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Francine G Willette

Date of Death: April 3, 2025

Date of Birth: February 11, 1950

Biography:

Francine Willette

1950 – 2025

Francine Willette, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on April 3, 2025, in Durham, Maine, at the age of 75. Born on February 11, 1950, in Lewiston, Maine to Francis and Pauline Burgess. Francine was a lifelong Mainer whose warmth and devotion to her family left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Francine graduated from Monmouth Academy in 1968. After marrying Alan Willette, with whom she shared 54 years of marriage, she dedicated herself to raising their children as a stay-at-home mother until both daughters were in school full time. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond the home when she entered the workforce.

She began her professional career at Hannaford, where she worked for 15 years as a front-end service clerk where she was known for her friendly demeanor and strong work ethic. She later transitioned to environmental services at Amenity Manor and continued her work at Horizons Living and Rehab Center when they moved. She retired after 15 years of dedicated service there.

Family was always at the heart of Francine’s life. She is lovingly remembered by her husband Alan Willette; daughters Jenny Kyllonen and her husband Robert Kyllonen, and Christine Torres; grandchildren Kayla Bernier, Chloe Bernier, Daniel Torres-Willette and his fiancée Jasmine Hanscom, Lillyanna Torres, and Eli Torres; great-granddaughter Araylia; mother Pauline Burgess; sister Alice Murphy; brother Randall Burgess and his wife Valerie Burgess; and sister Rhonda McKinney.

Francine was predeceased by her father Francis Burgess, brother Wendall Burgess, and daughter Francine Willette.

She found immense joy in spending time with her family—whether gathered around the table for game nights or enjoying an evening at the movies. Bingo nights brought her delight whenever she had the chance to play. One of her greatest pleasures was attending her granddaughter’s softball games, cheering proudly from the sidelines with unwavering support.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Leeds Plains Cemetery, located at 115 Plains Road in Leeds, Maine. A celebration of life will follow until 4:00 PM at the Acacia Lodge at 663 Royalsborough Road (Route 136), Durham, Maine.

Francine’s loving nature and steadfast devotion to those around her will be deeply missed. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.