Obituary of Frances Mae Peasley

Longtime Clifton resident Frances “Penny” M. Peasley died February 7, 2023, at the age of 93, at home surrounded by family and friends.

She was born in Charlotte, Maine, in 1929, to Gert and Ted Smith. A leader in her field, Penny worked as a technical specialist responsible for statistical and quality management at Polaroid in Somerville, MA, for many years before returning to Maine to marry Colon “John” Peasley in 1968. 

Penny was a resourceful lifelong learner and do-er and enjoyed volunteering locally.  She volunteered for many years at the Clifton Library beginning in 1989. Penny spearheaded efforts to help a Clifton family adapt their home when a resident became wheelchair-bound.  Several years later, Penny organized efforts to help another local family rebuild after fire destroyed their home. 

Penny served on the Professional Advisory Committee Board at New Hope Hospice where she wrote and acquired grants for its establishment. She served on the RSU Consolidated Committee and volunteered for the Clifton Historical Society. She was nominated in 1998 for The Jefferson Award for extraordinary public service. Ultimately, she retired from Sears & Roebuck in Bangor where she was an interior design supervisor. 

Following her retirement, she was a successful write-in candidate in 2007 on the Clifton Board of Selectmen and was a nominated candidate, winning the seat the following year.  Penny was a prolific baker and was active with local church groups and fundraisers.  

She is survived by daughter, Jane Peasley; sister, Shirley Tracy; favorite niece, JoAnne Bartlett; good friend and Scrabble partner, Jan Goodine; as well as extended family, friends and church community members.  She was predeceased by brother Lawrence; husband “John” Peasley; son Dale Carlow.

A graveside service will be held 1 P.M. Friday, June 2, 2023, at Round Pond Cemetery, Charlotte.  All are welcome to attend.  Messages and memories may be shared with the family at kileyandfoley.com.  Arrangements by Kiley & Foley Funeral Service, Bangor and Brewer.

“She lived and laughed and believed in God, as through this life she sped. And now she rests in Jesus’s arms  because, you see, she’s dead.” -PMS who’d like it to be known she was 90 years young when this photo was taken