Teresa "Terri" Royer MacKnight

ANDOVER – Dr. Teresa “Terri” Royer MacKnight, 57, died Sunday, August 15, 2010 peacefully at her home in Andover. She was born in Lewisburg, PA on March 25, 1953, the daughter of Russell and Louise Royer. She graduated from Lewisburg High School, Lewisburg, PA Class of 1971 and received her Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine, Des Moines University in IA in 1979. Dr. MacKnight practiced medicine in Hollywood, FL, Seattle, WA, Negley, OH and Beaver, PA before moving to Maine in 1990. She practiced medicine in Rumford until being disabled by Neurologic Lyme Disease. She was one of the founders of the International Lyme and Associated Disease Society and the society’s first President in 1999. As a lecturer and author she strived to help the medical community and the public to recognize, treat and prevent Lyme Disease. Her desire to help others also took her to Barrow, AK, American Samoa and into rural areas where she was able to help those without access to medical care.
     She was a loving mother who treasured the time she spent with her son Michael and was delighted to see the wonderful young man he has grown into. He was the apple of her eye. She was known as a compassionate physician and a good friend to many who knew her.
     Dr. MacKnight enjoyed gardening, skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing, snorkeling, biking, hiking, and wilderness camping. When not outside, she could be found in the kitchen where she enjoyed cooking for her family. Some of her fondest memories were those spent at camp with family and friends. She also enjoyed traveling and exploring new areas.
     Surviving are her son Michael and his father Dirk MacKnight of Andover; mother and father, Russell and Louise Royer of New Columbia, PA; brother, Rod Royer of Salt Point, NY and sister, Robin Yost of Milton, PA.
     Memorial services will be conducted at 1 p.m. on Monday, August 23, at the Andover Congregational Church, Andover, with Rev. Jane Rich officiating. Those who desire, in lieu of flowers, please contribute to “Teresa MacKnight Memorial Fund,” c/o Franklin Savings Bank, P.O. Box 579, Rumford, ME 04276 in her memory. Arrangements are under the care of the Meader & Son Funeral Home, 3 Franklin Street, P.O. Box 537, Rumford. Friends may sign the guest book and share memories on-line at www.meaderandson.com.
     
     
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