Armand “Toby” J. Blais

LEWISTON – Armand “Toby” J. Blais, 79, of Lewiston, passed away peacefully on Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, at Central Maine Medical Center. He was the husband of Therese A. (Albert) Samson-Blais.

Toby was born in Lewiston on Aug. 25, 1945, and the son of the late Antonio and Juliette (Vachon) Blais. Toby grew up in Lewiston attending local schools where he played hockey and graduated from Lewiston High School in 1963. After graduation Toby joined the U.S. Marine Corps and was honorably discharged after his four years of service. Afterwards, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in education at the University of Maine, Farmington.

Toby was known as “Mr. B”, a beloved teacher and soccer coach at Wales Central Elementary School in Wales for 30 years. He became an integral member of the Wales community and an incredibly popular teacher. Mr. B made a lasting impression on all students, parents, and colleagues.

Toby enjoyed dancing with his wife, watching football, and the Bruins, his favorite hockey team. During the summer, he spent hours sitting in the sun by the pool with family. Toby loved gardening, making homemade pickles and baked goods. He enjoyed a simple life full of laughter and unwavering faith in God.

Toby was proud of serving his country. During retirement, he was devoted to the Marine Corps League where he volunteered his time honoring veterans by placing flags at their graves and attending events at nearby locations.

Along with his beloved wife, he is survived by his five children, Daniel Blais, Mike Blais, Michelle (Blais) Anderson (Chad) of Virginia, Dawn Blais of Maryland, and Angela (Blais) Cummings of Leeds; stepsons: Mark (Marie) Samson of Auburn, and Eric (Holly) Samson of Auburn. Toby’s memory lives on in the hearts of 15 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He sadly leaves three sisters, Doris Soucy, Connie (Rod) Kell, and Muriel (Roger) Guay all of Lewiston and several nieces and nephews.

On November 25, Toby joined his parents, his daughter, Kimberly Lynn Blais, brother, Marcel Blais, nephew Aaron Blais and many other relatives in eternal life.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, from 4 – 7 p.m., at The Fortin & Pinette Group, 305 Alfred A. Plourde Parkway, Lewiston. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, at 1 p.m., at Holy Family Church, 607 Sabattus St, Lewiston with committal prayers with military honors will follow at St Peter Cemetery, Lewiston.

Please visit http://www.LewistonFuneral.com to sign Toby’s guestbook and leave memories and condolences for the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

Marine Corps League, Central Maine

Detachment #810

2 Ivy Drive

Norway, Maine 04268