Skowhegan – Josephine Isabelle Chase, 87, passed away peacefully at home on May 30, 2026. Born in Skowhegan on October 3, 1938, she was the daughter of Leigh and Esther Porter and remained deeply rooted in the community she cherished throughout her life.

Josephine attended Skowhegan schools and graduated with the Class of 1956. She went on to graduate from the Maine Medical Center School of Nursing in Portland in 1959, beginning a career of service that reflected both her skill and her compassion.

She began her nursing career at Fairview Hospital in Skowhegan when it was still located in the Smith Home, serving for many years as a registered nurse and charge nurse. She was instrumental in helping establish the hospital’s I.V. team, and she later continued her education, earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine at Farmington.

Josephine will be remembered not only for her dedication to her profession, but also for the many simple and beautiful ways she cared for others. She loved baking, skiing, and tending her garden, and she delighted in creating handmade knitted, sewn, and crocheted gifts for those she loved.

Family meant everything to her. She especially enjoyed spending time with her immediate and extended family, offering steady support, kindness, and love in ways both large and small. Her warmth, generosity, and quiet strength will be long remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by her sister, Gloria Webb of New Hampshire; her nephew, Aaron Webb and family of New Hampshire; and her niece, Terri Webb, who lived with her and provided loving care and support. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Josephine’s family will remember her with deep love and gratitude—for her caring heart, her capable hands, and the gentle presence that brought comfort to so many lives. She will be profoundly missed and forever treasured.

A private family burial will be held at a later time.