Jessie Elizabeth Cohoon Aldrich, 101, of Walpole, passed away at her home on the afternoon of Nov. 25, one week shy of her 102nd birthday. Born on Dec. 2, 1911 in Haledon, N.J., she was the daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth (Fleming) Hamer.
Jessie was raised in New Jersey, where her father was a school commissioner. She attended local schools and graduated from Central High School of Paterson, N.J. She went on to be a graduate nurse in the class of 1932 from Paterson General Hospital.
She married William McDowell Cohoon on Dec. 21, 1940 and the couple enjoyed many years together before his passing. On Dec. 22, 1979, she married Lawson M. Aldrich in Newcastle.
Jessie loved the natural world and reveled in nature walks around her home. She especially enjoyed observing the wildlife and bird watching at the pond near her house. While she loved all animals, her special love was reserved for her long-time companion cat, Kit, with whom she shared her life for many years.
She was devoted to both family and friends and was active in St. Andrew’s Church, serving on the altar guild for many years. She was generous and giving in the sharing of her time, wisdom, and her spirit with others.
Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husbands, William Cohoon and Lawson Aldrich.
She is survived by several nieces and nephews; and special caregivers.
She will be laid to rest privately with her first husband in the Harrington Cemetery in Pemaquid.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, PO Box 7, Edgecomb, ME 04556.
Condolences, and messages for the family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta.
