NEWPORT--Beatrice A. Knowles, passed away unexpectedly December 4, 2018 at the age of 91, after a full and wonderful life. She was born October 27, 1927 in Milo, a daughter of Merle and Jennie (Bradshaw) Lyford.

Beatrice was married to her high school sweetheart, Reginald Knowles for 73 years, had 3 children, and was always happiest when surrounded by her family. She was also a career woman and worked her way up from a teller at Maine National Bank in Milo, to a branch manager in Hartland for many years, and ultimately to Vice President of the bank, overseeing their merger. She was active on many boards, including Sebasticook Valley Hospital, SVFCU, was a member of Kiwanis, and in later years as a treasurer for the First Congregational Church of Pittsfield. She also served on their mission's board and sang in the choir. Beatrice loved music, singing, dancing, but most of all her family and friends.

She will be deeply missed by her husband, Reginald; her children, Laurel White, Gary Knowles and partner Carlene Leavitt, Rebecca and husband Isaac Gray; her brothers and their wives, Ronald and Lottie, David and Arletta, Stanley and Nadine, John and Lynn; her sisters, Joyce Carlson and Peg and husband Bob Valvo; 8 well-loved grandchildren, many great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild. Beatrice was predeceased by a sister, Roberta Thulin and brothers, Austin, Donald and Wayne Lyford.

A celebration of her life will be held from 1 to 4 P. M., Saturday, December 15th, at the First Congregational Church, Pittsfield. Memorial donations may be made to her church, First Congregational Church, P. O. Box 423, Pittsfield, Me 04967. Arrangements are by Crosby & Neal, Newport.