Elayne Neil Obituary (1949 - 2026)

Elayne M. Neil, of Wilton, went home to be with the Lord on February 22, 2026. Born in Presque Isle, Maine, on December 27, 1949, she was the daughter of William "Bill" and Esther Haskell. Elayne graduated from the University of Maine at Orono in 1972 and devoted her professional life to education. She taught first grade in the RSU 9 school district for more than 30 years, touching countless young lives with her patience, skill, and deep love of teaching reading. Even after retiring, she continued serving students as an educational technician and volunteer until 2020. On June 21, 1975, she married the love of her life, Nelson Neil. Together, they built their home on Voter Hill in the early 1970s, where they shared many happy years until Nelson’s passing in 2012. Elayne found great joy in nature, animals, and in life’s simple pleasures. She especially loved horses and spent many years riding. She treasured walking around Farmington with her dear friend Carol, hiking French’s Mountain, strolling along the Whistle Stop Trail, and meeting friends at McDonald’s. Known for her caring and compassionate spirit, Elayne had no children of her own but loved many as if they were. She is survived by her sister, Nancy Vigue (Bob) of Mapleton; her nephews, Jeff and Joe Vigue; and her dear friends Carol, Rhonda, and Michelle. She was predeceased by her brother, Dale Haskell, and by her parents, William "Bill" and Esther. Elayne will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Special thanks are given to the staff at Woodlands Memory Care Center and to the staff of Andwell Health Partners for the kind and compassionate care given to Elayne. Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service, 488 Farmington Falls Road, Farmington, Maine, where memories, photos and condolences may be shared at dsfuneral.com