Janice (Jan) Buffum of Kennebunk, passed away on Aug. 6 after a lifetime of smiles and laughter. She was a loving mother, a caring teacher, and a true friend to so many. She lived her life by the cross-stitched words of poet Sam Walter Foss hanging on her wall, “Let me live in my house by the side of the road and be a friend to man.”
Born in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, in 1952, to Jewell (Otis) and Rodney Weddle, Jan grew up in Hampton, New Hampshire, with her older brother Michael and younger sister Lisa. With her fur coats and flower pants she was very much a child of the ’60s, the counterculture’s messages of love and understanding forever shaping her path.
Jan attended White Pines College in Chester, New Hampshire from 1970-1972, graduating with an associate’s degree in social work. It was here where Jan met her future husband, David Buffum, and found love like no other. The two married in 1974, had two children, and settled down in Kennebunk.
A dedicated mother, with a passion for children, Jan went on to be a lifelong substitute teacher within the Kennebunk school district. Generations of “Bunkies” will remember “Mrs. Buffum” for her patience, positivity and understanding.
Jan’s door was always open, in good times and bad. Over the years a motley crew of characters found comfort in her presence. Whether you were looking for help with your schoolwork or simply looking to have fun, Jan was there. She volunteered her time liberally in local politics, led Girl Scout troops, coached softball, and taught numerous after-school programs in art, quilting, and sewing. Jan was a wizard with needle and thread, and her rustic folk art showcased her deep love for the Maine wilderness, especially Rangeley. Many a happy night was spent around a campfire, listening to the call of the loons, and wishing on the stars.
Jan was predeceased by her parents, husband, and sister. She is survived by her daughter, Hannah, and grandson, Otis; her son, Nicholas, daughter-in-law, Moriah, and granddaughter, Myra. By some unlikely twist of fate, her brother Michael outlasted her as well. Jan’s cousin Bill Rathman and his wife Laurie, and niece Arin Bradbury round out a small remaining family, augmented by a countless number of friends.
In Jan Buffum’s honor, we will meet at her “house by the side of the road” for one last gathering of miscreants to party in the boathouse the way she would have wanted. Join us on Saturday, Aug. 27 from 4 to 7 p.m. at 28 Sedgewood Drive in Kennebunk to celebrate and tell stories about a wonderful woman. Casual dress, food and refreshments will be served. Feel free to bring a dish Jan would like and reach out with questions to her son at nbuffum@gmail.com.
Comments are not available on this story.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
