Ellen Turner

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ellen Turner, a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, teacher and friend. Ellen left us on September 16, 2023, at the age of 95, having lived a life filled with love, laughter, and lessons shared with those she held dear.

Born in 1928 in Brewer, Maine to parents Horace Evans Stratton and Doris Woodbury Stratton and a descendant of the Mayflower for which she was always very proud to mention. Ellen graduated from the University of Maine at Orono and later earned a Master’s Degree from the University of Southern Maine. Ellen was married in 1951 to Clifton R. Turner. Together they settled on Cumberland Foreside in 1959 where they raised two children. Ellen taught school at M.S.A.D. No. 51 in Cumberland, Maine retiring at age 65 only to continue teaching on a full-time substitute status into her 80s. Ellen was a beacon of warmth and wisdom for those fortunate enough to know her. Throughout her life, she nurtured her family and students with a steadfast devotion, weaving a tapestry of cherished memories that will continue to comfort and inspire those whom she has left behind. She was a friend to many and enjoyed her travel club (that never went anywhere), never could carry a tune but loved to sing, camping throughout the state of Maine and Canada and a member of many bridge clubs in her later years. A two time breast cancer survivor, receiving an inspirational award at an annual Cure Breast Cancer for Maine luncheon while in her 80s.

Ellen's loving family remember her as a source of unwavering support and encouragement. She is survived by her devoted children, Terrance Turner and Wendy Furey (husband John Furey).

Ellen's legacy will continue to flourish in the lives of her cherished grandchildren, Emily Eddy (husband Raymond), Sarah Thompson (husband Jesse), Walter Turner, Cristin Turner and Rebecca Marcinuk (husband Jared) and her seven great grandchildren. Each of them has been imprinted with Ellen's strength, grace, and joyful spirit, and they will keep her memory alive through the values she instilled in them.

Though Ellen has departed from our earthly realm, she lives on in the hearts and memories of those who loved Ellen. Her life was a guide for us to the value of love, the importance of family, friendships, and the joy of shared experiences. Her family would like to thank her many caregivers for the love and care they gave to our mother. We will be forever grateful.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to Susan G. Komen (www.komen.org) and/or Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org).