A. Jean Smith

Born in Limestone, ME, raised in Washburn ME where parents owned farm (mother cooked for and fed hired hands) and father ran Ford Dealership. Middle of three sisters, w. brother that died in early infancy. Played basketball at Washburn High, best friend was cousin Valeska. Friend Phyllis Umphrey's father loaned Jean money to go to nursing school, as her father had lost money in depression when dealership folded. Took the train to Boston, with "money was pinned to my bra". Graduated from nursing school at Boston Children's Hospital. Married Jack November 24, 1940. Raised 4 children; didn't work until kids were in high school, and only minimally: a nursing home, at elementray school cafeteria. Retired to Westport Island with Jack in l971. Became very involved in church activities at First Congregational Church of Wiscasset; also volunteered at Head Start, Blood drives, other. Loved gardening. Moved to Bay Square Assisted Living in January 2001. Made great friends there. Adapted well. Suffered from many falls and congestive heart failure.