Averil Joyce Sewall

Averil “Joyce” Sewall, 76, passed away peacefully in South Portland, Maine.  Joyce will be remembered for her enormous heart, contagious laugh, unwavering love for her family, and the many lives she touched throughout her years.

Joyce is survived by her four children: April Bartley-Loftus (Traci) of Gray, Maine; Ashton Bartley III and his wife, Debbie, of Arizona; Mindy Nelson and her husband, Garry, of Chapman, Maine; and Christopher Bartley of Washburn, Maine.  She also leaves behind her five grandchildren: Brooke Sullivan and her husband, Matt; Jaida Beaulieu and her fiancé, Ben; Macie Thibeault and her husband, Austin; Drew Bartley and Luke Bartley; as well as five great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy.  She is also survived by her stepchildren, step-grandchildren, and step-great-grandchildren.

Joyce is survived by her siblings, James, Chuck, Billy, and Evelyn, as well as her brother-in-law, David Sewall, and his wife, Jill.  She was predeceased by her beloved husband, William “Bill” Sewall III; her former husband, Ray Bartley; and her brother, Bobby.   She also leaves behind a very dear friend Susan O’Connor who she shared more than 40 years of friendship.

After the passing of her husband, whom she lovingly cared for, Joyce was able to begin a new chapter of her life in Gray, Maine.  There, she embraced the opportunity to live life to the fullest, creating new memories and enjoying the things that brought her happiness.  She also formed a very special friendship with Debbie, who shared many of Joyce’s interests and became a dear companion.  Joyce’s family will always be grateful that she had the opportunity to experience this chapter of her life.  

Many in the community may remember Joyce from her years as a waitress at Riverside Restaurant, China Pearl, Governor’s Restaurant & Bakery, her time working at JCPenney, or her many years serving as the head cook at Presque Isle High School.  She took great pride in caring for others, and her warmth and generosity extended far beyond her work.

Joyce and her husband, Bill, were longtime members of the Presque Isle Elks Lodge, where they formed lifelong friendships and shared many wonderful memories with their Elks family. 

In her quieter moments, Joyce found happiness in the simple things.  She loved watching birds, tending to her flower gardens, crocheting, and creating beautiful afghans, scarves, and blankets for the people she loved.  And, of course, no one could forget Joyce’s love of HGTV. 

Above all else, Joyce’s family was her greatest joy.  She had a natural gift for taking care of others and found happiness in providing for the people she loved.  Her generous spirit, enormous heart, infectious laugh, and ability to make others feel cared for will be deeply missed. 

Though she is no longer with us, Joyce’s love lives on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and the countless people fortunate enough to have known her.  Her memory will remain a cherished part of the lives she touched.