Linda McRea, 57, journalist in Maine

BANGOR - Linda McRea, a reporter, editor, and columnist for Maine newspapers, died in her home Wednesday after a brief illness. She was 57.

Ms. McRea, who was born on Vinalhaven, worked as a licensed practical nurse before going to work as a correspondent for the Lewiston Daily Sun and Evening Journal. She also wrote a column and was features editor.

After teaching English in Africa, Ms. McRea returned to Maine and worked for the Bangor Daily News as a copy editor. She was married to Tim Allen and had four children.