Norma Johnston

Norma W. Johnston, 82, a longtime resident of Bridgton, went to be with the Lord on Feb. 10, 2013, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Norma was born May 15, 1930, in Vineyard Haven, Mass., attended schools on Martha’s Vineyard and later attended Framingham State Teachers College before marrying Frank Johnston on June 9, 1951, in Somerville, Mass.

Norma’s life was long and rewarding. Her love for her family was exemplified in the many things she enjoyed doing for them, including preparing wonderful meals for large family gatherings and reunions, making quilts for all her children and grandchildren and her special love, knitting. Family members, friends and needy people in the community could count on her homemade sweaters, mittens and afghans to keep them warm.

She volunteered at Newton Wellesley Hospital and enjoyed attending Christian Women’s Bible studies while living in Massachusetts. Her faith remained strong after moving to Maine and continued to be an important part of her life. Perhaps one of her best gifts was her ability to listen and be there for others in need.

Norma was a loving and caring mother, grandmother and wife, who will be missed.

Surviving are her husband of 61 years, Frank Johnston of Bridgton; four children, Jennifer Mangan of Fayetteville, Ga., Sandra Hollander of New Smyrna Beach, Fla., F. Torrance Johnston of Bridgton and Mark Johnston, also of Bridgton; 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; and a brother, Hershel West, of Vineyard Haven, Mass.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Beacon Hospice, 245 Center Street, Suite 10A, Auburn ME 04210.