POLAND SPRING — Pauline Elaine (Polly) Stepp, 93, of 151 Watson Road, Poland Spring, went to be with the Lord on Friday, Jan. 5. She was born April 18, 1924, in Augusta, to Minnie Curtis (Benner) and Alfred Clifton Eastman Jr.
Polly met and married her husband, Willis (“Red”) Stepp, when Red was serving in the Navy in WWII. Polly, who was a “Rosie the Riveter,” met Red when the destroyer he was on was stationed in Portland. They were married June 9, 1943. He preceded her in death in 2011, after 68 years of marriage. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; younger sister, Avis (Skippy) Stevenson; and her younger brother, Alfred Clifton Eastman III.
Polly is survived by her five children: Sandra (Vince) Ciufia, Monterey, Calif.; James (Ann) Stepp, Casco; Susan (Jim) Smith, Newark, Del.; Pamela (Todd Grinnell) Stepp, Chicago, Ill.; and Stephen Stepp, Navarre, Fla. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
Polly’s life and love revolved around her family and her faith. A born-again Christian, Polly was a faithful member of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church in Portland for over 30 years. After retiring to Poland Spring, Polly and Red became members of the Poland Baptist Church, where they attended as their health permitted.
Polly was known for her generous heart, loving dedication to her family and friends, laughter, compassion and kindness. She was a homemaker and beautician who would tell you, “I’m never without work,” and she truly always worked! Even her idea of recreation would be considered work to many. She was a passionate berry-picker (any kind of berries), and would pick volumes, then come home to make pies and preserves. She was well-known for her banana bread muffins and her Jell-O molds, which she shared with everyone. Her handshake was so firm and intentional, her nickname was “PollyGrip!” She was intelligent and wise, had an incredible work ethic, and endless integrity. She was a wonderful mother and role model and we will all miss her.
Pauline E. Stepp
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