Sarah Brooks Kelly '48

Sarah Brooks Kelly, 96, of Holden MA died peacefully on February 7, 2026 at 

her home surrounded by her 3 children.

 

She was born October 10, 1929 in Brownfield Maine to parents Leon Prescott

Brooks and Margaret Elizabeth Brooks (Curtis). She married Charles R. Kelly 

class of ’39, of East Conway NH.

 

She is survived by her younger sister Lynda Seavey (Brooks) class of ’61, 

daughters Jan Elizabeth Bueno, Jean Mattson, and son John Matthew Kelly, 

12 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. Her older sister Virginia Menke 

(Brooks) class of ’47 also died at 96 in September 2024.

 

In addition to raising her children and nurturing her grandchildren, Sarah’s 

passions were art in various mediums, poetry, and forging close friendships 

with friends and family.

 

Sarah visited Maine often to vacation with her children so they would know 

their relatives, or to care for ailing relatives. She traveled to Europe and to the 

American Southwest several times to enjoy the art, beauty, and different cultures. 

She was very accepting of varied cultures and lifestyles, especially that of Native 

Americans which were often the subjects of her paintings.

 

She lived independently for many years, driving, traveling, attending exercise

and writing classes, attending grandchildren’s graduations and weddings.

With the help of family, friends, and neighbors, she was able to live on her terms.

She lives on in those she touched with her love, sage advice, and kind actions.

 

Having lost her mother at the age of 5, growing up during the great depression, 

and watching her townspeople fight to recover after the Brownfield fires, her 

favorite saying became, “They make them tough in Maine.” She was.

 

Sarah and her sister Virginia, will be buried by immediate family and invited guests 

In a dual ceremony on July 18, 2026, at the Pine Grove Cemetery in Brownfield.

Following will be a celebration of life reception at the Fryeburg Academy performing 

arts building from 1 to 4 pm. For those who wish to contribute in her honor, 

donations may be made to the Brooks Family Scholarship fund.