SPRUCE HEAD — Margaret H. Elwell, 87, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on April 5, 2016, following an extended period of declining health, at the Owls Head Homestead, where she has resided the past few months.

Born in Connecticut on Dec. 13, 1929, she was the daughter of Ernest F. and Helen E. Herbert Witty. At a young age Margaret moved to Rockland with her family, where her father served as light keeper at the Breakwater Lighthouse. Following the untimely death of her mother, Margaret, from the age of 3, was raised by her step-mother, Inza “Ma” Witty. She attended local schools.

On Feb. 1, 1947, Margaret married the “the-love-of-her-life,”  James C. Elwell in Rockland. Together they built their first home on Glen Street, where they lived several years. In the early 1950s, the house was moved to Spruce Head, where the Elwell's raised their family and resided all their married lives.

She was a devoted homemaker, wife and mother.

A longtime active member of the Spruce Head Community Church, she enjoyed attending many church functions and social events with her husband. Several times the couple traveled across country to visit their son in Washington State, and often enjoyed camping in their travel trailer.

She enjoyed a special friendship with Aggie Fish, as well as many 'Family' church members, who have looked out for her since her husband's passing.

Margaret was predeceased by her beloved husband, James C. Elwell Sr. in 2007; her brothers, Fred Witty, Louis, Fred and Francis Small; two sisters-in-law, Barbara Blastow, whom she considered a sister, and Barbara Witty; and a brother-in-law, Hollis Blastow.

She is survived by three sons, Alan R. Elwell of Spruce Head, James C. Elwell Jr. and his wife, Eiko, of Washington, and George M. Elwell of Augusta; five grandchildren, Lisa Hall and her husband, Larry, of Virginia Beach, Va., Jeff Elwell and his wife, Erin, of Spruce Head, Matthew Elwell and his wife, Ashley, of Rockport, Amber Elwell of Orono and Caleb Elwell of Spruce Head; several great-grandchildren, including David Hall, Dakota Elwell, and Jack and Josh Elwell; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, April 14 at 6 p.m. at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St. in Rockland. The Rev. Chris Nolan will officiate. Interment will follow in Ocean View Cemetery in South Thomaston.