CAMDEN — Madeline Virginia Shields, 97, passed away on April 27, 2019 at the Sussman House in Rockport, with family by her side. Madeline was born March 5, 1922 to Lee Abrahm Strong and Edith Colton Strong in Wilmington, Delaware.

As a young girl, Madeline loved horses and wanted to be an equestrian. One of her best shared memories was watching Sea Biscuit beat War Admiral with her father at Pimlico, in 1938.

During WWII, Madeline was a member of the Women’s Air Corps (WAC) where she met Thomas Russell Shields. They soon married and had 5 children. The family moved often over the years, due to Tom’s military service.

While raising their children, Madeline spent time working in retail. She enjoyed interacting with people in Hawaii, California, Virginia, and eventually, Maine. Also, during much of this time, she was a member of the hospital auxiliary in Whittier, California where she served a few terms as president.

After a divorce and two of her children moving to Maine, Madeline moved to Camden. Shortly after arriving she began work at 51 Bayview where she met and made many friends. She worked there until the shop closed and then spent several years working at Once a Tree.

In addition to working, Madeline was an active member of the Camden Garden Club and the First Congregational Church of Camden. She very much enjoyed volunteering at Aldemere Farms, Heavenly Threads Thrift Shop and helping out in the church office, as well.

Madeline would say that some of her favorite moments in life involved time with her “bestie” Willis B., her sister Helen, her brother Lee and his wife Pat. Later, favorite times included birthday gatherings, dinners out, holiday celebrations, and anything that included her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and extended family. She considered herself very fortunate!

Madeline was predeceased by her former husband, Tom, her brother, Lee and brother-in-law, Willis.

She is survived by her sister Helen, her 5 children: Wendy Wickenden and husband Roger of Camden; Maryanne McCracken of Nebraska; Thomas Shields of Camden; Nancy Shields of California, and Virginia (Ginny) Malloy and husband Scott of Pittsfield, Maine. 11 grandchildren: Tom; Paul and wife Laurie; John and wife Kimberly; Brian and wife Moon; Sarah and husband Chris; Sophia; Eric; Judy and David; Jacob; Ashley and Aric; Brody, and 17 great-grandchildren with one on the way.

Over the years, Madeline could often be found “porch or deck” sitting on the lake, under an avocado tree, or on the beach enjoying her wine and lots of laughter~ Such Happiness!!

A Memorial Service will be held at the First Congregational Church of Camden, Friday May 10, 2019 at 4 p.m. Memorial gifts may be made in her memory  to the Shields Mission Fund ℅ First Congregational Church UCC, 55 Elm St. 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.