It is with heavy hearts, the family of Milderd Gaines (Mickie) announce the passing of our family matriarch at age 97 on November 15, 2025.
Her life was happy and full. Born in 1928 in Lubec, Maine, growing up in a self-described “Waltons mountain” type life, she lived through the great depression, many major wars, great inventions, but also suffered many personal losses of loved ones who have gone before her, who she now reunites with. It was at the world renowned McLeans Psychiatric Institution in Massachusetts that Mickie met the love of her life Al, who lived in Revere. Mickie was working there, and Al was a visitor(not a patient). After starting their family in Lubec, they ventured out into the world. Through Al’s employment at the American can company, the family relocated to Venezuela, Puerto Rico back to Maine, back to Puerto Rico again then ultimately settling in Fairport NY.
Other than McLeans, Mickie had a wide variety of jobs in her lifetime, including working at the American Can Company, Working in a skinning shed for herring, briefly for Hickory Farms and as a “lunch lady” at Minerva Deland and Fairport High School. It was there that she proudly bragged that a movie star came through her line every day. (Phillip Seymour Hoffman) Mickie enjoyed many activities throughout her life including attending church, puzzles, playing cards, reading, knitting, bingo, watching jeopardy and playing 18 holes of golf into her 80’s and telling detailed stories from the old days. She was a masterful storyteller. We now treasure and carry with us all of those memories and stories. Mildred Brackett O’brien Gaines was old fashioned, with strong faith and family values. Unbelievably resilient to the point that we thought she’d live forever.
Mickie was predeceased by her husband of almost 60 years Albert Gaines Jr. and one of her children, Teresa Collier, Sister Evangeline Morrison, Brother Alden O’brien, nephew Carl Morrison and son in law Robert McRea. She is survived by her daughter Martha McRea, son Albert Gaines(Janet), close family members Sharon and Vic Nardi. And many loving friends and relatives.
A viewing will be held on Tuesday November 25, 2025, from 4-6 pm at Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home 7501 Pittsford Palmyra rd. Fairport NY 14450
A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday November 26, 2025, at 10 am at the Church of the Resurrection at 63 Mason Rd. Fairport, NY 14450
Date of Interment and graveside service in Lubec, Maine to be determined by family.
7 responses to “Gaines, Mildred B.”
As a student at FHS I remember her smile each day for me. I was able to have a cookie on credit often. This was decades ago and I still remember. Mrs. Gaines was special.
When I was Parish Leader at Church of the Resurrection, I remember Mildred and Al. They were faithful and welcoming delightful people who always had something positive to share, and so proud of her Maine roots.
Thank you for sharing them with us!
God bless you all as you weave her death into Life.
Peace,
Nancy
Mickey & Al were the absolutely sweetest and kindest neighbors one could ask for. Always so thoughtful and kind. When we were children, AI would come over with a laser engraved pen for each of our birthdays. He treated us like his own grandchildren. Corrected us when we needed correction, gave us instruction and guidance when we needed wisdom. When our family was preparing for a long distance trip, Al & Mickey provided us with state maps from AAA as well a large cargo box for our van. They made our trip even more memorable with pointers for traveling. 🧳During their many trips to Maine, I had the pleasure of feeding their cat and housesitting. Al and Mickey provided us with amazing childhood memories. I am so grateful to our loving God that our paths crossed in life and we were so blessed with such amazing neighbors who left impressions on our hearts for our entire lifetime. Both Al & Mickey will be in our hearts forever. May they rest in peace. Until we meet again.
Wayne has many fond memories of Mildred and Al from his growing up years. His love for spaghetti is alll because of Al and his sauce! His mom and dad were close friends when they were in Lubec. His mom grew up with Mildred in “Dixie”.
My dad, Barrett Lewis, was in Venezuela at the same time. She fed him many Sunday dinners and included him in exploring the country. He is long gone, but thought the world of Al and Mildred and their generosity.
Lovely lady . Her sister , Evangeline, was my first grade teacher, and favorite teacher of all time
I am sorry to learn of Mildred’s passing. I always enjoyed talking with her when she came to Maine. My husband David and Al were good friends.