She was born December 24, 1926, in Rumford, Maine, the daughter of Ezra and Flora (Jordan) Holt. She and her twin brother, Eugene, were the first twins born at Rumford Community Hospital.
She attended Rumford schools, graduating from Stephens High School in June 1946. On October 6, 1946 she married Donald A. Townsend of Mexico, Maine. They resided in the Smithcrossing section of Rumford. Mr. Townsend died in December 1984. On February 14, 1987 she married Roland C. Belanger of Rumford. They resided on Somerset Street in Rumford.
Jean was active in many organizations, including the Smithcrossing Mother’s Club, the Mt. Zircon Chapter # 142, Order of the Eastern Star, the Women’s Fellowship Club at the Mexico Green Church, and the Class of “46” Club. She enjoyed needlework, including sewing and knitting, and was an expert at cross-stitch. She made many beautiful creations for family and friends, and also donated her work for fundraising. More than anything, she enjoyed being on the go.
Her devoted husband Roland of Rumford and her beloved sister Faye (Holt) Storer of Ticonderoga, New York survive. She is also survived by three sons, Terald and Angelina (Juarez) Townsend of Connecticut, John and Sue Townsend of Topsham, James Townsend of Auburn; three daughters, Nancy and Ralph Johnson of Dixfield, Sally and Ron Theriault of Rumford, and Peggy Sue Townsend of Rumford, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and extended family.
She was predeceased by her parents, brother William Holt, twin brother Eugene Holt, sister Elaine McInnis, and two sons, Eric (Donny) Townsend and Robert Townsend.
The family wishes to extend gratitude to the staff at Rumford Community Home who provided loving care and attention, as well as to Dr. Thomas Deluca, who was Jean’s physician and who provided excellent and compassionate care.
At Jean’s request, burial in Demerritt Cemetery, West Peru, Maine will be at the convenience of the family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 12 Noon Monday, September 9, 2013 at Parish of the Holy Savior, St. Athanasius — St. John Church, 126 Maine Ave., Rumford, ME. There are no calling hours.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make donations in her memory to the Employee Activity Fund, c/o Rumford Community Home, 11 J.F. Kennedy Lane, Rumford, ME 04276 or to the Mexico Congregational Church, 163 Main Street, Mexico, Maine 04257. Arrangements are under the care of the Meader & Son Funeral Home, 3 Franklin Street, P.O. Box 537, Rumford, ME 04276.
Friends are invited to share their thoughts, condolences and memories online at www.meaderandson.com.
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