Indian Island, Maine - Jan Michelle Paul, beloved mother, sister, and aunt, began her journey to the ancestors on April 3, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. She and her twin, Haywood Pennewaite, were born on March 19, 1968, to Louis Kenneth Paul and Madeline Stevens Paul.

Jan was predeceased by her parents; sister, Shirley; and life partner, Chester Newell. She is survived by her loving son, Kaleb James Newell and his partner, Justice Fogg. She is also survived by her siblings, Erlene, Kathleen, Kenneth, Steven, Edward, Michael, Donald, Ronald, Lisa, Sharon, and her twin, Haywood; and an abundance of nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, cousins, and friends.

Family was everything to Jan. She was the glue of our family, ready to organize numerous gatherings to bring everyone together: birthdays, baby showers, weddings and ceremony. She loved her culture, language, and people; always learning and attending ceremonies at every chance.

Jan loved and protected water with all her being. She started at the Bureau of Indian Affairs Water Resources Technician Program in New Mexico, earning a certification as a water quality technician. Jan dedicated 28 years to working at Penobscot Nation Water Resources Program. It was her passion, even traveling to Standing Rock with fellow community members in solidarity with her relatives to the West. She shared her knowledge with young people on Indian Island and all levels of education across Wabanaki Lands. She brought our children to the water, showing her own relationship she had with it.

Jan inspired children to be interested in science, for which she helped develop and taught a curriculum that included vital information about the Penobscot River. Jan was incredibly kind, always ready to help others and offer a place to stay, no matter the circumstances. She took countless family, friends, and guests out in the field to honor the water; especially to learn, and laugh together. Jan's laughter and love will forever be heard and felt.

A celebration of Jan's life will be held at the Sockalexis on Indian Island on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. Gathering at 9:30 a.m., service begins at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Tribal Cemetery. Immediately following the services, all are invited to a potluck gathering at Sockalexis, please bring a dish to share.