Lorraine (Samson) Doyon

LEWISTON – Lorraine (Samson) Doyon, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed away at home Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024, at the age of 96.

Born the first child of Ernest and Leda (Vaillancourt) Samson on Sept. 22, 1927, Lorraine faced the early loss of her mother, Leda, at the age of 5. Her Vaillancourt aunts were an integral part of Lorraine’s life, helping Ernest to raise Lorraine and her three siblings.

After completing high school, Lorraine pursued a career in cosmetology, eventually becoming the proud owner of Emilienne’s Beauty Salon. She married Lucien Doyon on July 15, 1950, and they were blessed with five children.

Lorraine found fulfillment in her family, friendships, and work. She opened the first beauty salon at Marcotte Nursing Home and had a home-based salon for over 30 years. Most of all, she loved having her home filled with family, food, and laughter. She lived her life fearlessly, hoping to learn from new experiences and supported her family unconditionally.

Upon retirement, she kept busy by sharing her enthusiasm for music through volunteering at Montello Heights and Montello Manor, organizing sing-alongs and social events. As a member of Holy Cross Church, she sang in the choir with her husband and participated on many committees, including organizing the first PFLAG support group for individuals and families struggling with unconditional love. She embraced the belief that Jesus resides within all of us.

Lorraine prioritized people over material possessions and always had a strong desire to learn. In her later years, she dedicated herself to personal growth through reading and self-reflection and would share her newfound understanding through journaling and meaningful conversations with friends and family. In her final weeks at home, she was comfortable and grateful to have time with family members, reiterating her life lessons and her readiness to move on.

Preceded in death by her husband, Lucien (1995); her sister, Pauline Doyon; and the Vaillancourt aunts.

Lorraine is survived by her five children and their spouses, Susan (Doyon) Luksza, Richard Doyon and Tim Spohrer, Paul and Diane (Gagnon) Doyon, John and Ann (Doyon) Crispin, Benjamin and Jane (Doyon) Hillyard; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; her sister, Constance Denis, and brother, Robert Samson.

Special thanks to Androscoggin Home Health Hospice nurses for supporting Lorraine and the family who provided care during her final weeks at home. Lorraine believed that “We are all spiritual beings having a human experience.” She is finally enjoying her many reunions with loved ones in heaven.

As per her wishes, the family will have a private celebration of her life.