Compiled by Rev. Susan Murphy
Shirley Dickson, 59, longtime employee of the Sanford schools, passed away on Saturday, March 22, 2025, after a brief illness. She was born on Oct. 11, 1965, the daughter of Carol A. and Norman A. Boucher. Shirley was the devoted mother to Mikala Dickson of Augusta, Noah Dickson and his wife, Autumn, of Wells, and Jacob Dickson of South Berwick. She attended Noble High School and the University of New England, where she became an occupational therapist. As an OT, she served communities in Texas and California before returning to Maine. For the last three decades she worked at Sanford schools, where she loved and cared for her students and their families. Shirley was an ardent supporter of her students, many of whom attended the Special Olympics of Maine. She is survived by her children, her father, Norman Boucher of Alfred, her sisters, Lynne Boston, Belinda Jones, Brenda (Jim) LaFrance and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother, Carol A. Boucher. Shirley was an avid reader and gardener. She was a shining example of a strong and independent woman. She always moved forward in a confident, self-assured way. Visiting hours were held on Friday, March 28, at Black-Heald & Walker Funeral Home in Springvale. A celebration of life will be held at St. George’s Episcopal Church in Sanford at 11 am on Saturday, March 29. https://conroytullywalker.com/obits/shirley-a-dickson/
Donna Fields, 86, passed peacefully on Monday, March 24, 2025. Donna was an incredible woman. She impacted everyone she came in contact with. She was a beloved mother, wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend to so many. Those who knew Donna knew the bright light she shined on others and the lasting impact she’s had on those in her circle. She was born on April 29, 1938, the daughter of Winfred and Dorothy Forbes. She graduated from Sanford High School in 1956 and earned her nursing license in 1959. Donna was a caretaker at heart. Her early years as a nurse were spent working for Lela Davis, her aunt, who owned the Davis Nursing and Rest Home in Sanford. After a hiatus to be home with their two boys, Donna went back into healthcare and worked as the director of nursing for the Greenwood Center in Sanford for 17 years. Aside from her profession, Donna loved to connect with others. She had a passion for spreading joy, hosting family gatherings, preparing wine and cheese luncheons with friends and making others laugh. Donna had an unconditional love for the beach. She spent countless hours at Wells Beach, searching the shore for sea glass. The beach was her happy place. Donna also enjoyed many summers at Mousam Lake, where Lela Davis had a camp. She enjoyed swimming, boating, waterskiing and entertaining friends and family. Donna shared her life with Philip Fields, her lifelong partner of 70 years (65 years of marriage). They enjoyed camping across the U.S., north to Alaska and back, vacationing in Bermuda, and visiting many of the beautiful sites in Maine. Donna is survived by her love Phil, her younger brother, her two sons, her four grandchildren, her two great grandchildren, six nieces, and many cousins and friends. A celebration of life will be held later this summer at a date to be announced. https://conroytullywalker.com/obits/donna-fields/
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