Brunswick – Joan M. (Stanley) Thistle, 79, of Harpswell, died Thursday, Aug. 23, at Mid Coast Senior Health Center with her husband and family by her side.

She was born in Kennebunk, Nov. 14, 1927, the daughter of George and B. Theo Shephard Stanley. She attended Auburn schools and was a graduate of Edward Little High School.

She attended CMMC Hospital Nurses Training Program, Lewiston.

She married Charles Lindley Thistle in Auburn, on Dec. 28, 1946.

His naval career took the couple and their family throughout the United States. During this time, she worked in sales, nursing and as a nursing home activities director.

Upon their retirement, the Thistles returned to their home state and settled on the water in Harpswell.

She was a member of the Eastern Star in California and Kansas, and a member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Brunswick.

She was an accomplished seamstress and artist whose specialties were oils and ceramics.

She is survived by her husband, Charles, of Harpswell; a brother, Charles R. Stanley and his wife, Mary, of Syracuse, N.Y.; and several nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

She is predeceased by her son, George R. Thistle; and a grandson, Timothy H. Thistle.