Jean S. Ribas

WINDHAM — Jean S. Ribas, 93, died on Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2011, at Country Village Assisted Living in Casco.

She was born in Milton, Mass., the daughter of George and Jane Shand. Jean Phyllis Shand grew up in Milton, where she attended school and graduated from Milton High.

In 1936, Jean married Edmund K. Ribas. They had been married for 67 years when he predeceased her in 2003. Throughout their years together, they moved many times. In 1943, they moved to West Baldwin. In 1944, during World War II, they spent a year in Bremerton, Wash., then returned to Maine and purchased an automotive/marine business in Sebago. Jean was very involved in management of the business and ordering parts. They later expanded and she opened one of the first laundries in Sebago.

Jean was very active in the community and local activities. She was a member of the Circle and did volunteer work for the Sebago Center Community Church. She cherished the friends and people that she worked with. She spent many hours knitting and crocheting items to raise funds for the Church and Circle. She did this until the age of 90 when arthritis in her hands slowed her down.

Jean also had a great love for Maine and the outdoors. She was an avid gardener, planting and growing beautiful vegetables and flowers. In her younger years, she was only one of a few women to become a Maine Guide.

Jean will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Surviving are her four children, Gale Lovine of Topsham, Donna Watson of Sebago, Edmund Ribas of Otisfield and Kenward Ribas of Bridgton; nine grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

At her request, there will be no visiting hours or service. Arrangements are by Hall Funeral Home, Casco.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Sebago Center Community Church.