Rebecca A. Whitten Obituary (1965 - 2018)

GARDINER ~ Rebecca Anne Whitten (Becky), 53, of Gardiner passed peacefully, the afternoon of January 30th, 2018 at Gray Birch Rehabilitation Center in Augusta. Becky was born January 5th, 1965 in Augusta, the daughter of Donald and Faye (Tomah) Whitten. Becky was a 1983 graduate of Cony High School. She was also a proud Bobcat. Becky was a member of the Bates College Class of 1987 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Finally, Becky cherished her Native American heritage as a member of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians. Becky and her husband, Jamie Plourd were together from 1995 onward, and were married on March 21st, 1999. They were truly the love of each other’s lives and best friends. Becky was together with, and comforted by, Jamie in her final moments. Becky also had a long life of work that was punctuated by dedication, dependability, and a friendly demeanor. She worked for many years as a Library Assistant at Bennett Katz Library at the University of Maine at Augusta. Becky enjoyed her work and co-workers and gained satisfaction from helping patrons fulfill their needs. Earlier in her work life she also worked at Thomas Memorial Library in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Amongst Becky’s greatest joys was spending time with family, especially time at the family camp on Cobbosseecontee Lake in Winthrop, Many a long afternoon was spent enjoying views of the lake, eating delicious meals, and having long conversations on the front porch. Becky contributed so much to everyone’s enjoyment of time at camp through her infectious sense of humor and willingness to always do what needed doing. Becky also gained tremendous happiness from animals. She loved her four furry “kids” (cats): Mel, Fuggles, Harley, and Angel. It was of great comfort to her that Harley and Mel were able to visit her in her final days. Animals always responded well to Becky’s kind and gentle nature. Becky also enjoyed traveling and the outdoors. She enjoyed trips to parks and botanical gardens to go on hikes and enjoy the sights. Becky had her own tree at the family farm. She had grown an acorn at camp as a little girl, her mother (Faye) had planted it in her flower garden, later they transplanted the seedling to the family farm in New Portland. The tree has grown tall and strong. The oak tree stands as a testament to the life of strength and caring that Becky lived. Becky is survived by her husband James (Jamie) Plourd of Gardiner, her parents Donald and Faye Whitten of Augusta, her sisters Susan Whitten Romero of Brewer, Barbara Bachman of Augusta, Debora Whitten of Augusta and partner David Klein, Sarah Whitten and husband Danny Schlaefer of Old Town, nephew Daniel Bachman of Lewiston, niece Rachel Romero of Brewer, and more aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends than can be listed here. In lieu of flowers, donations in Becky’s name to P.A.L.S. No-Kill Animal Shelter 188 Case Rd. Winthrop, Maine 04364; or the National Kidney Foundation ( https://www.kidney.org/support ) are encouraged. A memorial celebration of life will be held at Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street, Augusta, Saturday February 10th, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. Memories, condolences, photos, and videos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website at www.khrfuneralhomes.com. A committal service will be held at a later date to be determined.