Pauline (Polly, Shortie) Mae (Thomas) Dyer passed away January 8, 2025, in the comfort of her home with family by her side.

She was born in So. Paris on August 17, 1937, to Araminta (Lapham) and Stevens J. Thomas.

She grew up in Harrison, and was brought up by her great- grandmother Mary Ella Chaplin, Beatrice Wyman and Aunt Edith.

She married Donald R. Dyer of Bridgton in 1957, then moved to South Windham then eventually to North Windham where she called home until her passing.

Before she got married, she worked for Newbury’s in Norway. Later in 1972, she started working for the Windham School Department at Manchester School as the “Lunch Lady” eventually becoming the Food Service manager. She loved making connections with all the kids and staff. She then retired in 2007 after 32 years, to become a foster Grammie in the same school for another 16 years, retiring in 2023 because of health issues. She took great pride in helping the kids that were shy or having problems with their schoolwork. A hug, kind word or little joke always makes things better she said.

She was a lady of many talents: a Girl Scout leader, helping with D.A.R.E. program outings, helping at church suppers, fairs, and yard sales. Loved singing in the choir. Also clogging and line dancing. She took great pride in making cards and scrapbooks for family and friends.

Don and Polly bought a camp in Eustis, on Alder Stream in 1972, which she enjoyed very much. Riding three-wheelers, picking berries to bake, or just checking out the views. Also getting together with other camp families to play some cribbage, which got pretty heated at times.

She is survived by her son Donald R. Dyer Jr. of Standish; grandson Kyle R. and Lauren Dyer, great-grandchildren Rylie and Oliver, all of West Balwin. Her daughter Lisa J. Dyer and son-in-law Daniel Pratt of Windham. Sister Gail and Dick Gile of Harrison. Nieces Debbie, Denise, Donna, Tricia and Beth; nephew Sam.

She was predeceased by husband Donald Sr. in 2002, brother Stevie D. Thomas, sister Joan Dewan in 2011, grandson Jeffery A. Dyer in 2017 and daughter-in-law Pamela Thombs in 2023.

Celebration of Life will be Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, at North Windham Union Church UCC, 723 Roosevelt Trail, Windham, ME 04062. Visiting Hours 3-4 p.m., service 4-5 p.m. Gathering at church 5-6 p.m.

Burial will be private in the spring at Harrison Village Cemetery.

Donations can be made to Raymond Village Community Church or North Windham Union Church UCC in her honor.