RUMFORD – Elaine M. Witas, 58, of 185 Essex Ave., Rumford, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 6, at Rumford Hospital with her family by her side.

She was born to Joseph and Aileen Jacques on Oct. 17, 1948, in Rumford.

She married Earl Witas on Dec. 18, 1966, and traveled with him while he served in the U.S. Army before settling back into Rumford, where she raised her family.

After raising her four boys, she went to work at Rumford Hospital. She worked there for 19 years, where she became well known for her warm smile, cheerful conversations, and compassion and assistance to all patients and visitors. The children who visited the hospital knew her as the candy lady.

Her passion in her later years was helping others in need, especially during the holidays. Christmas was her favorite time of year, when she and her husband spent much of the season spreading joy with their generosity.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Earl, of nearly 40 years; her sons, Earl Jr. and wife, Marny, of Scarborough, and Carl, Neal and Wayne of Rumford; three grandchildren, Alex, Mariah and Drew; her sister, Rose White and companion, Bill, of North Jay; her brothers, Joe, and Jeff and his fiancée, Jeanette; and several nieces and nephews and their families. She was predeceased by her baby daughter; her parents; a brother, Dennis; and a sister, Clara Cunningham.