CAMDEN — Juanita M. Colby, 91, of Camden, died on Saturday, July 10, 2021.

Born in Camden on March 30, 1930, she was the daughter of Martin and Gertrude (Carver) Knowlton and attended Camden schools.

In 1947, she married Parker Colby and moved to the Colby family home in Rockport where they raised three children. In Rockport, she attended the Rockport Methodist Church and was a member of the Wesleyan Women’s Guild, who organized church suppers and other fund raising events.

Juanita later moved back to Camden, and with the guidance of her life-long friend, Lester Emery, purchased her own home on John Street. Juanita enjoyed vacations throughout the United States with her companion, Stan Bryant and other friends. Over the years, she worked at several downtown Camden shops and enjoyed being around her many local friends. She attracted people with her listening skills. Her home was always open to all friends, young and old. Juanita’s favorite memories were gatherings on “ladies day” enjoying coffee and spending time in her “sun room.” As a Depression Era child, Juanita lived within her means. She personified humbleness and kindness and accepted people for whatever their life status.

She was predeceased by five siblings, Lowell, Frank, Edward, Raymond Knowlton, Barbara Eaton; her daughter, Susan Lewis in 2010, and son-in-law, James Kierstead in 2020.

Surviving are two children, Linda Kierstead; son, Frank Colby and his wife, Tracy; four grandchildren, Christopher Kierstead and his wife, Dinah, Andrew Kierstead, Peter Lewis and his wife, Sherri, Matthew Lewis; nine great-grandchildren, Emily, Kayla, Zak, William, Jacob, Mya, Claire, Patrick and Christine; two great-great grandchildren, Ella and Juniper; as well as many nieces, nephews.

Juanita enjoyed loving friendships with Kathy Hendricks; niece, Brenda Jonason; Winnie Snow, Claire Frye and Brenda Richardson.

A service will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are with the Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 9 Mountain Street, Camden.