Frances Arlene Ricker

HAMILTON, NJ., and EASTPORT, ME – Frances Arlene Cook Ricker passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, July 22, 2012 in Hamilton, NJ. She was born on November 22, 1928 in Eastport, the daughter of Abner and Lottie Cook. She was predeceased by her brother, Ray Cook, and her sister, Irene Cook McGreevy.
A retired elementary teacher, she graduated from Washington State Teachers College, University of Maine, and enjoyed a long professional career positively impacting the lives of hundreds of children. She was an avid traveler keeping homes in Hernando Beach, FL as well as Hamilton, NJ, but returned each year to her hometown of Eastport and her family home in the South End. Joined by her family, nephews, nieces and friends each year she looked forward to the celebrating the 4th of July in Eastport, a tradition that spanned her entire life.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Dexter Cooper Ricker; three daughters, Jan Culver, Julie Smith and husband Dan Smith, and Joan White and husband Ernie White; one son, Scot Ricker and wife Cindy Ricker; seven grandchildren, Trevor Smith, Brittany Smith, Casie Culver, Lindsey Bernard, Chris Culver, Sara Ricker and Matthew Ricker; and one great-grandchild, Ella Smith.
Visiting hours will be held 12 noon – 2 p.m. Saturday, July 28, 2012 at Mays Funeral Home, 72 High St., Eastport, ME. A service will begin at 2 p.m. in the funeral home followed by a graveside service at Bayside Cemetery. The family respectively requests no flowers or contributions be made. The family would also like to give a special thank you to the Mays Funeral Home for the arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.maysfuneralhome.com