Message from the Chief

I am writing today to express heartfelt condolences to the families of Ann-Irene Pardilla, Lorraine Dana and Tracy Ray-Neptune. 

It is a tremendous loss for these families that is felt by the entire Penobscot community. Tracy Ray-Neptune was a mother of two, a veteran and a former tribal employee. She is the beloved daughter of Margarite Neptune and will be sorely missed by her family and friends.

Like many of you, I had the privilege of growing up around Ann and Lorraine. Ann served multiple terms on the tribal council as well as serving as Vice-Chief. Lorraine served as our tribal clerk for over 20 years.  They both provided me and so many others with encouragement and support and they meant a lot to me and my family. They had much in common as strong tribal leaders, respected elders, mothers of tribal chiefs and lifelong friends. It is only fitting that they have chosen to travel together today. These amazing Penobscot women were staunch advocates for tribal rights, and they proudly demonstrated their love for our culture and traditions. 

Please let us all join in pausing to reflect on these losses and send our thoughts and prayers to the families of Tracy, Ann, and Lorraine and our entire tribal community.

In Brotherhood,

Kirk E. Francis, Chief