VINALHAVEN — Teresa Woodcock Ames, 58, died unexpectedly Feb. 21, 2015, of natural causes at her home. Born May 11, 1956, in Vinalhaven, she was the daughter of Edwin Eugene and Emily E. (Allen) Woodcock, and attended Vinalhaven High School.

Teresa worked for the Elisofon family, long-time summer residents of Vinalhaven. She was far more than a property caretaker to the family. She opened, closed, cleaned and helped maintain the homes for more than 30 years. She was more than an employee; she was a most trusted and loved friend (a "wild sister") to Elin Elisofon.

On April 12, 2006, she married Brian E. Ames. They had each lost a long-time life partner to cancer, and the Vinalhaven community was very happy for them to find solace, companionship and fun together. Teresa was known as a talented cook of Maine's favorite foods. She cooked at Candle Pin Lodge, and then for nearly 20 years worked and cooked breakfast at SurfSide Restaurant. The local fishermen got a hearty breakfast and a wise remark to start their day's work.

In addition to cooking she enjoyed gardening and spending time and having fun with her granddaughters, Hannah and Madison. Kids gravitated to her and she loved every minute of it for at least two generations of children.

Teresa was a beloved member of the Vinalhaven community. She was known for always smiling, looking for fun or a joke - not a soul can remember a harsh word or bad mood from her, ever. Teresa was a most generous and loyal friend to have. In times of need, she was always there to take friends to medical appointments on the mainland, help with the end of a life, and of course, cook.

Surviving is her husband, Brian E. Ames of Vinalhaven; her son, Freeman Woodcock and Melody Godin of South Thomaston; her stepchildren, Shelly A. Price of Bar Harbor, Sonya L. Ames of Bloomington, Ind., and Shannon L. Ames of Sullivan; two grandchildren, Hannah Woodcock and Madison Woodcock; her brother, Eugene Woodcock; her sister, Doreen Jones, both of Vinalhaven; her close friends, Lida Romer and Donna Webster; an aunt, Marion Woodcock; a niece; four nephews; and her long-time companion, the cat that moved in and wisely decided to stay, Stray.

She was predeceased by her sister, Delores “Dolly” Philbrook.

If desired, memorial gifts may be made in her memory to the Pope Memorial Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 1294, Rockland, ME 04841.

Arrangements are with Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service.

At Teresa's request, there will be no service