Doreene Hanby, affectionately known as "Nickie," passed away on May 4 at Maine Coast Memorial Hospital, Ellsworth, Maine after a long illness.

Born in Scranton, daughter of the late Clyde A. and Dorothy Egen Nicholas, she was a graduate of Scranton Central High School and the Community Medical Center School of Nursing. She worked as a nurse for many years in New Jersey and the Boston area, mainly as an emergency room nurse. She was married May 29, 1977, to Robert "Bob" Hanby, and their marriage had been an inspiration to all. She moved to Harrington, Maine in summer 1986 and had been a beloved member of the community ever since.

Throughout the years, she volunteered at Harrington Family Health Center, serving as president of the board of directors for several years, Rural Health Centers of Maine, Ark Animal Shelter, The Thrift Shop and Sea Coast Mission Food Pantry at Weald Bethel. She also spent countless hours helping anyone in need. She regularly attended Faith Methodist Church of Columbia and was a devoted Christian.

Throughout her life, Nickie had an unbreakable spirit and strength as she dealt with many afflictions. She was quick to laugh and always full of smiles. She loved the simple pleasures, a cat on her lap, time with her husband and family and especially, ice cream. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved her.

Nickie is survived by her husband, Bob; her son, Bob and daughter-in-law, Meredith; brother, Allan Nicholas, Arizona; sisters, Carol Brower, Moscow; and Cheryl Smith, Scranton; several nieces and nephews; an extended family and network of friends; and dear friend, Gena Norgaard.

A memorial service will be held 1 p.m. Friday, May 16 at Faith Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Ark Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 276, Cherryfield, ME 04622; or the MSCM Food Pantry, P.O. Box 428, Cherryfield, ME 04622.