1885 – 1966

Mabel Gray Wordell was born on January 6, 1885 in Little Compton, the 2^nd child of Gersham Wordell and Emma Francis Porter. Mabel quickly learned how to take care of many siblings (14), as there were only 3 girls and the rest Wordell boys who grew up in L.C. and spent many years in L.C. On November 23, 1903, Mabel married Walter E. Bixby and they made their home on Long Highway at farm “Harmony Home by the Sea”. Mabel and Walter had three children: Howard, born 4/5/1904; Raymond, born 6/23/1907; and Ida, born 11/26/1911. Harmony Home was a dairy farm. Mabel, raising their 3 children, also rented rooms to school teachers in the winter. Mabel’s brother Walter C. Wordell came to Harmony Home from World War I in poor condition, and Mabel took care of him until he passed away. Mabel and her sister Maria Wordell Petty were the organizers of the American Legion Auxiliary and Mabel was active in the Red Cross. Mabel and her family were very active in the LC Methodist Church until it closed in the 40s. Harmony Home became very active in the summers. Mabel took in many guests. The dining room table, seating up to 10, was full for 3 meals a day. Summer guests spent time at Sakonnet and Westport Harbors, and kids and adults had fun and learned about farm life. Mabel made sure that Harmony Home always welcomed her family and her brothers over the years. There were many clambakes and parties. Mabel was quiet and a great mother, grandmother, and friend to all. One of Mabel’s joys was helping and teaching the young boys and girls many things. One special thing was in the kitchen, making johnnycakes, cookies, many different kinds of pies, and of course the special donuts.

Mabel passed away in L.C. of February 21, 1966, at her daughter’s home which was built in the orchard of Harmony Home by the Sea.

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Walter and Norma Elwell

March 2020

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