Frances C. Lessner, 78, of Damariscotta and formerly of South Bristol, passed away on the afternoon of Jan. 14 at her home with her family by her side.
The daughter of William Henry and Christine (Tarr) Jones, she was born in Bristol.
Attending schools in South Bristol, she married Frank Lessner in 1948 and remained there for most of her life. During her younger years Frances worked at the Thompson Inn, but later came to realize that she had a great love for caring for others and for many years served as a private caregiver throughout the region.
Her husband predeceased her in 1990, and in 2000, she chose to relocate to Damariscotta.
Together Frances and Frank were passionate archers, having won many trophies and awards. She also loved camping and traveling. Frances started to spend winters in Florida, until great-grandchildren began to arrive, at which time she chose to remain in Maine, as children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were so important to her.
She leaves her children, Norma Stillson of Portland, Henry Lessner of Damariscotta, Therese Hopkins of Damariscotta, Deb Lessner of Nobleboro and Wayne Lessner of Corinna; sister, Sandra Dufour of Bristol; 15 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and her dog, Casey.
Friends are invited to be with the family 2-4 p.m., Sun., Jan. 20 at Strong Funeral Home, where a service to commemorate her life will be held at 11 a.m., Mon., Jan. 21 with Rick Newell officiating.
She will be laid to rest in the spring with her husband at the West Bristol Cemetery, Walpole.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Strong Funeral Home, Damariscotta.