WINDHAM — Sylvia Arlene Conley, 86, died Monday, Aug. 13, following a long period of declining health.

Sylvia was a 1949 graduate of Portland High School and in 1952 from Maine Eye & Eye Infirmary School of Nursing. She was an active member of the MEEI Alumni. As a registered nurse she worked in many capacities in her nursing career. She enjoyed the many aspects of her nursing career from director of nursing to teaching certified CNA classes; her patient care was always comforting and compassionate.

On Sept. 27, 1952, she married the love of her life, Blaine (Joe) Conley. Together they raised four children and many dogs, cats, rabbits, chickens, turkeys, cows and sheep. She was a member and trustee of the Prides Corner Congregational UCC Church, serving as treasurer and Sunday school teacher for many years.

After retiring from nursing, she volunteered at the Alvan Ricker Library in Poland helping to computerize the library. She provided loving care to her brother during his later years.

She was an avid knitter, making the warmest mittens and hats for her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed sewing and was an impressive cook. Birthdays were special occasions as she would spend days preparing a feast, shopping and wrapping gifts. The farm in Poland became the family gathering spot. She always took delight in spending time with her family, including her three grandchildren and a very special great-grandson.

Sylvia was preceded in death by her mother, Edna Webster; father, Leonard Webster; her brother, Harlan Webster.

Survivors include her loving husband of 66 years, Blaine; son, Timothy, and fiancee, Sandi Petersen; daughter, Julie Segal, and husband Alan, all of Portland; daughter, Gail Conley, of New Gloucester; son, Stephen Conley of Ft. Myers, Fla.; grandchildren Amy Smith, Jessica Segal and Luke Segal; great-grandson, Mason Maines.

Sylvia’s family extends their sincere appreciation for the compassionate care she received from the staff of Legdewood Manor in Windham and for taking Blaine under their wing.

To express condolences and to participate in Sylvia’ online tribute, please visit www.DolbyBlaisSegee.com.

Sylvia A. Conley