Joanne Knight

Joanne R. Knight, 82, of Bridgton passed away Friday, Nov. 27, 2015 following a sudden illness. She was surrounded by family and friends.

Born Nov. 13, 1933 in Bridgton to parents Carl and Ruth Irish, Joanne grew up in Bridgton and attended Bridgton schools. She graduated from Bridgton High School, where she was a top student and participated in softball, basketball and cheerleading.

Family brought great pride and joy to Joanne and despite being a full-time worker, she and Russell could be found supporting her children’s and grandchildren’s endeavors. Husband Russell’s whistling to songs was music to her ears. Cooking and baking was a specialty to Joanne.

Joanne is survived by her husband of 29 years, Russell W. Knight of Bridgton; children Terry Llanos of Lewiston, Ivy Ward-Spencer of Conway, N.H., Tina Hosack of Bridgton, Wanda Ward-Maclean of Turner, Darcy Ward of Revere, Mass., Robin Ward-Burton of Naples, Kelly Ward of Peabody, Mass., Russell I. Knight of King Salmon, Alaska, Michael Knight of Westbrook, Timothy Knight of Bridgton and Eric Knight of Naples; 18 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. She is also survived by sisters Gerry Small of Bridgton and Irene Morton of Casco; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents and brother, Ralph Irish of Forsythe, Ga.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, Dec. 12 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Bridgton Community Center (the old Bridgton Armory on Depot Street).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Harvest Hills Animal Shelter, 1389 Bridgton Road, Fryeburg, ME 04037 or Androscoggin Home Care, 15 Strawberry Ave., Lewiston, ME 04240.