OBITUARIES for Thursday, March 26, 2026

MARK R. ANDRE

OAKLAND – Mark Richard Andre, 56, passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Born in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Mark spent much of his life between Pennsylvania and Cudjoe Key; places he loved deeply.

Mark was the father of Cassidy, Mark Jr., and Jason, and a stepfather to Trenton. He loved watching his sons play hockey, attending his children’s activities, and encouraging each of them to pursue their passions.

A man of many talents and interests, Mark ran a charter fishing business called The Grouch Charters in his early years and commercially lobster dove in the Florida Keys, where he proudly considered himself a local in Key West. At Thornridge Farms in Fairfield, Maine, he grew Christmas, shade, and ornamental trees and later transformed the property into the “Angry Lobster” disc golf course so others could enjoy its natural beauty.

Mark was known for his intelligence, strong opinions, and lively conversations about history and politics. He once ran for Maine House of Representatives and the Maine Senate to represent his district. He loved genealogy research and science fiction.

Mark had an easy ability to make friends wherever he went – whether at his morning coffee shop, on an airplane, or while traveling on cruises. He enjoyed listening to the Grateful Dead, relaxing with a Diet Pepsi, and ending the day with music playing in his truck.

He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, sharp mind, sense of humor, and the love he had for his family. Mark will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mark was predeceased by his father Thomas Andre and brothers Thomas Andre Jr. and Raymond Andre.

Mark is survived by fiancée Leanne Clark; children Cassidy Andre, Mark Andre Jr, Jason Andre and their mother Holly Andre, as well as stepson Trenton Clark; his mother Frances Andre; brothers John Andre, Michael Andre, Steven Andre, and sister Rae Andre.

Burial was held March 13, 2026, at Doylestown Cemetery in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.

A Celebration of Life details will be announced at a later date.

GEORGE V. CATES SR.

ALBION – George Vance Cates, Sr., 83, passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, following a brief battle with cancer. He was born in Brunswick, August 7, 1942, to Willard Leroy Cates and Irene Belle (Wallace) Cates.

George grew up on Knox Ridge. He graduated from Unity-Freedom High School and attended one semester at Brigham Young University, in Provo, Utah. In 1963, George enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served for four years in eastern Maine.

On June 23, 1964, George married Mary Louise Johnson, of Albion. They were married for 61 years and were inseparable, working together for many years. Among other places, George worked at the Wyandotte Woolen Mill and the Waterville Boys and Girls Club, both in Waterville. George and Mary both attained their boiler licenses, and worked together for 10 years cleaning and repairing furnaces, as well as doing minor electrical and plumbing repairs for Eastside Rentals.

George enjoyed seafood – especially lobster – as well as reading, listening to music and playing his keyboard, dancing with Mary, watching TV and driving his car. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in various capacities over the years.

He was predeceased by his parents, as well as his stepmother Nancy O’Brien Cates, whom he dearly loved; a half-brother, Barry Cates and stepbrother, Steven Tenney.

Survivors include his wife, Mary; children Ronald Cates, George Cates, Jr., Evangeline Greene and her husband John, David Cates and his wife Katrina, Jennifer Boynton and her husband Sean, Genevieve Hall and her husband Ross, and Katrina Cates; several grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; step-sister, Lynn Rickett and her husband Terry; step-brother, Brian Tenney and his wife Carol; .

A private family gathering was held prior to the memorial service.

A memorial service was held at on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Waterville.

MARCEL H. RIOUX

WINSLOW – Marcel H. Rioux, 77, presently of Union, died unexpectedly Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Marcel was born in Lac Megantic, Canada, on January 4, 1949, son of Joseph Henri and Hélène Marie (Bernier) Rioux. He became a U.S. citizen in 1968 in Jackman, where he grew up.

He attended St. Anthony School, in Jackman, and received his diploma at Assumption Preparatory School, in Worcester, Massachusetts. He attended St. Francis College, in Biddeford, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in French.

Marcel worked at Stern’s Department Store, in Waterville, as a salesclerk for several months. He then worked at Digital and SCI, in Augusta, for 16 years. For approximately 10 years he served as a French teacher, loving to provide French instruction to the elementary students of St. John the Baptist School, in Winslow.

He was predeceased by his parents, and younger brother, Denis, as well as several aunts and uncles and cousins.

He is survived by his sister, Marie-Line Rioux, and cousins.

The past four years he resided at Crawford Commons Assisted Living, in Union.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Wednesday, March 25, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, followed by a reception.

An online guestbook may be signed; condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the deceased’s name to Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter and Services, 19 Colby St., Waterville, ME 04901.

JUNE A. CONLEY

SKOWHEGAN – June Ann Conley, 91, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, in Skowhegan. June was born on June 15, 1934, in Orono, to William Lester and Ethel Julia (nee Greene) Brooks.

She graduated from Orono High School. While raising four children, she attended and graduated from The University of Maine at Farmington with a degree in education. For more than 25 years, she was a kindergarten teacher at Skowhegan’s North Elementary School, shaping hundreds of lives. She is fondly remembered by her students and colleagues.

June was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who found joy in gardening, puzzling and being “Nannie” to her seven grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She will be remembered for her kindness, love of children and her love of family.

June was one of 12 siblings who came of age during the Great Depression. Her devotion to her family of origin was a hallmark of her life. Many of those siblings have predeceased her, with her brother, David, and sisters, Ruth and Jean, here to mourn her loss.

She was predeceased by her husband of 56 years, Edward J. Conley.

She is survived by her son Timothy (his wife Melissa) of Virginia Beach, Virginia, James (his wife Jodie Elgee), of Kingston, Massachusetts, Jeannie Conley (her predeceased husband Bob Colby), of Portland, and Julie True (her husband Jarrod), of Cornville; seven grandchildren, Matthew Conley and his wife Michele, Elizabeth Hopkins and her husband Alex, William Conley-Elgee and his wife Kezia Ofiesh, Samuel Conley-Elgee and his wife Grace Lee, Michael Miller and his fiancée Lindsey Williams, Danielle Sawyer and her husband Scott, and Sarah True.

A private burial will be held on June 6, 2026, followed by a celebration of life at the Somerset Valley Remembrance Center, at 19 Washburn Lane, in Skowhegan, at noon.

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

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Children’s Room, at the Skowhegan Public Library

SHARON H. ABRAMS

WINSLOW – Sharon (Randall) Houghton Abrams, 76, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, March 13, 2026, following a brief and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Sharon was born July 16, 1949, in Waterville, to Murray and Bertha Randall.

She graduated from Waterville High School in 1967 and the University of Maine at Farmington in 1971. Over the course of her career, she served as a teacher, licensed social worker, and nonprofit executive, dedicating her life to helping children and families.

In 1973, Sharon joined the Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers (MCH) as the first teacher in its Teen Parent School Program, where she made a lasting difference in the lives of many young families in the Waterville community. She later served in the adoption program as a licensed social worker, became assistant director, and in 1992 was named executive director. Under her leadership, the agency grew and thrived, guided by her compassion, humility, and deep commitment to those it served. In recognition of her contributions, she was inducted into the Maine Women’s Hall of Fame in 2004.

After dedicating 41 years to the MCH, Sharon retired in 2014. She continued working part time in the adoption program for several years. Most recently, she enjoyed serving as a substitute teacher in the Winslow School District, continuing to connect with and encourage young people.

Outside of her work, Sharon cherished time with family and friends and loved to travel, especially to Aruba and Prince Edward Island, Canada. Sharon was proud of her Canadian heritage, and in her final days she was granted her long-held wish of acquiring dual citizenship.

She was most proud of her family and loved them deeply and unconditionally. The memories they created together will forever remain a lasting source of comfort and joy.

She was predeceased by her parents, Murray and Bertha Randall; her husband, Donald Abrams; and her sister-in-law, Kathryn Houghton Cioppa.

She is survived by her brother, John Randall (wife Cindy), of Cape Neddick; sister, Linda Harrigan (husband David), of Windham; son, Shawn Houghton (wife Heather), of South China; daughter, Tammy Houghton-Lunt (husband Eric), of Fairfield; step-daughters Eleanor Abrams, of Durham, New Hampshire, and Cindy Randall (husband John), of Cape Neddick; and stepsons Paul Abrams Briggs (wife Patricia) of Albuquerque, NM and Andy Abrams (wife Paula) of Byron, Minnesota; her grandchildren, Jacob Houghton (wife Ciera), of Palermo, Peyton, Easton, and Blake Houghton, of South China, Mason Lunt (wife Cassidy), of Albion, Gavin Lunt, of Fairfield, Jackson Hale (wife Maddy), of Fort Worth, Texas, Sam Hale, of Durham, ew Hampshire, Hailey Abrams, of Buffalo, New York, and Kyra Abrams, of Rochester, Minnesota; great-grandchildren Chace Houghton, Riley Hale, and Beckham Lunt; cousins; nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time for all to share memories and celebrate a life well lived.

Others Departed

ASHLEY M. PELLETIER

EUSTIS – Ashley M. Pelletier, 34, of Eustis, passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2026, following a valiant and arduous years-long battle with cancer. She faced every challenge of her fight with remarkable strength, immense determination, and unwavering faith-cascading inspiration onto those who knew and loved her. Ashley was born on March 27, 1991, in Skowhegan.

She was a graduate of Skowhegan Area High School (Class of 2009) and the University of Maine at Augusta (Class of 2014) where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies. Ashley worked as a pharmacy technician at Walmart, in Skowhegan, forming enduring friendships with colleagues before transitioning to a career as an insurance agent at Skowhegan Insurance Agency, working alongside her mom.

She often enjoyed getaways to the beach; visits to Longfellow’s Greenhouse; hunting; shopping, usually seeking the rush of the deal; arriving whenever “she” was ready; various holiday traditions; and spending quality time with her family, friends, and her dog, Ripley. Despite her challenging diagnosis at 31, she remained focused on her bond with Ripley, her faith, and her love for the outdoors.

Ashley leaves behind her parents and a younger brother. She is a vibrant pillar and the cherished daughter of her mother, Susan (Turcotte) Pelletier, of Norridgewock, and her father and his wife, Michael and Mary-Jane (Roullard) Pelletier, of Embden. A fierce protector and sidekick until the end, Ashley remains irreplaceably intertwined in the heart of her brother, Benjamin Pelletier, of Norridgewock.

Additionally, Ashley is survived by her grandmother, Lois Turcotte (wife of the late Lionel H. “Lee” Turcotte), of Cornville; her fiancé, William Schnorr, of Eustis; a large circle of aunts, uncles, and cousins; her stepmother, Mary-Jane; and many friends who will miss her.

She was predeceased by her paternal grandparents Harold and Helen Pelletier, of Skowhegan.

A memorial service was held at Somerset Valley Remembrance Center, in Skowhegan, on March 24.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Ashley’s memory to the Andwell Hospice House (Donate – Andwell Health Partners). Donations may also be directed toward supporting research and care to aid others in their fight against osteosarcoma and other bone/soft tissue tumors via the Jimmy Fund (Donate to the Jimmy Fund and help fight cancer | The Jimmy Fund) or Brigham and Women’s Hospital (http://giving.brighamandwomens.org).

DEREK J. HUSSEY

FAIRFIELD – Derek J. Hussey, born July 29, 1975, died unexpectedly on Monday, March 9, 2026. He was loved by all that knew him. He was a devoted husband, father and son.

He is survived by his parents, Barry Hussey and Deborah French; his wife, Heather; his daughter Seven; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends.

A service will be held at a date yet to be determined.

KEITH BELZ

WINDSOR – Keith Belz passed away Saturday, March 14, 2026.

There will be a grave side service at Rest Haven Cemetery, on Route 32, in Windsor, on May 23, 2026, at 11 a.m.

A luncheon at Windsor Town Hall, on Route 32, will follow.

SHIRLEY M. SPAULDING

MADISON – Shirley M. Spaulding, 90, of Madison, formerly of North Anson, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026. She was born on October 23, 1935, in Bangor, the daughter of Hiram Patten and Florence Larabee.

Shirley was married to her husband, William Spaulding, with whom she shared many years of marriage. She worked in laundry and housekeeping, dedicating her time and care to others, including her work at Cedar Ridge, in Skowhegan.

She made her home in Madison, where she was known for her hardworking nature and quiet strength.

Shirley is survived by her three daughters, Karen, Sharon, and Donna; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

She will be buried in the spring at Webster Cemetery, in Caratunk.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com

CONSTANCE WARREN

WINSLOW – Constance “Connie” Warren, passed away peacefully at her home in Winslow, on Thursday, March 12, 2026, on her 91st birthday.

Connie was a devout Catholic and the cherished matriarch of her family. Her life began and ended on the same day, closing life’s circle by returning to the Lord and joining her beloved husband, Clement, in eternal rest.

Born in 1935, Connie’s life was defined by an extraordinary capacity for love and service. She graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, where she received the Bulldog Award.

On April 18, 1959, she married the love of her life, Dr. Clement J. Warren. Her devotion to her family and community was honored when she was named 1991 Maine Mother of the Year. While the title was official, it’s truth was felt daily by everyone who knew her; she was a mother not just to her own, but to anyone who met her. Connie was active in the church, teaching CCD, acting as a part of the guild, and was also a lecturer in church. She also served for many years as a coordinator for ABC Quilts, an organization dedicated to providing handmade quilts to at-risk children.

Connie lived her faith through her actions. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth where the door was always open and the welcome always sincere. She raised her five children teaching them the values of compassion and integrity that remains her greatest legacy. She loved playing cards with her family and friends, and especially spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Connie often made the statement, “This too shall pass”, which represented her philosophy of life’s ups and downs, no matter the struggle there was always hope to hold onto.

Connie is survived by her five children, Kathy (Peter) Case, Larry (Linda) Warren, Julie (Andre) Dionne, Paul (Jane) Warren, David Warren (Partner Gary Nichols); seven grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband, Clement; her brother, David Longstaff; her parents, Cecil and Evelyn Longstaff, and mother-in-law, Rose Warren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow, at 11 a.m. Following the service, the family welcomes you to join them at O’Brien’s, located at the Best Western Plus, in Waterville, to celebrate Connie’s life.

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.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Connie’s name to Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

CAROLINE G. HILTON

SKOWHEGAN – Caroline Grace Hilton, 86, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Redington Memorial Home, in Skowhegan, where she had been a resident since July 2025. Caroline was born August 25, 1939, in Madison, the daughter of Robert and Phyllis Carlson, of North Anson. She attended Mark Emery Grade School and Anson Academy High School where she graduated in 1957.

Caroline married her husband of 65 years, Leslie Hilton, on June 27, 1959. Caroline worked on the family farm growing up. In 1959 she took employment with Norrwock Shoe Co., in Skowhegan, where she worked until 1970 when she left to spend the next 20 years as a mother and house wife.

She returned to work at the Solon Manufacturing Co., in 1990, where she retired in May 2004. She took great pride in her strong work ethic that she gained from her childhood days on the farm, whether at her place of formal employment or household chores. She exhibited this work ethic daily and always remained busy and active.

Caroline enjoyed her time visiting with family and friends, she loved to play cards and games which she did frequently with close friends, neighbors and family. She liked to collect coins and Longaberger baskets, of which she had built an extensive collection. She also enjoyed her house and yard in tip top shape. If she wasn’t inside cleaning or cooking, she could be found outside in her flower gardens, doing chores and yard work.

Caroline especially cherished her time with close family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She possessed an amazing level of unselfishness. She was a blindly devoted wife, mother and grandmother. A time is not remembered when she ever questioned or put her needs in front of those of her family. She would drop everything on a moment’s notice to help, support and love for whatever was needed. She was a dedicated caregiver to Les in his final years. She took peace in knowing she was able to provide him her support in his final needs.

Caroline was predeceased by husband, Leslie; her parents Robert and Phyllis; sister, Lillian and her husband Leslie Watson, and brother-in-law, Richard Wilder.

Caroline is survived by her son, Michael and his wife Anita; grandsons Derek and Benjamin Hilton and his fiancée Renee Proctor; great-grandchildren Jackson and Everli; sister, Shirley Wilder; brother, Norman Carlson; sister-in-law, Margaret “Peggy” Walker; and many nieces, and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at the Skowhegan Federated Church, on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 2 p.m., with a gathering immediately after in the adjoining Fellowship Hall.

JAMIE L. GOODWIN

OAKLAND – Jamie Lynn Goodwin, 45, of Oakland, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 16, 2026. She was born on December 18, 1980, in Waterville, the daughter of James Goodwin and Pamela Stickney.

Jamie grew up in Winslow where she attended local schools, graduating from Crown Regional High School, Class of 1999.

Jamie had a sweet spirit, a kind heart and a wonderful sense of humor. She was known for her amazing laugh – one that could warm a room and bring comfort and joy to those around her. She loved life and found happiness in the simple things, especially watching old movies, reading, and spending time with her family. Jamie adored her son and loved their adventures together. The beach was one of their special places where she found solace.

Jamie will always be remembered for the joy she brought to every family gathering and to the lives of all who knew and loved her. Her warmth, laughter, and loving spirit will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

She is survived by her son, Gabriel Bernier; her father, James Goodwin and his wife, Kim; her brother, James Goodwin and his wife, Randi; her siblings Michael Poulin, Stacie Poulin, Raheem Goodwin, Arianna Goodwin, Alea Goodwin, Jasmine Goodwin, Jada Frost, and Emilio Frost; her nephews, James and Elijah Goodwin; her niece, Laylan Goodwin; her aunts Barb Bell, Melody Adams, MacKenzie Salinas, Tammy Goodwin and April Sesin; her uncles, Bernard Stickney and his wife, Diane; and Tom Stickney and his wife, Debbie; many cousins.

She was predeceased by her mother, Pamela Stickney; her grandparents Virginia and Ervin Stickney, Helen Trask, and Jesse and Thelma Goodwin; her uncles, Mark Stickney and Galen Trask Jr.

A Celebration of Life will be held at CenterPoint Church, 155 West River Road, Waterville, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11 a.m. Everyone is invited to join the family for a potluck immediately following the service.