SCARBOROUGH – Rena May Thorndike, 86, passed away Aug. 15, 2011, at Mercy Hospital, Portland. Rena was born Jan. 29, 1925, in Millinocket, a daughter of William T. and Jenny (Knowles) Thorndike.
She graduated from Stearns High School, Millinocket, and later received her master’s degree in education from the University of Maine. Like her brother and sister, Rena served her country during World War II. She was a medic in the U.S. Navy and later was honorably discharged at the rank of pharmacist mate first class. Rena recently received a Silver Coin in June commemorating her service in World War II. Ms. Thorndike went on to make her teaching her career. She loved teaching and would often participate in various camps during summers. She retired after having taught at Scarborough High School and later for many years at Thornton Academy, Saco. Rena was an active member of Blue Point Congregational Church, Scarborough. When she was able, she enjoyed singing in the choir and participating in other church activities.
Her brother, William K. Thorndike; and her sister, Jane T. Atkinson predeceased her. She is survived by a sister-in-law, numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephew, cousins, and other close relatives and friends who all love and miss her.
A memorial service will be held 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, at Blue Point Congregational Church, 236 Pine Point Road, Scarborough, with a reception afterward. Interment will be 2:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9, at Millinocket Cemetery. Memorial donations in Rena’s memory may be made to ASPCA, 424 East 92nd St., New York, NY 10128. Arrangements are by Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Road, South Portland. Online condolences may be shared at
www.hobbsfuneralhome.com.