Benjamin R. Day

HILLS BEACH – Benjamin R. Day, 71, passed away on Oct. 6, 2024, at Maine Medical Center, surrounded by loved ones.

Ben was born Oct. 29, 1952, to parents Lester Day and Gustie Day-Cooledge. Once a rambunctious boy, he grew into an independent, proud, strong, hilariously funny man who spent his best years with the love of his life, Shirley Keene. He especially loved her cooking and preferred a home cooked meal over anything else, well, aside from lobster.

Ben spent his working years as a truck driver, and when he wasn’t working long hours, he spent much of his time fishing. His love of the sport started when he was a boy, ice fishing in the winter and pond and lake fishing in the summer. After moving to the ocean, Ben took up a strong liking for saltwater fishing and it became his passion. He made many friends in this hobby over the years; Warren, Chris, and Steve being some of his dearest to mention.

When he wasn’t fishing, he preferred spending time with his family and friends, telling stories, and talking with locals. He was known as the “Mayor of Hills Beach”, and many neighbors looked forward to seeing him outside on their daily walks or errand runs and would always stop and chat. Ben loved a good story, either telling one or hearing one.

More than any love he had for his hobbies, he deeply loved his dog, Bella Boo-Boo, who adored him more than anything.

Benjamin was predeceased by his father, Lester Day; and a grandson, Jonesy Day.

Family members who love and miss him include his mother, Gustie Day-Cooledge; his significant other, Shirley Keene; daughter, Heather Day Anderson and her husband Alf, son, Benjamin Day and his partner Crystal, two stepsons, Michael Keith and Bill Keith and his wife Liz, his bonus daughter, Stephanie Keene; his brother, Jamie Day and his wife Tammy; and two granddaughters.

Per Ben’s request, no formal services will be held.

A special thank you to the dear staff at Saint Andre Healthcare, including Dr. Maureen Savauge. Thank you for taking the time to care for a man who hated being cared for. And to the Cardiac Critical Care team at Maine Medical, thanks for all your efforts and attention.

Online condolence messages can be submitted at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service website, http://www.mainefuneral.com

In lieu of flowers,

donations can be made to

Heart & Horses or

your local animal shelter.