Bernice G. (Smith) Poitras

Bernice Smith Poitras, 88, passed away peacefully on Oct. 5, 2015 surrounded by love at the Gorham House, where she had been tenderly cared for 15 years. Bernice was born on May 15, 1927 in Westbrook, the daughter of George and Marguerite Smith. She was a waitress at Tom’s Restaurant in down town Westbrook, where she met the love of her life, Connie Poitras and they were married on Dec. 15, 1951 in St. Hyacinth Church. Bernice’s house was always full; she was the best baker in town who had many specialties that she prepared for many occasions, including showers, birthday parties, illnesses, or funerals. Bernice led a simple life. She was a full time stay at home mom and she never drove a car. She was a calm, patient, loving woman who taught many by her example to be understanding, empathetic, and kind. She radiated compassion. She was predeceased by her husband Conrad in1991; her sisters Beatrice Smith Waite and Pat Smith Mulkern; and a brother Eddie Smith. She leaves behind her sister Beverly Smith Thibeault; her four children Christine Anderson and husband Jeff of Harrison, Susan Jeffords and husband Wayne of Windham, Michael Poitras and his wife Wendy of Gorham, and Jean Roma and her husband Wayne of Windham; her grandchildren Saben Anderson, Zakia Bowden and husband Christopher, Seth, Joshua, Hannah and Mary Jeffords, Erin Lauzier and her husband Jason, Lindsey and Corey Poitras, Dustin Roma and his wife Stacia, Derrick Roma and his wife Susanne, and Melissa Roma; her great grandchildren Kayla, Kyle, Braedon, Blake, Bentley, Bryson, and Walter. Bernice had so many wonderful friends through her lifetime who were touched by her loving kindness. Whether you needed a shoulder to cry on, a place to stay for a while, a birthday cake or a perm, she would gladly oblige. Of all her accomplishments in life, being a good mother and grandmother were her proudest. Her greatest passion was knitting. She knitted countless items for her own children and neighborhood children. A visiting hour will be from1 to 2 PM Thursday followed by a funeral service at 2 PM at Blais & Hay Funeral Home, 35 Church St., Westbrook. Interment will follow in St. Hyacinth Cemetery. On line condolences may be expressed at blaisandhayfuneralhome.com. The family would like to thank the staff at the Gorham House and Beacon Hospice who lovingly took care of her for the last few months, their professional and sympathetic care was phenomenal.

Bernice G. (Smith) Poitras

May 15, 1927 - October 5, 2015

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