MONROE — Evelyn C. Porter, 93, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on December 10, 2020, at her home in Monroe.

She was born on November 29, 1927, in Monroe, Maine, daughter of Jasper Curtis and Mildred (Smith-Curtis) Benner.

In addition to her parents, Evelyn was predeceased by her husband Francis, sisters Arline and Janice, brothers Albert and Ernest, and beloved son Robert (Bobby).

Evelyn is survived by one sister, Joyce; two sisters-in-law, Ann and Brenda; six devoted sons, Charles, Brian, Michael, Gary, Dwayne, and Dennis; one very dear forever daughter-in-law Becky; nine grandchildren, Corey, Kari, Brandy, Richard (Ricky), Gary, Maegan, Daniel, Robert (Bobby), and Rochelle; 20 very special great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews, friends near and far, the Monroe Community Church members, and her FLT Loyal Rebekah sisters.

Evelyn grew up in Monroe, Maine, where she lived a majority of her life. After marrying her husband Francis Porter, they briefly lived in Winterport where they started a family. They eventually moved back to Monroe where they filled their home with seven sons.

Francis passed away at age 49, leaving Evelyn who was only 44 to raise the four youngest boys alone. She was a strong woman who worked tirelessly to carry on and make ends meet through various jobs, including the Stenson Sardine packing plant, Clements Chicks, and American Felt Company. Later in life, she attended Husson University and graduated on the Dean’s list at age 62. After graduating, she worked at the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles until she decided to finally retire at the young age of 78.

After retirement, Evelyn became what so many call a “snowbird” enjoying many winters in Florida with her friends. During her days in Maine, she especially loved spending time with her family and close friends, knitting, and crocheting gifts for everyone. She loved to go to dances, and being active in her community with the Loyal Rebekah sisters, as well as being a member of the Monroe Community Church.

When she actually sat still, Evelyn was an avid reader, many books more than once. She enjoyed the flowers in her yard and watching the birds at her feeders. Known by so many as “Mother” or “Gram Porter,” Evelyn always loved to have a house full of people where anyone and everyone were welcome.

She loved to cook and bake, and especially host all the family holidays and gatherings; there was always room at her table for an extra person. She was known by all who knew her to always have a full cookie jar or a pie on the counter, just in case someone stopped by.

Evelyn loved her family unconditionally, and was always teased that no matter what the circumstance, she often turned a “blind eye,” accepting all that touched her life. She was a fabulous lady and will be missed by so many. She certainly earned her wings of gold!

A special thank you to Gail from Beacon Hospice and Ruth from Hope, Health & Healing for their kind hearts, taking such good care of Evelyn, lifting her spirits and helping the family in her final days.

There will be a graveside service in late Spring 2021, details will be announced at a later date.