MONSON – Joyce E. Allen, 86, died February 20, 2016, at Mayo Regional Hospital in Dover-Foxcroft. She was born in Monson, April 21, 1929, the daughter of Arthur and Edna (Champion) Haggstrom.
Joyce dedicated her time to family, friends, and various civic organizations in Monson including the Monson UCC Guild and Sunshine Club. She enjoyed spending summers at Camp Ketchawink and entertaining on holidays and birthdays.
As her adored grandchildren grew, they would spend many hours swimming at Meme’s cottage at Lake Hebron. The grandchildren would pace back and forth at the dock and Meme would say, “1 for the money, 2 for the show, 3 to get ready, and 4 to go,” and splash. Meme’s directive never failed and will always be remembered fondly by her grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her husband of 58 years, Paul Byron Allen in 2006; sister, Althea French and husband, Harold; brother-in-law, Clarence Allen; and son-in-law, Jonathan Grout. She is survived by 4 children and their spouses, Kennard and Gayle of Monson, Dwain and Janet Sawyer of Dover-Foxcroft, Rodney and Elaine of RI, and Donna Grout of MA; 8 grandchildren, Daina (Morgan) Markella, Tom (Holly), Kennard (Vanessa), Kirk, Megan (Matt) Jackins, David, Faith and James; a great-granddaughter, Ruby Rose, and soon to arrive, Lydia; 2 great-grandsons, Zen and Greyson; special nephew and niece, James French and his wife, Sherry of Guilford and Nancy Taylor of Dover-Foxcroft; and two special ladies, Lisa Kelley and Dawn MacPherson-Allen.
The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at Main Street West, Hibbard Nursing Home and Mayo Regional Hospital for their outstanding care and comfort for Joyce and family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Monson Fire Department, care of Monson Town Office, P.O. Box 308, Monson ME 04464. A memorial service and graveside service will be held later in the spring in Monson. Arrangements by Crosby & Neal, Guilford. For an online guest register, go to www.CrosbyNeal.com.