1949 – 2014

AUGUSTA — Brenda Joyce Estes, 65, of Sumner, passed away on Monday, Sept. 1, in Augusta, with loving family by her side, following an unexpected and courageous battle with cancer.

Brenda was born on April 21, 1949, a daughter of Richard L. and Eleanor (Colby) Bessey of Buckfield. Brenda was a graduate of Buckfield High School; a former member of Buckfield Community Church, where she played the organ and piano; and a 4-H scholar and once earned the title “Miss Apple Blossom Queen.”

Brenda also graduated from Mr. Bernard’s School of Hair Fashion. She owned and operated BF Hair Fashions in South Paris with Fayleen McKeen.

Brenda lived her life for her family. She was always known to have a quiet, yet wise counsel, which easily made her loved by everyone she met. A well-known cook, she baked pies and breads for local stores as well as baking and decorating wedding cakes. She was a brilliant seamstress, and could easily crochet and knit.

She thoroughly enjoyed fishing and bird hunting, and was also a member of the Biggest Bucks of Maine Club. She loved spending time with friends and family, feeding the birds, growing flowers and gardening. In addition, she devoted many years to driving and showing draft ponies at local fairs.

Most recently, she worked at Hungry Hollow Store in West Paris, from which she retired.

Brenda was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother and resident of Sumner for 42 years. Brenda married Wayne S. Estes on Oct. 2, 1970.

Surviving are her husband, Wayne, of Sumner; her daughter, Tammy Estes, of Augusta; two treasured granddaughters, Samantha Akers and Amy Roberts of Augusta; her mother, Eleanor Austin, of Buckfield; sister, Sheila Kyllonen, of Hebron; sister, Joan Austin, of Buckfield; a brother, Brad Austin, of Somerville; and countless sisters- and brothers-in-law and nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her father, Richard Bessey; and her stepfather, Willis Austin.

Condolences may be expressed at www.chandlerfunerals.com.