LEWISTON – Salley (Elliott) Rayes, 71, passed away Monday, July 1, 2013, at home, with her loving family at her side. She was born June 17, 1942, in New Britain, Conn., daughter of Lindwood (Duke) Elliott and Phyllis Ellen Salley.
Salley was raised and educated in East Corinth, where she and her brother, Duke Jr., grew up. She graduated from Higgins Classical Institute, Charleston. Salley worked for the telephone company, as did her father and brother, and retired in 1994. She continued working for several years in the field as a private contractor traveling to Connecticut. She later joined Kidspeace as a foster parent and cared for several children until she was no longer able to continue working due to declining health. She was always full of compassion and enjoyed caring for others. She was known as “Ma” by all that knew and loved her. Salley, known for her strength and independence, will be remembered for her devotion and love of family. Her children and grandchildren were her whole world and she will be most remembered for her dedication to them. She enjoyed watching the Boston Red Sox, was an avid reader, played bingo and loved listening to the serene and peaceful sounds of ocean waves, rain and wind chimes.
Salley is survived by her three daughters, Mary Lachance, Susan Clark and Julie Clark, all of Lewiston; five grandchildren, Mackenzie Pride, Raegan Clark, Nicholas Pepin, Gracie Pepin and Jack Pepin; two great-grandsons, Elliot Poulin and Myles Poulin; sister-in-law, Arlene Elliott; niece, Lynnette Elliott; nephew, Troy Cunningham, all of Florida; and cousin, Kathy Salley Merrill and husband, Ed, of Monmouth. She was predeceased by her parents; little brother, Linwood “Duke” Elliott Jr.; cousins, Peter Salley, Pam Salley, David Salley and Douglas Salley; and uncle, Franklin Salley. The family wishes to extend sincere thanks and gratitude to Androscoggin Home Hospice staff for the loving care and support they provided during her final months, especially her primary, Sherm, and to Kenny Allen for always being there and being a part of her care at home. So many extended their love and support during this time and made it possible for her to be cared and depart by her family.
A memorial service will be celebrated 5 p.m. Tuesday, July 9, at The Fortin Group, Auburn. Committal will be held at a later date. A service of The Fortin Group/Plummer & Merrill Funeral Home, Cremation & Monument Services, 217 Turner St., Auburn. You are invited to offer condolences and pay tribute to Salley’s life by visiting her guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.
Salley (Elliott) Rayes
