With sad hearts we announce the passing of Marie Baker Gurall of South Portland. She was our beloved Mom, Nana,teacher, Sister and friend. Born in 1951 in Portland to Louise and Edward Baker she was later joined by siblings Tom, Michael and Nancy (Baker Miller). They had many magical childhood days together which she loved remembering. She graduated from Deering High School and St. Joseph’s College. Time went on and the Baker family grew as Marie and her siblings married and had children.  Marie and Kevin welcomed their daughter Amanda in 1976, followed by many nieces and nephews all of whom Marie adored.

Marie fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a teacher and she taught hundreds of students in three states, most recently she was a special education teacher at Lee-Win Elementary and at an after school program in Portland  where she continued to help children discover and grow. She believed in the potential of all children and inspired many to continue their education- she had several students stay in contact for decades! The impact she had on so many lives is truly special. 

Marie was a wonderful mother to me who always supported my art without question and encouraged me to pursue my dreams in life.  She and my Dad, her ex-spouse Kevin Gurall of FL, walked me down the aisle to marry my husband Richard Epstein in 2005.  It was a really special moment and she was radiant.

Nothing was more incredible though than watching the love she had for our children Madeleine and Benjamin. She enjoyed her visits to NYC and our visits to Maine so much. She always sent thoughtful notes and gifts to the kids, supporting their dreams as she did mine- I truly hope that they know how treasured they were by her as they become adults and that they might be inspired to always learn, love and care for others.

She was dedicated to her family especially in recent years to her mother Louise Baker.  She was able to give her Mom endless support and love as she aged. Sadly Louise also passed away this year- two strong, funny and amazing women who shared so much love of family, lobster, music and Maine. Marie loved her siblings, their spouses, cousins and her friends fiercely and is dearly missed.

She loved to be at the ocean, book in hand just listening to the waves.  She loved her garden and sitting in the sun with a cold drink and conversation with a good friend. She loved dancing to great music, singing along to Janis or Tina and forgetting the cares of the day.  Most of all she loved the people in her life and hoped that they knew and would remember that in the days ahead.  Marie wished for a celebration of her life and not a funeral so we will honor that and try to laugh and maybe sing together.   Marie also adored the color blue in all shades. Blue is supposed to represent the sea and the sky, freedom, tranquility and peace. If you are stopping by the celebration of her life please wear something blue if you can. 

Though she was not ready to do so she left us with wonderful memories of her beautiful life that was well lived.

You’ll always be my sunshine Mom and your love is a blessing my kids will forever treasure.  You were simply the best. 

Marie is survived by Amanda Gurall, her husband Rich Epstein and their children Madeleine and Ben, all of NYC as well as her ex-spouse Kevin Gurall of FL. Siblings and in-laws include Tom Baker and wife Stephanie, Nancy Baker Miller and Diane Baker. Nieces and nephews Chris, Kim, Cecelia, Chris, Ray, Nicole, Melissa, Victoria,Katelyn, Jonathan, Sam and their loved ones.  She has also left behind countless friends, cousins and a silly orange cat named Moxie. 

She is pre-deceased by parents Louise and Edward Baker, brother Michael Baker and brother-in-law Ken Miller. 

Sincere thanks to all of you who helped her through the hard times.  Her family, friends, Nan, her cancer support group, her team of doctors, The Dempsey Center and anyone else I may have left out. She was more grateful for your care than you’ll ever know. 

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