SPRUCE HEAD ISLAND — Phyllis M. Sturges, 88, affectionately known as “Nannie” by her grandchildren, died peacefully April 12, 2015, surrounded by family, at Country Manor Nursing Home in Coopers Mills.

Born in Warren on Jan. 25, 1927, she was the daughter of Leroy and Lina Merry Smith. Educated locally, she was a graduate of Warren High School.

Following high school Phyllis worked for a few years at the local fish factories. On March 2, 1947, she married Melton Sturges Jr. in Warren. Together they resided in Spruce Head all of their married life. The two operated a farm there where they boarded sulky horses. Each horse held a special place in Phyllis' heart and she cared for them greatly.

Always active, Phyllis loved roller-skating. While in high school she enjoyed skating two to three times a week; and even went with her daughter in the late 1980s. She was an avid reader and was never without a new book.

In recent years Phyllis enjoyed living on Spruce Head Island with her daughter. She could be seen each day taking a walk around the island.

Predeceased by her husband; and a daughter, Carol Trout; Phyllis is survived by her daughter, Janet Godin and her husband, Arnold, of Spruce Head; her grandchildren, Eric Godin and his wife, Eileen, Kyle Godin, and Melody Godin Knowlton; her great-grandchildren, Dylan Knowlton, Marina Godin, Connor Knowlton and Nicholas Godin; and one cousin, Edna Nelson of Union.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at Ocean View Cemetery in South Thomaston.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home.