OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 27, 2025

JANET M. SYLVESTER

WINSLOW – Janet Mayo Sylvester, 91, of Winslow, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025. Born at home in Wilton, on December 25, 1933, she was the daughter of Oscar and Evelyn (Buzzell) Mayo.

Janet graduated from Wilton Academy in 1952 and went on to attend the University of Maine, where she reconnected with her childhood friend, Harrison Sylvester. Janet and Harry married in 1953 and shared nearly 55 years of love and partnership until his passing in 2008. Together, they lived in Maine and Massachusetts, raising their three children, Michael, Richard, and Deborah. Janet later returned to school, earning a degree from Worcester State Teachers College in 1967. She then taught elementary school in Westborough, Massachusetts, marking the beginning of her lifelong dedication to education. Janet and her family returned to Maine for good in 1973, settling in Albion, where she was a member of a bowling league and active in the Lions for many years.

Janet was an avid reader, known for her sharp humor and an unwavering sense of fairness. Her home was always open to family and friends. Every summer, Janet and Harry joyfully hosted their four grandchildren at their home in Albion or their camp in Eustis, playing a central role in their lives. Her love of sweets, especially ice cream, was a well-known “secret” among family and friends, and she was lucky to enjoy regular ice cream outings in her later years.

When Harry was diagnosed with learning disabilities in the late 1980s, Janet took it upon herself to become an expert in the field and a passionate advocate for children and adults with learning differences. She regularly fielded calls from parents seeking advice and supported families across Maine and the country. Janet served as the executive director of the Learning Disabilities Association of Maine for many years, making a lasting impact on countless lives.

Janet was preceded in death by her husband, Harrison Sylvester, and her son, Michael Sylvester.

She is survived by her children, Richard Sylvester and wife Carol, Deborah Noyes and husband Charles; her grandchildren Ryan Sylvester, Erin Cliche (Jason), Erica Bosse (Jordon), and Noah Bradstreet (Lucie Strokoszova); and two great-grandchildren, Graham and Ivy Cliche.

A celebration of Janet’s life will be held at a later date in Eustis.

Condolences may be expressed at http://www.directcremationofmaine.com/tribute.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Harrison C. Sylvester ’55 Family Scholarship at the University of Maine in Janet’s memory.

JAMES A. DAVIS JR.

CLINTON – James A. Davis, Jr., 83, of Clinton, died Monday, February 10, 2025, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a brief illness. Born in Waterville, to the late James A. Davis, Sr. and Fatina S. (Duty).

James leaves behind his wife and best friend, Louise (Menard) Davis, of Clinton. For the past eight years, they enjoyed many relaxing drives, exploring the lakes and coastlines of Maine, a state he loved deeply and wanted to share with Louise. He leaves behind a wealth of stories and adventures shared with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by four daughters, Christina (Dave Joder), of Colorado, Penni (Rick Wetzbarger), of Colorado, Jamie (Benjamin Cevelo), of Massachusetts, and Jodi (Davis) Perreault, of New Hampshire; five grandchildren, Meghan, Emily, Sarah, Lucy, and Kim; six great-grandchildren; sister, Cheryl Walker, of Benton; his brother Ronald Davis (wife Linda), of El Paso, Texas. He also had three stepchildren, Deborah Reardon, Suzanne Leps, and Brandon Harris.

He was predeceased by his sister, Debra Davis, who passed away in November 2024; his first wife, Barbara (Ridley) Davis, the mother of their four children; and his second wife, Georgine Y. Davis.

A Mass will be held in honor of James, with a memorial service planned for the spring when family and friends can gather to celebrate his life.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, where memories of James may be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

ANNA L. RICHARDSON

MADISON – Anna Louise Richardson, 86, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. She was the wife for 62 years to Ernest Richardson. She was born in Bingham, on August 18, 1938.

She had been at Maplecrest nursing home in Madison for the last three years.

Family and friends will be invited to a graveside celebration of life in the spring or summer in Solon.

She leaves behind daughter, Tammy and husband John Collins; son, Danny and wife Melonie Ayer; grandsons, Brandon Gove, Mathew and wife Tara Newick; granddaughters, Kristina Ayer, and Katrina Ayer; great-grandchildren, Madison, Summer, Kylan Newick, and Jeremy and Ryley Lyons; a sister, Frances Owens Ong and husband Willy Ong, of Orlando, Florida.

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

THERESA P. MATHIEU

WATERVILLE – Theresa Pauline Mathieu, (Tee), 56, passed away at home unexpectedly on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

Theresa’s journey paved a path for many to follow. She graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, class of 1988. She enjoyed and participated in the programs at Skills and Goodwill.

Although Theresa’s journey was different, she was greatly loved and will be deeply missed. Theresa loved her family, care takers and friends. She enjoyed drinking coffee, watching 3 Stooges and cleaning.

Theresa is survived by her mother, Pauline Mathieu; brother Richard Mathieu and his wife Susan, and Robert Mathieu and his wife Laura; nieces and nephews Sarah Michaud (Ryan), Michael Mathieu (Mindy), Rebecca Mathieu, Ashley Mathieu, Alyssa Mathieu, Cooper Loiko, and Brody Loiko; and great-niece and -nephews Conner, Cameron, and Olivia.

She was predeceased by her father Raymond Mathieu and her niece Katie Marie Mathieu.

A full Catholic funeral Mass was held at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 112 Silver Street, Waterville, on Friday February 21, 2025.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, where memories of Theresa may be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Skills, Inc., 461 Hartland Road, St. Albans, ME 04971 to support individuals with similar special needs.

ROGER E. ROUTHIER

WATERVILLE – Roger E. Routhier, 82, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at home. He was born on November 1, 1942, in Waterville, to Harvey and Irene (Poulin) Routhier.

He attended Waterville High School, where he excelled in hockey and having fun. After graduating high school in 1961, he enlisted in the U.S. Army for three years and served in various locations, including time spent overseas in Korea. Upon his return, he began his 28-year career with the Keyes Fibre Company.

In 1968, he married Jane Ann Gagne. He loved his family above all else and was happiest when he was surrounded by his children, grandchildren, cousins, and the many friends he made throughout his life. Roger had a way of making everyone feel welcome and nobody was a stranger for long. After his career at Keyes, he dedicated his time working at the Bean School, in Oakland, and at the home daycare he helped Jane run for 35 years. He was a longtime volunteer with the Sidney Fire Department and at the Waterville Soup Kitchen.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jane; his children Tina (Tricia), Arthur (Corrine) and Tammy; his grandchildren Alexander, Catherine, Jack, Olivia, Alden, and Grace; his sister Jeannine, to whom he was very close.

He was pre-deceased by his father and mother, as well as his older brother Yvon.

Arrangements are under the direction of Veilleux Redington Lawry Funeral Home with visitation on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, from 4-8 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Burial will be at St. Francis Cemetery, on Grove St., in Waterville, in the spring.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to a cause of your choosing in Roger’s name.

GREGORY G. RACKLIFF

OAKLAND – Gregory Gene Rackliff, 75, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025, following a sudden and brief battle with cancer. He was born February 14, 1950, in Farmington, where he also attended school. He was one of 11 children. His first marriage was to Crystal Trafton, sharing three children. He later married Lorelei Hall.

His family will always cherish the great memories such as camping, riding on the old army truck, the late nights smelting, riding our horse, Domingo, and all the small calves we raised. We had many adventures including building snow sculptures, sliding and ending our days with fudge and popcorn.

Later in life, he enjoyed watching NASCAR races and other sports along with exploring a good antique store. He was an active member of the Winslow Baptist Church and always encouraged his children to help others, as he did.

He worked several years at Dexter Shoe, drove both a milk and bread truck, managed Payless Shoes, in Augusta, and spent several years at Hammond Lumber Co.

He is survived by his wife Lorelei; mother-in-law Elizabeth Susi; children, Lori Drodge and husband Doug, of Pownal, Chad Rackliff and wife Janice, of Harmony, Lisa Rackliff Rice and husband James, of Harmony, Brad Bussell and wife Brandy, of Harmony; grandchildren, Elizabeth Rackliff and significant other Nick Champney, of Skowhegan, Chayse Cushing and wife Carolin of Fairfield, Jessie Cushin of Texas, Bree Fitzgerald and husband Spence of Harmony, Brody Bussell and significant other Simon Liszk of Winslow, Maverick Rice and significant other Kory Bouthillier, of Corinna, Montana Rice, of Harmony, and Nathaniel Rackliff, of Harmony; great-grandchildren, Charlie and Irene Cushing and Natalie Liszka; step-children, Rebecca Hall, of Virginia, Sarah Pickell and husband Travis of Sidney and Katie Hall, of Winslow; grandchildren, Sofia Adractas, of Virginia, Loukas Adractas, of Virginia, Anthony Pickell, of Sidney, Kayla and Sam Saunders and children, of Florida and Ben Thomas, of Winslow; siblings, Stanley and wife Lisa, of Wilton, Raynold and wife Elnora of Wilton, Nelson and wife Mary, of Chesterville, and Peggy, of Lewiston; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father Leon Rackliff and wife Ida, mother Bertha Cox (Bachelder) and husband Frank; brothers: Dennis, Buddy, Dale, and Neil, sisters, Beverly Trafton and Nancy Knight.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Winslow Baptist Church, 1040 Augusta Road, Winslow, with Pastor Larry Lakey officiating. A gathering with light refreshments will be held in the fellowship hall following the service. All are welcome.

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.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Teen Challenge, 11 Hudson Lane, Winthrop, ME, 04364.

NORMA N. O’NEAL

LIBERTY – Norma “Nancy” O’Neal, 72, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, February 17, 2025. Nancy was born on January 9, 1953, in Hartford, Connecticut, to Elsie Stanley and Frederick O’Neal.

Nancy had a profound love for animals, welcoming any creature in need into her home. There wasn’t an animal that didn’t love her in return. Over the years, she cared for many pets, but her heart was especially drawn to rottweilers. Her favorites – Wazoo, Mya, and Dillon Dog – were not just pets but true companions, each a big baby in her eyes. Her love extended to her feline friends as well, with Monkey-Do, Moxie, and Newton holding a special place in her heart. However, her dearest companion was her beloved cat, Pony, who was always by her side.

Throughout her life, Nancy worked in various roles, bringing dedication and compassion to everything she did. She spent years at Sam’s Club before finding her true calling as a caregiver. As a Certified Nursing Assistant, she provided comfort and care to countless individuals. Her most fulfilling work was at Hayden House, where she ensured special needs adults received the dignity and care they deserved. She also worked at Riverview Psychiatric Hospital, where she treated every patient with understanding, free of fear or prejudice.

A lover of classic films, Nancy enjoyed watching her vast collection of VHS and DVD movies. Her all-time favorite, Gladiator, was watched countless times but she also had a love of horror stories (especially Stephen King) and Johnny Depp films.

Nancy loved going up to the family camp on Moosehead Lake, where she found peace in nature. She also enjoyed catching up with loved ones including her hours-long chats with her daughter, her niece Chasity and her brother Joe.

Nancy was a truly special person – unique, loving, and unafraid to be herself. She gave endlessly to those around her, both human and animal, and the world is a little less bright without her. She will be missed dearly and forever remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

She is survived by her husband, Brian Smith, and her three children, Nichole, Fred, and Frank O’Neal; grandchildren; brother, Joseph Paul, his wife, Patty; nieces, nephews, and grandnieces and grandnephews.

JOHN E. MILLER

WINDSOR—John E. Miller, 88, passed away Thursday, February 20, 2025, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Long Term Care at Glenridge. He was born October 19, 1936, a son of Jesse Miller Sr. and Ella (Marquis) Gardiner.

John worked for many years at Sheridan Construction.

He is survived by his wife, Norma (Hallowell) Miller; his son, Jared Miller and his wife Bethany; and grandchildren, Nathan and Lauren Miller.

A period of visitation will be held on Saturday, March 1 2025, from 1 to 2 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363, where a brief service will begin at 2 p.m. Burial will take place in the spring at Rest Haven Cemetery. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

Others Departed

ANN NILES

WHITEFIELD – Ann Niles, 81, of Whitefield, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

A gathering to celebrate Ann’s life will be held at the Kings Mills Union Hall where she spent so much time. The gathering will be on Saturday, April 12, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Ann’s full obituary may be viewed, and condolences may be expressed online at http://www.hobbsfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either Kings Mills Union Hall Association, P.O. Box 49, Whitefield, ME 04353, or Whitefield Historical Society, P.O. Box 176, Whitefield, ME 04353

SHEILA K. HENDERSON

BRISTOL, Vermont – Sheila Kelly Henderson, 81, passed peacefully at her home in Bristol, Vermont on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. She had lived with Parkinsons since 2019.

She was born in Madison on March 22, 1943, to Stephen and Pearl (Reed) Kelly. She met her husband, David, at Madison High School and they graduated in 1961. She graduated from Maine Medical Nursing School, in Portland, in 1964. They married that same year and celebrated 60 years of marriage on June 6, 2024.

Sheila worked as an RN in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to support David through medical school. Their journey together brought them from Philadelphia, to Burlington, Vermont, to North Dakota, and ultimately back to Vermont, moving to Bristol, Vermont, in 1975, to raise their family and set up their medical practice from which they both retired in 2009. In retirement, she enjoyed traveling, camping, and most of all, her grandchildren.

Sheila was a caregiver at her very core. This was evident in her profession as a nurse, as a volunteer EMT on the Bristol Rescue Squad.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brothers Donald Kelly, Alva Reed and his wife Shirley, her sister, Joyce Estes, brothers-in-law, Leo Estes, Dennis Barron, Richard Saucier; and David’s parents, Harold and Lucille Henderson.

She is survived by her husband, David Henderson, of Bristol, Vermont; and her three children, Erin Henderson (Bryan Serinese) of Williston, Vermont, Keely Henderson (Matt Germon), of Lincoln, Vermont, and Tim Henderson (Jenny Endris Henderson), of Felt, Idaho; her six grandchildren, Hugo, Gus, and Maeve Serinese, Charlie and Noah Germon, and Henry Henderson; her two sisters, Carolee Barron and Gail Saucier, of Madison; and her in-laws Jan Kelly and Tim and Linda Henderson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Sheila’s life is planned for this summer.

JOSEPH R. ROY

KENNEBUNK – Joseph R. Roy, 99, of Kennebunk, formerly of Winslow, passed away peacefully, on Thursday, February 13, 2025, following a courageous battle with heart disease. Joe or (Chubby as known to many) was born on January 25, 1926, in Waterville, the son of the late Paul and Mary Roy.

His 76 years of marriage to Shirley H. Roy formed an everlasting bond that was often celebrated with family and friends throughout their years together. Likewise, celebrating their 99th birthdays in January was an amazing recognition of their lives together and reminder of how fortunate their extended family has been.

Joe attended Winslow High School, graduating in 1944. He entered the Armed Services in 1944 and was a decorated Staff Sergeant in World War II, having served in the 11th Armored Division, 3rd Army under General Patton until his honorable discharge in 1946.

After WWII Joe attended Coburn Classical Institute, in Waterville, and the New England Technical Institute, in Providence, Rhode Island. Joe became an accomplished radio station engineer servicing Lewiston and Augusta radio stations as well as Maine based airport beacons.

He began his career at Twin City Communications (WCOU), in Lewiston, and next at Capitol Communications WFAU/WKCG, in Augusta, where he served the greater Augusta community with technical support in many sporting and public service events to include historic boxing matches, concerts at the Augusta Civic Center and high school sporting contests until his retirement in 1991.

Throughout his life and particularly after his retirement, Joe loved enjoying the outdoors, especially Moosehead Lake, where he and his brothers Harold and Bob had a fishing camp on Lily Bay and enjoyed each others’ camaraderie and antics for many years.

Joseph is survived by his wife Shirley H. Roy, of Kennebunk; son Michael (Mick) Roy (Lauren), of North Yarmouth; daughters Patti Butler, of Naples, Florida, Cindi Cooper (Bill), of Venice, Florida, and Donna Dierkes (Lee), of Wells.

He was preceded in death by parents Paul Roy and Mary Roy, of Winslow, brothers Harold, Bob, Norman, Kenneth, and sisters Geraldine, and Lorraine; grandchildren Jami Bartlett-Rosario (Jose), Kristi Bartlett (Alex Hernandez), Lyndsay Winger (Justin), Brianna Deroche (Christopher), Kayla Roy (Tai Burgess), Julia Maturo (Joey), Greg Cooper (Jenn), Tim Cooper (Katelyn), Alayna Kelly (Sean), and Elyse Dierkes; great-grandchildren include Camdyn Rosario, Cassidy Rosario, Logan Dostie, Connor Deroche, Caroline Deroche, Jackson Burgess, Layla Maturo, Avery Cooper, Sadie Cooper, Bryce Cooper, Mason Cooper, Mylie Cooper, Skylar Cooper, Rosie Kelly.

A future celebration will be planned for the summer of 2025. His ashes will be placed at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, in the Spring/Summer of 2025.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Amanda Worth, Office Manager, Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System, 143 Blue Star Avenue, Augusta, Maine 04330, or donate to the charity or foundation of your choice.