CAMDEN — Bessie M. French, 81, passed on May 27, 2019 in Camden.

She was born on July 25, 1937 in Newburyport, MA and was the daughter of Percy and Hazel Lounsbury.

Bessie married John R. French Sr. on October 9, 1954 and together they had seven children. While her husband was the light house keeper, Bessie spent most of her time raising their children living on Curtis Island.

Bessie and her husband, John, spent many years traveling in their camper and enjoying every moment of it. She loved spending time outdoors tending to her flowers, vegetable gardens, and many walks on Annis Road with Brenda Berry.

Maintaining close ties with her friends, Bessie kept busy with outings and get-togethers. She enjoyed being on the side lines watching her grandchildren's sporting and school events.

Bessie loved spending time at the Camden public landing with her good friend Ronna Emery enjoying an ice cream watching the harbor. Her lunches at the John Street Methodist Church, Rockport Masonic Hall, and girls lunches out were especially fun for Bessie.

Bessie was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, John R. French Sr., 8 brothers and sisters, and many nieces and nephews.

Surviving are 7 children, John French, Jr. and his wife, Julie; James French and his wife, Betsy; Glen French and his wife, Sharon; Joseph French and his wife, Mary Lou; Kevin French; Marie Gilson and her husband, Robert; Cathy Pine and her husband, Steve; 11 grandchildren, Alexis, Casey, Marina, Rebecca, Lance, Joseph Jr., Laura, Robert John, Tyler, Christopher, William; 9 great-grandchildren; and several niece and nephews.

Private interment will be held in Oak Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to: Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County, PO Box 1294, Rockland, ME 04841, or to the John Street Methodist Church, 98 John Street, Camden, ME 04843. 

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com. 

Arrangements are with the Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 9 Mountain Street, Camden.