Millard "Sonny" Parlin Jr.

FARMINGTON -- Millard "Sonny" Parlin Jr., 82, of New Vineyard, died peacefully Wednesday, May 11, 2011, at the Pierce House in Farmington. A lifelong resident of New Vineyard, Sonny was born Dec. 1, 1928, a son of Alverna (Wells) and Millard S. Parlin Sr.

Sonny received his early education in the New Vineyard public schools. He was a graduate of Farmington High School and the Pelletier School of Beauty Culture in Lewiston. He received a bachelor of science in education from Farmington State Teachers College. He did graduate work at the University of Maine in Farmington, Orono and Gorham.

Sonny retired after teaching 40 years in Strong, Livermore Falls and Farmington elementary schools. While teaching in School Administrative District 9, he was involved in an exchange program for two years with the University of Maine at Farmington, where he served as practicum supervisor of students majoring in education. Following retirement, he became a substitute teacher in SAD 9 and SAD 58 and was an adjunct faculty member at UMF, where he supervised student teachers.

Sonny was a former member of the Strong Lions Club, having served as King Lion. He was a member of Davis Lodge A.F. and A.M. 190 in Strong. Sonny belonged to the Masonic Lodge in Phillips, which recognized him for 50 years of membership in 2007. He was a member of Kappa Delta Phi fraternity. Sonny was a board member and volunteer at the New Vineyard Library. He served many years as a board member at Everyone's Resource Depot, located at UMF and was a member of the Retired Teachers' Association as well as the following teaching professional organizations: Sandy River Education Association and the National Teachers Association. He enjoyed reading, quiet afternoons at camp, volunteering and spending time with his friends.

He is survived by his two brothers, Robert Parlin and wife Alice of Farmington, and Roger Parlin and wife Connie of Windham; five nephews, three nieces, and their families.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to Darlene Mooar and her wonderful staff at the Pierce House, the hospice staff and all Sonny's friends, especially his "family" in New Vineyard.

Funeral services will be held today at 3 p.m. from Old South Congregational Church, Main Street, Farmington. All are welcome to attend a comfort reception immediately following services in the church vestry, hosted by the Hospitality Committee. Committal services will be held at Fairview Cemetery at 5:30 p.m. Remembrance gifts may be given to The Pierce House, 204 Main St., Farmington, ME 04938. Tributes and condolences may be shared with his family at www.wilesrc.com.

Arrangements are in the care of the Wiles Remembrance Center, 137 Farmington Falls Road, (U.S. routes 2 and 27) Farmington.