Bradford, Maine - Elaine F. (Alexander) Strout, 89, lost her long and brave battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis and joined her husband, Bob, on January 1, 2021. She was born November 5, 1931, in Hudson, the daughter of Charles and Doris (Moore) Alexander, later Doris Brooks.

Elaine grew up in Hudson with her 2 brothers, James and Richard Alexander and attended Bangor High School. On July 3, 1949, she married Robert "Bob" E. Strout of Bradford, where they raised 5 children and enjoyed 41 years of marriage. Bob and Elaine purchased "Strout's Bus Service" from his parents and Elaine became the first woman owner/operator school bus driver for School District 64. She was respected and loved by the many generations she carried, many called her "Gram" or "Aunt Elaine," even if they weren't related. On the first day of school, it was not unusual for Elaine to comfort the student or parent to let them know everything would be OK. She would give them a hug and at times, wipe a few tears (students and parents) to help get them through their first day of school.

Elaine was a member of the Bradford Baptist Church, Bradford Historical Society, Bradford Housing Corporation, Eastern Star, and Bradford's first Womens' Fire Department Auxiliary. She also volunteered at EMMC.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her daughter, Melanie; and brother, Richard Alexander. Elaine's favorite past time was spending time with her family; daughter, Carolyn Strout Brasslett and her husband, Larry; their sons, Joseph and his wife, Amy, Aaron and his wife, Kristen; Elaine's son, Eugene Strout and his wife, Donna-Marie; their daughters, Tammy, Tanya, Kristan and her husband, JR Bryant; Elaine's son, Errol Strout and his fiancée, Debra Havel and his sons, Shawn, JR and his wife, Ewa; Elaine's daughter, Sheree Strout Tillson, and her husband, Rick and his daughters, Trisha and Sheri Ann; Elaine's daughter, Melanie Strout Randall, the late wife of Jeffery Randall and their sons, Nick and his wife, Ashleigh and Alan; Elaine's brother, James Alexander and his wife, Rosalie and their children; Elaine's sister-in-law, Joyce Strout Mailman; a special friend, Becky Randall; several cousins and many nieces and nephews. She was also blessed with 14 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed time with her late companion, Ed Crowley.

Elaine was a very caring and compassionate woman. It was not unusual for her to buy a Christmas gift for a neighbor that had no family, or, maybe buy a meal for someone that was down on their luck. She always tried to find the best in everyone and her smile could brighten the room.

Due to Covid restrictions, there will not be a funeral service at this time. A celebration of her life will be scheduled at a later date. Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com.