Barbara Mary Hustus

Barbara Mary Hustus, lovingly known as “Ma” to her children, “Grammie” to her grandchildren, and “Mimi” to her great-grandchildren, passed away peacefully in her sleep, with family keeping vigil, on May 12, 2026, at the age of 98.

Born February 20, 1928 in Yarmouth, Maine, to Frank H. Gallant and Harriett M. Grant, Barbara spent over 60 years in Cumberland, where she raised her family.

She was predeceased by her husbands, John A. Brown Sr., Norman C. Christensen, and Walter L. Hustus; her son, John A. Brown Jr.; her son-in-law, Dale S. Spaulding; her 12 siblings; and several beloved grandchildren.

She is survived by her children: Brenda L. Brann, Pamylah J. Brown, Colleen A. Higgins, Kathleen R. Mason (Tom), Sherry A. Spaulding (Matt), Timothy W. Brown (Carol), and Harry W. Brown (Loretta), along with 23 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, 17 great-great-grandchildren, and extended family.

Barbara worked for L.L. Bean before retiring, but her true life’s work was caring for her family and finding beauty in everyday moments, like birds at the feeder and dahlias in the garden. She was endlessly creative and found joy in crafting of all kinds—basket weaving, ceramics, embroidery, coloring, jigsaw puzzles, and wreath making—selling them to provide Christmas presents for her children. She was also known for her delightful gifts of yodeling and baby whispering.

Her family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Mere Point Long-Term Care and CHANS Hospice in Brunswick for their compassionate care.

Friends and Family are invited to a Time of Visitation on Friday May 29 from 4 PM to 6 PM at Lindquist Funeral Home in Yarmouth.

Services on Saturday May 30 at 10 AM at First Parish Congregational Church in Pownal. Burial immediately after in nearby Elmwood Cemetery in Pownal A reception for Barbara will follow in North Yarmouth.

Barbara leaves behind a legacy that will carry on for generations to come - a legacy of love, resilience, and always looking out for the underdog and soothing the babies.