AUBURN — Rhonda Elizabeth Poisson, 57, of Auburn passed away early Tuesday, Dec. 14, with her loving husband at her side. She had been fighting a courageous 4½ year battle against ovarian cancer.

She was born Aug. 8, 1953, in a lighthouse in Rockland, a daughter of the late Alton and Marie (Bailey) McAllister. She married John W. Poisson from Turner, and raised their family in Auburn. Rhonda worked over the years at Philips Elmet, Cross Insurance and the Thayer Corporation.

Rhonda loved her family first and foremost, and many of her cherished memories came from taking trips together as a family. She became a consummate snorkeler taking many trips to Florida, and throughout the Caribbean on Windjammer cruises. She also enjoyed cruising in John’s 1966 Chevelle, particularly their trip down Route 66.

She enjoyed being out in nature as much as possible: snowmobiling for more than 30 years, snowshoeing at the family camp in Andover, hiking and walking her granddogs on Mount Apatite. In the summers, Rhonda spent many hours at Bear Pond with family on the beach or in her kayak and in Harpswell on the ocean in either her kayak or the Sea Dancer.

Rhonda had a fun-loving nature and gave of herself unconditionally. She was willing to give almost anything a try, even if it scared her a little, including a biplane ride, keg stand, hot air balloon ride, and trying out Scuba.

She is survived by her husband of 38 years, John W. Poisson of Auburn; their two sons, Jarrett J. Poisson and his wife, Jacolyn, of Poland and Travis J. Poisson and his wife. Nichole, of Auburn; her mother, Marie McAllister of Auburn; her four granddogs, Chewy, Marley, Emmett and Clara; and two cats.

She was predeceased by her father, Alton McAllister.

The family would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to all the caring staff at the Auburn Hospice House, who helped look after Rhonda in her final days.

Condolences may be expressed online at FuneralAlternatives.net.