CORINNA – Isabelle Florence Libby, 84, passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2011, at Sebasticook Valley Hospital, after a short illness. Isabelle was born Oct. 20, 1926, daughter of the late Clement and Gladys Libby. She graduated from Corinna Union Academy, Class of 1944, and Farmington State Teacher’s College in 1947. Isabelle’s first love, during her life, was her mother, Gladys. She devoted her life to her mother, and the love shared between them created a bond that was stronger than words can express. Her dedication to her mother was her first priority, and she was a wonderful, caring, giving and compassionate daughter. Isabelle’s second love was teaching. She started teaching directly out of college. She taught locally in Exeter for a brief period, continued teaching in Kittery and then moved to Berwick and taught first grade at Eastbrook Elementary School, Berwick, until 1989, when she retired. After retirement as a full-time teacher, she taught at Head Start Program in the Berwick area, satisfying her continued longing for her attachment to the small children she had taught for more than 40 years. She was declared grand marshal of Berwick Christmas Parade in honor of her teaching career, and led the parade proudly. Isabelle’s faith and devotion to God was unsurpassed. She loved to talk about the Bible, share the verses, have the Bible read to her and then discuss the meaning of the passages. She loved our Lord beyond comprehension and strived to follow God’s words, wishes and teachings. Isabelle was an honorary member of Corinna Historical Society and contributed antiques and many antique tools to their collection. She was a loyal member of Corinna Union Academy Alumni Association, and rarely missed a CUA Alumni annual banquet. It was something she looked forward to every year, even when she had to find transportation from Berwick to attend. She was very proud of the continued attendance and participation of the class of 1944. Isabelle was an avid cat lover. She had many cats throughout the years, and would enjoy telling stories about each of them. Isabelle was faithful and committed to all her pets. She loved them unconditionally. That unconditional love was fortunate for her most recent pet, Puff, who was the subject of many discussions between caregivers, doctors, vets and friends. Isabelle was predeceased by her brother, Vernon; and her nephew, George Libby. She is survived by two great-nieces, Hannah Libby and Sarah Beth Libby, both of New Hampshire. She is also survived by her longtime friend since childhood, Evelyn Brooks; and wonderful friends and caregivers who have loved and nurtured her, Sue Emerson, Rhonda Noschese, Cindy Meyers and Phyllis Call. In addition, she is survived by two dear friends that she considered family from the time they were born, Susan Bogle of Florida and Diane Herring of Hermon and Florida. Isabelle will be sorely missed by these and all the other people that have been fortunate enough to cross her path and be in her life throughout the years. Last, but certainly not least, Isabelle is survived by her beloved, albeit sometimes cranky cat, Puff. Many thanks to the staff at Sebasticook Family Doctors, Dexter, who cared deeply for Isabelle and provided first quality care and compassion to her for the last several years. Dr. McDonald and Julie always had time to listen to Isabelle, and showed genuine kindness and consideration to her, no matter how busy they were. Visiting hours will be 1-2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 20, at Pleasant Street Christian Church, where a funeral service will be held 2 p.m. immediately after visitation. Arrangements are by Crosby & Neal Chapel, 68 Exeter Road, Corinna. In lieu of flowers, Isabelle indicated that she would like donations sent in her memory to your favorite pet charities. Those who wish may leave written condolences at www.CrosbyNeal.com.
ISABELLE F. LIBBY
