Jacqueline J. Elderkin, 96, Maine educator and violinist, passes away

Jacqueline J. Elderkin died peacefully on the evening of July 25, 2026 at age 96. Born in Bingham, Maine on February 21, 1930, she pursued music at the Boston University School of Music, later attending the University of Maine at Orono and graduating from the Maine Teachers College at Farmington. She married John Elderkin, settled in Boothbay, Maine, and taught at the Boothbay Center School while raising three children.

Elderkin was known for her love of gardening, volunteer work at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, and active community life in both Boothbay and Sarasota, Florida, where the family spent winters. She is survived by her children, including Laurie Dowling, and numerous grandchildren and great‑grandchildren.