Pauline W. Tobey

Obituary of Pauline W. Tobey

Pauline Mae (Ward) Tobey
October 21, 1926 – July 26, 2025

Pauline Mae Tobey, affectionately known as "Polly," of South China, Maine, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025, after enjoying one final happy hour surrounded by her family.

Born in Augusta, Maine, to Ruth (Baker) and Carrol Ward, Polly was a proud lifelong resident of China.

Polly worked for 25 years at the Augusta Post Office and also served as a part-time clerk at the Palermo Post Office. She was best known for her sharp wit, calm demeanor, and her ever-present collection of silver bracelets, her signature and a favorite among her great-great-grandchildren. Even at nearly 99, Polly was determined not to miss a thing. She could often be spotted cruising in her white Buick, heading to breakfast or lunch at one of her many favorite local diners, or off to her weekly hair appointment, no matter how many neighbors called her son or grandson to report her adventures. She refused to give up driving and always demanded the name and number of anyone who tried to rat her out!

A devoted bridge player, she spent decades at the card table with friends, Ginny Dowe, Ruby Elliott, Louise Pinkham, and later Barbara Jackson, Elsie Adams, and Janet Potter. As a long-time snowbird, she enjoyed winters in Florida, first with her beloved husband, Elwood "Jack" Tobey, and later with her sister and best friend, Theresa Plaisted. Back home in Maine, Polly kept up her weekly tradition of Friday night happy hours with friends and family, and she shared a special bond with Susan White, enjoying years of Thursday lunches together.

To strangers, she may have seemed like a quiet, sweet, little old lady-but to those who knew her, Polly was a spirited, no-nonsense Gram who spoke her mind. She will be greatly missed.

Polly was predeceased by her husband, Jack Tobey; her brother, Donald Ward; and her great-great-grandson, Tucker.

She is survived by her loving son, Donald Tobey, and his wife, Marcia of South China; her sister, Theresa Plaisted of South China; and her cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren:

Grandson Harris Tobey and wife Melanie of Rockport, ME, and their children Donald and Elwood;

Grandson Corey Tobey and wife Cheryl of Palermo, ME, and their children:

Samantha Tobey and husband Paul of Waterville, ME, and their children Stella Mae (proudly named after Polly) and Jacie

Jack Tobey and wife Naomi of South China, ME, and their children Greyson and Camille

Carly Rose and husband Trevor of Dresden, ME, and their children Jacob and Chloe

Bobby Rose and wife Courtney of Palermo, ME, and their daughter Olivia

Jimmy Rose of Windsor, ME

Polly is also survived by many nieces and nephews, having been the last living relative of her generation.

An informal gathering to celebrate Polly's life will be held at her home in South China on Sunday, August 3rd, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the South China Public Library, PO Box 417, South China, ME 04358.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all who have offered support during this time, especially Polly's caregiver, Shelly, and the compassionate hospice care team, whose kindness and dedication brought comfort in her final days.

Arrangements are under the care of Riposta Funeral Home in Belfast. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.ripostafh.com