1931-2003

PORTLAND – Arlene Joy Bryant Choate, 72, of Winthrop, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, June 21, at Maine Medical Center in Portland, after a courageous battle with an unexpected acute illness.

She was born April 29, 1931 in Auburn, the daughter of her predeceased parents, J. Guy Bryant and Ethel Groves Bryant.

She graduated from Edward Little High School 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 the Martha’s Circle. She was a vocal and avid supporter of Pro Life 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 his wife Merilyn of Gardiner; daughter Marjorie C. Frye and her husband Roland of Hallowell, and daughter Alanna C. Cole and husband Donald Sr. of Sidney.

Also surviving are her grandchildren, Michael Choate and his wife Julie, Chelley Choate Laliberte and her husband David, Stephenie Choate, Andrew Frye and his wife Stacey, Jennifer Frye Burris and her husband Matthew, April Frye, Amanda Cole, Sarah Cole and her fiancé Christopher Thorne, Donald Cole Jr., Hannah Cole, Breanna Cole, and Justin Cole.

Her surviving great-grandchildren are Christopher Laliberte, Saray Choate, Samuel and Noah Burris.

She was one of seven children and her surviving siblings are brother John G. Bryant and his wife Charlotte of Buxton, sister Dorothy Witham (husband Bruce predeceased) of New Gloucester; sister Betty Witham and her husband Harold of New Gloucester. brother Robert Bryant and his wife Effie of Mechanic Falls, brother David Bryant and his wife Sue of Sumner, and brother Lawrence Bryant and his 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 and great nieces and 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.