal stints in an apartment, in Augusta, in her early years of marriage, Ann was a proud Palermo resident her entire life, with strong connections to her community. She spent her final weeks in her home, with views of her yard, gardens, and the road, watching the trucks come and go from the family business as she had for so many decades.

Ann was predeceased by her mother, father, and stepfather; her brothers, Dana, James “Jimmy,” and Barry Nelson; her sisters-in-law, Gerry, Linda, and Linda Nelson (not a typo!); brothers-in-law, Cecil Flye and Robert Faxon; longtime foster son, Raymond Brown; numerous Childs family in-laws.

Ann is survived by her husband, Stevie; her sister, Fran Faxon; her brother, Forrest “Chug” Nelson and wife Marilyn; her three children, Wilson “Billy” Childs, Scott Childs, and Fran Atchison; daughters-in-law, Margie and Bonnie Childs; son-in-law, Bill Atchison; her grandchildren, Stephen Childs and wife Meg, Natalie Childs and partner Katy, Jeff Merckens and wife Jill, Stephanie-Ann Sienkiewicz and husband Aaron, Adam Childs, Sarah LaRose, Zachary Childs, Mandy LaRose, Lindsey Childs and fiancé David; her great-grandchildren, Olivia, Avery, Cova, Madilyn, Raven, Charlie, and Stevie; sisters-in-law, Jewel and Marsha; a large extended family; numerous collected children and grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Palermo Christian Church, on Branch Mills Road, in Palermo. The family gratefully accepts donations of flowers for the service; they may be sent directly to Palermo Christian Church. Other donations in Ann’s memory may also be sent to Palermo Christian Church.

GORDON PAGE

SOUTH CHINA – Gordon P. Page Sr., 75, passed peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Gordon was born on July 5, 1949, to Paul H. Page and Charlotte (French) Page.

Gordon was the eldest of three sons. He spent his youth working on French’s Farm, in China, alongside his family, and throughout his life remembered the valuable lessons he learned. There, he and his cousins learned together how to get into mischief, and eventually, how to get out of it.

Gordon attended Erskine Academy, in South China, where he graduated in 1967, and enjoyed playing four years of basketball.

For nearly 50 years Gordon worked tirelessly alongside his father, Paul Page, helping maintain the family business, Page Construction. He proudly served his community as a school bus driver for China Middle and Primary schools, and Erskine Academy for 38 years where he enjoyed watching multiple generations grow. The highlight of his school year was treating the entire bus of kids to ice cream on the last day of school, paying out of his own pocket. Gordon also owned a home daycare center, Helping Hands Daycare, for many years, and was a delivery driver for The Morning Sentinel. He did all of this to provide for his five children.

Gordon spent much of his time with his partner, Debbie, sharing memories and enjoying life together for 28 years. They were married in 2007 at the China Baptist Church. He lived life to the fullest, and enjoyed the big and little things in life, occasionally taking on spontaneous adventures such as performing for a second acting event as Tyrone, in Poor People, by Paul Cates in 2010. When he wasn’t working, he loved going on car rides and attending car shows with Debbie in his favorite car: a cherry-red Mustang with wide white racing stripes. The two of them made frequent trips to Boothbay Harbor and the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Gordon always looked forward to attending Woodsman’s Day at the Windsor Fair each fall. He was happiest where there were antiques or decent seafood – ideally, both. He especially enjoyed tinkering in the garage or on one of the many vehicles in his personal fleet. He discovered a lifelong joy for downhill skiing, which he shared with his family, often while they wore matching fluorescent ski apparel.

Gordon is survived by his wife, Deborah (LeBel) Page; his five children, Gordon P. Page Jr., Geoffrey D. Page and wife Meghan, Adam P. Page and wife Celina, Tara E. (Page) Oxley and husband Fred, Arthur A. Page and wife Erica; and stepson Derek A. Rexford; his eight grandchildren: Makayla Oxley, Madeline Oxley, Molly Oxley, Chance Page, Mira Page, Flynn H. Page, Natalie Rexford and Gavin Rexford; his brothers Stephen and Joseph Page; and many other family members.

Gordon was predeceased by his father Paul H. Page in 2023 and his mother Charlotte Page in 2018.

Those who knew Gordon knew him as a dedicated father, a hard worker, and a respected member of his community. Gordon was a loving father and husband, a wonderful provider, and a gracious caring friend. To know Gordon was to feel the warmth of a kind heart. He was quick to laugh, endlessly patient, and grounded in deep faith. The only thing he loved more than life itself was the people around him.

A graveside service was held at Chadwick Hill Cemetery, in South China, on Monday, May 12, 2025. Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you affix wheels onto something heavy at your home – it’s what Gordon would have wanted.

STEVEN DAY

MADISON – Steven Day, 62, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, while doing what he loves to do, fishing on the open water. He was born on February 11, 1963, in Ayer, Massachusetts, the son of Kenneth Day and Brenda (Mayo) Day.

He graduated from Skowhegan High School in the class of 1981.

On December 4, 1993, he married the former Tamica Giroux, of Winslow.

He worked for many years in the paper industry at Madison Paper until their closing and later years at Verso Paper and Sappi Paper, until his passing.

Steve proudly served in the military for the Maine Army National Guard. Steve was very passionate about serving his country. You could often find him helping those he served with.

In his personal and daily life, Steve will be fondly remembered as Master Fisherman, sports enthusiast, and gym rat. He and Tamica loved the Dallas Cowboys and went to many games. Needless to say, the Giants were not on his favorites list. If Steve wasn’t fishing, you could always find him at the gym, following his son proudly, or working out with his son and his teammates. To know Steve is to know he was a staunch conservative. He made his views known and rumor has it, he has a plaque in bold letters on the top rock in Facebook jail. To say Steve was a Master Fisherman is an understatement. You could arguably say he was the man, the myth, the legend.

Steve’s love for his family and friends are unmatched. He loved his wife Tamica for 31 years, whom he often referred to as his Queen. They often made trips to see the Cowboys or go someplace exotic. No matter where he was, he probably found a place to wet a line while there. Steve was the proudest father. Wherever Stephen was you could find Steve there supporting him and boasting about how proud he was to have a star athlete and later a great father and officer of the law. Stephen will miss the multiple calls and text messages throughout the day often only to ask “What’s up, skip?” His love didn’t stop there as his heart was full of joy for his daughter-in-law, Lyndsay, and his granddaughters, Chandler and Saylor. He will always be remembered as “Bump”. Steve was a friend like no other. Always having their back and supporting them through thick or thin.

Steve is survived by his mother, Brenda Day, of Skowhegan; his wife, Tamica, of Madison; son, Stephen and his wife, Lyndsay, of Glenburn; grandchildren, Chandler and Saylor; siblings, Caroline, Michele, and Christopher; along with nieces ,and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, Kenneth; and brothers Kenneth-Alan and Dennis.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, June 29, 2025, at 11 a.m., at the Poulin-Turner Union Hall, located at 653 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan. This event will be open to all friends, family, and acquaintances of Steve.

Arrangements are in the care of the Lary Funeral Home. Messages of condolence and memories may be expressed at http://www.laryfuneralhome.com.

Donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made to Operation Reboot Outdoors, an organization that uses outdoor activities to help our veterans and law enforcement officers “rediscover their true north”.

LINDA LECLAIR

WATERVILLE – Linda Leclair, 77, passed away recently. Linda was born in Waterville on October 12, 1947, to Joseph E. and Lucille (Carey) Leclair. She grew up in Winslow and graduated from Winslow High School in 1965.

After high school, Linda began a long and dedicated career at C.F. Hathaway Shirt Co., in Waterville, where she worked for 30 years. She later earned an associate degree in computer applications and a diploma in accounting from Mid-State College in 1997. She went on to work as an Administrative Director at Community Rehabilitation Services.

Linda’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family – especially caring for her niece and nephew, Katherine and Joseph. She loved cheering them on at sporting events, attending recitals, and simply being present in their lives.

Growing up, Linda loved spending time with her brothers, taking many trips to the movies and enjoying A&W Root Beer. She loved to travel, finding joy in exploring new places and creating lasting memories along the way. Linda took many cruises with her best friend, Sheila, and loved taking bus trips with her parents and friends. Linda was an excellent cook and was famous for her deviled eggs, potato salad, and graham cracker cake – favorites at every family gathering.

Linda was predeceased by her parents; her sisters-in-law Tricia and Donna Leclair; and many beloved aunts and uncles.

She is survived by her brothers Robert Leclair and his wife, Mary Heath, of Manchester, New Hampshire, James Leclair, of Shawmut, and Kenneth Leclair and his wife, Jodi, of Fairfield; nieces and nephews Katherine Leclair and Kyle Duelley, along with their son, Jack, of Fairfield; Joseph and Sarah Leclair, of Mint Hill, North Carolina; John and Corey Doherty, and their sons, Seamus and Ali Doherty; Cormac and Chau Doherty, of Manchester, New Hampshire; and Geoffrey and Alisa Heath, and their children, Molly, Abby, and Ryan, also of Manchester, New Hampshire.

A graveside service will be held on June 21, at 11 a.m., at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

Arrangements are under the directions and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed; condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice in Linda’s memory.

Others Departed

LAURENTIA I. HALL

WATERVILLE and JACKMAN – Laurentia I. (Falardeau) Hall, 90, passed peacefully on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. Lau­rentia, “Lou”, was born to Aime and Pearl (Nadeau) Falardeau, on August 15, 1934 in Lew­iston.

She was educated at Sacred Heart Aca­demy and Jackman High School, graduating with the Class of 1953.

She married Alton L. Hall and they enjoyed their first years at Fort Meade, in Maryland, where Alton was stationed during his service with the U.S. Army. Upon their return to Jackman, they both worked for L.F. Hall Distributing Co, and later took over the family business in 1964, and raised their five children.

During those years, Lou was also the secretary and treasurer for the Jackman Housing Association and an active member of the St. Anthony’s Church board of trustees. In later years she became a CNA, caring for the residents of Jackman Regional Health Center. While living in Waterville, she worked at Beverly’s Hallmark Gift Shop and Walmart’s stationary department, where she enjoyed seeing and chatting with Jackman residents when they were shopping.

Lou especially enjoyed researching and journaling family genealogy, reading, and traveling.

She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, Alton and her sister, Violet Doughty.

Laurentia is survived by her children, Pamela Hall Grondin, Deborah Hall-Irwin (Harry), Keith Hall (Paul Kachinsky), Kelly Hall, Carrie Hall-Harvey (Kevin); grandchildren, Amy Beth Brochu Krikken, Jared Kane, Derrick Kane, Heidi Baribeau, Jillian Harvey Bennett, Cassie Harvey, and Cameron Harvey; seven great-grandchildren, a close family member, Linda C. Hall; many nieces and nephews.

A Catholic Funeral Mass will take place at St. Faustina Church, in Jackman, with graveside burial at Whipple Cemetery, on Saturday, May 31, at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Jackman-Moose River Historical Society or to a library of your choice.

Services

PATRICIA RANCOURT

WINSLOW – The family of Patricia Rancourt invites family and friends to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, at St. John Catholic Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 10 a.m. A graveside service will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville.

Arrangements are under the care of Aable Cremation Service, 83 KMD, Waterville.

CAROLYN J. DOW

CHINA – Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service for Carolyn J. Dow, to be held at 1 p.m., on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the China Village Cemetery Extension, 148 Neck Road, China.

LEO F. GLIDDEN

JEFFERSON – Leo F. Glidden, 97, died peacefully at his home on Monday, April 28, 2025, Leo was born in Jefferson, Maine on December 26, 1927, the son of the late Wesley and Ina M. (Cooper) Glidden. He attended local schools.

At the age of 14, Leo started working in the family logging business with his father, a job he did for most of his life. Later in life he went to for the State of Maine Department of Transportation, retiring in 1988 after a long career.

In 1957 he married the love of his life, Gladys E. Tibbetts, together they shared 68 years of marriage.

When he wasn’t working, Leo enjoyed woodworking in his shop building everything from birdhouses to model trains, children’s toys and lawn decorations. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his grandsons. Leo was a longtime member of the Whitefield Grange.

Leo was predeceased by a son, Allen Glidden and a daughter, Deborah Glidden; a brother, Wilfred Glidden.

He is survived by his wife, Gladys E. Glidden, of Whitefield; two grandsons, Corey Glidden, of Jefferson and Allen Glidden Jr., of Jefferson; a great-granddaughter, Ciera Glidden of Augusta.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 2 p.m., at the Whitefield Cemetery, Route 218, Wiscasset Road, Whitefield, ME.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave, Gardiner, ME. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website www.StaplesFuneralHome.com.

RICHARD P. SACK JR.

WATERVILLE – Richard Patrick Sack Jr., 92, passed away on January 17, 2025. He was born in Guildford on March 17, 1932, a son of Richard Sr. and Helen (Paul) Sack.

Richard will always be remembered for his quick wit, hard work and love of playing cards in his retirement years. He loved his family dearly.

Over his working years he did shipping and receiving and later in life worked at a local hardware store. Richard was a very proud member of the Schubenacadie Band of Indians, in Canada, and a member of Sacred Heart Church, in Waterville. Richard previously lived in Charlestown, Massachusetts and moved back to Waterville near retirement and spent the rest of his years there.

He was predeceased by his wife, Marie Shirley (King) Sack; his son, Richard P. Sack III; five brothers and four sisters; a granddaughter, Angelica Ruest; and a great-grandson, Zachary Allan.

Richard is survived by his children, Debbie Blanchard, of Clinton, Leiza Ruest, of Waterville, and Roseanne, of Connecticut; daughter-in-law, Rose Sack; grandchildren, Danielle Sack, Nick Ruest, Hailey Ruest, Stephen Sack, Joshua Blanchard, Corey Blanchard, Derrick and Victoria Sack; along with several great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, May 3, at 9 a.m., at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. Interment of Richard will be held immediately following the ceremony at the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville, ME 04901.

PATRICIA A. DOYON

WATERVILLE – Patricia Ann Doyon died peacefully in her sleep on Friday, March 21, 2025. She was a resident of Lakewood Continuing Care Facility, in Waterville. Pat was born on March 16, 1944, to Ronaldo Roy and Ora (Morin) Roy, of Winslow.

She attended Winslow schools, was employed by C F Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville, after finishing school. She worked there for over 30 years. Pat married Ronald Doyon, of Waterville. They were married in 1965, and lived in the Waterville area.

Pat was predeceased by her father Ronaldo, her mother Ora and her husband Ronnie, her brother Robert, and her nephew Scott Simpson.

She is survived by her brother David and his wife Germaine (Laplante) Roy; niece Lisa Roy, from Belgrade, and Justin Roy, from Denver Colorado, and Lisa’s children Graham and Grace Drown; Ronnie’s sister Nancy Simpson and brother-in-law Don Simpson; niece Wendy O’coin and her husband Gerard and her son Cameron, all from Waterville.

Her favorite things to do were to go out to eat and find new and interesting restaurants. She also loved to shop for clothes and house decor. She spent many long hours shopping with friends and family. She loved watching Turner Classic movies, cleaning house and ironing.

At this time there will not be visiting hours or a viewing per Pat’s wishes.

A graveside service will be held, when the weather is better, and also a celebration of life on the same day. There will be a post and mail out invitation when we have a date set.

BEATRICE M. BRAZIER

SOUTH CHINA – Beatrice Mey Brazier, 62, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 24, 2025. She was born on March 15, 1963, in Hartland, the daughter of Shirley and Shirley (Higgins) Brazier.

Beatrice built a life full of love, kindness, and compassion, creating her own family within her community. She was a woman of resilience who forged her own path, imparting a sense of courage and determination in all who knew her.

Beatrice was predeceased by her parents.

A memorial service will take place at Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, at 8 Elm St., Waterville, on Thursday, May 1, at 1 p.m.

Share memories and upload photos of her to the memorial page https://www.vrlfuneralhome.com/.

NANCY J. JOHNSON

CHINA – Nancy Jean Johnson, 88, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Glenridge Long Term Care facility, in Augusta. She was born on August 12, 1936, to Frances and Donn Johnson.

She grew up in Winslow, along with her older sister Joan, and younger brother David.

Following high school graduation in 1954, she worked at Keyes Fibre Co. (now Huhtamaki), in Waterville, for two years to finance her studies at Becker Junior College, in Worcester, Massachusetts, graduating in 1958. Becker prepared her for a long career, first as a medical secretary to Waterville area doctors John Reynolds, and Stanley Beckerman, and then for Dr. Albert Aranson, chief of medicine at Maine Medical Center, in Portland, and later as executive secretary for a number of prominent Portland area businessmen including Dave Cloutier, of Maine Florida Properties.

Although she was a dedicated employee, Nancy found time to become a Big Sister, sing in choruses, perform in musicals, and spend time with friends and family, especially her nephew, Michael Johnson, and niece Elizabeth Johnson.

Nancy shared her love of music, especially from the ‘40s and ‘50s with an enthusiastic circle of friends who rarely missed a chance to hear a great band performing locally.

A resident of Falmouth for many years, she was an avid bicyclist, an outdoor activity she continued to enjoy into her 80s.

Her curiosity about everything and sense of humor were loved by everyone who had the chance to get to know her. During her later years, Nancy resided at the Alzheimer’s Care Center, in Gardiner.

Her family is especially grateful for all the care and compassion she received from the “ladybugs” at ACC (aka Gardiner House caregivers). Glenridge and Beacon Hospice staff provided safety, peace and comfort during her final days.

She is survived by her brother David and his family; and by her deceased sister Joan’s husband, Kendall Bassett, their three daughters and their families.

At her request there will be no funeral services.

JOAN W. DEERING

SIDNEY – Joan W. Deering, 73, of Saco and formerly of Sidney, passed away on Thursday March 27, 2025, following a long and valiant battle with cancer. Joan was born on January 9, 1952, to Rena Leadbetter Willey and Lt. Colonel Winston E. Willey, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Joan settled in Skowhegan, with her family at the age of 9. Joan attended Skowhegan schools and graduated from Skowhegan High School, class of 1970.

Joan was predeceased by her parents Winston E. and Rena L. Willey; and her brother-in-law, David Rollins.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Cabot; her son Jeremy, his wife Kaleigh and their children Jackson, Lucas and Mason, all of Scarborough; her son Nate, his wife Rebecca and their children Bryce and Carter, of Windham, New Hampshire; her sister Margaret Rollins, of Troy, New Hampshire; sisters-in-law Helen Cianchette, of Palmyr,a and Pam Guerin, of Skowhegan; nieces Tamara Cianchette, Lynn Cianchette, Andrea Cianchette Maker, Tracy Deering, Brittany Guerin, and Lisa Rollins; nephews Charlie Cianchette and J Rollins; many cousins.

Arrangements are being handled by Dennett, Craig & Pate Funeral Home, of Saco, Maine.

Joan’s Celebration of Life will be held at Dunegrass Country Club, 65 Wild Dunes Way, Old Orchard Beach, Maine, on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, Mom asked that people please make donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital to help support children facing cancer at such young ages, who haven’t gotten to experience the 73 years of life that she had.

LENORA GILBERT

WATERVILLE – Lenora “Lee” Gilbert, 88, of Waterville, passed peacefully on Friday, March 28, 2025, due to complications from pneumonia. Born in Fort Kent on May 10, 1936, to Robert and Gertrude Landry, Lee lived a life filled with faith.

She attended Waterville schools and Goodwill/Hinckley, later achieving her certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in 1981. Lee dedicated her career to caring for others, working as a nurse in various settings before retiring in 2004, where she lovingly cared for the sisters at Mount Mercy.

Lee married Lawrence Gilbert in 1954, they raised seven children. Their Air Force life led them to Colorado in 1965.

Lee was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence; her daughter, Cindy; her parents Robert and Gurtrude Landry; her brother, Robert Landry Jr., and his wife, Kelly, brothers-in-law John Mansur and Floyd White, and stepbrothers Verle and Michael Hutchison, and stepsister, Sandra Hutchison.

Lee is survived by her children, James (Leslie), David (Charlene), Thomas (Kim), John (Denise), Deanna, and Carol (Clifford); 15 grandchildren; and 35 great-grandchildren; her brother, Rudy Landry (Ginny), sisters Teresa White and Lauraine Mansur; stepbrother, Duane Hutchison (Rina); stepsisters Beverly Robertson (James), and Joyce Ronan; and many nephews, nieces, and cousins.

A memorial get together will follow a family graveside service on Saturday, May 10, 2025.

JENNIFER FROST

FAIRFIELD – Jennifer Frost, 44, of Fairfield, passed away Monday, February 17, 2025, a tragedy that she left us so soon.

Jen would light up any room she was in and always made everyone laugh and be happier around her. She had a personality that made you feel good just to be around her. Jen was a devoted mother, daughter, a loving friend and a source of endless inspiration. Even though she is no longer physically with us, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those who truly loved her. She will be forever remembered, cherished and loved beyond measure by many. Her love of life and people will always be a part of us. She enjoyed the outdoors and loved to walk her dog, kayak, swim, ski, paddleboard – any outdoor activity.

Jen always put the needs of others before her own – being a young, single parent with Ben as her only child. He was her world. She began working at an early age to support herself first as a CNA, later as a Pharmacy Technician, for many years as a Registered Nurse, getting her degree from the University of New England in 2006 and continuing her education to later obtain a master’s degree from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) in 2017 – fulfilling her dream of becoming a nurse practitioner with a goal of helping many people.

She was so dearly loved and will be missed by her son, Ben; her parents, Ken and Susan; family members.

She bought her home in 2012 and was so proud of this achievement and was so full of plans on renovating it, never thinking such a tragic event could happen in the middle of her renovations. Her son and parents plan on completing her dream.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Any donations can be made through a GoFundMe page set up by Jen’s good friend, Nicole Lyford for her son, Ben. A compilation of stories and photos to share with Ben would also be nice way to try and help him through this grieving process that still looks unending.

ERIC FOURNIER

RALEIGH, N.C. – Eric “Rick” Fournier, 76, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Raleigh, North Carolina. s

He was a man whose warmth, humor, and generous spirit touched the lives of all who knew him. Rick grew up in North Vassalboro, and was a 1966 graduate of Winslow High School, in Winslow, and a 1970 graduate of the Maine Maritime Academy, in Castine, with a degree in marine engineering and a commission as an ensign in the U.S. Navy Reserves.

Rick is survived by his wife, Lisa Fournier; his sons Chris Fournier and wife Fernanda, and Jason George and wife Erin; his siblings Wayne Fournier and wife Nancy, William Fournier and wife Katherine, and Cynthia Smith and her husband Robert; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Eric was preceded in death by his parents Carleton “Ike” and Renee (Markham) Fournier; and his sister, Patricia Soucie.

A Celebration of Rick’s life will be held on June 28, at the Smith Farm, in Winslow.

Please visit http://www.brightfunerals.com to share words of comfort to the family.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at LLS.org in his honor.

DIANNE L. LANE

SIDNEY – Dianne L. (Wilbur) Lane, 81, of Sidney, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 6, 2025, while in the care of the Augusta Center for Health and Rehabilitation, in Augusta. Dianne was born on April 4, 1944, in Winslow, to Alton and Yvonne D. (Pomerleau) Wilbur.

Dianne’s career was in the banking industry. She spent many years until her retirement as the Manager of Ke-So Federal Credit Union, in Fairfield.

Dianne loved words, she was an avid player of Scrabble (a fan of Scrabble Go), never met a crossword puzzle she didn’t enjoy, and happily corrected you if you mispronounced a word. She never met a cat, dog or bird she didn’t like. She enjoyed taking vacations with her Aunt Rita and the stories they came back with were hysterical.

She was predeceased by her son Joseph Knowles, her mom Yvonne D. (Pomerleau) Wilbur, her sisters, Virginia Veilleux, and Donna Cayouette, and her brother Keith Wilbur.

Dianne is survived by her son Bryan H. Knowles and his wife Linda, of West Gardiner; their daughters Alexandra (Lexie) Knowles and her husband Anthony (Andy) Rice, of Roswell, Georgia, Deserae Knowles, of West Gardiner; great-granddaughter Summer Knowles, of West Gardiner; daughter Lisa Knowles, of Warren, Ohio; sister Linda Rodrigue, of Winslow; brother Everette Wilbur, of Waterville; and her nephews and nieces.

A Celebration of Life was held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 255 Trafton Road, Sidney.

Others Departed

LINDA R. GUITE

BRUNSWICK – Linda Rossnagle Guite, 81, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 3, 2025, in Brunswick. She was born on September 16, 1943, in Biddeford, and graduated from the Kennebunk school system in 1961.

She earned her nursing degree from the Maine Medical Center School of Nursing in 1964.

Her early career as a nurse began in Waterville, where she worked alongside her husband, Lee Guite, in his private practice. As her family grew, Linda shifted her focus to community service—an area where she would leave a lasting legacy. She was inducted into the Boys & Girls Club of Waterville Hall of Fame in December 1995 for her work as a founding board member. She worked with the local hospital auxiliary committees, helping to raise funds for hospitals and scholarship programs. And was a member of the Oakland Planning Committee, playing an important role in shaping development during a period of growth.

Linda’s life was enriched by her love of nature and physical activity. Whether gardening in her yard, sailing along coastal routes, or skiing through snowy trails, she embraced every season with enthusiasm. Linda lived a life of deep compassion and joyful connection where family was always at the center of her world.

She is remembered by her children, Melissa Mantha, Stephanie Guite, Amy Greuel, Matt Guite; her grandchildren, Mika Mantha, Willow, Reed, and Teal Beavis, Olivia and Allison Greue; her brothers Etienne (Spike) and Foxwell Emmons; sister-in-law Nancy Guite Powers; nephews Christopher Guite and Jarrod and Logan Desjardins.

She was predeceased by her husband Lee Guite; parents Natalie (Richards) Emmons and Donald Rossnagle, step-parents Steve Emmons and Lorraine Rossnagle; and sister Dona Desjardins.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 4 to 5:30 p.m., at the Emmons Preserve, 57 Gravelly Brook Road, Kennebunkport. Family and friends are invited to gather together to honor Linda’s memory.

To view the full obituary, go to https://www.mainecremationcare.com/obituaries/

DAVID W. WILSON

BOOTHBAY – David Warren Wilson, 78, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, April 18, 2025. Born on July 30, 1946, in Skowhegan, David was the son of Raymond and Elizabeth Wilson.

He grew up in Waterville, where he developed a deep love for boating, fishing, and flying – passions he inherited from his father. A graduate of the University of Maine at Orono, David carried forward his family’s entrepreneurial spirit when he joined Kennebec Equipment Rental in 1964, the company founded by his parents. In 1979, he purchased the business and led it with dedication and pride for decades, expanding it from four to six locations. Even in later years, David could often be found visiting the stores, chatting with employees, and staying close to the work he loved.

David had a lifelong passion for machinery, but his interests stretched well beyond his profession. In his youth, he enjoyed hunting and fishing with his father and friends, and he was an avid pilot. Throughout his life, he remained devoted to boating and antique cars and traveled extensively, embracing the world with curiosity and enthusiasm.

David is survived by his wife, Susan; his sisters Beverly and Dale Musolf, and Jane and Dan Bickford; as well as a nephew and many nieces.

He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Sue Gilliam, and his brother Larry Wilson.

Per his request, there will be no memorial service.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In honor of David’s generous spirit and love for learning, donations may be made to the Jason Edwin Spinney Memorial Fund, c/o Boothbay Region Student Aid, P.O. Box 293, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538.

LOUISE M. JOSLYN

Louise Marie (Williams) Joslyn, 92, died peacefully on Saturday, April 19,2025. She was born in Bath, on May 9,1932, the daughter of Frederick T. Williams Sr. and Rena F. (White) Williams.

Louise grew up in Bath, met the love of her life at a very young age, Eldon Joslyn Sr., whom she married on December 6, 1947. They had eight children together and celebrated 52 years of marriage before Eldon’s passing in 1999.

Louise worked at Bates Mill for several years before moving on to a job that she loved at Togus VA, in the main kitchen serving and delivering food to veterans. She retired from Togus VA in 1997.

Louise was a loving mother and a kind soul. Her family was everything to her. She was always there for others with solid advice, a quick-witted comment or a loving thought. After her retirement, she enjoyed doing crafts, reading and spending time with family. She could be found crocheting or quilting in her earlier years and later, when her vision became problematic, she would listen to her audio books.

She was predeceased by her parents, Frederick T and Rena (White)Williams, husband Eldon Joslyn, Sr., two brothers, Theodore Williams and Frederick Williams, Jr, two sons Gary Joslyn and Steven Joslyn, two sons-in-law Joseph Giguere and Stanley Cram, granddaughter Dawna (Noyes) Kent and great grandson Jacob Noyes. She was also predeceased by her good friends, Elcyon Bowden and Lavada Dugay.

She is survived by her children, Eldon Joslyn, Jr. and wife Faye, of Windsor, Gloria Giguere, of Oakland, Sandra Lamontagne and husband George, of Windsor, Linda Cram, of Manchester, Rena Swift and husband Carroll, of Jefferson, and Jay Joslyn and wife Diane, of Augusta; 20 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; step-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

A short committal service will be held at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Civic Center Drive, 143 Blue Star Avenue, Augusta, ME. 04330, in the Committal Shelter, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 9 a.m.

A celebration of life will follow at Le Club Calumet, in Augusta, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Please RSVP to Sandy Lamontagne via text or phone if you plan to attend the celebration of life to accurately plan for food).

RICHARD B. FRENCH

SKOWHEGAN – Richard Bertrand French was born May 11, 1927, in Skowhegan, to Goff M. French and Alta P. Ellis, of North Anson, where he grew up and graduated from Anson Academy in 1944 one week after his 17th birthday.

He went to the University of Maine in Orono but left school when his father died. He married Elizabeth Corson in September 1948, in Anson. She passed away in 1975. They had three children, Goff R. French (deceased) who married Linda Handley and lived in Smithfield where Linda still resides, Hugh D. French (deceased) of St. Albans, and daughter, Hope F. Perkins and her husband Phillip P. Perkins, of Palermo.

He married Dorothy Wood in 1976 and resided in Winthrop until her death in 2005.

Dick is survived by a stepdaughter, who he helped raise and care for, Kathleen Clark Allen, of Madison.

He is also survived by grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Heather French Hoisington and husband Ben and their children Kaeden and Zoe Green, and Eli and Zoe Hoisington, all of Brunswick; Darren French and his wife Gillian and their children Jeremy, Lucas, Rhys and Christopher French, all of Hermon, Colin French, of Smithfield, Ceara French Templin and her husband John and their children Abigail, Hannah, and Grace Templin, all of Smithfield; Matthiew Otis and his wife Katy Berry Otis and children Brianna, Jaiden, and Ryder Otis, all of Torrington, Connecticut.

He started working for the Maine State Department of Transportation in 1947 on a survey crew, earned his Registered Professionals Engineers License and worked planning, surveying and building many of the highways and roads in Maine. In the mid ’60s he studied at home in the evenings DOS programing and moved to the computer division of Maine State Transportation. He retired in 1987 as the Director of Computer Services.

Services

FRANK ZIMBA

WINSLOW – Frank “Bill” Zimba, 81, passed away unexpectedly at his home, inWinslow, on January 23, 2025..

A grave­side service will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook and full obituary may be found at http://www.gallantfh.com.

DEBBIE MATHIEU

MADISON – Debbie Mathieu passed away suddenly at her home on Monday, April 21, 2025.

A funeral service was held on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Saint Sebastian Catholic Church, in Madison. A detailed obituary is available at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/debbie-mathieu.

JAMES A. DAVIS JR.

CLINTON – Memorial service for James A. Davis Jr., will be held Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11 a.m., St. Francis Cemetery.Grove St., in Waterville.

Death Notice

BEECHER LADD

BURNHAM – Beecher Ladd Jr, 77, of Burnham, passed away on Thursday, April 24, 2025. He was born January 18, 1948.

WALTER E. PEARL

OAKLAND – Walter Edward Pearl, 74, died at his home on Sunday, March 16, 2025, following several years of failing health.

Born in Waterville, June 2, 1950, he was the son of Walter E. Pearl Sr. and Thelma Hussey Pearl.

Ed spent his childhood in Winslow and was a member of the Winslow High School class of 1969. He was known for his sense of humor, quick wit, mischief-making and love of music. He was a vocalist in a local band, The Imposters, and a percussionist in the high school band. It was also during this time that Ed became an Eagle Scout.

Following high school he worked for several local businesses, including his father’s Crown Inc., where he learned auto mechanics, and the K2 Ski Company, in Winslow, where he was a member of the demo team and tuned skis for world cup ski racers. He was often seen skiing the slopes of Sugarloaf. After marrying Susan Wells and moving to the Clearwater, Florida, area, where they lived for nearly a decade, Ed returned to Maine, divorced and fulfilled his dream of living at the lake.

He settled in Oakland and established a successful painting business, Pearl Painting, from which he retired after nearly 25 years. For many years he was em­ployed part time by New England Country Music Festivals as an assistant concert promoter and stage manager.

Ed took great pride in his home, making many improvements and establishing beautiful gardens, commenting often on how much he loved living there. A man of many interests, he enjoyed woodworking, furniture restoration, fishing, boating, photography, loon and eagle watching and listening to his large collection of vinyl record albums and CDs. Ed enjoyed telling a great story (often embellished), reminiscing with friends and family and hosting gatherings.

Heading out on the lake in his Stingray was always an adventure.

He graciously volunteered his time, talent, and expertise to many local organizations in the Waterville-Oakland area including the Town of Oakland’s Waterfront Park gazebo construction project and the Messalonskee Lake Association. For many years he was a dedicated and valued volunteer at the Humane Society Waterville Area where he spent countless hours assisting in any way he could. The many cats that he adopted were, indeed, very lucky felines!

Ed is survived by his sister Mary McNeil and her husband George, of Steep Fall;, his niece Caitlin McNeil Lincoln, husband Joshua and daughter Nina, of Brunswick; his nephew Christian Milneil, wife Jessica and daughters Mona and Maxine, of Portland; several cousins.

An opportunity to share memories of Ed with family and friends is planned for the summer.

Memorial donations in Ed’s name may be sent to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville ME 04901.

GARY A. BUSSELL

WINSLOW – Gary Alan Bussell, 64, passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2025. Gary was born in Hartland to Raymond E. and Loretta (Berube) Bussell, in November 1960.

Gary continued to live most of his life in Somerset County working at various jobs. In August 2003, he married Roxanne Williams. They had several years of happiness until her death in May 2021. After that, due to declining health, he resided at Halldale Manor’s assisted living facility, in Farmingdale.

To his dying day, Gary was proud of his 30 years of sobriety. He often spoke of his “Higher Power” helping him maintain that sobriety. During those years, he chaired many AA meetings and helped several others through tough times. His hobbies included playing/teaching cribbage to whoever he could talk into a game of it, fishing, old western movies, and coloring and card games on his iPad.

Gary will be remembered for his natural instincts for caregiving, his kindness to others and a wonderful sense of humor. His caring attributes endeared him to many staff members and residents while living at Halldale Manor.

He is survived by his children, Mallory (Elliott) Newton, Brandy and Felicia Boutilier; siblings Elizabeth French, Lewis (Karla) Bussell, Randy Robinson, Harland (Debbie) Bussell, Karen Golden, and Donna Sullivan; also, six grandchildren; two uncles; several cousins; nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was predeceased by his spouse, Roxanne; his parents Raymond and Lorretta Bussell; and his sister, Pauline Avery.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 8, at 2 p.m., at the Elks Lodge, 21 Silver St., Skowhegan. Light snacks will be provided. The family desires no flowers.

Please visit Gary’s memorial page https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/gary-bussell where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

ALICE R. KING-STARKE

WINSLOW – Alice Marie Regina (Bizier) King-Starke passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, following a courageous fight with pancreatic cancer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m., on Friday, May 2, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. A burial will be held after the Mass in the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove St., Waterville. To read Alice’s full obituary please visit http://www.gallantfh.com.

CHRISTINE N. GAY

AUGUSTA – Christine (Duplessis) (Newell) Gay, 98, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 11, 2025, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care at Glenridge. She was born in Augusta, May 20, 1926, the daughter of Zepherin and Irene (Desruisseux) Duplessis, .

Christine was educated in the Augusta schools before becoming employed at Taylor Shoe and Hallowell Shoe where she worked for 29 years. She finished out her career with the State of Maine Bureau of Public Improvements in 1988.

Christine met and married Harvard (Hardy) and they shared 61 years of marriage before his passing in 2024. They enjoyed snowmobiling, motorcycling, camping and traveling throughout the country, their most memorable trip being a road trip to Alaska and back.

Christine enjoyed hosting holiday and family gatherings and was a wonderful cook. Many enjoyed her recipes. For years Christine had a very large garden and canned her harvest that would last throughout much of the year.

Christine was predeceased by her husband Hardy, her parents, son Peter Newell, sister Rita Valliere, brothers George, Richard and Donald Duplessis, sisters-in-law, Lilly and Diana Duplessis, niece Rachel Bumford, stepdaughter Melody Gay and stepson Edward Gay.

Survivors include her grandson, Jeffrey Newell; stepson Harvard Gay, Jr.; stepdaughter Melinda Simon (Pete); sisters-in-law Priscilla Duplessis, Kay, Hilda and Jeanette Gay; brother-in-law Charles Freeman; along with several nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

There will be a family graveside service at the Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Mid-Maine Cremation Services, Waterville.

HAROLD J. POIRIER

WATERVILLE – Harold Joseph Poirier passed on Monday, April 14, 2025. He was was born to Flora Young Poirier and Emile Poirier.

His greatest joy in his life was his family and friends. Harold was an avid gardener and loved golfing.

He was the youngest plant manager in the history of C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville. He was the plant manager in Calais, Dover Foxcroft, and Waterville.

Harold was predeceased by his parents; and his brothers Richard and Paul Poirier and his sister, Jeannette Hall.

Harold is survived by the love of his life and best friend, Marianne; his son, Mark and his wife Laudith Poirier; his stepdaughter, Lisa and husband Richard Pomerleau; his granddaughters, Jessica and husband Mike Bailey and their son Lucas and daughter Katie, Jordyn and husband Jake Crosby, Nyki Poirier; and grandsons Byron Sears and daughter Gracelyn; granddaughter, Laura and husband Anthony Cole and children Liam, Alister, and Elle; grandson, Miah and wife Brittany Pomerleau and son, Layton; many aunts, uncles and cousins from Québec, Canada; nieces and nephews in Maine.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours Church, located at 116 Silver St., Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolence and memory shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the memory of Harold to a charity of your choice.

JUDITH A. MAYO

CHINA – Judith A. Mayo, 85, passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at her home in China. Judy was born on December 27, 1939, a daughter of Donald and Elsa (Becker) Gordon.

Judy grew up in Weeks Mills and attended Erskine Academy, in South China. On October 5, 1957, she married John Gibson Mayo and the two settled in China where Judy was an exemplary homemaker.

Judy was a talented craftswomen and created many pieces for her family and friends through her skill of knitting, crocheting, sewing, cross stitching, quilting, and rug braiding. She was constantly working on a project that involved the work of her hands and her experience often yielded sound advice to those working on their own projects. In her retirement years, many winters were enjoyed in Yuma, Arizona, alongside her husband, John.

Judy will be remembered as an honest and independent woman and as a devoted matriarch who loved her family dearly.

She was predeceased by her parents; and her husband of 67 years, John G. Mayo.

Judy is survived by her children, Monte Mayo and his partner, Karin Sullivan, Mia-Jo Nguyen and her husband Ninh, and Mira-Su Thurston and her husband, Michael; grandchildren, Samantha Hayes, Alexander Thompson and his wife Alyssa, and Koriana Thompson; great-grandchildren, Anastasia Thompson and Aubriella Thompson.

No services are being held at this time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to: Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Judy’s name may be made to Weeks Mills Fire Department, 778 Dirigo Rd., China, ME 04358.

SUNNY BROWN

WATERVILLE – Sunny Brown passed away on Monday, March 17, 2025.

Sunny taught primary ages in school for 35 years, seven years in Gardiner, and 28 years at Vassalboro Community School. Sunny appreciated her many colleagues. The relationships with her students and parents meant the world to Sunny.

Sunny had great relationships at her swim classes at the Waterville AYCC. She had close friends, who she called her “cancer posse,” who accompanied her to her treatments and kept her in good spirits during her cancer journey.

Sunny will be remembered by all, as a resilient beacon of light for those of us to follow. Not only a teacher of academics, but she was a teacher of life and an unwavering support system. She was a space for safety and understanding, but she also had a great sense of humor to carry the room. The community has lost a pillar, but we shall continue with gratitude and grace for her presence.

Sunny leaves behind her son, Jesse; daughter, Amy; her ex-husband, and their father, Peter; many nieces and nephews.

Sunny’s Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 19, from 1 – 4 p.m., in the recreation room, at the Harold Alfond Center, YMCA Boys & Girls Club, located on North Street, in Waterville. This event is open to the public and we are encouraging a potluck.”

EDWARD KERVIN

WATERVILLE – Edward “Ed” Kervin, 72, of Waterville, passed away Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Ed was born on March 14, 1953, in Waterville, to parents John and Marie (King) Kervin.

On March 29, 1980, he married the love of his life, Sandra. Together, they raised two sons, Jarod and Adam, and two daughters, Lori and Ariel.

After graduating high school, Ed proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corp from 1971-1974. He worked at Waterville Osteopathic Hospital, Service Merchandise, and Sam’s Club, both in Augusta, before eventually retiring as a general manager from Dollar Tree. In 2015, he moved to Port Charlotte, Florida, with Sandra and Ariel.

Ed had a passion for his family, work, music, trivia and coaching soccer and baseball. He shared a love of the Dallas Cowboys, his favorite team, with his two sons. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, family, friends and his cats.

Ed is preceded in death by his son, Jarod; his parents John and Marie Kervin; James and Jacqueline Lajoie; his grandson, Mason; and his two brothers, William and Thomas.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra; his son Adam and wife Amanda; his daughters Lori and Ariel; his grandchildren, Ariel, Abigail, Ava, Amelia, Alexander and Aspen; his sister, Kathy; many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, May 24, at 11 a.m, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, followed by a committal at St Francis Cemetery, on Grove Street, Waterville.

LILA C. WATSON

CLINTON – Lila C. Watson passed away unexpectedly and peacefully, Wednesday, March 26, 2025.

She was a preverbal whirlwind going nonstop until the time of her illness. She traveled the country, cruised the Caribbean, toured Europe, the Panama Canal, and visited the tulips of Holland. She was an active member order of the Eastern Star holding many positions over the years and making lifelong friends along the way. The Clinton evening extension and the Brown Memorial Methodist Church were also near and dear to her heart.

In 1961, Lila married David Lee Watson and set down roots in the town of Clinton. There they raised two children in a beautiful home on Pleasant Street. David worked full time and ran a business after hours so Lila could stay home. Anyone who knew her (who didn’t?) knew she rivaled Martha Stewart with her home making abilities, could cook circles around Emeril Lagasse, and out bake Julia Childes on any given day. Gossip spread like wildfire around town when Lila and the ladies of town got to talking. Modern day Facebook pales in comparison.

Lila was predeceased by her husband of 52 years, David Watson; her father, Sherwin and mother, Margarett Crosby; sister, Janet Price, brother, James Crosby, sister-in-law, Trudy Crosby; and nephew, Steven Crosby.

Lila is survived by daughter, Laurie Dale and husband David; son, David “Skip” Watson II and wife Lorriann; grandchildren Devon, Jonathan, Lauren and Matt; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Bently Crosby; sister CaroleAnn Johnston; and many nieces and nephews.

Lila’s funeral will be held on Saturday April 12, at 10 a.m., at the Brown Memorial Methodist Church, in Clinton. Refreshments and time to reflect will follow in the dining area of the church. A graveside service at Green Lawn Rest Cemetery will take place on June 9, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Brown Memorial Methodist Church, P.O. Box 58, Clinton, ME 04927 or Fireside Chapter #103, c/o Sandy Leclaire, 644 Bangor Rd., Benton, ME 04901.

ROBERT BOSSIE

CLINTON – Robert “Bob” Bossie, 86, a longtime resident of Clinton, died on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville.

Bob was born on February 18, 1939, in Bingham, and was one of eight children born to Wallace and Estelle (Lagasse) Bossie.

Bob graduated from Bingham High School in 1958 and then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, proudly serving his country for a period of four years with overseas assignments in France and Germany for a period of three years. During his off-duty time he traveled extensively throughout Europe. He completed his service in September 1962 and was honorably discharged.

Bob married his high school sweetheart Mary (Wing) Bossie, on August 17, 1963, who later raised two sons Shannon and Nathan Bossie.

Bob attended Husson College, in Bangor, and later worked for C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, inWaterville, beginning as a management trainee at the Waterville plant and later as superintendent of stitching at the Calais plant.

Bob was hired as office manager to the newly-formed Maine-Cascade Iron Works, in Clinton, and was employed there for a period of 23 years.

In January 1993. Bob was employed as the office manager at Marden, Dubord, Bernier & Stevens Law firm, in Waterville, until his retirement in April 2006. Bob often spoke of his many fond memories there.

Bob participated in many community and civic organizations and was a school board member of S.A.D. #49 representing Clinton and serving on many committees over a six-year period.

Bob was a member of the Clinton Lions Club (over 50 years) and served on the board of directors a number of years and also its president for the 1976/77 year.

Bob was a Trustee of the Greenlawn Rest Cemetery Association and served as its treasurer for the period 2004-20II.

He also served as a member of the Clinton Republican Town Committee, in Clinton, the Parish Council of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, in Fairfield, and also the Knights of Columbus Council #11303, in Fairfield.

Bob was predeceased by his wife Mary after 57 years of marriage. He was also predeceased by his parents Wallace and Estelle Bossie, his brothers Roland, Roger, Wallace (Jr.), James, and his sisters Betty Goody and Pauline (Paula) McIver.

He is survived by his sons Shannon and his wife Donna, of Abingdon, Virginia, and grandson Joshua and his wife Ashley, and great-grandsons Jack Oliver Bossie and Arlo Issac Bossie, of Orange, Connecticut; Nathan and his wife Christina and grandson Zachary Bossie, of Vernon, Connecticut; brother Don and partner Kerry O‘Connor, of Las Vegas, Nevada; sister in-law Rachel Bossie, of Turner; and his brother in-law Ron Goody, of Adrian, Michigan; sisters-in-law Marie and husband Douglas Cutchin, of Nashua, New Hampshire, and Lois Smith, of Houston, Texas; many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may visit from 4 – 6 p.m., on Friday, April 25, at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9 a.m., Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville

A private burial service will be held at a later date.

An on line guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

LYNN M. SENIOR

WHITEFIELD – Lynn M. (DeRamo) Senior, 63, passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025. She was the devoted wife of Robert H. Senior, whom she met on New Year’s Eve in 1979. They married in November 1984 and spent 45 years together, raising their two sons, Christopher and Thomas.

Lynn was born on March 15, 1962, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Nicholas and Diana (Mannino) DeRamo. She grew up in Ozone Park, Queens, and graduated from John Adams High School. In 1980, she pursued her passion for helping others by attending Queensborough College, earning a degree in nursing. Inspired by her mother’s volunteer work with children with disabilities, Lynn knew from an early age that she wanted to dedicate her life to caring for others.

Her nursing career began in 1982 at the New York Department of Veterans Affairs (V.A.) hospital. In 1995, Lynn and her family moved to Windsor, where she continued her service at the V.A. Togus hospital. She took immense pride in her 35-year career within the V.A. hospital system before retiring in 2017.

Lynn had a radiant and welcoming personality, effortlessly forming lifelong friendships from New York to Maine. In 1997, she and her family settled in Whitefield where she became deeply involved in the community. She was a dedicated parishioner at St. Denis Catholic Church, a proud Cub Scout Den Mother, and a spirited chaperone for her children’s school trips to New York. Whether helping a friend, lending a hand at church, or organizing an adventure, Lynn always gave her time and energy with an open heart.

Of all her accomplishments, the one she cherished most was the family she built with her husband, Robert. She found her greatest joy in being a wife, mother, and grandmother. Nothing made her happier than having her family gathered around her table, sharing a meal, a tradition deeply rooted in her Italian heritage. She adored reading to her grandchildren, singing with them, and watching them play outdoors. She also had a deep love for the arts, enjoying theatre, concerts, and shows, always eager to share these experiences with family and friends.

Lynn lived life with laughter, warmth, and an unstoppable spirit. Even in the face of illness, she remained steadfast in her desire to embrace every moment.

In addition to her husband, Robert, Lynn is survived by her two sons, Christopher Senior and his girlfriend, Krystal Hisler, and Thomas Senior and his wife, Kateri Seniorgrandchildren Thomas Roe, Dominic Trahan, Chloe Lane, Karlee Senior, and Everlee Senior.

Visiting hours will be held at Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta, on Friday, April 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Denis Church, 298 Grand Army Rd., Whitefield, on Saturday, April 12, at 11 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1 Church St., in Augusta.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home website: http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Lynn Senior may be made to MaineGeneral’s Comfort Care at Glenridge https://give.mainegeneral.org/WaystoGiveMemorialandTribute or mailed to MaineGeneral’s Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903.

NORMAN C. COLFORD

OAKLAND – Norman C. Colford, 92, of Oakland, died Friday, March 28, 2025, at Glenridge Nursing Home, in Augusta, following a brief illness. Born in Winslow on August 16, 1932, he was a son of Arthur and Louise (Labbe) Colford.

Norman was educated and lived in Fairfield during his adolescent years before moving to Oakland. He worked at Scott Paper Company, in Winslow, his entire career as a paper machine supervisor. He was a member of Waterville Country Club for several years and a member of the Waterville Elks Club #905, for 30 years.

He is survived by his children, a daughter Jane, and a son Duane; as well the mother of his children, Jeannette (Rossignol) Colford; siblings, sister Adeline Veilleux, of Waterville, and brother Carroll Colford and his wife Fern, of Fairfield; several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will take place at 9 a.m., on May 7, 2025, at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

PAMELA M. PRESBY

PARSONSFIELD – Pamela M. Presby, 56, passed away Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Northern Light Mercy Hospital. She was born July 16, 1968, in Biddeford, the daughter of David and Rose Marie Presby.

Pammy attended local schools and graduated from Bonny Eagle High School.

She worked for over 27 years at Northern Light Mercy Hospital, beginning in housekeeping and later becoming a sterile technician.

Pammy enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, live music, the color pink and spending time with family. The love of her life was Scott, and she cherished every moment spent with him and her loved one.

Pammy had a love for life that was contagious. Her kindness and generosity knew no bounds, and she had a way of making everyone feel welcome and loved. She had a wonderful sense of humor, always ready with a joke or a witty remark. Her heart was as big as her spirit, and she was a loyal caring friend who could always be counted on in times of need. One of Pammy’s greatest joys in life was being an aunt. She made each one of her nieces and nephews feel special and loved, and made it a priority to be there for every milestone.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Jenna Marie, her parents, and her brother Dana.

She is survived by her partner of six years, Scott Snow, of Parsonsfield; two brothers, David Presby and wife Michelle, of China, and Robert Presby and wife Jessica, of Buxton; a sister, Bethany Kavanagh and husband Derek, of Millville, New Jersey; as well has her nieces, Lauren, Morgan, Annalise and Skyler; nephews Kyle, Nicholas, Dylan, Aidan, Matthew and Landen.

DANIEL C. PRATT

CLINTON – Daniel C. Pratt, 86, passed away suddenly on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville, where he resided the past 16 months. Dan was born in Waterville on December 31, 1938, to Earl and Bernice (Dow) Pratt, of Clinton. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1956. Dan briefly attended the University of Maine in Orono but chose to return home to marry the love of his life, Marianne (Barrett) Pratt, on August 16, 1958.

In his younger years, Dan volunteered for the Clinton Fire Department and was employed at Ski-Land Woolen Mill, in Clinton. But when the chance came to work outdoors, he jumped. Dan worked as a forest fire watchman, fire ranger, insect ranger, and eventually retired as an Entomologist.

Dan was a faithful member of Brown Memorial United Methodist Church, in Clinton, and served as a youth leader with Marianne when their daughter, Gretchen, was a teen. He was also a Lay Speaker, delivering more than a few sermons and narrations of Easter and Christmas Cantatas over the years. He was always complimented on his speaking voice.

Dan was a Past Master of Sebasticook Lodge #146 AF & AM, as well as Fireside Chapter #103 O.E.S., in Clinton. To list all of his other Masonic affiliations and accomplishments over 52 years would be futile. Something would be left out or mis-stated. Ultimately, he would have had none of them without his Lodge.

Dan enjoyed hunting, fishing, and Maine history. He loved traveling and saw much of the United States, including Alaska, as well as visits to Paris and Germany, especially Oktoberfest, in Munich, Germany. His two favorite places were anywhere with his family and Lily Bay.

Dan was predeceased by his parents; his wife of nearly 50 years, Marianne, a brother-in-law, Kenneth Mellan, and sister-in-law, Edna Barrett.

He is survived by his daughter, Gretchen and her husband Scott Malloch, of Carmel; his sister, Ruth Ann Mellan, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; brother-in-law, Laurence Barrett and companion of 14 years, Suzanne Jenkins, of West Virginia; a large extended family, genealogical and fraternal.

There will be visiting hours Saturday, Saturday, April 5, beginning at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Masonic Service, at 10:30 a.m., and a regular service at 11 a.m. Light refreshments will follow in the Fellowship Hall. All will occur at Brown Memorial United Methodist Church, in Clinton,

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dan’s memory to the Bangor Dyslexia Learning Center, 294 Union Street, Suite 3 Bangor, ME 04401 or to the Brown Memorial United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 58, Clinton, ME 04927.

RICHARD M. HAMLIN

MADISON – Richard Mark Hamlin, 67, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, March 30, 2025, at home. He was born on July 12, 1967, in San Pablo, California.

His first loves were hunting and fishing, only surpassed by his love for his daughter Ciera, who was his pride and joy, fishing partner, and “bestest buddy”. A man of many passions over the years, from his long-haired rock-n-roll drumming days, to being an ardent fan of the Bruins and Patriots, Rich could often be found perfecting his skill as a barbeque pit master spending hours tending to his smoker. He had an enthusiasm for family, food, and the company of good friends.

Rich graduated from Spaulding High School, Rochester, New Hampshire, in 1985, and worked at Northeast Container, in Dover, New Hampshire, before moving to Maine. Rich moved to Maine in 1989 with his first wife, Amanda J. Drew, and his daughter Ciera Rae was born in 2000.

He attended Eastern Maine Community College, in Bangor, earning his applied science degree in Building Construction Technology in 2006. Rich furthered his passion for the outdoors, becoming a Maine Guide in 2016. He was a building contractor and partner in FFI Construction before moving to New Balance, where he met his future wife, Angela Mason. Their home away from home was a family camp on Sebec Lake, where they were married in 2023. More recently, Rich had been working at Sappi Paper Mill, in Hinckley, since 2021.

He was predeceased by his father Dwight R. Hamlin, mother Sandra E. Hamlin (Bowden), grandson Garth Lee Dunphy.

He is survived by his wife Angela Hamlin (Mason); daughters Ciera Rae and partner Alex Lee, Brittney Dunphy and husband Gabe; son Devon Watt and partner Jazmine Murray; brother Jeffery S. Hamlin and wife Sharon; sister Kimberly M. Dimon and husband Charlie; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to Somerset Humane Society, 123 Middle Road, Skowhegan, ME 04976.

PASTOR
WILLIAM J. BELLAIRE

CLINTON – Pastor William J. Bellaire, 85, passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025, in Augusta.

William “Bill” was born on March 24, 1940, in Toledo, Ohio, the son of the late Joseph and Dorothy (Bunde) Bellaire.

While in school, Bill found he had an aptitude for mechanical skills, studying tool and die machine work. After graduating from Whitmer High School, in Toledo, Bill proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Boston from 1959 – 1963, using his skills as a machine repairman. This later led to a job in the tool and die industry.

While in the Navy, Bill heard the faithful witness of God’s love and salvation. In 1962, while in port at Barcelona, Spain, Bill believed and accepted Christ as his Savior. Shortly after, the Lord called him to become a full time minister. While in port on the East Coast, Bill attended Tremont Temple Baptist Church, in Boston, and participated in outreach ministries where he met his wife Jan.

While working as a machinist in Toledo, Ohio, Bill began his ministerial studies at Toledo Bible College earning two bachelor’s degrees, one in Theology, and one in Religious Education. Bill later finished his Master of Ministry degree at Northland Baptist Bible College. Bill began serving the Lord as an interim pastor in 1969 and later served as full time minister/pastor for many years in Ohio, Michigan and Maine. After retiring from pastoral ministry, he became a member of the Burnham Baptist Church in Maine.

Bill loved most any sport, especially baseball and ice hockey, where he played goalie. He volunteered to coach soccer and basketball at the small Christian school where his children attended. Bill was an avid sportsman, enjoying the outdoors, taking his children boating, fishing, and creating many special memories at a family camp in Lincolnville, Maine. Ice fishing, bow hunting, and deep sea fishing were other ways he enjoyed sharing time with his sons.

Bill will also be remembered for his friendly conversation and terrific sense of humor. His ability to relate stories and to tell jokes made him popular with the staff at the nursing home.

Bill was predeceased by his daughter, Susan Bellaire Fultz; sister, Jean Mettler and husband Jim, and brother, Richard and wife Betty.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Janice; his sons, Mark and his wife Erin, and son Jacob; Stephen and his wife Ruth; his son-in-law Larry Fultz; and many loved nephews and nieces.

A funeral will be held on May 17, 2025, with the time and location to be determined. A committal will follow at Green Lawn Rest Cemetery, in Clinton, with military honors being presented for his service to our country.

To leave a message of kindness or to share a memory, please visit http://www.shoreynichols.com.

Care has been provided by Shorey-Nichols Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Pittsfield.

DEAN DAVIS

BENTON – Dean Davis, 80, of Benton, passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the Veterans Administration Hospital, in Togus Springs, following a prolonged battle with Dementia and Alzheimer’s. He was born on May 27, 1944, in Shawmut, to Harry and Gladys Davis.

Dean served in the 82nd Airborne Division and was awarded the Purple Heart in the Dominican Republic. He later worked as a general contractor and retired from the Sappi Paper Mill, in Hinckley.

Dean was the second youngest of 10 children, a devoted son to his mother, and a loving brother to his siblings. He married his first wife Susan and raised four children.

Throughout his eight decades, Dean’s ambitions evolved, but he consistently cherished time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, enjoyed playing cards, and spent winters in Florida. A dedicated supporter of the Clinton Baptist Church, Dean served whenever possible and was a valued friend to the pastor and church members.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra and her children William, Amy, Wendy and grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Dean’s daughters Tammy Rideout and her husband Charlie, Sheri Davis and her wife Tami, and Melanie Monk and her husband Brian, his son, Dean and his wife Justine; grandchildren Joshua, Thomas, Brittany, Cassandra, and Catherine; great-grandchildren Emma, Liam, Easton, Deandre, and Amarianna; sister, June; and brother, Billy.

Dean experienced profound sorrow at the untimely passing of his granddaughter Kate-Lynn in 2022.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 9, at Clinton Baptist Church.

Services are under the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Clinton Baptist Church’s missionary fund, as Dean deeply valued the commitment and dedication of the missionaries supported by the church.

CHESTER A. NUTTING

CLINTON – Chester Albert Nutting Jr., 94, of Clinton, passed away on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the Maine Veterans Homes, Scarborough.

Chester or Chet, as he was known to his family and friends, was born September 13,1930, in Skowhegan, the son of Chester Albert Nutting Sr. and Gladys (Lowther) Nutting of Skowhegan.

Chet was predeceased by wife Priscilla; sister Mary Louise, and daughter-in-law Heather, wife of Mark.

Chester graduated from Skowhegan High School, received his bachelor’s degree from the Farmington State Teachers College, Farmington, and later achieved a master’s degree in education. Chester served in the U.S. Army from 1954 – 1956.He then began his career in education as a teacher at Stearns High School, in Millinocket. He went on to become a principal in North Turner, Superintendent for SAD #39, in Buckfield, and returned to being a principal at Carl B. Lord school, in Vassalboro, until his retirement.

Chester was married to Priscilla Elizabeth (Cousins), at the First Congregational Church, in East Millinocket on August 15, 1953. They were married 68 years until Priscilla’s death in September 2021. An avid book collector, Chester also played tennis well into his 70s, enjoyed gardening, and playing cards with family and friends.

He is survived by children James (Michelle), John, Mark, Neal, Chester, William (Patty), Diana (Alice), Daniel (Jody); 14 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren; brother, Robert (Wendy); 12 nieces and nephews; . There will be no public service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Maine Veterans’ Homes.

Services are under the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville.

Online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

KENNETH V. TOWER

WHITEFIELD – Kenneth Vernon Tower, 78, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. He was born on August 5, 1946, in Gardiner.

Known for his spirited nature and love for the outdoors, he left an impression on all who met, knew, and loved him.

Kenneth showed his resilience in the face of countless challenges in his life. He began working full time as a teenager as a salesman for Progressive Distributors before going into road construction where he was a foreman and superintendent for several central Maine companies. Throughout his long career, he was known for his commitment and dedication, going years without missing work, finally retiring fully in 2020.

Kenneth was passionate about his hobbies, which included hunting, fishing, golf, reading, traveling with his family, and following the Bruins, Red Sox and Patriots. He was a member for many decades of the Benevolent Order of the Elks, in Gardine, and a long-time member of Sheepscot Links golf community.

Growing up in Randolph and Gardiner, Kenneth won many awards in high school football and track and field, graduating from Gardiner Area High School in 1964. Kenneth was a humble man of faith, actively participating in prayer groups and Bible studies with the Lighthouse Baptist Church and lived, in Whitefield, serving his family and faith, the two things that mattered most to him.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his mother Beverly and her husband Anthony (Sonny) Grazioso.

He is survived by his wife of 36 years Mary Tower; his children Stacey and (Pam) Tower, of Vassalboro, Tera and (David) Pare, of Augusta, James and (Virginia) Dixon, of Augusta, Melissa and (Patrick) Weiner, of Davenport, Florida, and Nicole Swift, of Portland; his grandchildren Megan Tower, Amanda Tower, Nathan and (Hailee) Tower, Allison and (William) Schultz; sister Lori Grazioso; sister-in-law Sue and (Andre) Cote; nieces Stephanie and (Ben) Guild, Heather and (Paul) Cavanaugh and nephew Michael Cote.

A funeral service was held in Kenneth’s honor on Monday, April 7, 2025, at the Lighthouse Baptist Church, 108 Maple Street, Farmingdale. A private family burial will be held in the spring.

We kindly request everyone to leave memories and upload photos to Kenneth’s memorial page at http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com offering comfort and solace to those who loved him.

Others Departed

JACQUELINE M. GERRISH

OAKLAND / PALERMO – Jacqueline Margaret Gerrish, 79, passed away February 11, 2025, following a lengthy illness, at Mt. Joseph’s Rehab Facility, in Waterville. Jackie was born in Portland to Charles “Frank” and Margaret (Sargent) Gerrish.

She received her education in Hartford, Connecticut. As a high school student, she volunteered at the Oak Hill School for the blind and deaf. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in public service. Jackie continued her education at the University of Connecticut, and after graduation, she took a permanent position at the Oak Hill School for the Blind and Deaf.

In the 1970s, Jackie moved to Palermo to live with her father after her mother’s passing. She took a position for the Community Justice Project and in 1977 she became a certified social worker for the State of Maine working with adults with disabilities. Jackie loved her work and was dedicated to making a difference in her client’s lives. She retired from her position after 33 years of service.

Jackie loved nature and was an avid gardener. For several summers, along with her dear friend, Kathy Poulin Guzman, they hosted a garden party in her beautiful gardens, which was enjoyed by friends and family. Jackie loved animals and each of her furry friends were treated like a valuable family member. She also had a deep closeness with the children in her life, spending countless hours enjoying their company.

She was predeceased by both her parents; brothers Ralph, Timothy, and Frank Gerrish, and sisters Francina Gerrish Haskell and Madeline Gerrish Bartol.

Jackie leaves behind many cousins; nieces, nephews; and friends.

There will be a celebration of Jackie’s life at the Sheepscot Lake Fish and Game Association located on Route 3, in Palermo, on Sunday, April 13, at 1 p.m.

Jackie’s ashes will be placed at the family plot at the Oakfield Cemetery, in Oakfield, this summer.

Please visit Jackie’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/jacqueline-gerrish-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Jackie’s memory to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville,ME 04901.

Services

GERALD GRENIER

WATERVILLE – There will be a Celebration of Life for Jerry (Gerald) Grenier on Sunday, April 13, at 1 p.m., at Pine Tree Camp Dining Hall, 114 Pine Tree Camp Rd., Rome. We will be gathering to share some of our dearest memories and stories, to laugh, to cry and remember a wonderful person who is deeply missed.

JACQUELINE R. POLLIS

MADISON – A graveside service for Jacqueline R. Pollis, will be Saturday, May 3, 2025, 10 a.m., at the Forest Hill Cem­e­tery, in Madison. A celebration of life reception will follow at the VFW, in Madison. Please come and share memories and stories of her with us.