1927 – 2014

PORTLAND — Priscilla Thomas Rines, 87, of Smith Road in Gorham, died on Thursday, July 10, at a Portland hospital.

She was born in Mechanic Falls on Jan. 21, 1927, the daughter of Harry S. and Jessie (Pinkham) Thomas, and was raised and educated in Franklin County. Following a family tradition, Priscilla attended the University of Maine after high school. While there, she played the trumpet in the university band and was a member of the Delta Delta Delta Sorority. Priscilla graduated from the university in 1949, with a Bachelor of Science in home economics. Since then, she has remained a loyal supporter involved with several alumnae groups.

It was while attending college that she met her husband, Bernard P. Rines. Together, they raised three sons and were married for 64 years, before he predeceased her in April of this year. For those six decades, she was the force that allowed the family to thrive.

A longtime member of First Parish Congregational Church in Gorham, her time there spanned over seven ministers. She was involved in many programs, especially church music. As church historian, choir member and substitute organist, she knew every hymn in the book.

Priscilla had only lived in Gorham since 1953, but knew more town history than many lifelong residents. Researching Gorham history was one of the things she and her husband enjoyed together. She always took pride in knowing what was going on. She never traveled far, but enjoyed rides around town and exploring some of Maine’s back roads in pursuit of history.

Over the years, she was actively involved with the town of Gorham, whether it was with the Baxter Library, serving on a building committee, the Planning Board or the school board. She was a member and past president of the Maine Association of Women’s Club and a member of Gorham’s Annie Louise Carey Music Club.

Having a love of music from a young age, she was a student of the piano, organ, violin and trumpet, which was self-taught with the help of her older brother, Harry.

She embraced emailing in her 80s as a way of staying connected with her many friends, some from her childhood. Over her lifetime, Priscilla was a compassionate humanitarian, who would always look out for the welfare of others.

She enjoyed quiet time with a good book, had a special love of cats and was an avid Red Sox fan.

Survivors include two sons, Dale and Stephen Rines; a daughter-in-law, Betty Rines; and one grandson, Nathaniel Rines, all of Gorham.

One son, Mathew T. Rines, also predeceased her in 2007.

The family would like to thank the staff at Gorham House, Windsor and Cambridge wings, and also the Maine Medical Center CICU and emergency units.

For those wishing to leave a message or condolence, please visit our website at www.dolbyfuneralchapels.com.

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