PORTLAND – Laila Marie Daly, 71, died peacefully Saturday, March 20, 2004, at Mercy Hospital, Portland, with her family by her side, following a long illness. Laila was born June 17, 1932, in Brockton, Mass., the daughter of Robert Emmett Daly and Lala Marie Vance. She was raised and educated in northern Maine, graduating from Presque Isle High School in 1951. She was an accomplished tap dancer and performed in many local productions. Laila married Dana A. Lovely Sr. and raised four children. Laila worked as a medical secretary prior to moving to Portland in 1976. She loved working with people and was employed by Woodford Family Services and Jackson Brook Institute. Pursuing her dream of higher education, she attended Southern Maine Vocational Technical Institute, where she received her certification for respiratory therapy technician. Family and friends enjoyed her dry wit, sense of humor and animated personality. Laila’s indomitable spirit carried her through times of personal loss and poor health. She was noted for her love of the ocean, most notably braving the icy water of Kettle Cove. Other interests included playing cards with friends and grandchildren, writing short stories, going to the race track and spending time with her dog, Sly. She was a member of Unity Church in Windham. Laila was predeceased by her husband, Dana; her daughter Joanne; and brother, Emmett Daly. She is survived by her daughters, Susan Lovely of Portland, Sandra Green of Cumberland; a son, Dana Lovely Jr. of Scarborough; and grandchildren, Gary Mahaney, Erica and Meghan Turner, Evan and Aaron Lovely, Allie And Garrett Green; and two great-grandchildren, Preston and Grant Mahaney. She also leaves a brother, Allan Miles of Gardiner. A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 24, 2004, at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Road, South Portland, ME 04106. Interment to be arranged at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to South Portland Rescue.
LAILA MARIE DALY
