Helen “Jean” (Fowlie) Brigance, 68, passed away on May 13, 2018 at her home in Woolwich, Maine. Jean was the daughter of Helen D. (Colby) Fowlie and Albert A. Fowlie.

Jean is survived by her husband and country dance partner, Dickey Leon Brigance, her brother Roy and his wife Kathy, and many nieces and nephews. Jean will be missed by many friends to whom she was incredibly loyal. Jean was predeceseased by her brothers Charles, Stephen and James Fowlie.

Jean grew up in Melrose and graduated from Melrose High. She earned an undergraduate degree from Defiance College in Ohio and a graduate degree from Boston College in Newton, Massachusetts.

Jean was a devoted Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments with a career spanning over 30 years. Her work began at Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown, Massachusetts.

After a move to Maine, Jean’s work continued through Catholic Charities serving students in public schools throughout Maine. She cherished the memories and successes of all her students and maintained lifelong relationships with many of them.

Jean shared her skills and talents generously with those who loved her. Many friends and family will treasure embroidered baby blankets, knit sweaters, and expertly caned rocking chairs. Jean was a member of the Wiscasset Yacht Club and served as the commodore for four years. She and Dick shared a love for country dancing and taught lessons in the Wiscasset area. She belonged to a knitting club in Boothbay Harbor. Jean was an animal lover and was rarely seen without a golden retriever at her side.

Services: A celebration of Jean’s life will be held at the Yacht Club at 2 Water Street Wiscasset, ME. Tentatively scheduled on June 23rd from 11:00 to 3:00 Speeches regarding her life will begin at 12:00.

To share your thoughts and condolences with the family, please visit www.desmondfuneralhomes.com.