1934 – 2015

GRAY — Rolande Blanche Emerson, 80, died Tuesday, March 24.

She was born in Biddeford on April 2, 1934, the daughter of Christabelle and Edward Gagnon. On her eighth-grade graduation, her parents surprised her with a rowboat made by their good friend, George Cote, which she treasured for many years. She enjoyed many wonderful summers in that little rowboat on the Saco River.

Rolande married Eliot L. Emerson on Dec. 22, 1951. They purchased the Old West Gray School House, which became their family home for 57 years. Rolande and Eliot met when they were in the Civil Air Patrol and married shortly thereafter.

Later, they became members of the American Legion, where they met many wonderful people. Little Sebago Lake was their favorite place to entertain the family with boating, fishing and swimming.

Her happiest times were at family gatherings and helping her children with their growing families. Rolande also enjoyed tending her beautiful rose gardens with her dogs at her side.

She is survived by three sons, Robert E. and Pam, Wayne E. and wife, Jane, and Kenneth E. and wife, Donna; two daughters, Linda L. and husband, Leroy Morrill, and Ellen and her husband, Jeffrey Wilson; her sister, Ellen Dube and husband, Pete; along with many nieces and nephews; 15 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Rolande was predeceased by her husband; parents; three sisters; and her best friend, Kayo Cobb.

Condolences may expressed at www.wilsonfhllc.com.