EASTPORT – Elsie O’Dell, of 20 Barron Road, died Dec. 26, 2007, at Massachusetts General Hospital, after a sudden illness. She was born Dec. 2, 1927, in Eastport, to Murray and Alice (Morrison) O’Dell and was raised by her grandparents, Flora and Tump O’Dell. She attended Eastport schools, graduating from Shead Memorial High in 1944. She married and raised a family in Eastport and was active in Cub Scouts as a Den Mother, Senior Girl Scout Leader and committees. She was active in Order of the Eastern Star, was past matron of Order of the Eastern Star Magi Chapter No. 100, as well as past district deputy grand matron. She successfully completed a college education in 1979 with a Bachelor of Arts in English, summa cum laude, highest distinction, Phi Kappa Phi from the University of Maine, Orono, graduating with her husband, Robert Dinsmore. In 1982 she received a Master of Arts in English from the University of Maine, Orono. She taught English and creative writing, mostly at the college level for several years in both Maine and New Hampshire. She became not only an author but also her own publisher, Belleisle Books, at the age of 78. Her fourth book, Emily, has just been published. She was active as a lector, chalicist and senior warden at Christ Church Episcopal, Eastport, her dearly beloved church. She enjoyed singing in cabarets, advent choirs and Sunrise Serenaders. She enjoyed participating at Senior Citizen Center, Eastport, particularly the “rowdy table” and most recently served as president. The Center was very important to her and was the site of several book signings over the last two years. She is survived by her “beloveds,” daughter, Dr. Bonnie Trott of Exeter, N.H.; daughter-in-law, Maureen Gillis of Hull, Mass.; grandchildren, Adam R. Trott, Charlotte Gillis and Stephen LeHigh; most special friend, Jack Chevrier; and Molly the Sheltie. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Murray and Fran O’Dell of Spokane, Wash.; special friends, Gerry, Jane, Elsie C., Janis, Lynn, Millie and Persis; special niece, Elizabeth (Holloway) Frederick; several cousins, nieces and nephews, including special nephew, Teddy Trott and his wife, Belinda. She was predeceased by her parents, grandparents, husbands; only sister, Elinor; her “four-footed” loves, Rosie and Missy I and II; and most recently her only son, Terry Raye Trott. There will be a memorial service 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 26, at Christ Church Episcopal, Eastport. Memorial contributions may be made to Christ Church, P.O. Box 12, Eastport, ME 04631.
ELSIE O’DELL
