JAY — Lilacs were recently planted at Spruce Mountain Middle School in memory of Kellee Fortier, an educator at Jay Middle School and Spruce Mountain Middle School who passed away unexpectedly in July.
Fortier was a wonderful and caring educator, teaching math to sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-graders for 24 years. She was a terrific friend and devoted community member, as well as a loving daughter, wife and mother.
On Oct. 5, students and staff planted lilacs at the front and back of SMMS in memory of Fortier. Her husband, Tom Fortier, along with her mom and dad, Rosie and Bob Richmond, were present to help with the planting.
While watching the kids take over the planting from the adults, Bob commented, “I never realized her impact as a teacher.”
A spaghetti supper to celebrate Fortier’s life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 5.
Spruce Mountain is raising money for Fortier’s two daughters, Hayley and Shae, who are currently in college, to give them financial aid for their spring semester.
The staff would like to make a donation in Kellee’s name to the Dempsey Center. Fortier felt support for family members who are affected by someone with cancer was important, but such support isn’t widely available or known.
Lastly, the staff would like to get Kellee’s Closet up and running, a place where students could go online to request a need for themselves or a friend. Student needs might include sneakers for gym class, a warm coat for winter or a backpack and supplies to start school. When a need is recognized, funds would be used to purchase the needed item or items for the student.
There will be a pie/dessert auction throughout the evening and 50/50 tickets sold with all proceeds going to Kellee’s Closet. Adult tickets are $8 and children, 10 and under, $5. Tickets for dinner may be purchased at SMMS or donations may be mailed to Spruce Mountain Middle School, Attn: Kellee’s Closet, 23 Community Drive, Jay, ME 04239.
Tickets will also be sold at the door but the community is encouraged to purchase tickets in advance.
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