In Memory of

Madeline

Hellum

Hamersley

Obituary for Madeline Hellum Hamersley

Madeline Hellum Hamersley
Sorrento

“I shall pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.” — Henry Drummond

Madeline H. Hamersley lived this credo every day of her 93 years, never missing an opportunity to show kindness and do good. Known for her quick wit, infectious laugh and sincere love of people and animals, Madeline was beloved by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed.

Born on February 17, 1930, to the late Blanche and Ralph Hellum, Madeline grew up in Tuxedo, NY. Granddaughter of the late Mrs. Grace Quinn and Arthur Quinn and Mr. and Mrs. Hans Hellum of Bar Harbor, Maine, she, and her sister Grace Anna spent summer vacations with their grandparents in Maine where her family had lived for generations, their ancestors having served in the American Revolution and Civil War.

Community service and giving back came naturally to Madeline, who served as a charter member of the Tuxedo Volunteer Ambulance Corps, a founder of the Emergency Blood Donor Program, a member of the Tuxedo Police Department, a nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital, and an assistant to her father in running the renowned Ledgeland Kennel. After moving to Maine, she continued to be an active community member and avid supporter of the Sorrento Fire Department, Sumner High School, the Maine State K9 safety vest program and numerous other charities.

Madeline’s was first married to the late Andrew J. Mihok. In 1975 she married the love of her life, L. Gordon Hamersley, Jr. with whom she shared 33 wonderful years of marriage and a passion for the beauty and serenity of Maine.

She is survived by her son Joseph J. Mihok (Eileen), her grandchildren Justin (Breah), Travis (Amy) and Stacie Mihok, and great grandchildren Ava and Ella Mihok. She is also survived by her stepchildren L. Gordon Hamersley III (Fiona) the Reverend Andrew C. Hamersley (Rozi) Nicholas B. Hamersley (Donna) and Catherine V.K. Helman (Mark) and step grandchildren, Sophie Hamersley, Samantha and James Hooper-Hamersley and Jake and Timothy Helman.

Private internment will be at Ledgelawn Cemetary in Bar Harbor. Those who wish may make memorial donations to the Tuxedo Volunteer Ambulance Corps (tuxedoems.org), St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org) or the Maine State Police K9 Vested Interest program (vik9s.org)

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Don Bowers, Nicki Knowles and their families for the love, support and friendship given to Madeline.


Madeline Hamersley was a testament to compassion, love, and strength. She always thought of others before she thought of herself, even in her final days. Madeline showed what true character, strength and determination could do. Throughout her life she consistently gave to others, including her animal friends. If there was some way she could help, she would help. No matter how far.

To Madeline, many friends became family, creating an endless chain of family that she could always count on. In addition to many friends, Madeline always put her own family first, and enjoyed watching her grandchildren grow up.

Her determination allowed her to live in the house she loved, in the place that she truly could call home. No matter her age, Madeline knew where she wanted to live – and she did just that. Maine became her forever home and will always be a place where her legacy will be remembered. The impact that Madeline had on so many people will never be forgotten, nor will her joyful sprit and infectious giggle. She will be forever missed by so many but will never be forgotten.

We will miss you, Nana. We love you so much.

Justin, Travis and Stacie Mihok

Arrangements in care of Jordan-Fernald, 113 Franklin St., Ellsworth.
Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com