Obituary: Reta Louise Leighton
Reta Louise Leighton, 97, of Scarborough, dies after long, active life in Maine
The community of Yarmouth and the surrounding towns mourn the loss of Reta Louise Leighton, a lifelong resident and devoted volunteer who passed away Sunday, June 14, 2026, at the age of 97. Leighton had lived in Scarborough for many years but spent the majority of her adult life in Yarmouth, where she was known for her generous spirit, sharp sewing needles, and active participation in local civic groups.
Leighton was born in the small town of Windham to Elizabeth Worthley and George Libby. She attended the local schools until her junior year, when she moved to Portland with her family. After graduating from Portland High School, she returned to the coast and settled in Yarmouth with her husband, Robert Clifton Leighton, whom she married in 1948. The couple raised a family in that home until 2010, when Leighton retired from her longtime job at JJ Cleaners.
Although she left the commercial laundromat, Leighton began a home‑based alteration business that served many women in the region. “I’d spend my afternoons in the workshop, tailoring shirts and dresses, and that gave me a sense of purpose,” she told a local newspaper in the 1980s. Her handiwork earned her a reputation for quality and kindness.
Leighton's faith was a cornerstone of her life. A lifelong member of First Parish Congregational Church, she was actively involved in the church’s outreach programs and served on the church’s committee for over two decades. Beyond the church, she was a staple of community life. She joined the Fortnightly Club, helped out with the Girl Scouts Silver Trefoil, and was a regular member of the Red Hatters of Freeport. She also maintained a monthly card‑playing group that brought neighbors together for friendly competition and conversation.
Family members say that Leighton’s warmth and humor touched everyone who knew her. “She was a mother, a sister, a friend to many,” said her daughter, Regina Grenier, whose son, Paul Lydon, also survived her. Leighton’s husband, Robert, died earlier, along with her parents and her sister, Lois Lydon. A half-brother, Dewight Worthley, and his wife Olive, as well as a half-sister whose name is withheld, had all predeceased her.
Leighton faced three bouts of cancer during her later years. The family expressed deep gratitude to the medical team who cared for her, particularly Dr. Matthew Dugan, nurse Christina, and former physician Dr. Wesley Johnson, as well as the staff at Andwell Health Partners. “They gave us compassion when we needed it most,” the family said in a statement.
A memorial service honoring Leighton’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 26, at First Parish Congregational Church (116 Main St., Yarmouth). Friends and family are invited to join in remembering her legacy of service and kindness.
Those wishing to pay tribute may sign an online guest book at Lindquist Funeral Home’s website. Instead of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in Reta’s name to the Girl Scouts of Maine, whose address is 138 Gannett Drive, South Portland, ME 04106.
Reta’s quiet strength and generous spirit will be felt in Yarmouth and beyond for years to come.
