BENTON – Judith (Maunder) Curran, 64, passed away Feb. 17, 2011, with her family at her side. She was born July 8, 1946, in Bangor, the daughter of Ernest and Lydia (Murchison) Maunder.
Judy graduated from Bangor High School, Class of 1964. During her senior year Judy was named best actress for her role as the white rabbit in “Alice in Wonderland” at the state finals of the One Act Play competition. The performance won the state championship and she went on to be named to the All New England Cast at the New England Drama Festival. She was married to Edward L. Curran Jr. and together they raised their son, Robert in the Bangor/ Brewer area. Judy graduated from the University of Maine, Orono, with a degree in English and went on to receive her master’s degree in theater. While at the University of Maine, Orono, she distinguished herself for her role as Blanche DuBois in a production of “A Streetcar Named Desire,” as well as many other roles. Although she considered herself a “reluctant performer,” she frequently acted at Waterville Opera House, Monmouth Theatre, Park Street Players, Lakewood Theater and Portland Stage Co., as well as the community theaters in Orono, Somesville and Bangor. Judy shared her love of theater with the students at Carrabec High School by directing their plays. She also worked as a librarian at Messalonskee High School and chaperoned several student trips, including three trips to England and one to Greece. In 1998 Judy was proud to become a grandmother and treasured her time with her granddaughter, Hannah. She enjoyed visiting Pemaquid, fishing, genealogy, golf and reading.
Judy is survived by her son, Robert Curran of Los Angeles; granddaughter, Hannah Curran of Benicia, Calif.; brothers, Wayne Maunder of Los Angeles, Lyle Maunder of Los Angeles and Lloyd Maunder of Portland, Ore.; best friend and partner of 28 years, M.J. Rinfret of Benton; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. She was predeceased by her parents; and sister, Joyce Ward. We would like to thank the doctors and nurse of the CCU and 2 Central at Thayer Hospital, especially Lisa M., Cat and Connie M.
A celebration of Judy’s life will be held 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 21, at Benton Falls Congregational Church, 79 Benton Falls Road, Benton, with the Rev. John Quigg officiating. Interment will be announced in the spring. Arrangements are in the care of Giberson Funeral Home, 18 River Road, Bingham.