TENANTS HARBOR — Anne Babine Klapfish had a big heart, which unexpectedly stopped working on June 20, 2019, in her home in Tenants Harbor, Maine. Anne is the daughter of Dot Mullen and the late Everett Babine; beloved wife of 46 years to Maurice; mother to Kate Caprari and her husband Brian; and grandmother to Elliot, who calls her “Goosie.” Anne was born January 16, 1950 in Quincy, Massachusetts and spent her early childhood in Arlington, Massachusetts before moving to Bath, Maine, where she graduated from Morse High School. She attended Emmanuel College in Boston, Massachusetts. During her college years, she visited Europe several times and journeyed from England to India by bus, through Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan. Anne and Maurice settled in Brookline, Massachusetts, where they raised their daughter. Anne was a vibrant member of the community and an active school parent. She began her career in health care administration for the state of Massachusetts but was drawn to more creative pursuits. She opened a home flower shop, then expanded to a retail store in Brookline Village, which she ran for many years. Anne and her husband enjoyed spending summers in Maine, where they relocated in 2002. Anne was an artist and an entrepreneur. Her passion and livelihood was running Stonefish in Tenants Harbor — her shop filled with antiques, apparel, and home decor sourced from around the globe. She was a collector of treasures, vintage art, and found objects, displayed in the beautiful interiors of her home and shop. With her sparkling and creative spirit, Anne counted many friends in her life. She delighted in eating good meals, traveling to new cities, sharing thoughtful gifts, reading mystery novels, and solving the New York Times crossword puzzle in ink. To Anne, friends were family, and strangers were friends. She often hosted festive gatherings at her home, and there was always room for another guest at her table. Anne loved sharing stories and could always be counted on for an honest opinion. Anne’s life was marked by the joy she brought to people, the beauty that she surrounded herself with, and her generosity of spirit. Details of a memorial service to follow.

South Thomaston – Gary L Mills, 63, died, Monday, June 24, 2019 at his residence. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am, Wednesday, July 10, 2019 at Village Cemetery, Dublin Rd., in South Thomaston. A full obituary will be published. To share a memory with Gary’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland

CAMDEN – Katherine M. deRochemont, 60, died Saturday, June 29, 2019 at the Sussman Hospice House in Rockport, of complications from diabetes. A complete obituary and memorial service details will be published at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

WARREN – Emily-Anne Olive Ross, lovingly anticipated angel of Montell ‘Monty’, III and Amber Ross, graced this world for 17 minutes on Monday, July 1, 2019. She was born weighing 10.2 ounces and was 10 inches long. Her parents remarked at her incredibly long fingers and toes, just like her Daddy, as well as a strong heart and will to fight, just like her Mommy. Emily-Anne was nothing but pure love and she was the glue that held her family together. Loved from the first moment, she knew nothing but love from her family and the world around her. Her family is comforted by the fact that she never once experienced heart-ache or the pain that this world is so often filled with. Even with her short time here, Emily-Anne was surrounded by many caring individuals, especially Lina Wallace and her team of helpers who introduced Emily’s family to The Colby Fund. This fund was established to ‘provide support and education to grieving parents who have experienced the loss of their baby.’ They were also blessed by photographers, Carly Dorsky and Brianna Waltman who helped document every precious moment of bringing Emily-Anne into the world. Emily-Anne was welcomed into heaven with loving arms by many great-grandparents and other family and friends; she will be forever loved and missed by her parents, Amber Lynn Saunders Ross and Montell Cottle Ross, III; her maternal grandmothers Anne-Marie Saunders and her wife Michele Levesque, maternal grandfather Vaughn Saunders; her paternal grandmother Wendy Ross and her partner Don Kassien; paternal grandfather Neal Ross, Sr. and his wife Kathy; her maternal great-grandmother Kathleen Rollins and Grampy Bob; her God-Parents David and Joanna Gallagher; her aunts and uncles, Amy and her partner Andrew, Lyn and her husband Micah, Neal, Jr. and his wife Richelle, Raven, Johnny ‘Wonka’ Genthner, Ryan Gallagher and wife Heidi; her great-aunts and great-uncles, Sonya, Arthur and his partner Donna; a special great-aunt Iris and her husband Tony Rodgers, Ellen and partner Steve Janes, Rilda and husband Richard Lee; as well as many cousins and loving extended family and friends. A pot-luck gathering of love and remembrance is being planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either, The Colby Fund, St. Mary’s Development Office, c/o The Colby Fund, P.O. Box 7291, Lewiston, ME 04243-7291; or The Warren Fire/EMS, c/o Tiffany Emery, Secretary, 694 Oyster River Road, Warren, ME 04864. Emily-Anne’s family is being assisted by Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

ROCKLAND – Scott A. Lachance, 62, passed away unexpectedly after a lengthy illness, Thursday, July 4, 2019 at Pen Bay Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. Born in Rockland, February 5, 1957, he was the son of Roger and Janice Lofman Lachance. For many years, Scott enjoyed his work at George Hall Construction Company where he was employed as a heavy equipment operator. He could often be heard saying, ‘I never grew up, my sandbox just got bigger.’ He loved the ocean and spent a few summers going out and helping his grandson, Ethan, pull his lobster traps. It was a very special time for both of them. Scott had wide and varied interests and greatly enjoyed following racing, and working in his garden. His number one priority was spending quality time with his family, especially the love of his life, Cindy. Scott also had a special place in his heart for animals. Predeceased by his father Roger Lachance in 1998; Scott is survived by his mother, Janice Lachance; his wife Cindi Lachance both of Rockland; his two sons, Macho and his wife Kim Carballo of Rockland, Todd and his wife Jessica Carballo of Rockland; his sisters, Susan Hall of Hampden, Peggy Doucette and her husband Mer of Rockport, Pam Lachance Madore of Washington; his brothers, Chuck Lachance his wife Sandy of Cushing, Kelly Lachance and his wife Lisa of Rockland; his grandchildren, Ethan Carballo, Alliyah Carballo, Griffin Carballo and Daxton Carballo; his special friends, Michael Cushman and Katie Nelson; as well as many nieces and nephews. A celebration of Scott’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, July 15, 2019 at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

CALAIS & ROCKLAND - Alfreda Louise Blood, 80, passed away Friday, July 5, 2019 at the North Street Bridge Home in Calais. Alfreda has joined her husband Larry Blood; father and mother Orrin and Vinnie Graves Benner; sister Marilyn Watts as well as her grandson Michael Ulvila and great-grandson Landon Ross, in the arms of our Lord and is now home at peace. Born in Thomaston, on November 29, 1938 she was the youngest of three. Raised with the understanding and importance of family, friends and community, Alfreda lead a full and active life. She was a member of the Eastern Star and the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. Alfreda enjoyed Beano, bowling, and camping. Mostly she loved Country and Western music. She could wail with Waylen or yodel like Pearl. She was a guest singer on the Curley O'Brian Show and sang with a group of ladies at Beaver Lodge known as the Swinging Beavers. Living most of her life in Rockland, Alfreda and Larry moved to Union and wintered in Florida where she was a regular in the Parks Variety Show and taught line dancing to the other residents. Family and friends meant everything to Alfreda. She spent her early years as a stay at home mom, raising four daughters. Later as the family got older she joined the workforce as a part time pizza maker at Coles Market and the PicQuick. Later she found her passion helping others by obtaining her CNA license and working at Knox Nursing Home in Rockland and Beacon Family Living in Owls Head. Evenings spent with friends playing poker or canasta, a bon fire at the camp in Lincolnville with a few cocktails and many stories to tell was commonplace at the Blood residence. Alfreda is survived by her daughters, Kim Moran her husband Ron of Lincolnville, Kelly Thomson her husband Alexander ‘Sandy’ of New Brunswick, Canada, Karen Holbrook her husband Neal of Union, Kristin Ross her husband Jay of Owls Head; grandchildren, Harmony Rahkonen, Renee Rogers, Heather Hustus, Brandi Gourde, Jesse Ulvila, Timothy Ulvila, Stacie McClure, Corey Reynolds, Kendall Ross and Bryan Ross; more than 20 great-grandchildren and several great-great-grandchildren; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews as well as a brother in Southern Maine. A graveside services will be held at 12:00 p.m., (Noon) Saturday, July 13th, 2019 at the Village Cemetery, Erin St, Thomaston. A celebration of life will follow at Mic Mac Campgrounds Lodge. Please in lieu of flowers send donations to P. A. W. S. Animal Adoption Center, 123 John St, Camden, Maine, 04843. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

ST. GEORGE - In the early morning of July 6, 2019, Valerie Joan Harjula, beloved wife, grandmother, aunt and friend, succumbed after a valiant battle with cancer. Born on June 14, 1945 in Damariscotta she was the daughter of Ramon and Lorraine “Tootie” Armstrong Hilt. With the exception of a few years, Valerie lived in the community of St. George in her family home. Educated in local schools, Valerie graduated with honors from the St. George High School in 1963 as part of that School’s last graduating class. After graduation she worked briefly for Buzz and Janice Taft in their store in South Thomaston. It was here that she met her future husband, David, and the two were married in 1965. Valerie worked for a period of time at Sylvania in Waldoboro and later as Postmaster Relief at the Wiley’s Corner Post Office and the Spruce Head Post Office. In her years as a devoted stay at home mom she enjoyed Tole Painting and sewing, but she was probably best known throughout the community for her cooking and baking. Her coffee rings were legendary. Anything she made was delicious. However, she was always very humble about her food and would say ‘it’s ok’. Valerie was a long time member of the St. George Grange and enjoyed baking for their Craft Fairs and weekend suppers. Her trademark dessert for the suppers was a custard pie that was always one of the items to disappear quickly. She was not one to ask for anything but was always willing to lend a helping hand and would have given away her last penny if it could help someone. She deeply loved her family and friends and will be very much missed by all. Predeceased by her parents, her stepfather, Frank Grant, and stepsons, Scott and Randy Harjula and Dale Haag; Valerie is survived by her husband of 54 years David Harjula; a brother Wayne Hilt of St. George; her children, Michael and his wife Lynda of Gorham, Kimberlee Peterson and her husband Kyle of Rockport; a stepson Daryn Harjula of Cushing, and several grandchildren and step-grandchildren. A special thanks to all family and friends who provided friendship and help during her treatments and home hospice. Without this great network of people, it could not have been done. Visiting hours will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, July 11, 2019 at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland where a celebration of her life will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday, July 12, 2019. A reception will follow at the St. George Grange Hall, 32 Wiley’s Corner Road, St. George. In lieu of flowers, Valerie requested donations be made to the St. George Grange. While flowers are gratefully accepted, Valerie’s family request you honor her memory with the addition of a hanging basket to your home. To share a memory or condolence with Valerie’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.

ROCKLAND – Mary E. Hunter, 87, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 3, 2019 at her home in Rockland leaving her family that she loved very much. Born to Lillian Gould and Russell Whitney on July 12, 1931 in Bangor she was educated in local schools and eventually earned her General Education Diploma (GED) which she was very proud of. On October 22, 1948 she married Richard E. Hunter in Bangor and they settled down together in St. George where they lived for 30 years raising their family. Mary worked as a Housewife until her children finished school. As a seamstress, Mary loved to sew and worked locally at Senter Cranes as a seamstress. She also worked as a Bookkeeper for the Roakes & Harvey Taxi Company. Eventually finding their way to Cassville Missouri it was there that Mary loved to go boating and volunteering with the “Pink Ladies’. It was her love for volunteering and spirit of giving back that lead her to also join the KnitWits, a knitting club that makes items for those in the hospital. Locally she was very active with the Area Interfaith Outreach (AIO) food pantry, Penquis, and St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. Her children state that she was very active in the churches she attended over the years. A staunch Democrat, Mary volunteered with the Democratic National Committee during the last Presidential election and worked fiercely to get Hillary Clinton elected. Her family states that they will always remember her as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who was very sociable, an excellent cook, and could be a “spitfire” at times. Mary was predeceased by her parents; Lillian and Russell, her husband; Richard, three brothers; Everette, Charlie, and Freemont Whitney, and two sisters; Charlotte Clement, and Frances Dauphnee, she is survived by her two daughters; Kathy Wallace and her husband Essie of Rockland, and Marci Ward of Grant’s Pass Oregon. Four grandchildren; David Hillgrove, Sean Hillgrove, Jamie Hillgrove, and Cristy Winchenbach, and six great grandchildren; Alexandria Aiken, Stephen Killeran, Kristopher Hillgrove, Natalie Hillgrove, Olivia Hillgrove, and Nathan Winchenbach, and five great great grandchildren; Dawson Hillgrove, Colten Aiken, Finn Aiken, Beau Aiken, and Aria Aiken. A service of love and remembrance will be announced on a later date. To share a memory or condolence with Mary’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

ROCKLAND – Constance ‘Connie’ Ross Painter, 94, died peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, Thursday, July 4, 2019 at her home at Bartlett Woods Retirement Community in Rockland. A full obituary will be published at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

SOUTH HOPE - Arthur H. Staples, 93, died Friday, July 12, 2019 at Pen Bay Medical Center in Rockport. Born in Brewer in 1925, Arthur joined the Navy in 1944, at the age of 18. When WWII ended, he came back to Maine where he met and married Roberta Sylvester in 1946. Arthur worked at R & R Lime Co., in Rockland, for 20 years, before returning to school, graduating from SMVTI in 1972. He spent several years at the City of Rockland as a Code Enforcement Officer before joining Whitman & Howard Engineering out of Massachusetts. He briefly worked as Superintendent for Consumer Water Co and finally finished his work career at BIW in Bath. He found lifelong happiness when he met his wife, Roberta. He was a man of the "Greatest Generation", when true grit and determination brought success. He worked hard, always striving to improve. He especially enjoyed the many post retirement years when he and Roberta wintered in Florida where they established many long lasting friendships. He was a good man and he lived a good life. His wife of 72 years, Roberta M. Staples, died on June 3, 2019. Arthur is survived by his daughter Carol Staples of Thomaston; his son Richard Staples and his wife Katharina of Rockland; his son Bruce Staples and his wife Louise of Sydney; his daughter Deborah Burns and her husband John of Camden; 14 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren and a large extended family. Family and friends are invited to an informal gathering at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchens Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (Noon) on Wednesday, July 24, 2019. A private burial at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery (Civic Center Drive Cemetery) in Augusta will be held later. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the P.A.W.S. Animal Adoption Center which is located on John Street in Camden. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 707, Rockport, Maine 04856. Arrangements are by Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, Rockland.

ROCKPORT – Barbara A. Pruitt, 91, died peacefully, Friday, July 5, 2019 at the Sussman Hospice House in Rockport. Born in Eagle Island, April 4, 1928, she was the daughter of Charles and Minnie Allen. Barbara grew up at Marshall Point Lighthouse where her father was the keeper. It was here that she learned to play piano as her parents would sit her down in front of one in her highchair. With no television to watch, she was self-taught, playing everything from Rag Time to Blues without being able to read a note. A hard worker her entire life, Barbara was employed for over 35 years with Key Bank in Rockland. She rose through the ranks, eventually retiring as Vice President of that branch. Always with a love of animals, she has a special place in her heart for her kitty, ‘Mackie’ who was often seen ‘helping’ her play the piano. The two were inseparable. Barbara was kind and loving and enjoyed spending time with her many friends in Rockport. She loved a good conversation, and even later in life, she conversed daily with her daughter-in-law through email and phone conversations. She will be sadly missed by all who loved her. Barbara was predeceased by three husband, James ‘Jimmy’ Moulaison, David Day and Ralph Pruitt; her sons, Raymond Moulaison and Timothy Moulaison; as well as a grandson who was just two years old, M.J. Moulaison. She is survived by her daughter-in-law and special friend, Cathy Moulaison Charak and her husband Earl. At Barbara’s request, no services will be held. She will be laid to rest beside her late husband, Ralph Pruitt. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either, PAWS Animal Adoption, P.O. Box 707, Rockport, ME 04856, Marshall Point Lighthouse Museum, P.O. Box 247, Port Clyde, ME 04855; or Rockport Library Foundation, P.O. Box 204, Rockport, ME 04856. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

ROCKLAND – Maria L. Bartlett, 84, long-time communicant and Daughter of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church and faithful participant at the soup kitchen, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, Thursday, July 11, 2019 at the Sussman Hospice House in Rockport. Born January 10, 1935 on Taboga Island, Republic of Panama, she was one of six children born to Jaime Mendives-Esquivel and Tomasa Carrera Hernandez. Maria was educated in Panamanian schools. While living in Panama, Maria met and later married the love of her life, Alston Bartlett. Moving to the States, Maria was a dedicated wife, mother and servant of God. For many years she served faithfully as a Daughter of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church and with the Soup Kitchen there. Her kind heart and giving nature allowed her to make friends easily and over the years she has met many people, several of whom have become her best friends and she formed life-long friendships at the Parish and Soup Kitchen. Maria had a passion for New England Sports teams and followed the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics and Bruins. She was also known to love a good soap opera, game show and nightly sitcom. Her number one priority in life was her family. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and they adored her right back. She never missed an opportunity to attend their school activities or athletic events. She will be greatly missed by all who loved her. Predeceased by her husband, Alston Bartlett in 1990; a son Richard Bartlett in 2005; Maria is survived by her children, Robert Bartlett of Cape Canaveral, FL, Alan Bartlett of Rockland, Brian Bartlett and his wife Tracy of Thomaston, Ivette Barone and her companion Steve Howland of South Portland, Edith Dupuie and her husband Patrick of Rockport; her grandchildren, Stefan Colm Barone, Maria Barone, Patrick Dupuie, Jr., Rhiannon Dupuie and her fiancé Jeb Worcester, Jeremy Young and his wife Trisha, Michael Young and his wife Libby, Evan Kohls, Alston Bartlett, Sullivan Bartlett, Jacob Bartlett, Julia Bartlett, Alex Bartlett; her great-grandchildren, SJ Barone, Maya Beaulieu, Landon Stone, Skylar Secotte; her brothers, Narciso Mendives-Hernandez, Jaime Antonio Mendives-Hernandez, Geraldo Mendives-Hernandez, Ermenegildo Mendives-Hernandez all of Taboga Island, Panama; her sister Teresa Mendives-Labrador of Taboga Island, Panama; a large loving extended family, including Peggy Rogers, Frances Drinkwater, Matthew and Cristela Rogers and their children, Trenton and Melina, Andrew and Heather Rogers and their son Maverick; as well as her St. Bernard’s Parish and Soup Kitchen family. Family and friends are invited to visit from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, July 25, 2019 at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 26, 2019 at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church, 150 Broadway, Rockland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Bernard’s Soup Kitchen, c/o St. Brendan the Navigator Parish, 7 Union Street, Camden, Maine 04843. To share a memory with the Bartlett family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.

ROCKLAND - Jan Jones, 66, of Rockland and South Thomaston, died peacefully at Sussman House on Friday, July 19, 2019, surrounded by her loving family, six months after the onset of esophageal cancer. She lived her life right up to the very end in her typical and wonderful “I can do it myself” manner, always fiercely independent. That very independence made her always available to do for others morning, noon, and night. She lived and worked for many years in the tight-knit community of the East Wind Inn in Tenants Harbor, welcoming people from across the street or across the globe with equal warmth. She later worked for more than 20 years at The Methodist Conference Home (MCH) in Rockland, caring without ceasing for her dear residents: celebrating with one a forgotten birthday, presenting needed slippers to another, or providing tea and conversation to one in need of companionship. That was just what she did – poured out love and enthusiasm in the most quiet and unassuming way, never seeking credit or acknowledgment for her many kindnesses. To her family, she was the keeper of the news, the photos, and the stories. She was much loved and will be greatly missed. Jan was predeceased by her beloved son Jeff, and she is survived by her beloved daughter Teisha and son-in-law Casey Hufnagel and precious granddaughter Elsie Rose; her sisters, Kathy Johnson, Kelly Barber, and Charlene Collins and their families; her brother-in-law Kenny Lopez; her beau Ken Collette; and all the members of her very large extended and blended family which she so wholeheartedly adored. Family and friends are invited to visits from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland. Funeral services will be private. Contributions in Jan's memory may be made to The Ripple Initiative, 32 School Street, Rockland, ME 04841.

CUSHING – Beverly E. Pease, 69, died peacefully, following an extended illness, Thursday, July 18, 2019 at the Sussman Hospice House in Rockport. Born in Rockland, November 11, 1949, she was the daughter of Howard and Beverly Parsons Thomas. Educated in Thomaston she was a graduate of Georges Valley High School. Following high school, Beverly graduated from Mid-Coast Cosmetology School in Thomaston. Beverly married the love of her life, Shannon Pease, in 1969 at the Thomaston Baptist Church. Together they made their home in Fort Riley, KS where Shannon was stationed in the US Army. The couple was never happier than when they returned to Thomaston where they made their home for several years before building their home in Cushing. Bev began her working career at Stinson’s Packing as a fish cutter. One of the best in the business, she could still fillet a fish better than many skilled fisherman. For over 20 years, Beverly was a smiling face in the cafeteria at many of the Rockland Schools. Beverly enjoyed camping at Mic Mac Campground for several years, and later in life, enjoyed trips to Oxford and Bangor Casinos. Spending time with family, especially her grandchildren was one of her favorite pastimes. Predeceased by her parents, a son Shawn Pease; and her siblings, Janie Robinson, Jimmy Thomas, and Karen Hupper; Beverly is survived by her husband Shannon Pease of Cushing; her son Christopher Pease and his girlfriend Randy Billings of Cushing; six grandchildren, Zachary Barnes, Sam Barnes, Hunter Pease, Cameron Pease, Carmyn Pease and Calleigh Pease; a brother Alan Thomas and his wife Nancy of Freedom; and several nieces and nephews. Beverly’s family is especially grateful to Sierra Hupper, a caregiver and friend to Beverly every day until the end. Beverly’s family has chosen to remember her life privately and she will be laid to rest beside her son in Pleasant Point Cemetery in Cushing. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sussman House, c/o Pen Bay Healthcare, 22 White Street, Rockland. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

ROCKLAND – Marjorie Herrick Blackman Bickmore, 96, passed peacefully into the presence of her Savior on Saturday, July 27, 2019, at Quarry Hill in Camden following an extended period of declining health. Born in Mars Hill, February 17, 1923, she was the daughter of Frank H. and Verna M. Landers Herrick. After moving to Camden with her family at a young age, she attended Camden schools and was a graduate of Camden High School, class of 1941. On September 24, 1941, she married Fred Blackman in Massachusetts, where they eloped while Fred was enlisting in the military. They made their first home with Marjorie’s parents before moving to Granite Street in Rockland. Fred and Marjorie had one son, Stephen. Fred served in the US Army during WWII, but was killed in the Battle of Okinawa just as the war was drawing to its close, and was a recipient of the Silver Star. While she was raising their son alone as a war widow, Marjorie worked for several years in retail sales at The Bell Shop, a women’s clothing store in Rockland. It was at the invitation of her work supervisor Ruth Hoch that Marjorie began attending services at First Baptist Church in Rockland, where she met Luther Bickmore. Luther eventually invited Marjorie to accompany him on a sail, thus beginning their courtship. The couple was married on June 16, 1950, at the First Baptist Church parsonage by the Rev. Charles MacDonald. For many years, Marjorie assisted her husband in the operation of his optometry practice in Rockland. By God’s grace, she had been brought to saving faith in Jesus Christ under the preaching ministry of Rev. MacDonald, and she was a longtime active member of First Baptist Church in Rockland, where she taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, served as Assistant Treasurer and as a Pioneer Girl Guide. At Luther’s encouragement, Marjorie took up the game of golf at age 40, and she continued to enjoy that game for the next 40 years. She was a member of the Rockland Golf Club, and she especially delighted in the camaraderie of the foursome in which she often played, comprised of Essie Dondis, Gerry McConchie, Gayle Kittredge and herself. She also enjoyed many happy times at the Bickmore family’s camp on Morang Cove at Damariscotta Lake, from the time when she and Luther honeymooned there in June of 1950. She lived to see three more generations of her descendants make new memories at that special family spot. Other than her parents, Marjorie was predeceased by her husbands, Fred Blackman and Dr. Luther F. Bickmore, as well as five sisters, Blanche, Murial, Hallie, Mary and Verna. She is survived by her son, Stephen R. Blackman and his wife Virginia of Thomaston; two daughters, Susan F. Lindemann and her husband Merlin of Nicholasville, Kentucky, and Pamela B. Hughes and her husband John of Rockland; six grandchildren, James S. Blackman, Renee K. Stanton, Kyle H. Cawood, Stephen R. Lindemann, David L. Lindemann and Sean T. Hughes; 29 great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews. Marjorie’s family would also like to express their gratitude to all of her excellent caregivers, who tended to her needs both at home and in the Terraces and the Gardens of Quarry Hill, for by God’s grace, the ripples of Marjorie’s life and testimony expanded even more during her last years of declining health, and she was loved and respected by many. Relatives and friends are invited to visit from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, Tuesday, July 30, 2019, at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland. A celebration of God’s faithfulness to Marjorie will be held at 10:00 am, Wednesday, July 31 st , at the Lakeview Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 188 Rockland Street, Rockport. The Reverend Stephen Tracey will officiate. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery, Camden. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lakeview Orthodox Presbyterian Church. To share a memory or story with Marjorie’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.

ROCKPORT – Joanne Elizabeth Jones passed away early July 30, 2019 at her home after a long illness. She was born at home in Rockville on February 4, 1938, the daughter of Madeline and Neelo Lofman. Joanne was educated in the local schools and graduated from the old Rockport High School, where she played first string basketball each year. She was elected the Seaside Wonderland Carnival Queen in her senior year. Joanne married her beloved husband, Roger, on November 17, 1956. They shared 62 years together in the home Roger built for them in Rockport. Joanne was a stay at home wife and mother until entering the workforce. Joanne worked at several local supermarkets in the meat room wrapping meat. She was very proud of her Finnish heritage, saying in all her forty plus years of work she never took a sick day. Joanne’s favorite pastimes were playing Scrabble with her sister Janice, her daughter Betsy, and nieces Susan, Pam, and Peggy. She also liked puzzles and doing word book games. Joanne is survived by her husband Roger; her son, Roger Jr. and his wife Diane of Florida; daughter Betsy French and her husband Jim of Rockport; her sister Janice Lachance of Rockland; and brother Michael Lofman and his wife Virginia of Bridgton, her grandchildren, Christie, Roger III, Danielle, Alex, and Marina, as well as several great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of Joanne’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, August 5, 2019 at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.

ROCKLAND – Arlene D. McLain, 93, died peacefully, Wednesday, July 31, 2019, at the Cushing Homestead. Born in Rockland, March 29, 1926, a daughter of Leon and Marion Huntley Fickett. Educated in local schools, Arlene was Salutatorian of her Rockland High School graduating class. In May of 1950, she married Newell M. McLain. Arlene was a fabulous cook and homemaker. She was happiest when looking after and taking care of her husband. At the time of his death in 2013, they had enjoyed 63 years of marriage. Arlene particularly enjoyed watching the neighborhood kids. They would go to her house after school and she baked cookies and treats for them. They often picked apples on the McLains property. She was a longtime active member of Pratt Memorial Methodist Church and in later years, Aldersgate United Methodist Church. Other than her parents and husband, Arlene was pre-deceased by two brothers-in-law, Bertram G. Snow and Edward W. Shaw. She is survived by three sisters, Helen Snow of Rockland, Beverly Shaw of Dover, NH, Janice Cornell and her husband Robert of Gray, as well as many nieces and nephews. Friends and relatives are invited to visit from 10:00 to 11:00 am, Wednesday, August 7, 2019, at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland, where a funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. The Rev. Linda Campbell – Marshall will officiate.

A full obituary will be published shortly.

Nancy Kay Strong, 79, of Rockport, passed away from this earthly life entering the presence of her loving Lord on Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. She was surrounded by her loving husband Dick, who was her life partner and best friend for 58 years. Also, by her side was her loving family. Nancy was born on January 6, 1940 in East Orange, New Jersey to the Rev. Richard and Emily Gray. She graduated from Girl’s High in Philadelphia, and also earned a Bachelor of Art’s degree in English from Wheaten College in 1961. She was an elementary school teacher in Maine briefly before moving to Maryland where she also taught in various schools as a substitute teacher. Nancy had a love for reading and learning and found teaching very rewarding. She particularly enjoyed working on a long-term substitute teaching assignment working with students with disabilities. Nancy by far valued her time as a stay-at-home mother and homemaker for her family. Nancy had a big colorful personality. She was a very fun-loving, creative, stylish, highly competitive, intelligent woman who was first devoted to her loving God through her personal relationship with Christ, and then faithfully to her husband and family. She was gifted in artistic expression including painting, stained glass, sewing, needlepoint, and knitting. In her earlier years, Nancy enjoyed being active playing tennis and skiing, and she always loved boating and playing cards and board games with her family. Nancy had a soft heart for dogs, and especially for her sweet doggie ‘Coco’. Nancy loved her dear church family at Chestnut Street Baptist Church, and enjoyed singing tenor in the choir. She was involved with numerous community groups over the years. She greatly enjoyed singing with the Down East Singers. Most recently she enjoyed fellowshipping with the women in her bridge club and book club. Nancy is survived by her family who will miss her vibrant presence greatly. Her family includes two children, her son Scott Strong and his wife Lorrie, and her daughter Suzanne Schwartz and her husband Robert. She was also blessed with three granddaughters, Rebecca Schwartz, Nancy Schwartz, and Grace Strong. In addition, she is survived by her brother Rev. Richard (Mac) Gray and his wife Karen; her sister-in-law Linda Gray, brother-in-law Bruce Strong, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Nancy was preceded in death by her brother Gary Gray, and sister-in-law Joni Strong. Nancy at the very end of her life had an assurance and a peace that passes all earthly understanding and that only came from personally knowing and trusting her loving God through his son Jesus. She had run the race of this life and was ready to go to her eternal home. “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalms 23:6. A Memorial Service celebrating Nancy’s life and worshiping her faithful Lord together, will be held on Thursday, August 8 at 4:00pm at Chestnut Street Baptist Church in Camden. This service will be immediately followed by a reception at the church. In lieu of flowers, friends are asked to make a donation to Chestnut Street Baptist Church, 29 Chestnut Street, Camden, Maine 04843, with a notation on the check in Nancy Strong’s memory. Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.