OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 12, 2026

GAIL A. LADD

WATERVILLE – Gail Anderson Ladd, 87, of Waterville, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026. She was born March 11, 1938, in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, the only child of Carl and Ann Anderson.

Gail graduated from Waterville High School in 1955 and the Massachusetts General Hospital nursing program in 1958. She earned her BS degree from Thomas College,, in Waterville, in 1968. Over the years, Gail practiced her nursing skills in many capacities including Thayer Hospital and Colby College in Waterville.

Gail met her best friend and husband Charlie when she moved to Waterville at the age of 13. They married on September 13, 1958. Together they raised their four children and traveled the world. Gail particularly loved islands and spent at least one night at 67 different ones. She traveled to every country in Europe and she traveled with purpose. Every trip was carefully researched and planned. Once home, Gail diligently recorded each trip with journals and photographs.

Gail absolutely loved her home. She spent hours making her home both beautiful and welcoming. She was an artistic person who sewed, wall papered, stenciled, knit, quilted, needlepointed and whatever craft became in vogue. She even made a hand knotted wool rug. She never stopped, and everything she did was done with precision. She did not just sew clothes. She added monograms or embroidery or appliques to make each item special.

Gail loved her friends. And once you were in her life, you were there to stay. She kept in touch with her grammar school best friend, her high school best friends, her college friends and everyone else that she met along the way. Even if you moved out of town, she kept in touch. She loved meeting people. Charlie loves to say that when they left Greece, he did not think there were three people in the country that did not know they were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

Gail loved to entertain. She hosted a cookie swap every Christmas season for over 50 years. She had porch parties, dinner parties and card parties. Every event was planned, from the napkins to the decor.

Gail loved antiques. She studied them. She and a group of friends formed “The Waterville Antique Club”. This special group of ladies met monthly for many years with the members taking turns preparing a presentation. Gail had a booth at the Fairfield Antique Mall. She loved everything about it from the sourcing of the inventory to the presentation of her wares.

Her legacy of love, friendship and spirit of adventure will live on.

She is survived by her husband, Charlie Ladd; her son Kevin Ladd and his wife Carolyn, of Smithfield; her daughter, Kimberly Taylor and husband Ed, of Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts; and son Eric Ladd and wife Jennifer, of Little River, South Carolina; grandchildren Timothy Ladd and wife Maring, Kasey Catterlin and husband Michael, Daniel Taylor and wife Kerry, John Taylor and wife Katelyn, Shannon Bowden and husband Caleb, Alyssa Ladd, Carly Ladd and Thomas Ladd; great-grandchildren are Lenny Taylor, Jack Taylor, Sophie Bowden, Samuel Catterlin and Maeve Taylor.

Gail was predeceased by her daughter, Heid Pacheco.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed; condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

DERRICK C. TURNER

BELGRADE – Derrick C. Turner, 46, passed away on Friday, January 16, 2026. He was born in Augusta on March 25, 1979, the son of Don and Linda (Ahearn) Turner.

Even writing Derrick’s name in the past tense feels unreal. He was a light, goofy, brilliant, stubborn, reckless, and completely authentic. Derrick lived boldly and honestly, and in doing so, he gave everyone around him permission to do the same. In his presence, there was no shame in being yourself, only acceptance, laughter, and genuine connection.

From the very beginning, Derrick was a special kid. He had a quick wit, an effortless charm, and an instinctive ability to make people smile. His “Derrickisms” became part of family lore, passed along through stories, laughter, and knowing glances. He was mischievous in the best way, once even stopped by police for speeding on a skateboard, and that playful defiance stayed with him throughout his life.

Derrick was never intimidated by big personalities or strong opinions; he welcomed them. Quiet souls were drawn out by his warmth and confidence. He had a rare gift for meeting people exactly where they were, drawing them out of their shells, and leaving them feeling seen, valued, and capable. Curious, confident, compassionate, and unapologetically himself, Derrick was countercultural in a way that magnetized people. It was a privilege to know him and an honor to love him as a husband, son, brother, friend, mentor, teammate, and teacher.

In the third grade, Derrick underwent open-heart surgery and was repeatedly told to take it easy. True to form, he was caught moments later outside on his skateboard. That fearless spirit, paired with resilience and determination, defined much of his life.

Derrick began working at Clark Marine in 1997, starting a 28½-year career that became inseparable from the company’s story and deeply woven into the boating community. He grew into one of the best technicians in the field, eventually working his way into management and preparing to become a part owner. His knowledge of marine systems was extensive, his dedication to customer service unwavering. More than his technical skill, Derrick was known for his generosity, his willingness to teach, mentor, and help others succeed. His influence reached far beyond the workplace, leaving a lasting mark on the broader boating community through his passion, humor, and steadfast commitment to helping others thrive.

Derrick was someone people trusted, leaned on, learned from, and laughed with. Whether helping at his parents’ home each week with his ever-present “Sonny” to-do list, working at the family farm, or showing up exactly when someone needed him, Derrick was always there.

Derrick was happiest driving anything with a motor and a pet by his side whether it was a dog, goat or a turkey. He had a special place in his heart for shelter animals, especially the ones others overlooked.

Derrick was predeceased by his brother Shawn Turner and cousin Aaron Turner.

He is survived by his wife, Amanda Couture; his parents, Don and Linda Turner; his sister, Melissa Turner and her partner Toby Halperin; his aunts, uncles and cousins; his Clark Marine family; and countless friends whose lives are better because he was in them.

Knowing Derrick was a privilege. Loving him was an honor

A celebration of life was held on February 8, 2026, at the Belgrade Recreation Center.

MELVIN L. WILLIAMS

BELGRADE – Melvin Louis Williams, 97, of Belgrade, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. He was born on November 21, 1928, in Fort Fairfield, the second son of Guy Joseph Williams and Pauline Marie (Deschesne) Williams. Guy passed away from tuberculosis in 1940.

He attended high school in Fort Fairfield briefly. In 1945, he, along with his mother and five siblings, moved to Waterville where Mel attended Waterville High School.

In 1946, Mel enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps at the age of 17 with the permission of his mother and served for three years attaining the rank of Sergeant while stationed at Dow Air Force Base, in Bangor. While in the Army Air Corps, Mel obtained his GED and was discharged at the completion of his initial enlistment. Returning to Waterville he attended Coburn Classical Institute to further his education.

In 1950, Mel was recalled to active duty for the Korean Conflict and served in Alaska for three years. During that tour of duty, he married the girl next door, Odile Helena Gagnon, from Francis Street, Waterville, on August 8, 1953, at Ladd Air Force Base, Fairbanks, Alaska. They were married for 59 years until Odile passed away on December 24, 2012.

Mel and Odile were faithful and devout Catholics with a great love for God and passed that faith on to his children. Mel remained on active duty as a career noncommissioned officer achieving the highest enlisted rank of Chief Master Sergeant at a time in the Air Force when there were more full colonels than chiefs. He served with pride as a paralegal and Legal Administrator within the USAF Judge Advocate General branch, culminating as the Senior NCO for all JAG offices across United States Air Forces Europe (USAFE). His military career took him to Colorado, Missouri, Alaska, Texas, Maine, England, Libya, Germany, Virginia and Louisiana. He retired after 22 years of service in 1969.

While in the military, he earned his GED, a BA from the University of Maryland and Master’s Degree from University of Southern California. Pursuing education was a hallmark of his life, and he also attained a CAS (Certificate of Advanced Studies from UMO during the 1970s.

Upon his military retirement, he brought his family back to Maine, where Mel began his 20-year career in education. He taught seventh and eighth grade at Leroy H. Smith School, in Winterport. In 1974, he was hired as the principal of Williams Junior High School, in Oakland, until his retirement in 1989.

Mel was very dedicated and involved in charitable work while in the Winterport Lions Club and the Knights of Columbus, in Waterville. He was a Fourth Degree Knight and served as the Grand Knight with the Waterville Assembly in the 1980s. He was also a lifetime member of the American Legion.

After his retirement from school administration, he and Odile divided time between The Villages, in Florida, and their camp, on Great Pond, in Belgrade. They also enjoyed attending USAF Paralegal reunions across the country. He was an avid golfer and reader.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Odile, siblings, Reginald V. Williams, Philip Richard Williams, Paul Williams, Erlon Williams, Guy Joseph Williams and JoAnn Nivison.

Mel is survived by his children, Guy Timothy Williams (Lisa), of Florida, Susan Schug (Eric), of Maryland, Nicole Williams, of Belgrade and Terence Williams (Susan), of Tennessee; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. Interment will follow, at 2 p.m., at the Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Avenue, 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.

PHILIP A. GONYAR

WATERVILLE – Philip A. Gonyar, of Waterville, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, the son of the late George A. and Ida Doucette Gonyar.

He was raised in Orono and graduated from Orono High School and the University of Maine in Orono with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in education.

From a young age, Gonyar wanted a career in education. As a result, he spent 33 years working in the school departments in Bucksport, Bangor, and Waterville. He taught many excellent students including two former governors of the State of Maine- John McKernan and John Baldacci.

Gonyar was a strong supporter of teacher unionism and served in many capacities including as president of local associations in Bucksport and Bangor. At the state level he served as president of the Maine Teachers Association (now the Maine Education Association) and as president of the Maine Education Association Retired. At the national level he was a member of the National Education Association Board of Directors and as a member and chairman of the Joint Committee of the National Education Association and the American Library Association.

In other civic activities Gonyar served seven years on the Waterville Board of Education, was twice chairman of the Board of Catholic Charities Maine, was a member and chairman of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland School Board and was an active member and chairman of the Kotlas-Waterville Area Sister City Connection.

Phil is survived by his partner, Carl D. Daiker, of Waterville, with whom were spent many wonderful years enjoying life together and experiencing the joys of visiting all seven of the world’s continents; his sister-in-law, Sharon Gonyar; nieces and nephews and their spouses Karen and Jeffrey Malnick, Lynn Comeau, Brenda and Gary Bambara, Kevin and Kathleen Comeau, Kenneth and Lisa Comeau, Laura and Ken Speranza, Deborah and Robert Flint, Gary and Nonnie Gonyar, Robert and Alice Gonyar, David Gonyar, Brian Gonyar, and Joan Gay; several grand- and great-grandnieces and nephews and many cousins.

Preceding him in death were his parents, brother, George J. Gonyar, sister and brother-in-law, Lorraine G. and Anthony Comeau; and many aunts and uncles.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 11 a.m., at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours Catholic Church, at 116 Silver St., in Waterville. A reception/celebration of life will immediately follow in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers those who wish may contribute in his name to the Maine Education Association Retired, 35 Community Drive, Augusta, ME 04330.

DEBRA FISHER

WATERVILLE – Debra Fisher, 62, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. Born in Waterville on August 2, 1963, Debra, also known as Debbie, was a resident of Albion, then later Winslow where her spirit and love for life touched the hearts of many.

Debbie was the daughter of Douglas and Shirley Fisher and was preceded in death by her grandmother, Doris Morang; her father, Douglas Fisher; her brother, Douglas Fisher; her sister, Dori Fisher; and many cherished uncles and friends. Despite these profound losses, her mother, Shirley Fisher, and her brothers, Mike and Mark Fisher, nephew Kevin Emerson ll, nieces Ceira Emerson-Moody, Bracie Mills, cousins Margo Morang Kool and Craig Hall remain to celebrate her life and honor her memory.

Debbie was the proud mother of three sons, Joshua Dunn, Justin Dunn, and Clay Thibodeau II, who were the light of her life. In her role as “Nana,” she reveled in the joy her grandchildren brought her, Haley Dunn, Brook Dunn, Jayda Dunn, Silas Stanton, twins Ava and Ella Small. She cherished every moment with them, making memories that will live on in their hearts forever.

Debbie had great joy in raising her boys in the beautiful backcountry of Albion. Whether hosting gatherings by her pool or around a bonfire with friends, she created a warm and inviting space filled with laughter, music, and love. Her home was a sanctuary for many, a place where everyone felt welcome. Debbie loved to spend time at the Chez with her close friends, where they would share stories, laughter, and create unforgettable memories.

Her battle with kidney failure/diabetes was a challenging chapter in her life, yet she faced it with remarkable strength and grace. Debbie’s family will be hosting a memorial service, honoring her memory in a manner she would have cherished. In the spring, they will announce a memorial gathering to celebrate her life, where all who knew and loved her are welcome to share their fond memories and stories.

Please visit Debra’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/debra-fisher-2026 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

WILLIAM F. HANSON

AUGUSTA—William Francis Hanson, 63, passed away at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, on Thursday, January 29, 2026. He was born on February 25, 1963, a son of Mary L. (Hill) and Henry R. Hanson Sr.

Bill grew up in Vassalboro and was a graduate of Cony High School, in Augusta, in the class of 1981. Bill was a knowledgeable man which allowed him to work for various companies throughout his life including Blue Seal Feeds (later known as Gold Star), Bath Iron Works, print shops, working in his father’s business servicing dairy farm equipment, and owning his own maintenance business.

Bill enjoyed fishing; whether it was a simple day trip or heading out west to the Great Lakes, casting a line was one of his favorite pastimes. He also enjoyed hunting during the fall. Bill was a loyal New England Patriots fan who was happiest with a cold one in his hand while watching the game with his friends and family. Bill will be remembered for his sense of humor and independence.

He was predeceased by his parents, and a brother, Brian Hanson.

Bill is survived by a daughter, Jeanne Hanson; his siblings, Patricia Boudreau, Henry “Hank” Hanson Jr. and his wife Linda, John Hanson and his wife Elaine, Christina St. Pierre and her husband Ralph, Constance “Connie” McCord and her husband John, and Robert “Bob” Hanson, and a sister-in-law Simone “Dee Dee” Hanson; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be announced in the spring. Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

RYAN M. PAGE

CHINA – Ryan Michael Page, 48, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 2, 2026.

Ryan was a long-time resident of Maine, growing up in Windsor and graduating in 1995 from Erskine Academy, in South China, before enlisting. Ryan served with distinction for four years active duty in the United States Air Force and 21 years in the Georgia Air National Guard, where his commitment to excellence helped keep aircraft mission-ready and his fellow service members safe. During his Guard service, he also had the honor of working at the Pentagon as Executive Assistant to the Chief of the Air National Guard, supporting high-level leadership with his positive attitude and sharp insight. He was most recently employed at Togus V.A. Medical Center where he continued to serve veterans.

A true sports enthusiast, Ryan was a fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots and spent countless hours cheering them on. He loved to be surrounded by nature, whether that be through fishing, hunting, snowmobiling or just relaxing at “Our Time” in the beautiful forests of Maine. Most importantly, Ryan loved sharing all of those moments with his friends, family, and beloved dogs Avery and Asher.

Ryan will forever be remembered as someone who illuminated each room he stepped into with his laughter, kindness, and unwavering ability to turn anyone he talked to into his friend. Ryan was known far and wide for his incredible hugs, infectious smile, and his uncanny talent to turn any two-minute story into hours of humor and heart. As a mentor, he was always striving to lift those around him to be their best selves. Ryan’s legacy lives on in the lives he improved, the laughter he shared, the stories he told, and the love he gave so freely.

Ryan is survived by his children, Reece Page and Peyton Page; his fiancée, Kayla Welch and her son Myles Nored; his mother, Rachel Lombard, and stepfather, Darrel Lombard; his sister, Regan Tyler; stepbrother, Chris Lombard, stepsister, Leslie Wagner; nieces, nephews; and a wide circle of extended family, friends, and colleagues.

A celebration of life will take place on Friday, Feb. 20, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Winslow VFW, 175 Veteran Drive, in Winslow. All whose hearts he touched are welcomed to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to either the Travis Mills Foundation, 647 Castle Island Rd., Mount Vernon, ME 04352, where he proudly volunteered and supported post-9/11 veterans and their families; or be sent to the Taya and Chris Kyle Foundation (http://tackf.org/), which provides assistance to military and first responder marriages and families.

Additionally, offer a hug to someone who needs it, cheer on the Red Sox or Patriots with extra enthusiasm, or share a long story that brings people together.

WILLIAM S. DAWSON

FAIRFIELD – William “Bill” S. Dawson, Jr., 72, of Fairfield, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer. Bill was born in Stoneham, Massachusetts, on February 17, 1953, to the late William S. Dawson Sr. and Marjorie (Conrad) Dawson.

He grew up in Saugus, Massachusetts, before his family moved to Troy, Maine, during his childhood. Bill attended Mount View High School and returned to Massachusetts in 1971. He worked at L. B. Evans and the Maynard Moore Company prior to moving back to Maine in 1987 to raise his family. He was later employed at Maine X-Ray, of Unity, and retired from New Balance Shoe, in Norridgewock, after 25 years of dedicated service.

Bill is survived by his wife, Kathryn “Kitty”; his children, William III and Andrew (with wife Samantha), all of Fairfield; his grandchildren, Oliver and Sophia, of Fairfield; his brothers Robert, of Lyman, and James, of Acton; many relatives and friends.

Bill had a lifelong passion for music and playing the drums, a love he passed on to his children and grandchildren. In his youth, he played for many years at the Moose Club, in Newburyport, Massachusetts, as a member of Bob and the Bobcats, a country western light rock band. He enjoyed playing “Name That Band” and always had music playing in the background. Bill’s favorite band was Steppenwolf, and he was rarely seen without his signature Steppenwolf jacket – he truly was “Born to be Wild.” He was also an avid New England sports fan, with the Patriots being his favorite team.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a light luncheon at the Waterville Masonic Hall, 251 County Rd., Waterville. A private service and interment will take place this summer in Massachusetts.

Please visit Bill’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/william-dawson-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory may be made to the Somerset Humane Society,123 Middle Rd., Skowhegan, ME 04976.