APPLETON — Marlene J. Libby, 62, wife of Bruce D. Libby, of Appleton, died on March 4, 2025, at the Sussman House in Rockport, following a brave battle with breast cancer.

Born in Rockland, on June 6, 1962, she was the daughter of John Newall and Tessie (Miller) Peters, and was a 1980 graduate of Medomak Valley High School. On May 7, 1983, she married Bruce. 

Marlene’s early employment included working in the offices of Rockland Leathers and the Rockland Wastewater Department, before embarking on a 35-year career at the Camden Town Office. In 1989, she was hired as the Wastewater/Harbor Clerk for the Town of Camden. She later was appointed to serve as the Town Treasurer/Accountant, Interim Finance Director, and Deputy Finance Director, the position which she held until December 2024. Even during her cancer treatment, Marlene continued working remotely from home. Marlene had such a vast knowledge of every function of the municipality, it has been affectionately said that she could have managed the town by herself.

The Town of Appleton Select Board dedicated the 2022 Annual Report to Marlene in honor of her commitment to the town, the town office, and her fellow residents. Marlene happily volunteered her time to the town and assisted with many different endeavors such as organizing and conducting staff training sessions, serving in the office, and on the Select Board.

Marlene loved walking with her grand dog Cider, cooking for her family and friends, and making many special birthday cakes for loved ones. Marlene also cherished her annual get-aways to the Eastport/ Lubec, Maine area with Bruce. Her very wide circle of faithful friends and family kept her motivated during her treatment with cards, food, and loving care. Special thanks should be extended to Jean Jameson, Jodi Hanson, Janice Esancy, Jean Ramsdell, and Elaine Davis for their everlasting care and concern during her illness.

She is survived by her husband of 41 years, Bruce Libby; son Daniel Libby and his wife, Amy, all of Appleton; mother Tessie Montgomery, of Camden; brothers, Roland Peters of Waterville and Gary Peters of Cushing; sister Kelley Peters of Thomaston; her father- and mother-in-law, Ronald and Lorraine Libby of Thomaston; special sister-in-law, Jean Jameson and her partner, Blair “Tump” May, of Waldoboro; brothers-in-law, Alan Libby and wife, Michaelene, of Illinois; Gregg Libby and wife, Becca, Ross Libby and wife, Betsy, all of Warren, and Jeff Libby and wife, Koren of Belfast. In addition, she is survived by numerous nieces and nephews whom she held very close to her heart.

She was predeceased by her father, John Peters, and her stepfather, Robert Montgomery; and sister Deborah Arni.

There will be a private graveside service for family members this spring, along with a public Memorial Gathering which will be announced during the summer months. 

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com. Arrangements are with the Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 9 Mountain Street, Camden.