Obituary: Susan Lelie (Soyias) Sargent

Susan Lelie (Soyias) Sargent, a longtime resident of Scarborough, Maine, died peacefully on October 16, 2025, at her home in Cape Coral, Florida. The 90‑year‑old was a single mother, a lifelong worker, and a devoted animal lover who spent the majority of her life in her hometown before relocating to Florida in 2016 to be closer to her family.

Sargent grew up in the coastal town of Scarborough, attending local schools and graduating from high school in 1953. “It was a small community where everybody knew each other,” her daughter Joellen recalled. “She had a sense of independence that stayed with her the whole way.”

Her career began at the age of 16 as a waitress at her parents’ restaurant, The Central Restaurant on Portland’s Commercial Street. After a stint at Lum’s, she went on to manage a branch of A&W. “She was always on the move,” her son Randy said. “After A&W she transitioned into administrative work, holding positions at Earl W. Noyes, Merit Pools, and Clean Harbors.” Sargent continued to work until she was 80, a testament to her perseverance and strong work ethic.

Sargent was also active in community organizations. She was a member of the Rainbow Girls and later joined the Order of the Eastern Star. Her dedication to service extended beyond her job, as she often helped neighbors and participated in local volunteer projects.

Animals were a constant in Sargent’s life. In the late 1960s she raised German Shepherds with her husband Jon C. Sargent. Over the years, she never lived without a pet. Her last companions were two Golden Retrievers, Colt and Honey, owned by her daughter Joellen and her husband Brad. “She would always bring them to visit,” Brad noted, “and they were the most comfortable part of her day.”

Sargent’s family survived her. She is predeceased by her parents, Arthur N. Soyias and Thelma O. Dyer Soyias, and her former husband, Jon C. Sargent. Her immediate family includes her daughter, Joellen, and son, Randy Sargent, who is married to Stacy. Grandchildren Meeghan Sheckler, Ryan Sargent, Matt Burnham, and William Burnham, as well as several great‑grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, also mourn her loss.

In August 2025, her family gathered for a private celebration of her life in southern Maine, a fitting tribute in the town that had shaped her early years. The Sargent family requested privacy as they honor her memory and share stories of her enduring spirit and love for family and animals.

Susan Lelie (Soyias) Sargent left a legacy of independence, hard work, and affection that touched many generations. Her life will continue to inspire her children, grandchildren, and the community that cherished her.