Pauline May Curless

BANGOR - Pauline May Curless, 94, beloved wife of the late Richard W. Curless Sr., passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on June 13, 2026, at St. Joseph's Hospital, Bangor. She was born September 14, 1931, in Monroe, the daughter of James and Gladys (Crocker) Green.

Pauline was a woman of deep faith and unwavering loyalty. A devout Christian, she was a longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church in Brewer. Her life was defined by her devotion to her husband and children, supporting her husband, country music singer Dick Curless, throughout his storied career.

For years, Pauline traveled across the globe. The couple spent 12 years in Nashville before moving to Branson, Missouri, where they spent 3 years before returning to their home in Bangor, Maine. In her later years, she enjoyed spending her winters in Florida and frequently set sail on cruise ship adventures. Known competitively among friends and family as the "Chinese Checkers Queen," Pauline brought spirit and joy to every game and journey.

Pauline is survived by her sister, Lois Vonborstel; children: Terry (Curless) Chinnock; Richard Curless Jr. and his wife, Tina; grandchildren, Asheley Curless, Ryan Curless, Ian Curless, and William Chinnock and five great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Pauline was predeceased by her husband, Richard W. "Dick" Curless Sr.; her son-in-law, William "Bill" Chinnock; her first grandchild, Stephanie Curless; and thirteen siblings (eight brothers and five sisters).

The family wishes to extend a heart-felt thank you to the staff of St. Joseph's Hospital for their compassionate care for Pauline in her final days.

A funeral service for Pauline will be held at 11:00a.m., Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Brookings-Smith, 133 Center St., Bangor immediately followed by a procession to Mt. Hope Cemetery, Bangor. All are invited to share conversation and refreshments at the Family Reception Center of Brookings-Smith, 163 Center St., Bangor immediately followed by the interment. Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com.