BENEDICTA, Maine — Margaret Rose (Brown) Qualey, 98, passed away on Tuesday, May 1st, 2018, peacefully at home surrounded by her family. Margaret was born on November 6th, 1919, in Benedicta, the daughter of Joseph and Ethel (Cummings) Brown.
Margaret made her residence on the Brown/Qualey Farm her entire life. She worked with her husband, Francis, farming potatoes and raising her five children. She was dedicated to working in the fields and providing a meal for the crew. She was very proud of her gardening, both indoor and out, enjoyed 4-wheeling and snowmobiling. She lived her Irish heritage, was proud of her hometown of Benedicta and was dedicated to the St. Benedict’s Parish. She was a past member of the St. Benedicts Sodality. Margaret cherished her family, never forgetting a birthday, always sending a card or calling on a special day.
She was predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Francis Qualey; her brothers, Rev. Clifford, Leslie, Thomas, Patrick, Robert, Richard, and Bernard Brown; and her sisters, Mary Brown and Catherine Hapenney. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Jalbert and her husband, Ray, of Danvers, MA; her son, Peter Qualey and wife, Reni (Rush), of Sherman; her son, Andrew Qualey of Benedicta; and her daughters, Therese and Catherine Qualey of So. Portland; 10 grandchildren, Joseph Jalbert and his spouse, Karyn, Michael and Mark Jalbert, Gwen (Rush) Genest and her spouse, Chris, Erica Qualey and her spouse, Jason Bigonia, Francis and Georgia Qualey, Matthew Qualey and his spouse, Laurie, Justin Qualey and his spouse, Keely, and Hannah (Qualey) Dyer and her spouse, Jacob; eight great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Isabella, Helena, Kyra, Callum, Maryn, Bryanna, and Cameron; and her sister-in-law, Priscilla Brown of FL. A special thanks to all of the caregivers who showed love and tender care to our mother. She enjoyed their friendship and compassion. Thank you to VNA Home Health and Hospice for the care and support.
Friends called from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, May 4th, 2018, at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, Benedicta. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday with Father Bruce Siket celebrant. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may donate in Margaret’s name to VNA Hospice of Aroostook, c/o St. Benedict’s Parish, PO Box 27, Benedicta ME 04733. For an online memory book and to leave condolences please visit www.bowersfuneral.com
