Patricia L. Edwards

Yarmouth - Patricia “Pat” Edwards was born on May 5, 1933 in New Gloucester, Maine, to Ronald and Blanche Farwell. Pat spent her early years on the family’s farm and attended New Gloucester schools. She excelled as a student, participating in pageants and student government. Pat graduated from New Gloucester High School in 1955, where she was class president and salutatorian. During her later high school years, Earle Edwards moved into his sister’s farm, directly across the street from Pat’s. The two formed an immediate connection, and their engagement quickly followed. They married on September 17, 1955. The couple relocated briefly to New Jersey, where Earle was stationed in the Navy. They soon returned to Maine and purchased a small home in North Yarmouth. In 1957, the couple welcomed their first son, Jeff, and in 1959, they welcomed Dave. While Earle worked, Pat balanced the challenges of housekeeping and raising their boys. In 1964, Pat and Earle purchased a farmhouse in North Yarmouth — adding renovations to their already busy life. The new home quickly became a small farm, and gardening and caring for livestock became routine. In 1967, their third son, Dan, was born. In 1972, Earle earned his teaching degree and began a thirty-year career as a teacher and administrator in South Portland schools. As the boys grew, Pat took the opportunity to pursue her own career, culminating with a long-term role in Portland’s Public Health division. In 1977, Pat and Earle built a new home adjacent to the farm. They continued to maintain beautiful gardens and grounds, and when their boys moved on, they seized the newfound freedom to travel — growing ever closer together. In the late 2010s, Pat was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and Earle retired to provide care. In June of 2020, Pat suffered a severe stroke, requiring a move to residential memory care. Earle visited Pat daily. Despite her declining language and awareness, Earle’s visits were long, continuing until he passed away on November 8, 2023. Pat’s decline accelerated until she passed away on her birthday, May 5, 2024. Pat is survived by her brother, Jim (and wife Barbara), sons Jeffrey (and wife Beth), David (and wife Maria), and Dan; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. A celebration of life will take place at her home on 147 New Gloucester Road on Sunday, July 14, from 3:00 to 6:00 pm.