Eustis, Maine – Jane "Jano" McKay Wilkinson, 72, passed away peacefully at her home on Eustis Ridge on October 17, 2026 surrounded by her loving family after courageously battling cancer for the past year and a half. Jano faced every challenge with the same strength, determination, and grace that defined her life.

Jano was born on August 9, 1954, in Augusta, Maine, the daughter of Keith and Barbara McKay. She built a life centered on service, community, friendship, and family, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

A dedicated professional, Jano practiced dental hygiene for more than 40 years, caring for generations of patients with kindness and expertise. Her commitment to her community extended far beyond her professional career. She served as a Selectperson for 17 years, helping guide and strengthen the town she loved. For 15 years she also worked as a massage therapist, bringing comfort and healing to countless people.

Jano was a woman of many passions. An avid quilter, she cherished attending quilting retreats and sharing her creativity with fellow enthusiasts. She was one of the founders of the Stratton/Eustis chapters of Girls Talk, helping create connections and support for girls in the community. A gifted cook, Jano shared her love of food through her newspaper column, Recipes from the Ridge, published in The Irregular. Her kitchen was often a gathering place for family, friends, and neighbors. She was also a proud member of the Tacky Women’s Angling Team.

Jano's love for animals was evident throughout her life. She enjoyed dog sitting for others and rarely went without two loyal canine companions of her own.

On September 21, 1989, Jano married the love of her life, Rich "Crusher" Wilkinson, at their camp on Eustis Ridge. Together they built a life filled with laughter, adventure, travel, community service, and unwavering devotion to one another. They enjoyed numerous cross-country and ski adventures together.

Jano was deeply involved in the Sugarloaf community. She was a dedicated supporter and volunteer for the Sugarloaf Ski Club, and reining WWWW Queen for many years. Whether through public service, volunteer work, friendships, humor or simple acts of kindness, she cast a wide net of positive influence that touched countless lives.

She was predeceased by her parents, Keith and Barbara McKay; her sister, Ann McKay; and her brother, Dan McKay.

Jano is survived by her husband, Rich "Crusher" Wilkinson, and her beloved Labrador retrievers, Piper and Gracie, along with many extended family members, friends and neighbors whose lives were enriched by her friendship and generosity.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 22, at 2:00 p.m. in the King Pine Room at the Sugarloaf Base Lodge.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donating to the American Cancer Society in her name. They also encourage all who knew her to remember her by sharing a meal with loved ones, lending a hand to a neighbor, or embracing the community spirit she so passionately championed throughout her life.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan & Scott's Cremation and Funeral Service, 488 Farmington Falls Road, Farmington, ME, 04983, where memories, photos, and condolences may be shared at www.dsfuneral.com.