CUSHING — Maitland R. Prior, 76, died peacefully July 18, 2014, surrounded by his family while holding his wife's hand at his home in Cushing. He served in the U.S. Army testing equipment in Alaska.

Maitland worked as a clam digger and primarily as a lobsterman for many years. He also worked as a carpenter and boat builder. He worked for Sam Olson on many projects over the years. He also worked for the Maine State Ferry Service and was an experienced seaman. Maitland lived in Cushing most of his life.

He was the best man and father he knew how to be. He was always present in the lives of his children. He was their rock.

He was predeceased by his son, Kenneth Prior; his parents, Roland and Helen Smith Prior; and by two brothers, Cortland and Harland Prior.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lois "Penny" Prior of Cushing; his sons, Paul Prior and his wife, Deborah, of Waldoboro, and Donald Prior and his wife, Joyce, of Cushing; his daughter, Pamela Prior and her husband, Leigh Barnard, of Cushing; his sister, Mildred Eaton of Cushing; his grandchildren, Shane Prior and his companion, Michelle Creamer, of Cushing, Heath Prior of Cushing, Luke Poland and his wife, Amanda, of Cushing, Lisa Prior and her boyfriend, Joe Carballo, of Rockland, Drew Prior of Nebraska and Colby Black of Maine; his great-grandchildren, the lights of his life, Alaina Prior of Cushing, Lauren Prior of Cushing, Blane Poland of Cushing, Dylan Poland of Cushing, Owen Carballo of Rockland and Myli Black of Waldoboro; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and his former daughter-in-law, Judi Prior of Cushing.

A private family graveside service will be held at Fairview Cemetery in Warren on July 24. All are welcome to join the family for a reception Thursday, July 24 at 2:30 p.m. at Maitland's daughter, Pamela's home at 25 Prior Lane in Cushing. He was here, now he's gone.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Maitland's memory to St. Jude Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hall Funeral Home and Cremation Services.