Obituary of Frances J. Arsenault

Frances J. Arsenault was born on February 3, 1936 to Thomas and Isabel Connor. During her life, she achieved many accomplishments. Her greatest legacy was her desire and willingness to help others. She was a dedicated nurse for many years in hospitals, long term care facilities and also in the realm of private duty care. She continuously volunteered her time with numerous community organizations. Her most significant volunteer work was with the Spencer Volunteer Rescue Squad which extended over 25 years. She was an accomplished daughter, mother, wife, aunt, sister, and friend. When Frances was not extending her loving arms to those in need, she could be found quilting, crocheting, knitting, making needlepoint arts and working on her plastic canvas crafts. Many beautiful items were crafted with her loving hands and handed down to her family, friends and those less fortunate. She had a deep love of plants and flowers and loved to share with others the beauty that she grew with love. Frances was a dedicated Catholic and believed deeply in angels. She continuously shared her faith of God and her love of Jesus with others. Her faith was defined in her numerous poems that she wrote from her heart. The following is a poem she wrote towards the end of her life which describes her peace in knowing that she was right with her Creator: "MYSELF" I have to live with myself and so I want to be fit for myself to know. I want to be able, as days go by, Always to look myself straight in the eyes. I don't want to stand with the setting sun, And hate myself for the things I've done. I want to go out with my head erect. I want to deserve all men's respect. For here in the struggle for fame and self, I want to be able to like myself. I don't want to look at myself and know, that I'm a bluster and bluff and empty show. I never can hide myself from me. I see what others may never see. I know what others may never know. I never can fool myself, and so, Whatever happens I want to be Self respecting and conscience free. Frances was predeceased by her parents, Thomas and Isabel Connor, along with her brother Thomas Connor, II and her sister Margaret O’malley. On March 15, 2011, she passed away in her Searsport, ME home. She left behind her four children: Rick Russell, Scott Russell, Alice Arsenault-Bryant, and Todd Arsenault. She had 10 grandchildren-Nathan Russell, Kyle Russell, Michael Russell, Curtis Arsenault, Stephanie Arsenault, Amber Russell, Ashely Bryant, Julie Arsenault, Benjamin Bryant and Courtney O’Neal. She also left behind her great-granddaughter, Emylia Loren Russell. Several nieces, great nieces and great nephews were also in the list of survivors. In addition to her family, Frances left behind several wonderful and loving friends. A private service was held in her home on Saturday, March 19, 2011 with immediate family and friends present. Arrangements are under the care of Crabiel-Riposta Funeral Home, 182 Waldo Avenue, Belfast. On-line condolences may be offered at www.ripostafh.com.