WINDHAM – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mark Wayne Stokes of Windham, who left us on Sept. 25, 2025 after a courageous battle with a chronic illness. He was 77 years old, having been born on Feb. 7, 1948, to the late Kenneth and Janice “Annie” (Bailey) Stokes. Mark was comfortable in his home, surrounded by loved ones at the time of his passing. He was a loving husband, a devoted father and grandfather, a dedicated brother, and a cherished friend to many.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Myra (Jandreau) Stokes; sister, Betty Jo Boulanger and her husband Mike of Windham and Florida, brother, David Stokes; son, Matthew Stokes and his wife Jennifer and their sons Jack and Benjamin of Manchester, Conn.; son, Timothy Stokes and his wife Jessica and their sons Harold and Thaddeus of Hopkinton, N.H.; daughter, Emily Stokes of Windham; and many nieces, nephews; cousins; and friends.

Mark was born and raised in Portland, and was a graduate of Portland High School and Northeastern School of Business. He and Myra fortuitously met in Portland, married, and moved to Standish to raise a family. It was here that Mark built a long and successful career as an accountant and where he volunteered for numerous programs and projects to strengthen the community he loved. He spent 35 years working for one employer – Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem) Insurance, and an additional 10 years as a consultant for Martin’s Point.

Mark was a man of deep faith, maintaining a close connection to God throughout his life. His unwavering belief provided him with strength and comfort, especially during his illness. He was a dedicated congregant of Faith Lutheran Church, where he served in many roles, including president and treasurer, and where he sat on numerous boards and committees that serve the greater Windham region. Mark served on the Maine Conference of Lutheran Churches and was instrumental in the success of the Monday Meals Program. Always generous of nature, Mark took great pride in his volunteer work with his many friends and fellow parishioners, and the assistance they provided to those in need.

As a father and grandfather, Mark was a source of endless love, wisdom, and support. He cherished every moment spent with his family, creating memories that will be forever treasured.

Mark was an avid reader and crossword aficionado, and a lover of music and Broadway theater. A formidable cribbage and card player, Mark spent hours teaching his children and grandchildren the ins and outs of the games, accruing many a notch in the win column after everyone was up to speed.

Mark closely followed local and national politics, always siding with platforms that protected the poor and underserved in our communities. He was a skilled handyman, one who was often called upon by his children in a pinch with their own home improvement projects. Mark also enjoyed spending time outdoors, swimming, golfing, and camping with family and friends. A true-blue Yankees fan, Mark could always be found on a summer evening cheering on his precious Yanks.

Before his recent move to Windham, Mark lived for 49 years on Ridge View Drive in Standish, in the home he and Myra built shortly after they were married. They raised their family there and hosted many family celebrations and gatherings. A prolific cook later in life, Mark’s Thanksgiving turkey was legendary.

In retirement, Mark and Myra enjoyed traveling the world together, trying out “snowbird” life in Florida, keeping each other on their toes with their hilarious banter, spending countless hours traveling to their grandsons’ many baseball and hockey tournaments, and actively contributing to the daily lives of their many dear family members and friends. Mark will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of generosity, love, and devotion will continue to inspire those he has left behind.

In addition to his parents, Mark was predeceased by his sister, Kendra Bailey-Stokes; and his first wife, Marlene Cummings.

Services will be held at Faith Lutheran Church on Oct. 18 at 2 p.m.

Online condolence messages can be submitted at the Poitras Funeral Homes, website http://www.mainefuneral.com

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Faith Lutheran Church Memorial Fund.