MIDDLEBORO, MASS. – Irma E. (Hichborn) Mayhew died June 15, 2013, at Hannah B G Shaw Home, Middleboro, Mass. She was born in 1914, in Dover-Foxcroft, daughter of the late Benjamin and Ida (Packard) Hichborn. When only 4, Irma’s mother died, sister, Audrey, now deceased, was an infant. Benjamin remarried the late Vera (Hand) Hichborn. Irma had a stepbrother, Merle, now deceased; and has a stepsister, Edith (Hichborn) Collins, who lives in Bangor.
Growing up, Irma attended schools in Maine, graduating from Carmel High School. She met her husband, William Robert Mayhew when he was a student preacher, they married in 1933, and served in churches in Maine, Vermont and Bridgewater, Mass. Irma returned to Bridgewater College for her teaching degree in the 1960s, then taught first grade in Easton. She loved it, especially teaching children to read. Among many wonderful qualities, Irma was always concerned about those in need, near or far. She didn’t care about having lots of money or things for herself, and bore this out in the way she lived her life. After husband, Bob’s death in 1995, Irma remained in Bangor until the move to Hannah Shaw Home in 2009.
Her daughter, Sara (Mayhew) Keegan lives in Lakeville, Mass., with husband, Garrett. There are two granddaughters, Kristine and Rachel. Her son, Paul, died in 2011, and is survived by his wife, Mary, of Yarmouthport, Mass., and grandsons, Michael and Mark. There are eight great-grandchildren.
There are no formal services. There will be a graveside gathering later in Walpole, Mass. Any who wish may donate in Irma’s memory to Heifer Project International, 1 World Ave., Little Rock, AR 72202. For an online guest book and directions, please visit www.ccgfuneralhome.com.
Irma E. (Hichborn) Mayhew
