LEWISTON – Constance Whitmore, 85, passed away Saturday Sept. 9, 2023 at CMMC in Lewiston after a very short battle with Multiple Myeloma.

She was born in Lewiston Aug. 31, 1938, the daughter of Clarence and Ruth Swift. She was raised in Auburn and graduated from Edward Little in 1956. On Oct. 3, 1959, she married her true love, Peter, at St Joseph’s Church in Lewiston.

They moved to Bangor upon Pete’s return from Okinawa where he finished out his service career. Returning to Auburn, Connie began work at the law offices of Berman and Simmons, Lewiston, until the arrival of their daughter, Joanne. Connie then became the household manager and did so for the remainder of her career.

She was known for her cooking ability and was not allowed at a certain 4th of July party without her famous molasses whoopie pies. She was also the title holder of the annual dip off at camp. Mom was also a very talented seamstress and was the designer of many prom dresses, school wardrobes and many other articles. She was unwavering as an ambulance driver to the ER on many occasions for her son, nothing could surprise her.

She had an infectious smile and reserved nature. Her shyness growing up changed drastically when Pete’s involvement in UCT, politics and many Board positions put her in the spotlight. She handled it like life and just kept on going. These events allowed them to travel all over the U.S. and Canada where they met many great friends for life.

She took up golf later in life and it became her routine in Florida playing several days a week. She ran the Women’s league for a couple of years at Royal Palm Country Club and was active with many charity events. The friends she developed at the course have meant so much to her over the years, especially Maria who took such great care to watch after her.

The friends from her school years however, still held the most special place in her heart and on Aug. 5 this year, many showed up for an early surprise birthday party for her, she was truly touched. From motorhome trips, card games, UCT dances and conventions she led a very active social life.

Her family meant everything to her, and it was important that each summer she tried to get the entire family together at the lake. Her bond with her grandkids was magical. She couldn’t smile any bigger when she was with them, and they are very fortunate to have had so much time with her. Her granddaughter, Melissa, was her best friend and would always take time to fly down and take Gram out. Her grandson, Matt, lived with her for a few months last year enabling them to spend quality time together. Abby and Alyssa had the pleasure of spending her last birthday with her at the lake and spoiled her with cheesecake.

She was predeceased by her husband of 58 years, Peter; and her parents Clarence and Ruth Swift.

She is survived by her children, Joanne (Whitmore) Searles and her husband Raymond of Limerick, Pa., son, Jim Whitmore and his wife Carrie (Gelo), of Auburn; four grandchildren, Matt and Melissa Searles, Abby and Alyssa Whitmore; three grand dogs, Lexie, Nala and Jake and great-grand dog Piper; her brother, Robert Swift and his wife Ann of Hebron; nieces and nephews Catherine Provost, Jennifer (Swift) Feely, Lisa Provost, Randy Swift, Amy (Swift) Parker, Tom Swift, Charlie Swift; and many grandnieces and nephews.

Visitation will be at The Fortin Group, 217 Turner St., Auburn, Tuesday Sept. 19 from 4 to 7 p.m.

A Liturgy of the Word will be celebrated at The Fortin Group 217 Turner St., Auburn, Wednesday Sept. 20 at 10 a.m. followed by internment at Mt Auburn Cemetery on Summer Street in Auburn.

You may offer your condolences or share your memories at http://www.thefortingroupauburn.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Constance’s name to the Dempsey Center, 29 Lowell St., Lewiston, ME 04240

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