1919 – 2013

AUBURN — Rowena H. Reed, 94, of Strong, died peacefully on Thursday, May 23,  at the Hospice House in Auburn.

She was born April 9, 1919, in Phillips, a daughter of Clarence and Patia (Moores) Huff and was a graduate of Strong High School in the Class of 1937. On April 21, 1938, she married the love of her life, Albert Reed.

Rowena was a dedicated member of the Strong United Methodist Church, the Women’s Group, the Strong American Legion Auxiliary and a past member of the Oppalunski Chapter Order of the Eastern Star.

She is fondly remembered for her hospitality, hosting large family gatherings which featured delicious meals and fun storytelling. Her ready smile greeted anyone arriving at her door. She delighted in many fishing trips with Albert, watching grandchildren’s sporting events and participating in the 4-H Steer Club. She was an excellent seamstress and enjoyed crocheting and knitting, always providing something for others. Rowena and Albert devoted their lives to family. Together, they created cradles, Canadian rockers, quilts and countless other items still gracing many homes today. Many hands have been warmed by their mittens.

She is survived by her two sons, Delbert and his wife, Nan, Gilbert and his wife, Joan, all of Strong; daughter, Elaine Allen and her husband, Lendell, of Strong; 14 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; a brother, Robert Huff and his wife, Nancy, of Pennsylvania; a sister-in-law, Barbara Allen of Connecticut; and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband; a sister, Mildred; brothers, Kendall and Burchard; and a great-grandson, Tucker Holbrook.

Rowena’s family appreciates the compassionate and skilled care provided by Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice Staff in both Wilton and the Hospice House in Auburn.

Condolences, memories and tributes may be shared on her memorial wall at www.wilesrc.com.