GORHAM- Gustie B. Howard, age 90, passed away on June 26, 2020 at The Gorham House where she was a resident for 6 years.
Gustie was born on January 12, 1930 in Baldwin Maine. A daughter of the late Preston and Mildred Clara (Nason) Sanborn. She was one of 13 children.
On January 24, 1948, Gustie married the love of her life, the late Avery B. Howard and together they celebrated almost 61 years of marriage. In addition to raising their 4 children, they enjoyed working, camping, skiing and snowmobiling. Throughout her life, Gustie was known to be a talented craftswoman where she did almost everything from sewing, doll making, painting, knitting, wood working (with Avery) and much more. If it could be crafted, she did it! After retirement, Gustie & Avery traveled in their camper and could be found with a craft table somewhere! Gustie loved music and enjoyed dancing. She made friends wherever she went. Her ever present smile and joyful disposition have blessed countless people in her 90 years. She will be joyfully remembered and sadly missed by the many people who loved her.
She is survived by 4 children, 5 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
Her son Bruce A. Howard and wife Karen, of Standish and granddaughter Melinda Fish.
Her daughter Carol A. (Howard) Damon and husband Allan of Buxton and grandson, Nick Buckley.
Her son Gary T. Howard and wife Rachel of Buxton and grandson, Jason A. Howard.
Darlene J. (Howard) Germain and husband Paul of Naples, granddaughter Kristen (Germain) Morasse and grandson Justin Germain.
She is also survived by 2 siblings, Rebecca (Sanborn) Chute and Herman Sanborn, both of Windham.
The service will be held on Friday, July 3rd at 10AM at Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Chapel 498 Long Plains Road, Buxton. Anyone wishing to say goodbye to Gustie is invited to a viewing after the service. Burial will follow at the New West Baldwin Cemetery. Online condolence messages can be submitted at www.mainefuneral.com.
We will be strictly following CDC guidelines for social distancing and the family is requiring that face masks be worn. For those not wishing to wear a mask, you may join us at a safe distance outdoors at the cemetery immediately following the service. New West Baldwin Cemetery is located at 970 Pequawket Trail, West Baldwin.
We are hopeful that a full celebration of her life will be held once the pandemic restrictions are lifted.
The family wishes to express our heartfelt thanks to the staff of the Gorham House and Beacon Hospice for the loving care and attention that Gustie received during her time with you.No one is more cherished in this world than someone who lightens the burden of another.The gratitude we feel can't be put into words.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to:
Amedisys Foundation
52 Atlantic Place,
So. Portland, Me. 04106
for their compassionate support and comfort of Gustie in her final months.