RUMFORD — Frances J. Thurston of Rumford passed away Wednesday, Feb. 22, at the Rumford Community Home.

She was born Dec. 22, 1933, to Lucienne and Phillip Welch of Dixfield. She was married to Norman Thurston of Rumford, from 1955 to the time of his death in 2008. Frances worked for Thriftway Grocery Store and Bennet Shoe. Later, she would be known for years as the “Avon Lady” when she made many lasting friends. She was a past member of Rumford American Legion Ladies Auxiliary.

Survivors include son, Kirk Thurston and wife, Tricia, of Rumford; daughters, Pauline Thurston of Brunswick and Joanne Gaudet and fiancé, Ken Chapman, of Rumford; sister, Juanita Briggs and husband, Merrill of Standish; six grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband; parents; daughter, Barbara Thurston; sisters, Barbara Welch, Phylis Gouin and husband, Don, and Marilyn Ellis and husband, Edward.

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