OWLS HEAD — Vera Payson Mathieson, 101, passed away surrounded by family January 3, 2026, in Rockland. Born March 17, 1924, to Harry and Ida Payson, Vera attended a one-room grammar school on Ingraham Hill, and was a graduate of Rockland High School in 1943.

During World War II, she married the love of her life, Louis Mathieson. They built their Owls Head home "stick-by-stick" using a disassembled barn hauled from Liberty. Vera’s home was defined by an open door and a large table, hosting family and friends.

Vera remained "sharp as a tack" throughout her 101 years. On drives through the Midcoast, she was an encyclopedia of local lore. She took great pride in her ancestry, often pointing out the "Brewster" boulder on Dodge Mountain. She was quick to correct history, noting that the land was first settled by her ancestor, Zadock Brewster, a Revolutionary War veteran who had been a prisoner of the British. She loved to remind listeners that when her family first arrived, "Maine was still part of Massachusetts, and Rockland was still part of Thomaston."

An avid traveler, Vera’s adventures ranged from camping in a simple Army lean-to tent to navigating a 30-foot camper. She shared Louie’s love for the outdoors, traveling the United States, including an expedition to Alaska.

Her life was marked by quiet strength, unwavering love for her family, and a genuine care for others. She is deeply missed by all who knew her.

Faith was central to Vera’s life. Louie and Vera attended the Rockland Congregational Church from its days on Main Street to its later location on Limerock Street. After Louie died, Vera became an active member of the Owls Head Baptist Church.

She is survived by her children, John, James, Nancy, Ann, and Mary Jo, plus 11 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by husband Louie.

Her life is further chronicled in the book, One Sunday Morning.

A celebration of Vera’s life will be held Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 2 p.m., at Burpee, Carpenter, & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland. Private interment will be held in early summer, at Ingraham Cemetery, Owls Head.

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