Thelma Louise Newell, 91, of Whitefield, passed away on June 5 at Cove’s Edge in Damariscotta, where she had been a resident for the past four years.
She was born on Feb. 20, 1916, the daughter of John and Alice Newell. Thelma attended school in Kings Mills.
As a young woman, she worked from her home for an exclusive children’s boutique doing fine knitting and needlework. She also raised poultry and garden produce for local markets.
Thelma enjoyed music, local newspapers, and all animals. She was particularly fond of cats, which she called her “children.”
Thelma could be very feisty and proved her mettle when three house burglars confronted her while she was in her 80’s. After the burglary, she was able to provide critical information and testimony leading to a conviction.
She loved relating town history and events and often recounted the burning of the convent at St. Denis Church when she was a child.
Thelma was predeceased by her parents; sister, Irene; brothers, Fred and Herbert; several cousins; and many good friends and caregivers.
Visiting hours 6-8 p.m., Thurs., June 7 at Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner.
Funeral service 10 a.m., Fri., June 8 at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the family lot at Trask Lawn Cemetery, Rt. 215, Jefferson.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to Cove’s Edge Skilled Nursing Facility, 26 Schooner St., Damariscotta, ME 04543.
Arrangements are entrusted to Staples Funeral Home, Gardiner.
