Katherine Doe Ericson

FALMOUTH – Katherine Doe Ericson, “Kay”, 93, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Jan. 26, 2025, in Falmouth.

Kay was born in Portland and raised on Peaks Island. She graduated from Portland High School in 1949 and pursued her passion for caregiving by attending the Maine Eye and Ear Infirmary Nursing Program, graduating in 1953.

Following a whirlwind romance and a secret engagement, Kay married her love, Robert Ericson, in 1953. The couple briefly moved to Cambridge, Mass., and then soon after, settled in the Gardiner area where they laid down roots and grew their family. It was here where Kay’s passions and talents flourished, including sewing, knitting, gardening, canning, playing music, and showing dogs.

She had a lifelong love for the coast of Maine. Kay’s dedication as a caregiver was demonstrated by raising four children and eventually caring for her husband, mom, and mother-in-law. She also worked as an assistant librarian at the Middle School in Gardiner, for many years.

Kay was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert Ericson; as well as her parents, Myrtle and Benjamin Doe.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Elizabeth (Bob) Cataldo, Elaine (Dennis) Giguere, Daniel (Bonnie) Ericson, and David (Merrilee) Ericson. She also leaves behind her brother, Ben Doe and sister, Emily Atkinson. Kay cherished her 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life.

Her beloved family and friends will remember her for her trademark homemade blackberry jam, her bountiful gardens and lupine fields she lovingly maintained, her energetic and caregiving spirit, and her lifelong love of dogs and later her love of llamas and alpacas.

Visiting hours will be held on Feb. 8, from 2 to 3 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3 p.m., both at Highland Avenue United Methodist Church in Gardiner. Loved ones in attendance are encouraged to wear the color blue, as this was Kay’s favorite color.

Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

Donations in Kay’s name can be made to the Albert Harris Center in Pepperell, Mass., (formerly the Pepperell Senior Center), an organization that brought her cherished friendships and much joy.

Donations may also be made to the Maine Greyhound Placement Service.

In Kay’s later years, her rescue greyhound, Paxton, was always a loving companion at her side and gave her great comfort and happiness.