Ethel Mildred Herald, 78, died peacefully at her home in Newcastle, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on December 8, 1934 in New Harbor, the daughter of the late Samuel and Dorothy Poland Morton.

She found out at a young age that she loved being in a kitchen. This is where she found her peace. She began her career at 11 as a dishwasher, a job that would require the use of a milk crate because she was not tall enough to reach the sink.

Ethel would work her way through the kitchen from dishwasher all the way to head chef and at one point in time would also own and operate her own business. She would work at such places like Gilbert's, Smalls Brothers Wharf, The Anchor Inn, Restoration Restaurant, and was the head chef at the Pier Restaurant. She was famous for her baked stuff lobster and her molasses cookies.

She was a very spiritual person and believed in angels and the miracles they would bring. She enjoyed tap dancing, something she did for 42 years, clogging and ballroom dancing. She would take these talents and use them by performing at local nursing homes and events.

Ethel would write songs and poems and country western music, as well as writing her own biography. She had a lot of stories that she wanted to make sure everyone had a chance to hear them. She was proud of her heritage which included, Native American, Scottish, English, Irish and French or as she like to call it “Heinz 57.”

She was a caring and loving person, and was there whenever and wherever anyone would need her. She took on the role of care giver for many of her family members and it was a job she enjoyed. She was honored that she could help out when someone needed it the most.

She was a member of the Damariscotta Women’s Auxiliary, the Gardiner and Lewiston’s Singles Club, as well as a member of the Maine Academy of Country Music. She will be fondly remembered and loved by all that had the opportunity to know her. Her family will keep her memory forever in their hearts.

She was predeceased by a son Earl Dennis Boyd and Three sisters Ella, Emma, Alphra, and a brother Henry.

Survivors include her son, E. Donald Boyd and his partner Ellen of Bristol; daughter Elsie Dorothy Daigle of Nobleboro; granddaughter Verna Werlla of Boothbay Harbor; grandson, Dennis E. Boyd and his wife Patty of Leander, Texas; partner, Ralph Elliot; nine stepchildren and all of their families; and her latest blessings, twin step great grandchildren, Julian and Sophia.

A graveside service will be held on April 13 at 11 a.m. at the Hillside Cemetery in Bremen with the Rev. Dr. Ken Dale officiating. Immediately following the service a Celebration of Life will be held at Reunion Station in Damariscotta.

You are invited to share your condolences, memories, and photos with the family by visiting their Book of Memories at www.hallfuneralhomes.com/.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hall Funeral Home and Cremation Services 949 Main St., Waldoboro, ME 04572.