WEST ENFIELD – M. Gail Larkin, 79, died unexpectedly July 29, 2007, at her home. When asked how she would like her obituary to read, Gail stated, “She died,” but her family is respectfully choosing to deny this request, as she lived a life worth sharing. Gail was born May 15, 1928, the daughter of May and Kenneth Larkin. She attended Howland High School, graduating in 1946. Gail attended Farmington State Teacher’s College and then the University of Maine in Orono, getting her master’s degree in education. She taught at the one room schoolhouse in Passadumkeag for several years where she later served as principal. She also taught at Downeast School. After retiring, Gail worked for the U.S. Postal Service, eventually becoming the postmistress in Howland. After retirement from the postal service, she spent some time volunteering for the Howland-Enfield Federal Credit Union and the Howland Recycling Center. Gail was a member of many organizations, including Delta Kappa Gamma Society, National Educator Association, National Association of Postmasters of the U.S., and the Maine Association of Retirees. Gail was a dedicated member of the Alter Guild at St. James’ Episcopal Church, Old Town. She worked quietly behind the scenes, picking up after and preparing linens for services. Gail was a thoughtful and devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend who put others first and never asked for anything in return. In her earlier years and well into retirement, she enjoyed traveling with and traveling to visit loved ones. The trips took her to California, Florida, Hawaii, Colorado, Iceland, Ireland, and England. Her older grandchildren fondly recall these adventures with Nan. She was an excellent cook and her carmel corn, coffeecakes, brownies, pies and molasses cookies will be missed at many gatherings. For many years Gail sent hundreds of Christmas cards; annually loved ones expected them December 1. She lovingly displayed every card she received during the holidays. Gail is survived by her children, Joline Godfrey and Lee “Buzz” Dudley; grandchildren, Lee Kris Dudley and his wife, Jody, Kari Lyn Dudley and her husband, Rob Gerry, Meagan Dudley, Brooke Dudley and Jessica Dudley; great-granddaughter, Kinza Dudley; and her sister, Lacie; sisters, Bonnie Lovett and her husband, Norris, Jean Coen; and her husband, Mike; nieces; cousin, Mary Jane; good friends, Hope, Ann, Gerry and Martha; and many other friends, family and classmates. Gail is predeceased by her son, Leon Kevin Dudley. Again, despite her wishes to leave without fanfare, a service will be held in her memory 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 4, at Birmingham Funeral Home, 438 Main St., Old Town. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Lung Association would be greatly appreciated. The American Lung Association, 61 Broadway, New York, NY 10006. Notes of condolence or tributes may be left for Gail’s family at www.mem.com
M. GAIL LARKIN
