EUNICE B. CUSHING

NORRIDGEWOCK – Eunice B. Cushing, 86, died Friday, Sept. 26, 2008, surrounded by her loving family, at Augusta Rehab. Center. Eunice was born Nov. 6, 1921, in Dracut Mass., the daughter of Claude and Theresa Brown. She grew up in LaGrange, one of five children. After graduating from LaGrange High School, she attended the University of Maine – Orono and Maine Medical Center Nursing School, where she became a licensed practical nurse. She practiced nursing most of her adult life and was a loving care giver both professionally and personally. While in Portland, she met her future husband, Frank S. Cushing Sr. After their marriage in 1942, Frank served as a captain in the Army Air Force on the European front while Eunice continued her nursing career and began to raise their first daughter. After the war, Eunice and Frank purchased property on Peaks Island and subsequently built a home on Cliff Island, where they added two sons to their family. She shared island life with her husband, who worked as a lobsterman. Eventually they returned to the mainland and added two more daughters to their family. Eunice was known for her beautiful smile, brilliant blue eyes and loving service to others. She was a devoted Christian, a biblical scholar and a proud member of the Baptist church. Eunice and Frank eventually retired to North Gorham, where they enjoyed many moments with their spirited grandchildren. They hosted many family parties where her homemade pizza, pies and breads/rolls were coveted by all. Her family was most important to her, but she was also an active member of her church and community. She was the organist for her local church, a member of the choir and continued her nursing career into her late 60s. She was the cornerstone of her large family, providing a ready sense of humor, her wonderful smile, never-ending patience and unconditional love. She enjoyed studying the Bible, playing cards, and watching the Red Sox and Celtics. Eunice was predeceased by her husband, Frank Sr.; and her son, Frank Jr. She is survived by her daughters, Ann Cohen and husband, Richard, of Nobleboro, Irma Cushing of Norridgewock, and Mary Burns and husband, Robert, of New York; daughter-in-law, Disa Cushing of South Portland; and son, Brain and wife, Mary of Bridgton. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews. Her family, friends and caretakers dearly loved her. The family thanks her long-term caregivers when she resided at her daughter, Irma’s home in Norridgewock, and the staffs of Augusta Rehab. and Beacon Hospice of Maine. A celebration of her life will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at White Rock Baptist Church, Gorham. Interment will be at Maine Veterans’ Cemetery, Augusta.