Constance L. Curtis
Rockland — Constance L. Curtis, 80, died unexpectedly at her home, Friday, Oct. 5, 2012.
Born in Damariscotta, Aug. 21, 1932, she was the daughter of Fred and Ida Smith. Connie grew up in Round Pond, where she attended local schools.
She later married and moved to Rockland. In earlier years she worked at area seafood factories.
Other than raising her own family, Connie’s greatest accomplishment was completing 25 years opening her home and helping shape the lives of foster children, which at last count, totaled an even 100.
She enjoyed horse races, playing bingo and poker. Connie was particularly interested in watching people.
Other than her parents, Connie was pre-deceased by her husband, John E. Curtis Sr., Sept. 26, 2003; a brother James Smith; a half-brother Malcolm Smith; and a sister Arlene Benner. She is survived by two sons, Gerald S. Willey Sr. and his wife Gail of Union, Zachary J. Curtis and his wife Jennifer of Rockland; a daughter Cheryl J. Gamage and her husband James E. Sr., of Rockland; two sisters, Janice Brehm and her husband Richard of Warren, Esther "Tootie" Thompson and her husband Kenneth of Rockport; a sister-in-law, Yvonne Smith of Rockland; six grandchildren, Gerald Willey Jr. and his wife Tracy, John Willey and his companion Jennifer, James Gamage Jr. and his wife Michelle, Kim Heald and her husband Michael, Michael Gamage and his companion Katie, Jacob Curtis; 10 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Friends and relatives are invited to visit on Wednesday, Oct. 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St., Rockland. A graveside committal service will be held Friday, Oct. 12 at 11 a.m., at Achorn Cemetery, Old County Road, Rockland. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Miles of Hope, 21 Limerock St., Rockland, ME 04841.
To share a memory or story with Connie’s family, please visit her online Book of Memories at bchfh.com.
In reading Connie's (Nannies- as most knew her by) obituary one can see where she opened her door for 25 years to at last count 100 foster children... We all need to think about that and realize what a large number that is... Trying to give these children a fresh start, a warm meal, a loving home and most of all a sense of family...Having been witness to many of these foster children in Connie and Johns home they always treated each and everyone of those children just like they were one of THEIR OWN.. That job had to have been most difficult at times yet one would always find Connie with a smile on her face while tending all those children placed in her care.. Connie's love of her own children, grandchildren and friends was evident by her involvement in all she has done and never wanting to stay at home and always willing to "go along for a ride".. Her untiring dedication to all the needy children who ever entered her door for the first time owe her an immense thanks and I am hopeful that they all left her home refreshed and with a new found spirit. Connie- It has been my pleasure knowing you and having enjoyed your company during your time on this earth . While I know that you and John are once again enjoying each others company I am sure that you are being honored by that ever loving god for all your good deeds. You may rest now!
So very sorry for your loss, Jim. Connie certainly was a great lady. I have known her for years.. She will be missed by all that knew her. You and all the rest of her family are in my thoughts and prayers at this sad time.. R.I.P Connie..
What to write... What to say... What to do... After all, it's just words right? Using the correct ones, compiled in a manner as speaking from the heart, with sincerity, they have an overwhelming way of comfort, healing and expressing ones feelings.
My best friend and wife, Michelle, always told me to cherish the moments you have with loved ones as you never know when they will not be here. Well, I took her advice. Every function, every holiday, every trip and every gathering I always welcomed my grandmother, Nanny, and today I sit here in sadness but at the same time thankful.
A heavy heart, tears streaming and multiple deep breaths seems to be the norm. However, periods of reflection and laughs seem to inject themselves at the opportune time. Almost like it was all planned that way.
I write to share my thoughts, feelings and emotions. I write to tell a brief story through my eyes as I see and feel the emotional ride. I write because it's all that I know at this point in time that is helping. I write; It helps.
As we go through this journey we are always learning. Sometimes things seem to be the most important things at that particular point in time, at that very moment, only to realize when looking back, "wow, that was so unimportant."
Time is one of the most valued, precious things we have, yet we seem to forget that all too often. I'm always trying to learn from experiences and from others, constantly asking the question of how to do things better. Sometimes I find the solutions and sometimes not. In any event it's the importance of asking and trying.
So to review, the passing of a loved one ; It's Sad, It Hurts and it Happens, but maybe its a chance for us all to take that deep breath, enjoy the functions, the trips, the holidays and the gatherings and not let life pass by so quickly. Remember the important things and remember the importance of things.