WINSLOW – Leonette “Lee” Bernadette Fortin, 86, went home to be with her Lord, Jesus Christ, on the morning of March 6, 2024.

She passed away peacefully at home in the company of her beloved husband, her three daughters, and her sister after a courageous battle with COPD. In the weeks preceding, her home was filled with an abundance of warmth, love, and laughter. Lee was encircled by friends, family, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Lee was the glue that held the family together! She was determined to attend every family event wherever and whenever it took place. She was a social butterfly who made friends that lasted a lifetime.

Lee’s Catholic faith anchored her through the storms of life and fed her Soul. She had a compelling belief in forgiveness and walked in that truth.

Leonette was born in Waterville on March 26, 1937. She is the daughter of Antoinette (Cabana) and Armand Rossignol. She graduated from Waterville High school in 1954. With the ability to speak both French and English, she secured a job with Central Maine Power Company as an interpreter in the sales department. After meeting the love of her life, she moved to Connecticut, married, and began a family. In 1971, the family came home to live in Central Maine.

Lee worked in the community for many years. She worked as a housing manager for both Seton Village and Chateau Cushnoc. At the age of 49, Lee was diagnosed with lung cancer. With the expertise of her surgeon Sheridan Oldham and her faith, she believed in a complete healing and was so appreciative of every day thereafter.

In her retirement she was employed part-time and volunteered for the Hospice Volunteers of Waterville organization, which held a special place in her heart. She was a longtime member of Notre Dame Catholic Church. She served on the board of trustees for New Dimensions FCU as well as the Seton Village housing program. She enjoyed her years as a snowbird and spent many days soaking up the sun.

She was predeceased by her parents Antoinette and Armand Rossignol, brother Vincent Rossignol and special friend Leonette Fortier.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 68 years, Joseph G. Fortin of Winslow, her three daughters, Jean Donovan and husband Wally of Waterville, Shyla Fortin and husband Chip Button of Madison, and Lori Albee of Winslow.

She is also survived by her sister Ann Rossignol Hinck of N. Edgecomb, sister-in-law Bonnie Rossignol of Benton, several nieces, nephews, and cousins; as well as nine grandchildren: Nichole Fortin and wife Leigh Tanner of Weaverville, N.C., Jamey Davis and husband Jeremy of Plymouth, Lisa Albee and Doug Wellman of Palermo, Bethany Murphy and husband Mike of Readfield, Eric Albee II and significant other, Anne Kornkven of Whitefield, Danielle Hart and husband James of North Yarmouth, Joseph Albee of Madison, Renee Williams and husband Eric of Pearl River, La., and Meagan Albee and significant other, Josh Linn of Jacksonville, Fla.

Additionally, Lee is also survived by 17 great-grandchildren: Dylan and significant other, Cheyanne, Dessie and fiancé, Patrick, Addion, Grant, Marshall, Ivy, Greta, Aurora, Everest, William, Dakotah, Adalynn, Jacob, Avery, Shane, Casey, Mason, and one great-great-granddaughter Amelia, daughter of Dylan and Cheyanne., and a special mention for her dear kitty cat Chimin. All of whom Lee was immensely proud of and who brought her great joy!

The family would like to extend great appreciation to the MaineGeneral Medical Center Hospice team. Every person was warm, friendly, compassionate, and professional. We would like to say a personal thank you to nurses Marcia, Kelly, Linda, and Reagan, nursing assistant Debbie, social worker Deb, and Chaplain Kate. The family truly appreciated that the team made it possible for Lee to spend her last days in her home together with her loved ones.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m., on Friday, May 17, 2024 at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, Maine 04901. A reception will follow in the church hall. Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the deceased name to Hospice Volunteers of Waterville at http://www.secure.givelively.org/donate/hospice-volunteers-of-waterville-area

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