PORTLAND — Flora Marie Jonaitis, 77, passed away to her blessed eternal life on Friday, March 30, in Portland, with her family by her side. Marie most recently lived in South Portland after having lived and worked in the Brunswick area for many years.

Her life began on Sept. 18, 1940, the youngest of nine children born to Flora (Bushley) and William Burgess, in Frye. After graduating from Stephens High School in 1958 in Rumford, she married and raised a loving family. She was the compass of the family and modeled for her children the heights that they could reach.

Marie was a talented and educated woman. Her homemade baked goods and special homemade breads and rolls were devoured at every event. Marie enjoyed knitting and crocheting throughout her life, creating many afghans, sweaters and baby blankets which those people who were fortunate enough to receive them have treasured them to this day.

While living in Rumford, she was active in the Hospital Fair and DARE awareness. Marie attained degrees from Husson College, including a B.A. in business administration and accounting and an M.A. in accounting. She taught classes for Husson College and was a chaplain for the Elks Lodge in Brunswick. She was employed by Rumford Community Hospital, CMMC and BNAS.

A loving grandmother of seven with another grandson and great-granddaughter on the way in April, Marie is survived by her children, Louise Jonaitis and partner, Paul Kelly, of Brunswick, Linda Jonaitis of Lovell, Thomas, Michael and Christopher Jonaitis of South Portland; and her grandchildren, Michael Jr. and Brandon Jonaitis, Austin, Sawyer and Levi Gloden, Daniel Jonaitis-Schwind and Allison Cormier. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

She was predeceased by her parents, and all of her brothers and sisters.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hobbsfuneral.com.