To the Editor:

A heartfelt thank you! In May of 2022, my brother Dean was placed on the liver transplant list. We were hopeful and positive. Prayers came pouring in. The community came together.

Bruce and Shirley Powell from the Stonybrook Store and Campground opened their doors and hosted a benefit “Beans for Dean” supper for Dean and his wife Janina to help with medical bills and the cost of running back and forth to The Laney Clinic in Burlington, MA.

The Benefit was a huge success. The love of the small community was obvious by the outpouring of not only money, but it raised Dean’s spirits knowing how many people cared about him. The number of people working on the benefit was absolutely heartwarming.

Unfortunately, Dean passed away on February 5, 2023. Again, Bruce and Shirley Powell and their amazing staff put together a nice meal for our family in honor of Dean.

Jane Goddard works at Stony Brook, and she is an Angel on Earth. She was a huge part of the “Beans for Dean” benefit and “Remembrance Lunch” She also dropped off meals to Dean and Janina. She kept an eye on their house. She was a huge support to me this whole time. She was a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear to just to listen, and a hug when I needed it. Jane, you forever have a special place in my heart. Thank you!

On March 18, there will be a “Celebration of Life” for Dean at the Newry Grange Hall Rt 26 Newry at 1 p.m. A lot of people have offered to make food. The Stony Brook Store and Nick Chapman are ‘heading up’ a food list for the Celebration of Life.

Nick Chapman (207-515-2134) and his wife Tasha Chapman (207-515-1525) are organizing the “Convoy” on the day of the Celebration of Life. Thank you, Nick, for all you have done. Thank you so much, Bruce and Shirley, and “The Stony Brook Crew” for all you have done!

Lori McPherson

The Gross Family

Rumford