A guardian angel named Percis Richards Ashley saw a vision for our tired old shelter. Her dream was to see a brand-new animal shelter built for the area’s homeless animals.
For many years, those of us on the board of directors for the Central Aroostook Humane Society dreamed of a new building. But we were daunted by tight budgets, material and labor costs, and just the overall daunting task of how in the world we could make this dream a reality.
Many, many thanks to Mrs. Percis Ashley, whose generosity enabled the Board of Directors to consider the possibility of building a new, very much needed animal shelter. The staff, Board of Directors and all the communities that we serve will be forever grateful to this kind and generous lady. A special room in the new shelter will be named in memory of Mrs. Ashley.
Percis Richards Ashley, 81, quietly passed away at her home on March 18, 2021, following a brief illness. But what was extraordinary was that because of her love for animals and her vision to see a new building to house the homeless animals, she willed an amazing and generous gift to the shelter. It was with that gift that we started realizing that a new building could actually happen.
Percis was born in Princeton on May 30, 1939, the daughter of Percy E. and Alice M. (Kenniston) Richards. Percis married Arthur “Jack” Ashley, a longtime farmer of Presque Isle, on Oct. 6, 1957. They operated the farm for many years. Percis enjoyed playing cards with her friends and socializing at The Gathering Place and the rec center. Percis also enjoyed being a member of the Red Hat Society.
She worked as a nurse for Visiting Nurses of Aroostook and later became known as the “Nissen Bakery Lady” while working the sales counter at the Nissen Bakery Thrift Store in Presque Isle.
Percis enjoyed raising lap dogs, which was evident by how she loved her longtime canine companions, Mitzi and Foxy, and also a cat friend, Miley. Percis also spent many hours volunteering at the Central Aroostook Humane Society, walking the dogs and helping with the endless daily chores.
With the final touches on our new building being made, we are hopeful to be moving in the end of October. It will take a little time to get settled, but we will certainly be excited to welcome the public in an official open house.
Gloria J. Towle is the secretary for the Central Aroostook Humane Society board of directors.
