THOMASTON — Carmen Ellis Norton, 75, died at home, Wednesday, February 22, 2023 with her husband at her side.

Born in Bangor, December 12, 1947, she was the daughter of Lewis and Marion Sawyer Ellis. She grew up in and was educated in Holden, attending a one-room school house until she was in the eighth grade. She later graduated from Brewer High School, class of 1966. While in high school, Carmen was an active member of the 4-H Club.

Always a hard worker, she worked for many years as a waitress, before becoming a Real Estate Agent. She was an award winning broker, owning the Century21 Agency in Rockland for many years. At the age of 46, Carmen returned to college, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing and an Associate of Arts in Social Services in 1997.

For over 40 years Carmen and Anson resided on Criehaven, where she was a vibrant, active and much loved member of the community. For many years she kept the local children busy with crafts and activities, oh how they loved to see her coming. She was an avid card player, and loved her daily card games with friends. While living on the island, she also spent 20 winters in Florida where she was employed as a nurse.

She was a great story teller, with an infectious laugh, and the sound of her jingling silver bangle bracelets will be greatly missed by all who loved her.

Predeceased by her parents; Carmen is survived by her beloved husband, Anson Norton of Thomaston; her children, Larry Tardiff of Warren, Laurie Tardiff of Thomaston; her grandchildren, Noah Tardiff, Christian Tardiff, Jaynie Butler; her sister, Lynn Hunt of Brewer; and her brothers, David Ellis and his wife Nicki of Brevard, North Carolina, and John Ellis and his wife Jessica of Spring, Texas.

A local celebration of life will be announced in late Spring. Interment will be held on her beloved island of Criehaven at a later date.

To share a memory or condolence with Carmen’s 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.