Freida Mae Gaudette, a beloved member of the Camden community, passed away recently at the age of 91. Born on May 17, 1932, in Bath, she was the daughter of Forrest C. Legard and Lillian Cutler Legard. Tragically, Lillian passed away shortly after Freida’s birth, leaving her father to remarry Marion Brawn Legard, who raised Freida with care and affection.
Freida graduated from Morse High School in 1949 and went on to build a life filled with family, work, and social engagement. Early in her career, she found her calling in the secretarial and bookkeeping fields, working at notable institutions such as Bath Iron Works and the Bath Children’s Home. After relocating to the Camden area, Freida joined Fisher Engineering, Tibbetts Industries, and Knox Semiconductor, where she formed lasting friendships with her colleagues.
Community Engagement and Lifelong Passions
Freida was known for her vibrant involvement in the community. As a child, she enjoyed dance, participated in the school band, and was active in the Rainbow Girls Club. In her adult life, she took part in local musicals and dance recitals, reflecting her love for the performing arts. Her dedication to community service was further highlighted by her membership in the Rockland Emblem Club #200, where she served as a State Past President of the Maine State Association of Emblem Clubs.
Freida maintained her passion for dance well into her later years, performing in recitals until her late 60s. Her love for social engagement extended to her work, where she cherished her relationships with coworkers, often considering them family. After retiring, she continued to connect with others through roles at the Christmas Tree Shop, Village Shops in Camden, and Jimbo’s Diner in Bath.
A Cherished Family Legacy
Freida is survived by her five children: Lillian Gaudette, Robert (Esther) Gaudette, Paula (Dave) Moody, Carrie (Robert) Walden, and Barbara (Bill Woodard) Urquhart. Her family includes eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy throughout her life. The grandchildren are Sarah Gaudette, Sam and Sean (Angel Grass) Gaudette, Kate (David) Marchessault, Brian (Brittany) Moody, Melissa (Jason) McPhee Walden, Meghan (Zach Severy), and Nicole Woodard. The great-grandchildren are Milo Gaudette, Colin Gaudette, Brady and Alayna Marchessault, Mason and Braxton Moody, and Gavin and Garett Soiett.
Throughout her later years, Freida faced challenges related to dementia. Despite this, her family provided unwavering support, ensuring she felt surrounded by love and comfort. Family visits included peaceful moments watching wildlife with her son Bobby and singing along to favorite songs with her daughter Paula. Carrie played a crucial role, taking Freida to appointments and enjoying trips to the salon and the beach together.
Freida’s family plans to hold a private service and burial at a later date. Arrangements are being managed by Hall Funeral Home of Thomaston. In her memory, the family encourages others to spend time with elderly relatives, fostering connections that enhance the lives of both the young and the old.
For those wishing to extend condolences or share memories, Freida’s Book of Memories is available online at Hall Funeral Home’s website. Freida Mae Gaudette’s legacy of community involvement, love for family, and enduring friendships will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.
