The family of Joan Bennett Saxe is saddened to announce her peaceful passing on September 18, 2025. 

Born in 1936 to Elmer and Patricia Bennett in Bethel, Maine, Joan graduated from Gould Academy in Bethel and went on to Lasalle College and Bridgeport University. She met Barry in Philadelphia who she married in 1960. Joan and Barry celebrated their 65th anniversary in July this year. They raised four children and gush with pride of their four accomplished grandchildren. 

Joan spent the last 43 years in Freeport living her life to the fullest amongst the pines and seascapes of Freeport.  Recently, she and Barry also enjoyed winters in Hood River, Oregon with family there. While a Mainer to the core, she was an adventurer and explorer of the globe in the gathering of her understanding and wisdom about the wonders of the natural world and the people and places she encountered on her path. A Maine Guide, she went everywhere, swam in most, if not all, Maine lakes, canoed, paddled, hiked, repaired trails, camped, and swam some more.

 An intrepid and tenacious supporter of many campaigns and causes she held dear, Joan’s belief in the importance of civic engagement and “doing the right thing” was worn on her sleeve for all to see. In her work with the Sierra Club, the League of Women Voters, the League of Conservation Voters and other organizations, she was a tireless caller, writer, testifier, protester, organizer, canvasser and collaborator in her pursuit of an improved world for all. She was a leader, a guide and mentor to many and bestowed her fighting spirit to her family, friends, and all those who knew her.

 A careful listener, a wise contributor, she was a force to be reckoned with. A relentless learner and voracious reader, she was curious and always looking to become informed and enriched. Joan loved flowers, birds, butterflies, trees, music, the arts, walking with friends, college basketball, the Patriots, and her latest obsession the Hearts of Pine. From the sidelines of her kids’ soccer games, the seats and stands, alongside compatriots, standing at a lectern or leading a meeting, Joan was a champion for the betterment of all; and for that she has left this world a better place. She was most proud of her leadership to protect Sears Island.

“Together we can author a future that cares for things natural, wild, and free.”

Joan is survived by her husband Barry, sons David, Douglas, Marshall and Bradford, daughters-in-law Jenny, Leslie, and Trina and grandchildren Madeleine, Julia, Bennett, and Felix. 

Contributions may be made in Joan’s memory at:

Joan B. Saxe Grassroots Environmental Award Fund

Maine Environmental Education Association

PO Box 413, Brunswick, ME 04011

https://givebutter.com/ZgcKcG (Please click “add note/comment,” Joan B. Saxe Award)

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.directcremationofmaine.com