WATERVILLE – Jill (Etchie) VanGorden, aka “Purple Lady”, 63, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2022, surrounded by her loving family. Born on Nov. 21, 1958, in Waterville, she was the daughter of the late Pearl Mary Etchie and Cecil Felix Etchie, Jr.

Jill was employed by The Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce for 20 years, where she developed many lifelong and cherished friendships. She later worked for Dignity Memorial.

Jill was a 1977 graduate of Waterville Senior High School, and attended Thomas College.

Jill was always the life of the party. Her laughter will always be remembered. She loved opening her home up for celebrations with loved ones, and feeding all those that came through her door to gather for them. Her selfless love created a safe haven for all those in her life, and this is one of the many things that will be deeply missed about her. She never missed her son’s or grandchildren’s sporting events or nieces’ and nephew’s plays and performances. Jill loved to shop until she dropped, and was an avid fan of Days of Our Lives. Her knowledge of all her favorite shows made her a walking movie/TV database.

Jill is survived by her two sons, Robert VanGorden, wife Cassie, and Nathan VanGorden, wife Chelsea; her two sisters, Jane Kennedy, husband Larry, and Joan Levesque, husband Matt; her grandchildren Keelyn, Owhen, Finn, Evan, Emmitt and Ethan; nieces Heather, Nicole, Emily, Nephew Zachary; and great-nieces Katarina and Chloe. She is also survived by treasured friend, Anita Cabana.

She was predeceased by her parents; her sister, Anne, and her brother, Kim.

Visiting hours will be Wednesday, June 15, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Gallant Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, August 6, at 122 Unity Rd., Benton, ME 04901, from 1 to 5 p.m.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

Jill loved all things purple, including flowers. Alternatively, donations can be made to the charity of your choice in Jill’s name.

Copy the Story Link