Sara "Sally" Gaffney

SCARBOROUGH - Sara “Sally” Gaffney, 81, of Scarborough, Maine passed away peacefully on February 26, 2023 at the Gosnell House in Scarborough. Her daughter and granddaughter were by her side.

Born on May 3, 1941 to John and Gertrude Larkin of Boston, Sally grew up in Brookline, MA, and graduated from Brookline High School in 1959.

Moving to Maine in the mid 1970’s, Sally began a long career as an administrator at Westbrook College where she also earned her Bachelor’s degree.

A lover of travel, Sally was always planning her next big adventure. Her trips throughout the United States and abroad often left her daughter wondering: “Where in the world is my Mum?”.

Upon retiring in 2008, Sally kept herself busy enjoying life. She was a volunteer for many local groups including Mercy Diabetes Clinic, The Cancer Community Center, and the South Portland Food Cupboard to name a few. She continued to travel with family and friends, and reveled in doting upon her great grandchildren.

Sally loved the beach where she walked many miles on the Maine shoreline. Her dream of living on the beach came true when she moved to Kaler-Vaill in Scarborough in 2015. There, she found a second family with the residents and staff.

Sally had countless friends who were dear to her for decades. She loved game and card days, the annual trip to Cabbage Island, and the Tuesday summer bike rides that always included an ice cream

Affectionately known as “Nan”, Sally’s favorite way to spend time was with her family. Her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. Together, they celebrated special occasions and the simple pleasure of just being together.

Sally is survived by her loving family: daughter, Pamela Latham Secord and her husband Daniel of South Portland; granddaughter, Jamie Tucker, her husband Josh and their children Colby and Jaxon of South Portland; grandson Andrew Latham, his wife Cora and their daughter Charlie of Auburn; sister, Janice Peltier and her husband Dick; brother, John Larkin and his wife Amy; nephews Rick and Justin Peltier, and John Larkin; nieces Hillary Sugrue and Kim Delaney. Sally also leaves a cherished circle of wonderful friends with whom she created beautiful memories.

The family extends a special thank you to the residents and staff at Kaler-Vaill, and the staff at Gosnell House for their wonderful care of our Nan.

Please join Sally’s family for a Celebration of Life at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Road in South Portland on Saturday, March 11th at 1:30 PM. A reception with light refreshments will follow. The family requests that attendees wear a bright color to honor Sally whose favorite color was orange.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of Sally to The South Portland Food Cupboard, or Hospice of Southern Maine.