Charlotte MacVane LONG ISLAND -- Charlotte MacVane, beloved wife of Tom, died peacefully at home in his arms on March 26, 2011, after a long struggle with Lyme disease. Born Charlotte Jane Sears on Dec. 6, 1929, in Boston to Charles and Helen Sears, she grew up in Somerville, Mass. Charlotte graduated in 1951 from Wheelock College in Boston with a degree in elementary education. She taught kindergarten in Medford, Mass., and early childhood development at the University of Maryland. While summering with friends in 1953, Charlotte met her future husband Tom MacVane in his hometown of Long Island. They were married on March 5, 1954. Throughout their 57 year marriage, they enjoyed many happy summers in their Long Island cottage 'The Camp.' Charlotte and Tom raised five children while living in Maine, New York, California, Indiana and Washington. They spent the past 36 years in their home on Bainbridge Island, Wash. She loved reading and singing to her grandchildren, driving adventures with her husband, walking the paths of Long Island, baking 'goodies' and chatting with family and friends. Charlotte spent many hours volunteering at church, her children's schools, the Long Island Library and was a member of P.E.O. As a new and cautious driver at age 47, her children marveled at her ability to get to her destination without making any left turns! She dedicated her life to the care of her family and they were her joy and contentment. Her love, laughter, smile and wisdom are deeply missed. Charlotte is survived by her husband, Tom; daughters, Ellen Arbour (Ron), Susan Armstrong (Vince), Beth Brundige (Mike), all of Bainbridge Island, sons, Todd of Bainbridge Island and Jay (Heather) of Poulsbo, Wash.; and grandchildren, Kyle, Scott, Grace (Alex), Dane, Lance, Ty, Troy, Cole, Emma and Cara. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her sister, Marion. A private memorial will be held on Bainbridge Island and an additional service is planned this summer on Long Island. An online guest book can be signed at www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society at www.ilads.org. It is our hope that others will learn about Lyme disease, a disease easily misdiagnosed. Charlotte MacVane