Sally Bickford

Sally Bickford ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Crosby & Neal Funeral Homes and Cremation Care, Newport on Mar. 12, 2026.Newport, Maine – It is with heavy hearts that the family of Sally Bickford, a beloved mother, Nana, and auntie, announces her peaceful passing following a prolonged period of illness. Sally passed surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on August 31, 1944, in Skowhegan, Maine, to her parents Charles and Julie Baker. She was 81 years old.Sally was born and raised in Skowhegan and attended Skowhegan High School before beginning a career in retail. She later dedicated much of her life to her home and family, something she treasured deeply.In May of 1970, she married the love of her life, Earl Bickford I. Together they built a life in Clinton, Maine, where they raised their two children and created a home filled with love, laughter, and strong family bonds. Sally and Earl shared nearly three decades together before his passing in 1999.Sally was happiest at home surrounded by the people she loved. Family was the center of her world, and she embraced her role as a devoted mother and a fiercely protective "Mama Bear." She took great pride in helping raise not only her children but also her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always offering comfort, guidance, and unconditional love.She had a creative spirit and enjoyed many crafts throughout her life. Sally loved baking for her family and was rarely happier than when she was in the kitchen making something special. She was also talented with her hands and spent many hours crocheting and knitting slippers, mittens, gloves, and socks for loved ones. In addition, she enjoyed ceramics and painting, and in recent years found joy in drawing with her family on her tablet, participating in daily art challenges together that brought them closer and filled many days with laughter.Sally is survived by her children, son Earl Bickford II and daughter Audra Bickford and her partner Jim Keithan; her sister Gloria Cole; her six grandchildren, Lyndsey, Adrianna, Bridget, Connor, Dominic, and Selena; and three great-grandchildren, Dustyn, Ophelia, and Tucker. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.She was predeceased by her parents; her husband Earl Bickford I; her brother Charles Baker Jr.; her sister Beatrice Caselleto-Spencer; nephews Billy, Fred, and Eugene Cole; and niece Nina Henderson.Sally will be remembered for her warm heart, her creative spirit, and the fierce love she had for her family. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the memories she created and the love she shared will live on in all who knew her.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.