Jan E. Finch

FAIRFIELD – Jan E. Finch, 68, passed away on March 30, 2026. Jan was born on Aug. 2, 1957, in Oakland, the daughter of Lawrence and Dorothy Jordan. She spent part of her childhood in Massachusetts before returning to her roots in Oakland, where she would build a life centered around family, hard work, and the simple joys that meant the most to her. She was a proud graduate of Messalonskee High School, class of 1976.

Jan devoted herself to raising her children, spending several years as a stay-at-home mother before returning to the workforce. She worked at Cascade Mill and later at GE, eventually finding her place at Colby College, where she was a dedicated custodian for nearly 20 years. She retired in 2022, leaving behind many friendships and a reputation for her strong work ethic and warm spirit.

Above all else, Jan cherished her family. She found her greatest happiness in time spent with her children and grandchildren, whether it was sharing meals, laughing together, or simply being in each other’s company. She especially loved her time at camp on Moosehead Lake, where she created countless memories surrounded by those she loved most.

Jan had a zest for life and enjoyed the little indulgences that brought her joy -shopping trips with friends, enjoying lunch and drinks, and curling up with a good book. She was an avid reader, particularly fond of novels by Stephen King, and had a love for horror movies of all kinds. She also had a well-known, near-legendary appreciation for reality television. In the kitchen, Jan was known for her cooking and baking, especially her famous whoopie pies, made from a secret recipe that was uniquely her own and treasured by all who tasted them.

She is survived by her daughter, Kecia Blaisdell and her husband Wayne; her sons, Heath Howe and Ben Howe and his wife Jessica; her sisters, Pam Elliot and Joyce DeDeo and her husband Jim; her beloved grandchildren, Eyan, Brock, Blair, Jaydan, JJ, Katie, Sarah, and Tyler; as well as her niece, Katrina Elliot, and nephews, Chris and Matt DeDeo.

She was predeceased by her parents, Lawrence and Dorothy Jordan.

Jan will be remembered for her love of family, her sense of humor, her strength, and the warmth she brought to those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Family Violence Project, who support the communities of Maine, donations can be made here: https://www.familyviolenceproject.org/donate