FARMINGTON – Blanche V. Allen, 88, a resident of Pinewood Terrace, Farmington, formerly of Phillips, died at midnight Wednesday, Feb. 27.

She was born Aug. 12, 1919, in Coplin Plantation, a daughter of S. Newell and Sarah (Cushman) Vaughan. She was raised in Stratton, graduated from Stratton High School and continued her education in Lewiston, where she studied to become a beautician.

On Aug. 23, 1942, she married Elwood Allen in Stratton. He predeceased her on Aug. 23, 2005. For many years she was self-employed as a beautician and traveled to people’s homes. She later worked in John Russell’s Store and Hawkes Pharmacy. She retired as Mt. Abram High School’s secretary.

She was a great cook and seamstress. She was active in Extension and was a 4-H Club leader for many years. She was an active member for more than 50 years of the Phillips Methodist Church and the women’s group of the church, serving in many capacities.

She was a wonderful mother, grandmother and wife and liked nothing better than spending time with her family. The last three years of her life, she made her home at Pinewood Terrace. The staff became her extended family and lovingly cared for her, bringing her much comfort and peace.

She is survived by a son, Vaughan Allen and his wife, Nancy, of Nashville, Tenn.; a daughter, Luralee Knapp and her husband, Maurice, of Farmington and Stuart, Fla.; grandchildren, Christopher Allen, Kimberly Allen, Amanda Allen, Andrew Allen, Jennifer Allen, Sarah Knapp and Benjamin Knapp; and a daughter-in-law, Marsha Allen of Nashville, Tenn.

She was predeceased by a son, Verne Allen; three brothers, Bernis, Gerald and Bruce Vaughan; and a sister, Lillian Goupil.