BUCKSPORT and WINTERPORT – Bertha (Nealley) Chipman, 92, passed away from this world, March 19, 2006, to be with her husband, Ralph W. Chipman, in Winterport in the home where she was born. She was born Nov. 26, 1913, in Newburgh (now known as Winterport), the daughter of Roy and Almena Nealley. She was a graduate of Winterport High School, Class of 1931. After graduation, she worked in a clothing store until she met her future husband, Ralph, whom she married in 1933 and moved to Bucksport where they attended North Bucksport United Methodist Church. During World War II, she was a welder and tacker at the South Portland shipyard. She went to the Golden School of Cosmetology, graduating highest in her class and on her state boards. She retired from Emple Knitting Mill after more than 20 years of service. After her move to Bucksport, she joined the Rebekah’s going through the Chair to Past Noble Grand. She was a member of the Floral Grange No. 158, Bucksport, being Lady Assistant Steward, lecturer and secretary for many years. She enjoyed playing bridge, gardening and going to yard sales. She loved the outdoors, feeding the birds and her animals. Known as MeMe by many family members, she will be greatly missed. Bertha is survived by a daughter, Marleise C. Cox of Bucksport; two grandchildren, Ralph C. Cox and his wife, Cindi, of Hampden, Lisa Novak and Dan Farren of Orland; great-grandchildren, Melinda Novak and J-Lyn Farren of Orland, Abigail and Elizabeth Cox of Hampden; brother, Raymond “Bud” Nealley and his wife, Mabel, of Winterport; brother-in-law, George Chiavelli of Verona Island; many nieces and nephews including, Vickie Berry and her husband, James, of Kenduskeag, Roger Nealley and his wife, Sandy, Edward Nealley and his wife, Rooney, all of Winterport; cousins; great-nieces and great-nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Ralph W. Chipman; stepfather, Albert J. Pike; in-laws, Gladys Lanpher and Pearl Chipman; brothers-in-law, Walter Chipman and Perle Chipman; sister-in-law, Lilla Chiavelli; nephew, Kent Chiavelli. Visitation for family and friends will be 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, at the Mitchell-Tweedie Funeral Home, 28 Elm St., Bucksport. A funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Thursday at the North Bucksport United Methodist Church, with Pastor Janice L. Rhenow officiating. She will join her beloved husband by his side as they were in life, Riverview Cemetery, Bucksport. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the charity of one’s choice. The family would like to extend their appreciation to the healthcare providers that dedicated their time and love tending to her care and needs.
BERTHA (NEALLEY) CHIPMAN
