Winifred Iris Searway

Winifred Iris Searway, born on July 22, 1925, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2024, shortly after celebrating her 99th birthday. After spending the majority of her years in snowy Maine, Winnie spent the last decade enjoying the sun and beach in Bradenton, Florida.

Winnie was born in Oxford, NE, to Isaac and Azella Frost and grew up in San Fernando Valley, CA. Her journey through life took her across the country to Bangor, ME, where she met the love of her life, Donald Oliver Searway, Sr. Their love story began at Sears and Roebuck, where they were both employed. They married in 1945 and, in a testament to their enduring love, renewed their vows using the exact same words on their 50th wedding anniversary in 1995. A devoted wife to Don, Winnie endured thousands of ballgames and many unexpected guests he brought home, always with grace and a welcoming spirit. Always surrounded by people, Winnie openly welcomed children and neighborhood families to join her family activities and outings, creating a warm and loving community. Winnie was an active member of Columbia Street Baptist Church.

She is survived by her children, who brought her immense joy and pride: Iris Cohen (Richard), Suzanne Schust (Nino), Deborah Searway (William Miller), and Daniel Searway (Nanette). She was predeceased by her beloved oldest son, Donald Jr. (Renee), who passed away in 2001. Known affectionately as Nana, Winnie leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for her grandchildren: Christopher, Christina, Julia, Daniel Jr., Leah, Andrew, David, Davi, Amanda, Justin, Donald III, Shane, and Jaclyn. Winnie also had the privilege of loving her great-grandchildren: Nevada, Niana, Benjamin, Cameron, Jason, Allison, Joshua, Jacob, Ethan, Kaidence, Aiden, Ashton, Aubrey, Sebastian, Matthew and William. Winnie was also predeceased by her loving husband, Don Sr.; her sisters, Darlene Bard, Eloise Gratton, and Jeanie Kinnicutt; and her favorite uncle, Wayne Calkins. Her memory will forever be cherished by her family and friends, who were blessed to know her gentle spirit and warm heart.

A celebration of Winnie's life will be held on Saturday, September 7, from 2-4 p.m. at The Rock Church of Bangor located at 1195 Ohio St., Bangor, ME.