DEXTER-Leona P. Perkins, 87, died September 19, 2015 at Brewer Rehab in Brewer. She was born in Dover Foxcroft, the 14th of April 1928, the daughter of Henry and Lydia (Hall) Leathers.

Leona worked in poultry plants when she was young, but spent most of her life as a homemaker and providing care for numerous children over the years. Born the 4th of 16 children she was well accustomed to 'mothering'! She always enjoyed having children around and caring for them. She also took in laundry and other cleaning jobs to help make ends meet.

Leona married Harold Perkins in 1954; they divorced in 1972. After her divorce she worked as a housekeeper for Les Damon in Corinna and remained his longtime companion until his passing in January of 1986. In 1987 she reunited with Harold. They remarried and remained together until his passing on Christmas Day of 1995.

Although Leona spent the last 20 years living alone in her home in Dexter, she had the company of her wonderful friends Eleanor and Betty. She also enjoyed her special little friend, Isaac, Eleanor's grandson, whom she always had cookies and treats ready for whenever he came to visit.

She is survived by her daughter, Jody; son-in-law, Brent, their family and Grand dog, Mary Jane; four sisters, Mrs. Verna Pinkerton of Belfast, whom she was closest to in the past years, Hazel of Phoenix, AZ, Juanita, also of Belfast, and Ruby Curtis of Lewiston.

Leona was predeceased by her husband, Harold Perkins, long-time companion, Les Damon, her parents, and all of her brothers and many sisters.

Leona will be sadly missed by the many people she has touched over the years. She will be remembered as a selfless and loyal woman. She was kind, generous, and hardworking. She would gladly give anyone her last dollar without thinking twice, invite you in and set another plate at her table without hesitation. Leona will also be remembered fondly for her stubbornness and at times 'feisty' nature.

Her daughter would like to send a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Brewer Rehab for the extraordinary care she received while there. There are so many wonderful people that cared for Momma and truly made her comfortable and happy during her stay there.

Graveside services will be held 11 AM, Saturday, Oct 3, 2015 at the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Dexter. Cremation arrangements by Crosby & Neal, Dexter.