LONG ISLAND, ME- October 17, 2024, was the last day Dementia stole memories from Joanne Jackson
Stevens. Joanne was born in Berlin, NH on May 13,1934. She moved to Westbrook, ME as a
child. Joanne graduated from Deering High School and Westbrook Junior College. On July 23,
1955, she married the love of her life, Paul W Stevens.
Joanne and Paul spent their early years as G.E. gypsies, moving from state to state,
following Paul’s promotions and raising their 4 children together. Once their children were
grown, they traveled the world, spending months researching and planning the next adventure,
but always returning to Maine. As Paul neared retirement, Joanne started a new career in the
mental health field, eventually working for the State of Massachusetts developing independent
living housing for residents.
In 1984, they bought their retirement home on Long Island, ME and finally set permanent
roots. Joanne worked alongside Paul to build the home of their dreams, large enough to host
family holidays and celebrations. Joanne was well known for her themed Island-wide Christmas
parties, where every food item was handcrafted. She was a marvelous cook with Paul beside
her as sous chef.
Joanne is survived by her 4 children: Kim(Tom) MacVane of Long Island, ME, Paul Eric
of Clarksville, TN, Craig(Debbie)of Revere, MA and Scott(Heather) of Dexter, ME, 13
grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, 2 sisters-in-law, Peachie
Stevens and Donna Jackson, and many special nieces and nephews. Joanne was predeceased
by her parents, Alice and Wesley Jackson, her dear brother J. William Jackson, daughter-in-law
Patsy Stevens and her husband of 66 years, Paul W. Stevens.
Special thank you’s to the care providers who guided us through the trials of dementia:
granddaughter Caleigh MacVane, who provided years of round the clock home care, The
compassionate care at The Grande Memory Care and Compassus Hospice Care for helping to
set her free.
Memorial service to be announced in the Spring.
Donations in her memory can be made to Long Island Wellness Council, PO Box 263,
Long Island, ME 04050. Their help and services enabled her to remain on her beloved Island for
many more years
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton, www.mainefuneral.com