PORTLAND ? Arlene B. Choate, 72, of Winthrop, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 21, 2003, at Maine Medical Center in Portland, after a courageous battle with an unexpected acute illness. She was born April 29, 1931, in Auburn. She is the daughter of her predeceased parents, J. Guy Bryant and Ethel Groves Bryant. She graduated from Edward Little High School in Auburn in 1949. She married the love of her life, Richard M. Choate of Hallowell, on Sept. 30, 1949, in Auburn. For almost 54 years, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Hallowell, where she was actively involved as church pianist, Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School teacher and member of Martha's Circle. She was a vocal and avid supporter of the pro-life movement and an occasional volunteer at the Christian Civic League. Many youngsters, in addition to her own grandchildren and great-grandchildren, called her 'Nanny.' All who knew her were touched in a special, individual and unique way. Her Christian walk was obvious through her unconditional love for others. She is survived by her husband, Richard M. Choate of Winthrop; a son, Stephen R. Choate and wife Merilyn of Gardiner; daughter Marjorie C. Frye and husband Roland of Hallowell; and daughter Alanna C. Cole and husband Donald Sr. of Sidney. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Michael Choate and wife Julie, Chelley Choate Laliberte and husband David, Stephenie Choate, Andrew Frye and wife Stacey, Jennifer Frye Burris and husband Matthew, April Frye, Amanda Cole, Sarah Cole and fianceChristopher Thorne, Donald Cole Jr., Hannah Cole, Breanna Cole and Justin Cole. Her surviving great-grandchildren are Christopher Laliberte, Saray Choate, and Samuel and Noah Burris. She was one of seven children and her surviving siblings are brother John G. Bryant and wife Charlotte of Buxton; sister Dorothy Witham (husband Bruce predeceased) of New Gloucester; sister Betty Witham and husband Harold of New Gloucester; brother Robert Bryant and wife Effie of Mechanic Falls; brother David Bryant and wife Sue of Sumner; and brother Lawrence Bryant and wife Maryann of Virginia. She made many special memories, as they enjoyed camping and many travels together. In addition, she is survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. She was the family historian and enjoyed reminiscing with anyone. Family was her passion and her faith was her soul. She has left her mark and will be greatly missed. Visiting hours will be 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, June 24, at Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 68 Second St., Hallowell. A celebration of her life will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, at First Baptist Church of Hallowell. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist of Hallowell, 'Vestry Fund', 1 Franklin St., Hallowell 04347.