EAST WATERBORO — Linda E. Stackpole, 67, the loving wife of Norman and beloved mother of Bill and Steven, died unexpectedly on Nov. 18, 2014 at her home.
Linda was born in Biddeford on April 24, 1947, the daughter of Richard and Muriel Morse.
Linda graduated from Old Orchard Beach High School and met her future husband, Norman Stackpole, while he was on leave from his tour of duty in Vietnam. She and Norman were riding in the back seat of her younger brother Bill’s car when he realized that Norman was the drill sergeant who “straightened him out” with the butt end of his rifle. This was after Bill had pointed his rifle at him. This was the beginning of the stories and memories that he and Linda made together.
In 1975, Linda and her family moved to Waterboro, and she became the adopted “mom” to many of the kids in the neighborhood. Her home was open to all, and she mentored and reassured many of the young mothers that they were doing things the right way for their children.
Linda was one of the founding members of TOPS for the Waterboro area. She held many leadership positions within the group. It was at times more of a social outing with the “girls” than a meeting. She was an avid Hallmark and Sam’s Club member. She collected beautiful gifts and was known by the store employees on a first-name basis. Linda was always interested in their lives, their children and, of course, their animals. Linda and her family were active members of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Waterboro.
Linda and Norman made a great team when they made wooden figurines; Linda would paint them with lifelike animation and detail. At the craft shows or at their home yard sales, Linda would willingly give them away. This generous spirit prevailed throughout her life.
Linda will be dearly missed by her family and the many friends who were honored to know her.
She was preceded in death by: her parents; and her sister, Dorothy Aitkin.
She is lovingly survived by: her husband of 47 years, Norman Stackpole of East Waterboro; her two sons, Bill Stackpole and Judy East Waterboro and Steven Stackpole and fiancée Christine of Limerick; her two brothers, William Morse of Saco and Scott Morse Worcester, Massachusetts; her sister, Gail Card of Old Orchard Beach; her four grandchildren, Chad Coleman, Casey Emery, and Everett and Josh Allen; several nieces and nephews; and her beloved dog, Jill.
An ice cream social will be held in the spring in her memory. It will be a time to share stories, memories and play some of Linda’s favorite music. To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.autumngreenfuneralhome.com. In Linda’s memory, memorial donations may be made to the Animal Welfare Society, P.O. Box 43, West Kennebunk, ME 04094. The Autumn Green Funeral Home is respectfully handling arrangements.
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