Obituary of Donna N. Major

DONNA N. (ESTABROOK) MAJOR, 86, passed away on December 31, 2010 in Penobscot. She was born on October 23, 1924 in Chapman, Maine, the daughter of Daniel and Mildred (Pelkey) Estabrook. Donna graduated from high school at age 15 and was recognized as “baby of class” on her diploma. She grew up during the Depression Era and knew the value of hard work. Donna lived in Tennessee for a number of years working as a waitress. One of her many stories while waiting tables was the time she had the chance to wait on Elvis and his party and the kindness he showed her. She was employed for many years at Rockland Stinson’s Canning and in her later years worked in the Dietary Department at Waldo County General Hospital bringing patients their meals. She remained active even in her later years, getting her driver’s permit in her 70s. Donna also enjoyed going on a sailing trip with her daughter and family late in her life. She loved crocheting and sewing and also enjoyed reading. Her family was very important to her, especially spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She lived in Swanville for many years with her husband, Charles Major Jr. who predeceased her. She was also predeceased by her parents, a daughter, Marion Millsap; her siblings, infant brother Donald Estabrook; Maxwell and Clifton Estabrook, Madeline Alward and a great-granddaughter Savanah Marie Whitney. She is survived by her children, Carol Finer of Colorado, Richard “Linwood” Gulledge and wife Brenda of Tennessee, Richard Harris and wife Sunny of Arizona, Augusta Vance of Alabama, Evelyn Whitney and husband Howard of Belmont, Lillian Major of Swanville; a sister Robertina Trask of East Hampton, Connecticut; her grandchildren, Bethany, Amy, Marisa, Kathleen, Loren, Charles, Dustin, Seth, Rod, Kim, Charlene, Stephanie, Nikki, Suzanne, Tommy, Cary Jr., Jackie, Elizabeth, George, Whitt III, Michael and Martha; several great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and cousins. Graveside services will be held in the spring at Smart Cemetery. Arrangements under the care of Crabiel-Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Avenue, Belfast. On-line condolences may be offered at www.ripostafh.com.