JOYCE N. TOMPKINS, HOULTON – Joyce N. Tompkins, 80, passed away Wednesday, May 30, 2018, at her residence. She was born April 6, 1938, in Woodstock, NB, Canada, the daughter of Wilford Sappier and Clara Polchies.
Joyce grew up in Aroostook County. On April 9, 1955, she married Richard C. Tompkins and together they would raise their four children. Joyce was President of the Association of Aroostook Indians and was the first woman to sit on the Board Of Tribal Governors. She was instrumental in the recognition of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians. Joyce enjoyed traveling and attending cultural events. She often helped her family with the BBQ Shack from Houlton. She was an avid bingo player and loved spending time with her family.
She is survived by her four children, Joseph L. Tompkins Sr. of Houlton, Kelli E. Shannon and her husband, Steve of Dyer Brook, Billy C. Tompkins and his wife, Tammy of Houlton, Richard L. “Corkey” Tompkins and his wife, Christina of Houlton; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind three siblings, Larry Robichaud of Houlton, Elaine Robichaud of Houlton, John Robichaud of New Mexico; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Richard, on January of 2000; two sisters, Cleo Polchies and Mary Polchies.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated 11 AM Tuesday, June 5, 2018,at St. Mary of the Visitation with Father Kent Ouellette celebrant. Interment was at Littleton Cemetery, Littleton.
Those who wish to remember Joyce in a special way may make gifts payable in her memory to the Joyce N. Tompkins Memorial in c/o Dunn Funeral Home, 11 Park St., Houlton, ME 04730. Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at: www.dunnfuneral.com.
