OWLS HEAD — Jennie Witham, 99, died peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, Saturday, May 21, 2022, just two months shy of her 100th birthday, at the Sussman Hospice House in Rockport.

Born in Rockland, July 29, 1922, she was the eldest of five children born to Eugene and Bertha Lawry Thompson. Educated locally, she was a graduate of Rockland High School, Class of 1942. Shortly after graduation, Jennie married Clayton E. Witham on October 2, 1943 in Rockland. The couple made their home in Rockland before settling in Owls Head in 1967 where they resided together until Mr. Witham’s passing in 2009.

As a young woman, Jennie was known to be quite the tap dancer. Along with her sister, they enjoyed dancing and roller-skating.

When she wasn’t busy caring for her family as a homemaker, Jennie could be found working as a stern-woman for her husband while lobstering for many years. Throughout their marriage, Jennie and Clayton enjoyed traveling, taking many trips, driving across country, and visiting Mexico, Hawaii, and Acapulco to name a few.

On one of their trips, they were pleased to have brought back a baseball signed by the famed Jackie Robinson for their son, Gene. For many years they spent winters in Florida, driving down the coast each year, often accompanied by Clayton’s parents.

Later in life, Jennie enjoyed knitting, making many beautiful gifts for her family.

Predeceased by her beloved husband, Clayton, as well as all four of her siblings; Jennie is survived by her sons, Elmer R. Witham and his wife Sheila, Eugene C. Witham and his wife Nathalie all of Owls Head; a sister-in-law Esther “Tootie” Thompson of Rockport; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.

A private committal service will be held at a later date where Jennie will be laid to rest beside her husband at Achorn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sussman Hospice House, 40 Anchor Drive, Rockport, Maine 04856.

To share a memory or condolence with the Witham family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.