PHILIPS – Geraldine F. Coolong, 78, of Phillips, passed away March 23, 2012, at Edgewood Rehab and Living Center.
Gerry was born Feb. 22, 1934 in Rangeley to R. (Rexford) Keith Murphy and Jessima Ellis. She was a strong willed, independent, selfless, determined, kind woman with a deep passion for life. Gerry always placed the needs of her family before her on needs.
Gerry graduated from Rangeley schools, then married Eugene M. Coolong of Sandy River Plantation. The couple lived in California for several years, then moved to Phillips where they raised seven children. Gerry worked for area wood and shoe businesses, cared for several area children in her home, and assisted the dining programs in several area schools.
Besides spending time with her family, she enjoyed knitting, sewing, word and table puzzles, reading, dining out, shopping, and traveling, especially to Boothbay and California. Christmas was her favorite holiday, she prepared for this all year long and was able to enjoy this past Christmas with her family.
Gerry was predeceased by her husband, parents, and sister Josephine Sullivan. Gerry is survived by her siblings: Jacqueline McGarvey, Eugene Murphy, Jane Arnold, Carl Murphy, Penny Bates, Marla Bogle, and Wanda Fuller; Aunt Dorothy Phillsbury; children Dawn, Scott, Alan, and Shawn Coolong, Tina Smith, Karen Lea, and Leila Miller; 16 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren and her extended family and her two “Coast Kids” Peggy and Lyndon Roberts.
The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation and thanks to Franklin Memorial Hospital, St. Mary’s Hospital, NorthStar Ambulance Service and ‘Dave’, Beacon Hospice Inc., Dr. Schwink, Dr. Ikossi, Dr. Pandey, Dr. Marshall and all the wonderful staff of Edgewood Rehab and Living Center, her “girls” and special friend Betty. They provided friendship and companionship as they helped make this past year memorable for both Gerry and her family.
Per Gerry’s request there will be a gathering of family and friends July 28 in a Rangeley location to be announced.
Arrangements are under the care of Direct Cremation of Maine, 182 Waldo Ave., Belfast, ME. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.directcremationofmaine.com.
My condolences to the Coolong families. It is never easy to lose a loved one. May you feel God’ s presence in your lives, today and always.
Thinking of you all at this difficult time, God Bless
I will always remember how sweet you were miss Gerri. You could always make is laugh. I will never forget you smile XOXO
Thinking of all of you. My heart goes out to the family, but now she has no pain.
Gerry and Eugene were great friends of my family for years. She will be missed. She always had a smile for you when you saw her.
RIP…
My auntie Gerry was a wonderful person with a kind heart .. she will be missed by all!
I miss you, Nana. See you on the other side. x
Thinking of you Dawn and all your family in this time of healing.Praying for you.