Funeral Alternatives

02/03/2026

Pauline Velma Gilks, 74, of Mechanic Falls passed away on January 26th 2026 at Montello Manor in Lewiston. She was born on September 17th 1951, in Strong, ME to parents Lillian (Downs) & Herbert Reed. Although she was disabled most of her adult life she did work for Sprague Energy for 3 years.

Pauline loved to go for long car rides, she enjoyed the outdoors and camping when her boys were young and later in life. She really loved shopping for her family for Christmas, her all time favorite place to shop at was Big Als. She liked to play cards and dice and she was very skilled at both. She enjoyed listening to 60s and 70s music and especially loved the band ABBA.

She is predeceased by both of her parents Lillian and Herbert Reed, her stepfather Francis Richards, a sister Marie Richards, and a brother Jimmy Reed.

Pauline is survived by her sons Sean Gilks and his wife Felicia of Turner, Josh Gilks and his wife Michelle of Mechanic Falls, brother Sonny Downs of Canton, sister Gloria Simpson of Mexico, grandson Zachary Gilks of Winthrop, granddaughter Lena Dearborn of Lewiston, ex-husband Joseph Gilks, a special friend Marli and many nieces and nephews.

We would like to thank the staff at Montello Manor for the exceptional care given to our Mom for the short time she was there.

There will be a celebration of life held at 35 Church St in Livermore, ME on Saturday February 7th, 2026 at 12:00 PM. It is the community hall up past the post office on the right hand side. We will try to have a sign of purple balloons.

01/30/2026

Scot Gray, 64, passed away on January 22nd at The Hospice House in Auburn after a short illness.

Scot loved training and working with draft horses and tending to the family farm, along with his work cutting trees. He also enjoyed watching sports such as stock car racing and football.

He was predeceased by his parents, Luther and Lois Gray, and a nephew, Justin Robinson. Scot is survived by his siblings James Gray and his wife Kim, Julie Lee and her husband Chris, Sheila Penney and her husband Don, and Ann Martel and her husband Rick. He also leaves behind nieces Michelle Ann Smith, Aleece Penney and Amanda Cyr and nephews Corey Martel, Jeremy Gray and Dustin Gray with his wife Abby, as well as several other extended family members.

Special thanks to the teams at Andwell and The Hospice House for excellent care and support throughout the final few weeks.

At Scot’s request there will be no services. Burila will be held at a later date for his family.

Obituary record for Scot Gray, provided by Funeral Alternatives of Maine.

01/27/2026

Judith M. Larrabee, 80 passed away peacefully in her sleep in the early morning hours on January 23, 2026. She was born on March 23, 1945, in Brunswick, Maine to Albert C. Letourneau and M. Caroline Carter Letourneau. Her elementary school years were spent in the town of Bowdoin and her High School years in Lisbon.
She began work at the Fort Andros Mill until she had children and then became a stay-at-home Mom. She began working as a substitute cafeteria worker for MSAD # 75 school system. Eventually, she was hired full time and stayed with MSAD #75 until she retired in 2016. She took great pride in her work, making sure to always do her best.
Her biggest joy was spending time with her family, especially her beloved husband and grandchildren. She loved going on fall foliage rides, tending to flowers, and reading.
She was predeceased by her father, Albert in 2001, her mother Caroline in 2006, her son, Richard E. Lachance, Jr. in 2007, her sister, Linda Stimpson in 2011, her brother Richard Letourneau in 2014, and her brother Donald Letourneau in 2017.
She is survived by her beloved husband, William J. Larrabee of Brunswick, her daughter, Sonya Perry of Lakewood Ranch, Florida, her daughter and son-in-law, Karen and David Laliberte of Auburn, her son, Michael Lachance and Sherry Moody of Wiscasset, step-children, Diana Douglass and longtime partner, Mark Billings of Litchfield, Joseph Larrabee of Farmingdale. Her grandchildren, Jarrod M. Erdmann and his wife, Cara of Dresden, her granddaughter, Breah Erdmann and long-time partner, Alix Unsworth of Boone, Iowa, Kelsey Lachance of Gardiner, Justin Douglass and his wife, Seanna of Biddeford, Kari Douglass of Litchfield. Her brother, Brian Letourneau and his wife, Denise of Brunswick, Gary Letourneau and longtime partner, Crystal of Bowdoin and her sister, Kathy Letourneau of Bowdoin. Great-grandchildren, Geneva Erdmann, Owen Unsworth, Makenzie Moody, Lucas and Valerie Blake and several nieces and nephews.

She will be remembered for the love she bestowed on her family, her strength, and determination.
There will be a private graveside service in the spring.

01/26/2026

Joanne Blouin-Verville, a deeply loved mother, grandmother, sister, partner, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on January 21, 2026.

Joanne was known for her beautiful, fiery red hair and her compassionate soul. She carried a quiet strength and a loving heart, and she cared deeply for the people in her life. Family meant everything to Joanne, and the love she gave was steady, genuine, and held close to her heart.

She is lovingly remembered by her life partner, Fred Dyer; her children, Sara Blouin, Eva Blouin, and Dale Blouin; and her treasured grandchildren, Evelyn and Ezra, who brought her immense joy and pride. She is also survived by her sister, Diane Bognot, and her brothers, Claude Verville and Ronald Verville. Joanne also leaves behind her beloved cat, Sabrina, who was a constant source of comfort and companionship.

A celebration of Joanne's life will be held on February 1, 2026, at 74 Lake Auburn Ave., Auburn, Maine, 04210, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Joanne's presence was a gift to those who knew her. Her love, warmth, and gentle spirit will live on through her family and in the many hearts she touched. She will be profoundly missed and forever loved.

01/22/2026

Norma Ruth Ludwig died January 16th with her daughters Gail and Karen holding her hands. She was 90 years old.

She was born on the summer solstice to Harrington and Ruth Bradbury in Belfast Maine. After graduating from Crosby High School she attended the University of Maine in Orono. A young
man named John Ludwig was also attending after returning from the Korean War. When he saw her walk by one of his classes he reportedly remarked “I’m going to marry that girl”. He did propose on the first date and was turned down. His comically inept courting included the phrase “Norma, your eyes,” “Yes John,” “Your eyes are like,” “Yes John,” “big cow eyes!” “Go away John.” He persisted and eventually convinced her to marry him.

They married the Labor Day before her junior year, honey mooning at the family cottage at Ocean Point Maine.

Norma’s college career was interrupted as she soon became pregnant with her first child and in those days pregnant women were not allowed to attend college. She supported John while he completed his engineering degree, always hoping to return to college to finish her degree.

When the youngest of her four children entered school she started taking classes at the University of Southern Maine, all the while working full time as a classroom aide and parenting her four children. She completed both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in education.

She taught in the Bath school system and was known for her gifted way with getting children to love reading and learn far beyond what was expected of their age. She believed that a classroom should be a community where learning happened. She focused on helping children to develop caring, supportive relationships within that community. Many troubled children were sent to classroom as she was known for finding ways to help them gain self confidence
and self love in a setting where they were respected by their peers. With that base of support the behavioral issues generally resolved. One example was of a boy, “Bobby” who was diagnosed with ADD. She often had children working in small groups. One day he looked up, realized he should be in a group across the room. He ran across the desk tops to get there. “Look children,” she said, “Bobby got to his group without us reminding him! Now next time Bobby better to walk on the floor to get to your group.” Another example was of a very tall boy with anger issues. He had been tossed out of other classrooms. One day she could see he was getting in trouble with mood. She sent the other children to recess and called him to her.
He was a head taller than she was and came over, standing over her with his fist pulled back ready to strike out. Instead of calling for help she stood up and opened her arms and after a pause he fell into them sobbing. Comforted, he was able to rejoin the class after recess.

Norma faced many hard losses in her life, particularly the accidental death of her son Eric at age 12, and the sudden death of her beloved John when she was 52 and the recent death of her eldest daughter Ruth. She carried on with courage, relying on her deep faith.

Ten years after she lost John her daughter and a friend, Elna Joseph, set her up on a blind date with Jan Bijhouwer who had been widowed the year before. The date was not a success, with Norma spraining her ankle (Jan: “She’s not athletic!”) and Jan having difficulty hearing in a loud restaurant (Norma: “He can’t hear!). Nonetheless Jan persisted and they found that not only was Norma quite athletic, but also Jan was open to getting a hearing aide. Along with Jan’s collie Laddy the two of them had over 10 years of love and adventures together.

Norma’s firm belief was that God is Love, and she sought to practice that in all of her relationships. She remarked over and over again that love is the most important aspect of life. She had a wonderful sense of humor. Her favorite afternoon would be visiting with former students, family, friends, or neighbors, and as she said, “Talking and laughing and feeling the love.”

Norma was predeceased by her parents, her husband John, her companion Jan Bijhouwer, her son Eric and daughter Ruth Ludwig Lind, and her sister Carolyn Wight. She is survived by her daughter Karen Ludwig (Catherine), Gail Reynolds (Steve), brothers David (Elaine) and John Bradbury, and sister Georgia Bradbury as well as much loved nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Services will be at Phippsburg Congregational church UCC at 1:00 pm February 7th with reception to follow in the fellowship hall. Norma’s family would especially appreciate seeing
former students and teachers. If one feels able writing those down memories of Mrs. Ludwig for us to read later that would be a great comfort to us. If unable to attend the service these can be sent to Karen Ludwig, 1284 High Street, Bath, Maine 04530.

Those who would would like to make a donation in Norma’s honor could send to:
Good Shepherd Food Bank, 3121 Hotel Road, Auburn, Maine, 04210-8398
www.gsfb.org

01/21/2026

Norway- Bernard L. Martin (Bernie) passed away unexpectedly at MaineHealth Stephens Hospital on January 17, with his family by his side. He was born in Lewiston, April 20, 1973 to the late Lewis Martin and Linda (Martin) Smith.
He attended Oxford Hills High School. During his life he was employed at and Enefro, Gates Fiber, and Gene Nelson + Sons, as well as being a caregiver for his mother until her passing. He loved music with some of his favorites being Guns N' Roses, Ozzy Osbourne and Lita Ford.
He was predeceased by his parents, his grandparents Bernard and Elizabeth Martin, and Frederick + Ruth Lawrence.
He is survived by his stepfather Russell Smith, his sister Denise (John) Keating and her children Brianna and Hunter Bushey, aunts and uncles, Francis (Jill) Martin, Patricia (Kenneth) Cornell, their son Eric and daughter Quinn, Kathryn Lawrence, Lisa (Dale) Allen, Elaine Johnson, Bruce (Brenda) Smith and their children and a special cat Pumpkin.
Funeral arrangements are under Funeral Alternatives, Lewiston.
A private graveside service will be held in the spring.

01/20/2026

Mary E. Charest, 55, of Auburn, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026 surrounded by the love and presence of her children.

Mary was born on August 9, 1970, to her mother Barbara Daggett, who preceded her in death. She devoted her life to her family and her work, holding positions with the United States Postal Service, Knapp Shoe, and the Sun Journal.

Mary enjoyed traveling, spending time with her family, and going to bingo, which brought her much joy and laughter. She especially cherished her role as a mother and grandmother, and her family was always at the center of her heart.

Mary was predeceased by her mother, Barbara Daggett, and her Aunt Ethel.

She is lovingly survived by her partner, Paul Charest; her son, Ryan Herrick, and his wife Brandy Herrick, her daughter Brittani Niederer, and her husband Josh Niederer, and her three beloved grandchildren, Annabelle, Natalie, and Fred; her sister Terry Donovan; her brother Kenny (Tiger) Daggett, and his wife Deborah Daggett.

Mary will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her love, strength, and the warmth she shared with all who knew her.

Celebration of life will take place on Monday, January 26, 2026 at 11am at

Church Hill Baptist Church
258 Church Hill Road
Augusta, ME 04330


https://www.funeralalternatives.net/obituaries/obit-details.php?Charest-3999

01/20/2026

Paul Raymond Longtin, 69 of Sabattus, ME passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026 after a long courageous battle with a multitude of cancers. He was surrounded by his loving family during his final days.

Born April 12, 1956 to Lucien and Beatrice Cote Longtin. He graduated from Lewiston High School then joined the National Guard, where he proudly served for almost 8 years.

Paul met his best friend and beloved wife Karen in 1987 and married in 1991. Their love and devotion for one another after 38 years of being together was none other than a fairytale that came true.

Paul worked as a heavy machine operator for Lewiston Public Work for many years until he became disabled due to an accident.

He later worked part-time at the Sabattus Transfer Station and part-time as a food prep and cook for the Meadows Senior Living Center in Greene and for Couzin's Cove in Litchfield.

He enjoyed cooking for his wife as well as family and friends. He was the life of every party and event he attended. He would often show up disguised as a little old lady or Doctor. He always knew how to make people laugh, even when people were down.

He loved music, having taught himself how to play the guitar when he was a teenager. Anytime music was playing you could catch Paul singing along and playing the "air guitar and air drums" for everyone. He was known to take the microphone and serenade the audience with a song.

Paul was friends with everyone, whether he knew you or not. He would always make new friends wherever he went due to his infectious, laugh and love of life. He was the social butterfly of the family and never let an event go by without bringing a smile and a laugh to everyone that is present.

Most of all, Paul loved fishing. He was an avid and skilled fisherman catching many fish over the years. He found great joy fishing with his son and his younger years his daughter granddaughters his beloved dog Bear, his brothers and many friends. He knew how to make fishing fun even if you didn't catch any fish. Just being on the water with loved ones was one of the happiest things in his life.

Paul was pre-deceased by his parents, Lucien and Beatrice Cote Longtin. His brother Maurice and two sisters, Irene and Diane Longtin as well as baby nephews Marc Longtin and Matthew Perron.

He is survived by his loving wife Karen and donut eating cat Cooper. His son Paul (aka little Paul), daughter Arica (Greg) St. Hilaire and two granddaughters Elizabeth St. Hilaire (aka Lili) and Anilyse. He has also survived by his brothers Joseph (Monique) and Lucien (Delores) Longtin and sisters Claire Bailey (Michael) and Janet Perron (Dana). Along with many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews (and counting).

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Maine Health Cancer Care center and to Maine Health Home Health and Hospice.

We also would like to extend our gratitude to Dr Jessica Bien and her amazing team as well as the hospice nurses that helped and guided Paul and his family through his long and tough journey. The Maine Health team helped give us more time to spend with him. He truly fought as hard as he could through all of this. The entire team is just amazing and we can't thank you enough for all that you have done and for all that you do every day, we are blessed to have a wonderful and caring team we could not have gone through all of this without you. Thank you!!

There will be a family and friends gathering later during the warmer months or Family will be in contact for further information

01/19/2026

GORHAM – Catherine Ann Letourneau, 97, of Gorham, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12, 2026, with her family by her side.
Catherine, also known as "Cathie," "Nana," or "Great Nana," was born in Farmingdale on January 2, 1929, to Harold Raymond and Mary Martha Rose (Berran) Small. A caring and intelligent woman, she always had a warm hug and kind words ready for her family and friends. Cathie was also one of the sassiest women in Maine, widely known as a "Spitfire" and respected for her energy and independence. She was young in both heart and mind – a regular user of her computer and smart phone well into her 90s. Family was central to Cathie's life, and she was blessed to have eight children with her two husbands, Sidney E. Morse and Roger E. Letourneau. Her commitment to maintaining a strong family began when she was young, as she lived for a time with both sets of grandparents in Farmingdale and Augusta. She attended St. Mary's parochial school in Augusta and graduated from Cony High School in 1947. It should come as no surprise that her senior superlative was "Hep Cat" and her classmates thought that her "personality and dancing" made her "an ever-popular partner." She worked for the State of Maine government as a key punch operator, where she took great pride in her contributions over more than 40 years of employment. Cathie was presented with promotion opportunities over the years, but she always declined in order to work shoulder-to-shoulder with her respected colleagues. When not working, she could usually be found tearing up the local dance floor, throwing strikes at the bowling alley or playing beano with her friends.
Cathie was also a spiritual woman and devout Catholic, from her early years at St. Mary's in Augusta through her most recent parish of St. Anne's in Gorham, Maine, where she routinely worshiped with her family.
Cathie enjoyed reading, playing beano and card games (especially those she won!), and going to the casino with her grandson and daughter. She loved the thrill of gambling and did her best to tuck some winnings away for future visits. Her joy of playing games spread throughout her family, as did her friendly, competitive nature.
Cathie is predeceased by her parents; both husbands; one son, Mark Letourneau; and her brother, Richard Small of Las Vegas, Nevada. She is survived by seven children: Candy Fedolfi (husband Stephen) of Auburn, New Hampshire; Cheryle Barnes (husband Raymond) of Gorham; Roxanne Roy of Waterville; Jody Letourneau of Virginia Beach, Virginia; Danny Letourneau (wife Jessica) of Springvale; Todd Letourneau (wife Sheryl) of Manchester, New Hampshire; and Lori McRae (husband Sean) of Sabattus; ten grandchildren: Jesse, Jennifer, Jillian, Raymond, Christopher, Cathy, Rob, Pandora, Declan, and Lily; and ten great grandchildren: Cameron, Corey, Elijah, Isabella, Presley, Callie, Cody, Nicholas, Amber, and Brody.
She loved sending cards to each family member on special days, including birthdays, anniversaries, special moments, get well and just because cards. Cathie always wanted to make those she cared for feel special. She will be remembered for her kindness, love, sassiness, generosity, and devotion to her family, and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A memorial service and celebration of life for Cathie will be held on Saturday, January 24th at 11:00 AM at St. Anne’s Church in Gorham, Maine. Cathie will be laid to rest in the Spring alongside her family members at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Augusta. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude's Hospital, an organization which meant a great deal to her.

https://www.funeralalternatives.net/obituaries/obit-details.php?Letourneau-3997

01/16/2026

Lewiston - Fernando Mendoza, 63 of Lewiston passed away unexpectedly on January 7, 2026 while he was at work. Fern was born in the Bronx, NY on August 26, 1962 to Lydia and Juan Mendoza.

Fern work various trades throughout his career with the last 10 being at Elmet Technologies.

Fern enjoyed traveling, fishing, spending time at the ocean especially Popham and Old Orchard Beach. He also like metal detecting, checking out yard sales but most importantly he enjoyed helping others in need.

Fern met his future wife Louise Blouin in 1997 and they were married on May 16th, 2020.

Fern is survived by his wife Louise, son Alex, grandson Elijah, step-son Eric Blouin, his brothers John and Eddy Mendoza, his sisters Nylda, Zoraida, carmen and Awilda.

He was predeceased by his parents.

Per Fern's wishes there will be no public services.

https://www.funeralalternatives.net/obituaries/obit-details.php?Mendoza-3996

01/15/2026

Christopher Lee Fillion, 28, passed away on January 7, 2026, at Central Maine Medical Center.
Christopher was born on July 8, 1997, in Portland, Maine, the beloved son of Richard and Connie Fillion. From a young age, he showed curiosity, kindness, and a deep appreciation for the world around him. During his high school years, he especially enjoyed being part of the Chess Club, where he could challenge himself and connect with others. He was also an avid drawer and had a deep appreciation for tattoos, viewing them as a meaningful form of art and self-expression.
Christopher had a wide range of passions. He loved animals, video games, and spending time outdoors—whether camping, fishing, kayaking, or simply being outside. He found peace in nature and joy in life’s simple moments.
On January 17, 2018, Christopher’s life changed forever with the birth of his daughter, Coraline Jane. She was the love of his life, and he was a devoted, caring, and proud father. Spending time with Coraline brought him his greatest happiness, and his love for her was evident in everything he did.
Christopher is survived by his daughter, Coraline Jane; his parents, Richard and Connie Fillion; his sister, Taylor Fillion, and her partner, Erin Miles; his brother, Richard Fillion, and his husband, Logan Landry; his grandmother, Laura Lee Fillion; his half-siblings, Mark LaBelle Jr. and Mel Darling; as well as his aunts, uncles, nieces, and many friends. He also leaves behind his childhood sweetheart and the mother of his child, Shannon Duggins, as well as Melinda Wilson and Christopher Cheetham.
A celebration of Christopher’s life will take place this summer around his birthday. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an account established for Coraline Jane’s future on GoFundMe,

https://gofund.me/97eafa8cc

Christopher will be remembered for his gentle heart, his love of the outdoors, and above all, his deep devotion to his daughter. He will be deeply missed by his daughter, family, and friends.

https://www.funeralalternatives.net/obituaries/obit-details.php?Fillion-3995

01/14/2026

James (Jimmy) Tileston Baldwin, 56 of East Harpswell Maine, died in the early morning hours-Friday, January 2, 2026 at Midcoast Hospital.

Jimmy was born on July 15, 1969 to Peter Tileston Baldwin and Nicole Bellefeuille Baldwin in Concord Mass. The youngest of 4 children.

Jimmy spent his youth in Concord, moving to North Harpswell Maine in 1975. He attended West Harpswell Elementary, Mt Ararat High School, Old Orchard Beach Adult Education and he received his Associate Degree in Computer Science from SMCC.

Jimmy worked over the years in a variety of jobs, After receiving his diploma in computer science, he began working for Exactitude in Falmouth. Jimmy also founded Harpswell Tech.

Jimmy intended to write his own obituary-as he believes "nobody else will get it right".

We hope that we do him proud with ours

Those who knew Jimmy, knew his challenges in life. His greatest achievement was reaching 17 years of sobriety. During his recovery, Jimmy immersed himself, selflessly to help others facing the road to recovery. He touched so many lives by facilitating support groups and being completely involved in helping others as can be seen in the outpouring of love since his leaving us.

As said by Jimmy's wanna be wife (no-not Little Debbie or Mae West) "To be touched by a Baldwin is to know love". Jimmy was known for his unconditional love for anyone with whom he met. Despite the fact that so many wanted to cause him bodily harm in his younger years-no one ever could hold a grudge against that bright smile and all enveloping hugs he gave.

His love extended to all animals and he had his own neighborhood "dog mafia" that would greet him daily for his special treats.

Jimmy was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma in September 2024. Jimmy fought the hardest fight, never showing anything but his love, smile and faith as he navigated his treatments. His closest friends and family and the entire Harpswell community stood vigilantly by his side-helping him to appointments\and supporting every step of the way. He was deeply touched and honored for the support he received.

Jimmy was love. He loved and was loved. Jimmy always kept in touch with his vast family. Calls/Texts on birthdays,were the norm. If he could speak, he would call. If he couldn't -a text with something funny would arrive.

On the weekends, Jimmy was known for "making the rounds" driving the Islands and touching base with everyone. When he left--ever the jokester--you never knew what you might find when you open the jar of peanut butter.

During his rides, his camera rode shotgun. Jimmy was known for his beautiful sunrises, sunsets and moon shots. He was a gifted photographer and loved to share his art.

Jimmy always left saying "Love you" -- To everyone he touched, know in your heart that you were loved fully unconditionally. We will all carry Jimmy in our hearts.

Jimmy was predeceased by his father (Peter), borther (Andy), sister (Tina).

He is survived by his mother (Nicole), brother (Tom), sister in law (Kim) and the vast family he chose to have in his life.

A celebration of Jimmy's life will be held in the spring at Mackerel Cove. Dates and times will be published at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Harpswell Santa Fund and or Harpswell Aging at Home in Jimmy's memory.