Eva Mae Jackson Barnfather

SACO – Eva Mae Jackson Barnfather, renowned for her impeccable grace, infectious warmth, and a rare devotion to both celebration and service, died on Sunday, Sep. 14, 2025, at the age of 103. Born on June 18, 1922, in New Haven, Conn., Eva was a true community matriarch whose laughter and leadership uplifted everyone around her for more than a century.

Eva wore many hats in her life, each one of them fabulous. She grew up in West Springfield, Mass., the cherished daughter of Frank and Anne Broga. After graduating from American International College, she sought to teach high school, only to encounter barriers because she was a woman. Undeterred, she became a stewardess for American Airlines in 1944 and later a telephone operator, before returning home to education as a junior high social studies teacher. Earning her master’s in Education Administration, Eva then made history as West Springfield’s first female vice principal.

Eva’s commitment to others was unwavering. Moving to Kennebunk, Maine, with her beloved husband Sam in 1995, she dedicated her “retirement” years to tireless community service. She joined the board of Community Harvest, organized Harvest Café, their free community meal, and created the Noel Dinner that now feeds hundreds each Christmas. Eva also launched a free summer lunch program for local children. She inspired her volunteers through encouragement, determination, and sometimes a dash of New England guilt, but never let anyone forget that she was nothing without the help of her team.

Eva believed deeply in the power of friendship, inviting people from all walks of life to her table and into her heart. Her friendships were legendary, and so were her gatherings: whether elaborate soirées or conversation over cheese and crackers, Eva knew any day could be a celebration and had an outfit for every occasion. Her faith guided her through life’s joys and losses, and she lived her creed: “Here I am, Lord, send me.”

Eva was as comfortable at the Ritz Carlton as at McDonald’s, as elegant in sweatpants as in mink. She loved oysters, marshmallow Peeps, Hershey bars, dry martinis with a twist, and the company of her TV boyfriend MacGyver. She believed in hard work, a good party, and well-made shoes. Her resilience, humor, and zest for life will continue to motivate and inspire all who knew her.

Eva was predeceased by her husband Charles “Sam” Barnfather, daughters Jane and Martha, and her son-in-law Christopher.

She is survived by her granddaughter Amy Jane Larkin and husband Shaun Donnelly, her grandson Andrew McPherson; countless friends, members of her found family; and generations of former students and volunteers who carry her lessons forward.

A memorial service will be held at South Congregational Church in Kennebunkport, Eva’s spiritual home of 30 years, on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. A celebration of life will follow at the Community House next door.

The family would also like to thank the staff at the Wardwell in Saco for making Eva’s last year a bright and memorable one.

As we mourn Eva’s passing, raise a glass of Chardonnay (or a dry martini) and remember she believed that the world deserves all you have to give. Now get to work making it brighter, just as she did.

In lieu of flowers,

donations can be made to:

Community Harvest at communityharvestmaine.org