Ellen "Sue" Fernald

Portland – Ellen “Sue” Fernald, 74, passed away peacefully at home on January 10, 2026.

She was born in Portland, the daughter of the late Allen and Madeline Campbell. Sue grew up in Portland and graduated from Portland High School in 1970. A natural caregiver, she devoted much of her life to caring for others, both within her family and through private home care. Helping people was not just something Sue did, it was who she was. Even those she had just met felt comfortable with her, often confiding in her because of her kindness, patience, and ability to truly listen. She had a gift to gab and would joke around with everyone.

Sue met the love of her life, Carroll, in September 1970. Their relationship endured two years of long distance while Carroll served in the military, and they were married on September 23, 1972. They spent most of their lives in Maine, with some time in Florida along the way. Together they raised two children, Lee and Michelle, whom Sue would do anything for, from hosting regular family dinners to catching wild pitches in the schoolyard. As a family, they enjoyed road trips to visit loved ones, trips to theme parks, and even multi-day drives to Florida. Sue and Carroll were especially proud parents and grandparents to four remarkable young people, James, Hannah, Madeline, and Flynn. Together, Sue and Carroll built a life rooted in devotion, generosity, and compassion.

Sue was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. She loved sharing meals, playing games, and supporting her children and grandchildren at their sporting events. She also had a competitive streak of her own. During her bowling years, she carried a high handicap and delighted in beating bowlers with higher averages. She earned trips to bowl in national tournaments, including a True Amateur Tournament in Las Vegas, perfectly suited to both the bowler and gambler in her. She also enjoyed the camaraderie and competition of bingo, slot machines, and playing poker at home.

Sue was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend with a mischievous sense of humor, balanced by humility, caring nature, and deep gratitude. She was always willing to go out of her way to help anyone in need, whether family, friends, or strangers, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her. Lyrics from one of her favorite songs and some of her final words beautifully reflect how she showed up in the world: “I’ll be there anytime you need me by your side,” and, “It was nice to spend time with you and talk to you. Let’s do this again. And again, again, and again. Thanks for everything.”

She was predeceased by her son, C. Lee Fernald II. She is survived by her loving husband, Carroll Fernald; her daughter, Michelle Hawkes, and her husband, Stephen; four cherished grandchildren, James, Hannah, Madeline, and Flynn; and her brother, Charles Campbell.

A visiting hour will be held from 11:00am-12:00pm on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the new Conroy-Tully Walker Cremation, Funeral & Gathering Center, 300 Allen Ave, Portland. A funeral service will immediately follow at 12:00pm at the funeral home. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery, South Portland.