Ruth Abbie (McLucas) Knight

WESTBROOK – It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Ruth Abbie McLucas Knight on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, at Gorham House Retirement Center in Gorham. Surrounded by family and friends, Ruth was lovingly ushered into Heaven after more than 90 years of touching lives with warmth, humor, and compassion.

Born on Valentine’s Day, 1934, in Westbrook, Ruth was raised by her devoted father, Millard McLucas, after her mother, Phyllis Cotton, passed away shortly after her birth. She also spent her youth on the rural family farm in Brownfield with her dear Aunt Emma, Uncle Bert and his cows, and high school years with the Watkins family in Windham Hill. There, she survived the 1947 fire that destroyed much of the town, carrying her beloved dolls to safety—a story that reflected her courage and lifelong care for others.

She graduated from Windham High School in 1952 and was a proud member of their Alumni Society. Ruth was known for her adventurous spirit- once crowned “Miss SebagoLand” after entering a swimsuit competition on a dare. In her early years, she married Trafton Plaisted, raising two sons, John and Michael, while balancing motherhood, church, and community involvement. Later, Ruth worked with resilience and enthusiasm in a wide variety of roles—from waitressing at Friendly’s, to becoming head of security at Maine Medical Center, to managing Things Remembered at the Maine Mall.

In 1974, she married the love of her life, Frank “Cliff” Knight. Together they lived in Alaska, ran Knight’s Olde Country Store in Lovell, and traveled widely in their camper. Ruth’s passions included antiques, books, and history. She volunteered as a docent at the Tate House and Longfellow House and was active in numerous local historical societies, honored as a Lifetime Member in Westbrook.

She was predeceased by her eldest son, John; and her dear husband, Cliff.

Ruth is survived by her son, Michael Plaisted of Gorham, daughter-in-law Peggy Plaisted of Plano, Texas; granddaughter, Allison Plaisted Loucks, husband Stewart, and their children Lorelei, Barrett, and Evelynn; as well as her stepchildren, Lindsay Knight, Stacey Knight Buswell, and Driscinda Knight Smith and families. She also leaves behind nieces, especially Rebecca Farnsworth, who lavished her with years of loving care, nephews, cousins, many dear friends, and wonderful caregivers who became like family in her final years.

Ruth will be remembered for her strong spirit, boundless optimism, and a radiant smile that would light up any room.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, Oct. 19, at 2 p.m. at Windham Hill United Church of Christ, with reception following. Burial will take place Tuesday, Oct. 21, at 1 p.m. at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, Hiram. All are invited.

Ruthie often reflected on her life through her favorite Dickens quote: “It was the best of times. It was the worst of times.” She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Westbrook Historical Society or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.