FARMINGTON — Melvina Clark Souther, 89, a resident of Souther Road, Livermore Falls, and the daughter of George Albert and Ella (Hunter) Clark, went to join them at 8:50 p.m. on Oct. 23, at Orchard Park Nursing Home, in the presence of a loving grandson and his wife.

She was born Jan. 8, 1922, at the family home in East Livermore. She was class secretary and a top 10 graduate in the LFHS, Class of 1940. She said, “yes” to Leroy’s question under the proposal tree still standing on the family property. They were married on Oct. 13, 1940, by the Rev. Stuart Kinley and for 71 years, she was his loving companion, mother of four and like a mother to countless others.

Her heart, arms and home were open to many. She was active in her community; and she was best known for her biscuits at Grange, church and fireman suppers. She led 4-H, taught Sunday school at and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Livermore Falls; she was active in Extension, Grange, and forestry meetings. She was a friendly face at Wilson’s Dollar Store for 15 years in the fabric and toy department.

Surviving is her loving husband, E. Leroy Souther; sons, Clark and wife, Helen, Wilbur, Waldo, Ernie and wife, Rhonda, all of Livermore Falls; 14 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by all her siblings; daughter-in-law, Patty Souther; granddaughter, Lisa Souther; and an infant granddaughter, Julie Souther.

She expanded her heart, as she became wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother with each feeling and knowing her love. In the words of her husband, “Those hands have helped and comforted many, many people.”

The family of Melvina wishes to express heart felt thanks to each and every one who transported her to dialysis and other acts of kindness. We would appreciate your prayers in her final journey.

Messages of condolence may be sent to www.finleyfuneralhome.com.