With deep love and gratitude for her remarkable life, the family of Madeline (Dean) Perkins announces her peaceful passing on April 11, 2025, at the Calais Community Hospital, at the age of 95. Madeline was born on January 30, 1930, in Baileyville Maine, to Edward and Charlotte (Thibodeau) Dean. She graduated from Woodland High School in 1947. After high school, she worked at Ware Knitters. It was soon after that she met the love of her life, Leo Perkins, at a dance reception—though their story really began when he came to buy a pair of skates "for his sister." The family suspects the skates were just an excuse to see her again. Two years later, on October 28, 1948, they were married. Together, Madeline and Leo built their home on Spruce Street in Woodland, Maine, where they raised their daughters, Deborah and Donna. It was a home filled with love and laughter, and where Madeline lived for 75 years. Ever Leo's steadfast partner, she held the 2x4s while he nailed them in place—not just for their home, but later, for their beloved family cottage built next to her sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Bernard. That cottage became the heart of countless treasured memories—lobster boils, campfires, swimming, cookouts, and unforgettable games of Yahtzee. If you ever played against "Nanny," you knew she played to win. She didn't care if you were 3 or 63, you had to win fair and square if you were going to beat her. Madeline was predeceased by her beloved husband, Leo Perkins; her parents, Edward and Charlotte Dean; her daughters, Deborah White and Donna Brown; her son-in-law, Randy White; and her siblings Evelyn, James, Elizabeth, William, Edith, Lawrence, Barbara, and Everett. She is survived by her cherished grandchildren: Melissa (Chuck) Brown and Krista (Jeff Babcock) White of St. Stephen, New Brunswick; Veronica (Anthony Iannucci) Seavey of Calais, Maine; Allison (Ahn Tran) Seavey of Tumwater, Washington; Jen (Micah) Harris and Mitchell Brown of Texas. Her legacy continues through her adored great-grandchildren: Jessica (Brandon), Emma (Nicole), Ben, Kaden, Ryleigh, Bella, Jesse, Leo, Ella, and Adriana. She is also survived by her son-in-law David Brown; nephews Andreas (Wendy) Connal-Nicolaou, Alexander (Heather) Nicolaou, Jeff Storey; and many other nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Known to many simply as "Nanny," Madeline had an unwavering devotion to her family. She delighted in every child who came into her life—whether grandchild, great-grandchild, niece, or nephew—and never missed a chance to share something sweet from her kitchen. Her table was always open, and her heart even more so. She was also known for her spicy disposition, a spark that added charm to her wit, spirit to her storytelling, offering of her opinion and just the right amount of fire to her warm-hearted nature. Madeline was a proud member of the Riverside Rebekah Lodge. A longtime member of the Woodland United Methodist Church, Madeline was an alto in the choir, a devoted member of the Women's Club, and a joyful presence at countless church gatherings and events. She was a talented quilter, gardener, canner, and baker—her pies and preserves were legendary. An avid reader, she read thousands of books and remained mentally sharp to the end, thanks in part to her lifelong love of crossword puzzles and the mysterious shorthand notes she often left for family—always refusing to reveal what they said. Madeline was the picture of quiet strength and grace, weathering heartbreak with deep faith and resilience. She faced life's challenges with dignity and a gentle humor that endeared her to all who knew her. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at Wellmore Point for the care and kindness Madeline received during her three years as a resident, and to the Calais Community Hospital for the compassion shown in her final days. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Madeline's memory by making a donation to the Calais Methodist Church or by donating a children's book to your local school—celebrating her lifelong love of reading and children. A celebration of Madeline's life will be held at the Calais Methodist Church on Friday, July 11th at 10:00 a.m., followed by a graveside service at Woodland Cemetery. All are welcome to join in remembering and honoring this extraordinary woman who touched so many lives with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love. Arrangements by Mays Funeral Home & Cremation Services.