Louise Torrey Sanders

LEEDS — Louise Torrey Sanders, 87, died Saturday, Feb. 24, 2018, at her home on North Road in Leeds.

Louise was born Sept. 30, 1930, in the settlement of Livermore Falls known as Shuy. She was the daughter of Ralph and Pearl (Blaisdell) Torrey. Louise was educated in Livermore Falls and graduated from Livermore Falls High School in 1948. After graduation, Louise worked at Strouty’s Convenience Store until her marriage to William Sanders of Leeds on Oct. 12, 1952. Bill and Louise made their home on Bill’s family’s dairy farm in Leeds for their entire married life. After Bill’s passing Aug. 2, 2011, Louise continued to live on the farm.

Louise enjoyed knitting, crocheting, quilting, assisting at the election polls and taking care of any stray cats or children who might stop by. She was a faithful member of the Leeds Community Church Women’s Association, and gave freely of her time and effort, both as a part of the catering crew and chairman of the sewing committee. She was a long time member of the Leeds Historical Society, and one of the lead organizers of the Leeds Bicentennial Celebration in 2001. Louise also served on the Leeds Planning Board. When the cows left Sander-Lou Farm, Louise and Bill opened the doors of their dairy barn to the Leeds Volunteer Fire Department, whose annual barn sale has been held there for the past 15 years. Louise could be found there, holding court, greeting all her old friends and neighbors, and catching up on the news of the community. Louise will be remembered for her optimism, her determination that everyone should be treated well and equally and for her generous spirit.

She was predeceased by her parents; husband, Bill; her half-sister, Ruth Cram Cote Smith; her brother, Arthur Torrey; triplets Pearl, Ralph and Josephine; and a twin brother who died at birth.

She is survived by her niece and nephews, and a wealth of friends too numerous to list.

Messages of condolence may be shared at www.finleyfuneralhome.com.