WEST GARDINER – With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Florence Ida Perkins, 80, of West Gardiner, Maine. Florence passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at home with loved ones by her side. Florence was one of ten children, and she was born in Gardiner, Maine, on August 10, 1945, to the late James and Viola Fuller. Florence worked for many years in the shoe industry at Etonic, as well as at Green Point Farms. She spent many years taking care of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many neighborhood children. She always had room in her heart for more. Florence was affectionately known by those who loved her as Flo, Shorty, Gram, Nanny, and Half Pint. She spent her life nurturing those around her with a loving and compassionate spirit and found joy in life's simple pleasures. She was a charismatic homemaker with a passion for baking and decorating her home for every season. She loved a good game of Spite and Malice and could often be heard repeating one of her many coined phrases, such as "busted finolly hoppers," which her family grew to love and adopt into their own vocabulary. Florence also loved music, attending bluegrass festivals, strolling through local fairs, and cheering on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren at sporting events. Shopping with friends and family was another favorite pastime of hers. Above all else, what mattered most to Florence was her family. She was predeceased by her husband of 30 years, Nyle Perkins; her parents, James and Viola; her siblings, George and Lewis Fuller, Clara Perry, Doris Bennett, Gertrude Emery, and Nancy Morang; along with many other loved ones. She is survived by her three cherished children: Curt Madsen (Debbie), Skip Madsen (Cindy), and Angela Holbrook (John); her siblings, Effie Wharton, Elaine Denham, and James Fuller; her grandchildren, Melinda (Rusty), Cherryl, Leah, Heather, Cory (Jess), and Steve; bonus grandchildren, Zach, Emma (Andrew); her great grandchildren Justin, Ryan, Hailey, Chloey, Hadley, Shelby, Orin, Brock, Piper; many nieces, nephews, and special friend Janie. Florence's vibrant spirit and unwavering love will forever be remembered by her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. A graveside service will be held at a later date. We invite you to share your favorite memories, stories, and photos of Florence on her memorial page at www.staplesfuneralhome.com as we remember this extraordinary woman who touched so many lives with her love and generosity. Arrangements and guidance are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.