Madeline T. Hill

Waterville—Madeline Tucker Hill, 88, of Waterville passed away peacefully surrounded by her family, February 7, 2014. She was born to Lillian and Fred Tucker of Waterville on July 17, 1925. She attended Mount Merici, graduating in 1943.

Madeline married Burton Strickland of Fairfield Center in 1944. They had 6 children.

In 1958, Madeline and her children moved to Waterville where she continued to raise her children as a single parent. She was a devoted mother; determined to maintain the well-being and survival of her children. She was always there when needed.

Madeline worked outside the home as a primary provider for many years. Most of her professional career was at Veilleux Funeral Home, then owned by Eddie and Ruth Fredette, whom she endeared as life-long friends. She was also endeared by co-workers at Veilleux’s. She made many friends due to her outgoing, loving demeanor. Mother never met a stranger…because she formed life-time friendships with all who knew her.

Madeline was an accomplished cook, baker, seamstress and knitter. She won numerous blue ribbons for her talents including a national bake-off. Her children have many fond memories cooking and baking in the kitchen with “Mummy.”

Madeline was a life-long member of Victor Grange #49, serving as secretary/treasurer and matron of Pamona. In 1970, Madeline married William Hill of Waterville who was also a longtime member of the Grange. They had many years of happiness and served as officers and Marshalls of the state Grange.

Madeline is pre-deceased by her parents Fred and Lillian Tucker; daughter Penelope Strickland; husbands Burton Strickland and William Hill; sister Harriet; brother-in-law Donald Vail and grandson Aaron Cooper.

Madeline is survived by her five children: Nancy (Pelletier) and husband Larry Corbin of Florida, Bonnie Strickland White of St. Louis, Missouri, Stephanie (Gay) Pooler of Benton, Kim Strickland of Norfolk, Virginia and Kevin and his wife Nancy Strickland of Waterville; grandchildren: Lynne and husband Daniel Delcourt of Auburn, Melissa and husband Robert Zahoransky of Clinton, Peter Pelletier of Smithfield, Jeffrey and husband Jodi Pelletier of Smithfield, Melany and husband Ian Walters of Colorado, Kelly Faldutti of St. Louis, Laura and husband Troy Ard of St. Louis, Michael and wife Shauna Schade of Lewiston, Scott and wife Tiffany Pacquette of Georgia, Mackenzie and Patrick Strickland of Waterville; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Woodlands for the loving care they provided to Madeline for the past 3 years. A special thank you is also extended to the wonderful staff of Maine General Hospice for making her transition peaceful and gentle. They also provided support and care to all of Madeline’s family members during this period. We are truly grateful for their kind words and deeds.

Madeline’s family also extends great appreciation and gratitude towards her friends at Veilleux Funeral Home for their sensitivity, caring and understanding throughout our loss and grieving. We are eternally grateful. The family especially acknowledges TJ and Denise for lovingly and gently assisting us immediately after “Mummy’s” passing.

Visitation will be Wednesday, February 12th from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at Veilleux Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, Waterville. A Mass of Christian burial will be 11:00 AM, Thursday, February 13th at Notre Dame Church, Silver Street, Waterville. Burial will take place at a later date in the spring.

In lieu of flowers donations in Madeline’s name may be made to Servants of The Blessed Sacrament, 101 Silver Street, Waterville, ME 04901 or The Salvation Army, 225 Main Street, Waterville, ME 04901.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, ME 04901. www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com