1930 – 2016

AUGUSTA — Jeannine Valeda Houghton, “Jan,” 86, of Augusta passed away Wednesday, Dec. 7, after a 10-year battle with Alzheimer’s.

Born April 10, 1930, in Lewiston, she was the daughter of the late Conrad Gilbert and Electa (Dagneau) Gilbert Girardin.

Jan is survived by her children, James Houghton of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kathryn and her husband Nicholas Rende of Augusta; her three grandchildren, Alexander Rende, Erin Houghton and Michael Houghton; sister-in-law, Madeline Girardin; along with great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents; her son, Thomas Houghton of Lewiston and her stepbrother, Robert Girardin of Lewiston.

Jan was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Lewiston and was employed as a colorist for Tash Studios, a receptionist for Eastern Distributors and a filing clerk for Central Maine Medical Center’s Family Practice. Her hobbies included bowling in the Martindale Bowling League, sewing, gardening, ceramics and playing cards. She enjoyed attending the May Ball put on by the Patronesses of St. Mary’s Hospital and even took a turn as chairwoman of the event, something that meant a great deal to her. The many friends she made during her active years with the Lewiston High School Band Boosters lasted well beyond her daughter’s high school years.

While her declining years were eventually overtaken by the disease, the wonderful caring staff at Glenridge Long Term Care in Augusta made sure her time was filled with great compassion, laughter, singing and love.

Friends and family are invited to share their memories and offer their condolences by visiting Jan’s online guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.