OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 10, 2024

HELEN L. BOURGET

WINSLOW – Helen L. Bourget, 89, passed away on Monday, September 16, 2024. Helen was born on September 3, 1935, in Dover-Foxcroft, at the home that her father built.

She attended school in Winthrop where she was the schools Head Majorette. She took this role very seriously. Once she was hurrying to a parade line-up so she wouldn’t be late and was struck by a car!

Helen graduated from Waterville High School in 1955. Soon after graduation she began working at the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Co., in Waterville, and soon went to work for Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, where she met her husband of 55 years, Arthur.

Helen loved dressing with style, for several years she worked at Stern’s Department Store, in Waterville, as a fashion model and sales clerk. She then worked briefly at Butler’s Department Store, also in Waterville,“ until finding the job that suited Helen to a“T”, Marden’s, in Waterville. She enjoyed a good bargain and what better place to work!

She and Arthur owned a camp at Baker Cove, on Moosehead Lake, where they spent most of their summers. Helen loved being at camp and fishing with her father and George Richie. She also enjoyed X-country skiing. Helen had a beautiful soul and would help anyone without judgment or questions. She had lots of energy; it was rare to see her sit to relax. Her quirky little jokes, costumes and sayings would always be followed up by her laugh and smile.

There was so much more to Helen that words cannot describe. She touched many lives but the ones most important to her were her husband, a son, and two stepchildren that she raised from toddlers. Her Siamese cats, Cinnamin, Ming, and Ching along with the family dog Snuff brought her so much love and joy. She was very proud to have been in a clip-on AFV with Bubba, her mother’s cat.

Helen is survived by her husband Arthur Bourget, of Winslow; son James (Jimmy) Begin and partner Karen, of Winslow; stepdaughter Kim Larrabee and husband David, of Fairfield; two sisters, Betty Parsons and husband Linwood, of Millinocket, Susan Sarto and husband Rick, of Hermon; grandchildren, Jason, Heather, Sam and Emma; great-grandchildren, Bella, Aria and Nola; and many nieces and nephews.

Helen was predeceased by her parents, Gordon and Shirley Carlson, and stepson Arthur Bourget Jr (Joe / Joey)

Services will be held on Saturday, October 19, 11 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow, lunch to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901..

STEPHEN A. ERSKINE

WATERVILLE – Stephen A. Erskine, 93, passed away on Monday, September 23, 2024, one day after his 93rd birthday. He was born on September 22, 1931, in Bath, son of Alfred Erskine and Elizabeth Perro.

He met the love of his life, Lucille Pelletier, when he moved to Waterville and they were married for 45 years, until her passing in July of 2000.

Stephen worked for Harris Baking Company, in Waterville, before he enlisted in the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany during the Korean War. He worked in the plumbing and heating trade after the Army until his retirement.

It was then that his best job began as pépère to his three grandchildren who called him Pep. His special names for them were Pumpkin #1, Pumpkin #2, and Little Man.

Stephen loved to putter around the house and spend time with his family.

He was predeceased by his wife, Lucille; his parents; his sisters Betty, Beverly, Joyce, Marilyn, and Patricia; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He is survived by his daughter Laurie Joler and her husband John; his granddaughters Sarah Joler and Erica Childs, and his grandson Daniel Joler. He is also survived by his sisters Jackie and her husband Lynn McCommic and Julie and her husband Denton Ayers, his brother Ted Erskine and his wife Linda; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service with military honors was held on Wednesday, October 9, in the Committal Shelter at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave., Augusta.

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.

JAMES T. McGAREY

ALBION – James “Jeep” T. McGarey, 53, passed away unexpectedly of a car accident, in Albion, on Friday, September. 20, 2024. He was born in Biddeford, September 2, 1971. He was employed at Flood Farms hauling milk and wood at the time of his passing.

Jeep had the biggest heart, best hugs and was always there for his family and friends. His love for his only son Jesse filled him with pride and he looked forward to their camping and fishing adventures. He joined the American Legion Riders Post #14, in Fairfield, earning the rank Sergeant of Arms.

He was predeceased by his father Richard McGarey, of Biddeford, and his mother Deborah Sylvester, of Unity, a brother Spencer McGarey, of Lewiston, and brother Micah Taylor, of Auburn.

He is survived by his son Jesse James McGarey; his mother Linda (Leighton) McGarey, of Poland; step-parents and the man he called “Dad” Lawrence and Beth Taylor, of China; his brothers Lendal “Rusty” Taylor, of Unity, and John Taylor and his wife SunMi, of Vine Grove, Kentucky; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The American Legion Riders Post #14 dedicated their annual fall ride in honor of Jeep, on Saturday, October 5, 2024.

A celebration of life will be held in honor of Jeep at the VFW, 246 Main Street, in Fairfield, on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at noon.

He will be buried at a later date in a private ceremony.

PHILIP SCHLEGEL

WINSLOW – Phil Schlegel passed away on Wednesday, September 25, 20024, at his home in Winslow.

He is survived by his wife and devoted companion Linda; daughters Kimberly and Kate; his children’s mother Janet; his sister Deborah; and two grandchildren, Lea and Ethan.

He was predeceased by his parents, Elmer G. and Barbara (Johns) Schlegel.

A veteran of the U.S. Army, Phil served from 1970 – 1972 in Texas and Germany, satisfied to have had a bit part in that centuries-long lineage. After completing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history at Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, he came to Maine in 1978 and embarked on a 30-year career in municipal and state government, retiring in 2007. After retirement, Phil continued his pursuit of two intensely personal endeavors, to follow his life-long interest in the study and interpretation of history and to attempt to discern the meaning of things.

His gratitude for Linda’s unconditional love and support through joys and challenges is undying. To those he let down he is truly sorry. To his family, his friends, and those who lent helping hands along the way he thanks all of you very, very much for your love and caring, with a sincere hope that all of you may find peace.

According to Phil’s wishes, his family will schedule a private gathering.

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

BERNARD F. LEWANDOWSKI

JEFFERSON – Bernard F. Lewandowski, 78, of Jefferson, passed away peacefully, on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at his home, in Jefferson. “Bern” was born on February 2, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan, to Frank Lewandowski and Shirley Gitchlag.

Bern grew up in Detroit, Michigan. When Bern was 10 years old his dad passed away leaving him with his mom and brother. When he was a teenager his mom married Joseph Bozzo who became a second dad to Bern.

He attended local schools and enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served from 1963 – 1967. After his discharge from the Navy Bern met his wife Linda Braun. He attended Macomb County Community College where he earned an associate’s degree. In 1983 Bern and Linda moved to Jefferson to raise their three daughters. Bern loved his daughters and was always attending all their sporting events when they were younger. He enjoyed taking his three girls fishing, taking them to the beach and he even stepped in when a soccer coach was needed. He may have even been asked to go to the other side of the soccer field for yelling at the referees, but that’s not here or there.

Later in life Berns role changed from “Dad” to “Pa” given the title by his seven grandchildren. He always enjoyed making them laugh and having fun with them. He was a great cook, gardener, Uber driver to his grandchildren, sports lover of any Michigan team and a John Wayne enthusiast. In 2010 Bern retired from the Veterans Association at Togus. During retirement Bern and Linda became snow birds and spent the winters in Florida. Many nights Bern and Linda would be found at the puzzle table. Bern would always point out that Linda took all the easy pieces. During the day you could always find Bern out in the sun soaking it all up or watering his flower and vegetable garden.

Bern was predeceased by his parents.

Bern is survived by his wife of 50 years Linda Lewandowski, of Jefferson; daughters Jennifer St.Cyr and her husband Shawn, and Melissa Lewandowski, all of Jefferson, Sara Rogers and her husband Jason, of Nobleboro; grandchildren Abby St.Cyr, Allison St.Cyr, Adam St.Cyr, Lillian Powell, Cooper Powell, Kadence Rogers and Logan Rogers.

A celebration of Bern’s life will take place in the summer of 2025 for all of Bern’s family and friends to celebrate his life as he lived it in the sunshine, warmth and laughter.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Hall Funeral Home, Waldoboro. To share a condolence or story with the Lewandowski family, please visit Bern’s Book of Memories at http://www.hallfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Bern’s name to Home for Little Wanders, c/o Development Department, 72 E. Dedham St., Boston, MA 02118.

MARY LOU MARTIN

WINSLOW – Mary Lou Martin, 72, of Winslow, passed away on Thursday, September 26, 2024, following a long battle with breast cancer. She was born on September 28, 1951.

At a young age Mary Lou had a passion for hairdressing. While in high school she would do her own hair along with her friends. She attended cosmetology school after graduating from Waterville High School. She then went on to fulfill her lifelong profession as a beautician. She eventually owned her own beauty salon, Classic Cuts, in Winslow.

After working at the beauty salon, Mary Lou would always make sure there was a home cooked meal for her family before heading to Cindy’s School of Dance where she taught dancing with her sister Cynthia. Mary Lou and Cynthia started dancing as little girls with Miss Patsy. Miss Mary Lou and Miss Cindy passed on their passion for dance to many students throughout the years.

Mary Lou loved life and lived it to the fullest. She loved to share her bountiful experiences with her family and friends. Mary Lou and her husband Michael went to Aruba for the past 25 years. If you were lucky enough to visit them in their favorite place, she would have had a full itinerary planned. All you had to do was show up and she took care of the rest. She also loved her yearly trip to Las Vegas, Nevada, with her girlfriends where they would attend shows and gamble.

While Mary Lou’s health allowed, she loved to play golf. That transitioned to watching golf on TV on the weekends. She also organized many different football pools that kept her busy keeping up with weekly NFL scores. Mary Lou loved to play cards. Sitting down at the table with family after dinner and playing several card games was a Martin tradition. Gathering with their best friends on the weekend always included card games. Later in life she learned to play the game of Mahjong and played with her lady friends weekly. Her best friend and sister Marie was a huge part of Mary Lou’s life and shared in many of her hobbies and passions.

Mary Lou was outgoing and loved being around people. She hosted many gatherings and was the life of the party. Mary Lou and Michael’s home was always open to her son’s friends. There were swimming pool parties, billiard and card tournaments, and Friday night bonfires before a Saturday Winslow High School football game. They attended all Chad and Corey’s football games decked out in Orange and Black.

Mary Lou loved spoiling her four grandchildren and shared many experiences with them. As much as she loved her family and friends, she loved and spoiled her animals just as much. You were always greeted by a Yorkie or a cat when you entered their home.

Mary Lou was predeceased by her mom, Loretta Desveaux; siblings, Joanna Wilbur, Ralph Paradis, Cynthia Crowell and Joyce Paradis.

She is survived by her husband, Michael; their sons, Chad and Jennifer Martin, Corey and Emily Martin; her four grandchildren, Sophia, Andrew, Sarah, Alex; and her sister Marie Paradis.

A Mass of Christian Burial took place on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, on 116 Silver Street, Waterville.

In lieu of flowers, the Martin family is asking for donations to Cynthia’s Challenge.

Donations can be made to P.O. Box 213, Eaton, NH 03830. Cynthia’s Challenge is named after Mary Lou’s god-child and is a nonprofit organization created to support children and their families faced with staggering expenses associated with special medical needs.

DAVID J. MAYO

SHAWMUT – David J. Mayo, 96, passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2024. He was born in Portland on January 3, 1928, son of Joseph and Corris Mayo.

He spent most of his life living in Shawmut and was a proud father of nine children as well as a proud grandfather and great-grandfather.

David graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1946 and joined the U.S. Marine Corps in June of that year and served until 1948. He married Beverly Works on July 2, 1951, and enjoyed 67 years of marriage until her passing in September 2018. Together they lived and raised their family in Shawmut.

David was a hard worker, often working two jobs to support his growing family. He was a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service for over 30 years, where he made numerous friends and acquaintances. In conjunction with the postal service, he also worked for Keyes Fibre Corp., at the Shawmut pulp mill, as well as the machine shop, in Waterville, and the paper mill in Fairfield.

David was an avid bowler, loved to do crossword puzzles, and was a dominant player at many card games such as Skip-Bo. He mastered the art of making mac and cheese and peanut butter fudge, which everyone looked forward to indulging in at family gatherings.

Through the years, he and Beverly could be found proudly cheering for their children and grandchildren on the sidelines of many of their athletic events.

David was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Beverly Mayo; son Jeffery Mayo, daughter-in-law Tina Mayo; grandson, Aaron Wadleigh.

He is survived by eight children. Michael Mayo, Stephen Mayo and wife Melanie, James Mayo, Corrisann Vigue and husband Joey, Donna Fortin and husband Bob, Timothy Mayo and wife Karen, Mary Wadleigh and husband Brian, Ronald Mayo and wife Heather; a daughter-in-law, Genie Mayo; and brother-in-law, Derwood Works and wife Debbie; 16 grandchildren, Rob Fortin and wife Christy, Krystal Blaisdell and husband Josh, Nicole Fortin, Ashley Johnston and husband Mac, Krysten Bailey and husband Ryan; Brittney Turner and husband Ricky, Chelsea Mayo and husband Jonathan Baker, Katye Mayo-Chipman, Cody Vigue and wife Brittany, Lindsay Mayo, Casey Wadleigh, Lauren Wadleigh, Andrew Mayo, Ethan Mayo, Grace Mayo, Lucas Mayo; and 11 great-grandchildren, Aubrie and Robbie Fortin, Rylynn and Adalyn Turner, Kinzley and Kiley Vigue, Declan and Corbin Johnston, Hazel and Holden Bailey, Kaden Mayo-Chipman, Drake Johnson, Hannah Clowes.

Visiting hours will be from 6 – 8 p.m., on Friday, October 25, at Veilleux and Redington Funeral home, 8 Elm St., Waterville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 11 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville, with a reception to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Catholic Charities, Development Office, PO Box 10660, Portland, ME 04104-6060.

RITA HIKEL

VASSALBORO – Rita Hikel, 93, passed away on Sunday, September, 29, 2024. She was born on January 16, 1931, in a tiny house on what is now Ken­nedy Memorial Drive, in Waterville, to a large French-Canadian family, where she gained a passion for music and a devotion to her Catholic faith.

Rita attended elementary and high school in Waterville until she developed tuberculosis as a teen. She spent three years in the sanatorium, in Fairfield, missing both the death of her mother, Dora, and her high school graduation.

Rita, through drive and perseverance, would go on to receive her high school diploma. Afterwards, she put her talent of painting to use and worked as photographer’s colorist and touch up artist. She was also a teller at the Waterville Savings Bank and worked as an inspector at the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville.

In 1963 Rita married Adam Hikel at a well-attended ceremony at St. Joseph’s Maronite Church, in Waterville. After the birth of her daughter, Anne, in 1965, they moved to Illinois and then to Tennessee where son Joseph would be added to the family. From there, they moved to Michigan where, on Christmas Eve 1970, her third child, Adam, was born.

During the ’70s, Rita packed up the family no less than six times, and was pretty much over it by the time they moved to Wilton. Finally, after all the children were out of the house, Adam and Rita moved one last time to Vassalboro, where they were able to reunite with many friends and family and never worry about moving ever again.

Rita’s passion was music: she loved to sing and could play piano by ear. She sang with her older sister, Theresa, at the Waterville Opera House and in Skowhegan when they were still in grade school. She sang in the choir at St Joseph’s for many years to the delight of the congregation, learning songs in Arabic and Syriac.

Not only did Rita have a beautiful voice, her tourtière pies were blue ribbon winners. She could assemble a killer pie crust in the time it took to say “preheat oven to 350°”. Known to many as a fabulous cook, she loved to bake and make treats for the people she loved. Needless to say, she made a lot of treats.

Her skill in the kitchen and her love of art, theater and music she passed on to her children. She also passed on her sarcasm and stubbornness and the philosophy that nothing is insurmountable with a little effort, and everything else can be fixed with some aspirin and a nap or copious amounts of duct tape.

Most importantly though, she taught by example what it meant to be a decent, kind, and positive force in the world, and what generosity and living in faith was truly about.

Rita was predeceased by her husband Adam; her parents John Theriault and Dora (Ouellette); brothers Renee Theriault, Ray Theriault, Leonard Theriault, Wilfred Theriault, and her sisters Grace Huard, Teresa White, Madeline, Marie, and most recently, Jeffrine Quirion who passed in August.

She leaves her daughter Anne; sons Joseph and Adam; a grandson, Ian El-Habre and his wife Taylor; younger brother Paul Theriault; many nieces and nephews.

Ginnaz for Rita will be at 10 a.m., on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Maronite Church, 3 Appleton Street, Waterville. Her remains will be interred following the service 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.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Maine Children’sHome, 93 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901.

CHARLENE F. STAIRS

SOUTH CHINA– Charlene F. Stairs, 92, passed away on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta. She was born on June 26, 1932, a daughter of Gilbert and Myrtle (Clement) Keller.

Charlene attended grade school in Montville and graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in the class of 1947. In 1952, she enlisted in the United States Army and worked her way up to becoming a surgical medical technician. While in the service, Charlene received training in Virginia and spent time stationed in Washington State as well as Germany.

Upon her honorable discharge, Charlene was employed as a nurse at various places including Waldo County General Hospital, Monmouth Medical (in New Jersey), and AMHI. In 1968, she began her long time career as a nurse at the VA, in Togus, retiring as the OR supervisor in 1996.

Charlene was a hard-working and dedicated employee, but she was even more committed to her family. Known by her grandchildren as “Mim”, Charlene played a vital role in her grandchildren’s upbringing and eventually her great-grandchildren’s lives. She was an unwavering supporter of all activities and groups her grandchildren were involved in, particularly sports and the Cub Scouts.

Charlene enjoyed reading, researching family genealogy, and traveling, especially with her best friend, Ardith.

Charlene will be remembered for her hard work ethic, tough resilience, and for the unconditional love she had for her family.

She was predeceased by her parents; and four brothers, Merton Keller, Myron Keller, Gilbert Keller Jr., and Carleton Keller.

Charlene is survived by her daughter, Sharen Careen Grenier and her husband, John; grandchildren, Shawn Porter and his wife, Deann, Chasity Robichaud, and Sonya Porter-Burrill; great-grandchildren, Kaylee Olivier and her husband, James, Kaden Porter, Nicholas Robichaud, Hannah Robichaud, Kali Porter and Kyle Burrill; three great-great-grandchildren, Aliyah, Isabella and Ayla; a brother, Leroy Keller and his wife, Mary; and several nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service will be held for the family at Maine Veterans Cemetery, located at 143 Blue Star Ave., in Augusta.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to a local children’s sporting group.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

LEO E. GOULETTE

WATERVILLE – Leo Edward Goulette, 98, died on Monday, September 30, 2024. He was born in Waterville on November 24, 1925, to J. Edward and Alfreda (Poulin) Goulette.

He was educated at St. Francis School, in Waterville, and left home at the age of 13 to attend school at the Brothers of Christian Instruction, in Alfred. As a “Brother”, he taught school in Plattsburgh, New York, and Montreal, Québec, Canada. He left in 1946 and returned to Waterville because he wanted to marry and raise a family. His years with the Brothers shaped his life and he enjoyed telling stories of his time there.

He served in the U.S. Army for two years active duty and four years in the reserves and in later years was a member of American Legion Bourque-Lanigan Post #5, in Waterville.

He met his future wife, Geraldine Beaulieu, on a blind date, married on November 14, 1953, and raised five children together. He worked for R.E. Drapeau, in Waterville, for 20 years and at Scott Paper/Sappi, in Winslow/Hinckley, as a master electrician and then as an electrical planner until he retired in 1989.

He was good natured, humble, and loved people. He had a remarkable memory, able to recall detailed stories even in his later years. He could repair just about anything and enjoyed working on his home and camp.

Hockey was a big part of his life, playing from a young age and later coaching youth hockey and refereeing high school and college games. He maintained a backyard rink and his children have fond memories of their time skating and playing hockey with friends.

He was a devout Catholic, served as a Eucharistic minister and was a member of the Notre Dame choir. He volunteered at the Sacred Heart Soup Kitchen for 26 years and served on the Waterville City Council.

He loved to golf and was able to do so into his 90s. He was a long-time member and ranger at Natanis Golf Course, in Vassalboro. He enjoyed card games, especially cribbage. Leo and Gerry loved to travel, making numerous trips around the country to visit family, as well as frequent day trips to the Maine coast. Their trip to Europe, shortly after Leo retired, was a highlight.

He treasured summers on China Lake, often saying it was his favorite place. He and Gerry loved having family visit, which allowed their grandchildren a connection to each other and to Maine lake life they would not have enjoyed otherwise.

Leo was predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Geraldine (Beaulieu); a newborn son; his parents; his sister Yvette Michaud, his brother James Goulette; his nieces Elaine Belcher and Margaret Goulette; his nephew Russell Michaud; and his first grandchild, Christopher P. Goulette.

He is survived by his daughter Debra Goulette Carter (Scott), of Falmouth; four sons: Paul (Dianne), of Baldwinsville, New York, Andrew (Linda), of York, Dana (Suzanne), of Stafford, Virginia, and Thomas, of Pittsfield; his grandchildren, Natalie Carter Leishman, Aimee Goulette Reakes, Nicholas, Spencer and Joseph Goulette, Cadie Goulette Yeager, Nathan and John Goulette, Avery, Patience, Kristanna and Matias Goulette; great-grandsons, Henry Goulette and Connor Reakes; his sister Jeannette Bolduc (Robert); sister-in-law Elisabeth Goulette; and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 11, 2024, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, followed by a burial at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville. A reception will follow.

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.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Maine Veterans Home, Atten: Employee AppreciationCommittee, 35 Heroes Way,Augusta, ME 04330. It would be helpful if you also included Employee Appreciation on the check memo line.

BARRY W. THOMAS

CHINA – Barry W. Thomas, 81, passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at Lakewood Continuing Care Center, in Waterville, following a long illness. He was born on September 13, 1943, the son of the late William and Juanita (Pierce) Thomas.

Mr. Thomas was a 1961 graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China, then earning his bachelor’s degree in education from then Farmington State Teachers College, now the University of Maine at Farmington.

Upon graduation, he was then employed for 33 years in the China school system, where he taught subjects such as science, mathematics, and history. During these 33 years he also coached both basketball and baseball for China schools. He was also a long-time coach and counselor, with friends John Mitchell, Richard Meader, and Richard Whitmore, at Pine Tree Basketball Clinic, coaching there for over 25 summers. Barry took immense pride from his opportunity to coach and shape, to some extent, the young men who played for him and was always proud to see their achievements as they grew older.

Barry was a long-standing member of the Erskine Academy Board of Trustees, serving as its president for well over a decade and was immensely pleased to see the school’s continued growth and evolution over the course of his tenure. He also was a caretaker of Erskine Academy’s history and was honored to have Erskine’s formal archives named after him. Mr. Thomas was also a member of the Dirigo Masonic Lodge #104, where he served as Grand Master over several years in the 1970’s.

Barry was an avid sports fan, especially of the New York Giants and Boston Celtics, and a lover of classic 1950s country, and rock and roll music. This love of sports and music led him to being an active collector of both records and sports cards, which he enjoyed doing with his son, Jason, for many years.

He was predeceased by his parents, a brother, Milford Thomas, and a sister, Marilyn Gray.

Mr. Thomas is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sandra G. (Grimshaw) Thomas, of South China, who would have been celebrating their 60th anniversary on November 7 of this year; his son, Jason W. Thomas and partner, Hollie Kunesh, of Waterville; a brother, Wayne Thomas and his wife, Diane, of Foley, Alabama; two grandchildren, Olivia and Riley Kunesh; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Per his request, there will be no public visiting hours or funeral service. Burial will be at a later date with a private Masonic service at Chadwick Hill Cemetery, in South China, and a public celebration of life, open to all, also to be announced at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Rt. 32, Windsor, ME.

Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Best Buddies of Maine, an organization helping those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, in memory of Barry W. Thomas, at Best Buddies of Maine, PO Box 573, Cumberland, ME 04021 or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

TAYLOR B. WILSON

SKOWHEGAN – Taylor B. Wilson, 27, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Friday, September 20, 2024, from an unforseen medical event. He was born April 10, 1997, in Farmington, the son of Tracy Karr and James Wilson.

Taylor graduated from Skowhegan Area High School. He went on to Spectrum Generations, in Skowhegan, where he enjoyed being with his friends. His favorite activity was Meals on Wheels. He loved Thursdays when he helped to deliver meals and visiting. He was especially fond of Michelle, Carrie and Jill, who accompanied him.

Taylor was a sweet, caring, kind, loving person. He loved people and made friends wherever he went. Animals gravitated to his calm, gentle manner. If he met you, he never forgot you.Taylor gave the best hugs. We called him our “gentle giant”.

Taylor was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Harold and Phyllis Gallant, and his fraternal grandparents, Dan and Kathy Wilson.

He is survived by his mother, Tracy Karr and her partner Chris; his father, James Wilson and his wife Tammy; sister, Brooklyn; half-brothers, Harley and Josh; step-sisters Becky and Taylor; grandmother, Kathleen Norris; grandfather M. Benjamin Pinkham; aunt Laurie Mowatt; cousins Becky Daly and children Cole and Ciara, Ashley Mowatt; his special friends Nancy and Peter Worthley and children Molly and Sam.

Cremations arrangements are by Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services, Skowhegan.

Memorial donations may be made to Spectrum Generations, 30 Leavitt St., Skowhegan, ME 04976.

Obituary Policy

Because The Town Line has always published obituaries as a public service, free of charge (donations accepted), we reserve the right to edit for length and content, when necessary. Since newspapers are recorders of local history, and for future genealogical purposes, the basic information will include name, date of death, date of birth, parents, and a brief history of the decedents life. Predeceased and survivors are listed by blood or law. The service will be included if it takes place after the publication date. We do not publish first person messages nor thank you’s.

Others Departed are published to alert residents that a neighbor or acquaintance in the community has lost a loved one from outside our coverage area.