Our sweet mother Marilyn C. Keene sadly passed away on July 30, 2022 at the age of 84. She was a wonderful mother who was always there when we needed her. She also had many friends and was a respected member of the community in Belfast, Maine. 

She was a graduate of Crosby High School. Marilyn Cross was the fourth daughter of five daughters born to Chester Cross and Geneva Tower Cross.

Predeceased by sisters Regina Cross Trull, Kathleen Cross Bachelder, and Linda Cross Hall. Survived by Maxine Cross. 

She married John W. Keene in 1957 spending 45 years together on the Keene Dairy Farm. Their children and families are as follows: First born son, Jeffrey E. Keene. Married, Melody A. Greenlaw. Second son, Jonathan F. Keene. Daughter, Alicia K. Nurick. Married, Michael A. Nurick. Grandsons, Travis J. Keene, Kyle B. Keene. Married, Alissa Jones. Ethan K. Nurick. Great-grand daughter, Raegan J. Keene.

She was blessed with an extended family of nieces and nephews whom she was very proud and loved very much.

She had a long list of jobs in her employment history. Her first job was a telephone operator, followed by bookkeeping for Maplewood Poultry Company. Then motherhood kept her home as her children came along. She found employment at home such as caring for children other than her own, so that she could remain home. When her children had grown, she went back into the workforce. Bookkeeping at Waldo Shoe Company, secretarial duties, and bookkeeping with WenRock, Inc., followed and ending with clerk and then treasurer for Waldo County Commissioners. This was the job that she retired from in 2003. Marilyn served on the local school board for 6 years and served for two consecutive terms as its chairman. This led to her becoming president of the state school board. She became the first woman to hold this position in the 20-year history of the organization.

Marilyn loved to sew, knit, crochet, cook, bake, and dance. She loved her family and friends, visiting or gathering often.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial service with reception to follow, Thursday, August 25, at 1 p.m., at Riposta Funeral Home. Masks will be made available at the door so that all can be safe at the service. 

Special thanks to the staff at Woodland’s Memory Care of Rockland and Beacon Hospice. Memories and condolences may be shared at ripsotafh.com.