CAMDEN — Shirley Elizabeth Porter’s journey of life ended on Friday, Sept. 7, 2012, at the home of her daughter in Hampden. She was born on Nov. 25, 1925, in Rockland and was the daughter of Sherman Elwell and Annie Mae (Winslow) Eaton. She was educated in Rockland, Class of 1944, and married James “Jim” Porter in 1958. In her younger years, Shirley had been employed as a seamstress at Van Baalen Corp. and at School House Togs in Rockland. She also worked as a cook and caregiver in the community for several elderly families.

Shirley loved to travel, especially to Florida, and was always “on the road.” She had many talents, including playing the piano, sewing, cooking, and making beautiful crafts and gifts. Shirley loved the holiday season and created a magical experience for family and friends through her hospitality and cooking. Socializing and having lunch with her friends and classmates from Rockland’s Class of ’44 brought much joy to Shirley.

She had been a member of the former Pratt United Methodist Church in Rockland for more than 65 years. 

Surviving is her daughter, Cheryl Bhaer of Hampden; two adoring grandsons, Troy Bhaer of Nevada and Matthew Bhaer of Maine; several nieces and nephews including a special niece, Brenda Jonason of Thomaston; a cousin Thelma Decker of Rochester, N.H.; and a sister, Susan Tolman and her husband, James, of Rockville. She was predeceased by her husband, James Porter; three brothers, Arthur, Milton and Homer Eaton; and a sister, Averie Stinson. 

A memorial service followed by a reception will be held Friday, Sept. 21 at 11 a.m. at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Rockland with the Rev. Linda Campbell Marshall officiating. Interment will be at Oak Hill Cemetery in Camden. Memorial donations may be made to the Eastern Maine Charities, P.O. Box 404, Bangor, Maine 04402.

Arrangements are with the Long Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Camden.