Rachael Jean (Herard) Preo

WINSLOW – It is with a great deal of pain that we announce the passing of Rachael Jean (Herard) Preo, 87, on Dec. 2, 2024, in Augusta, Maine.

Rachael was born on June 3, 1937, to Albertine (Proulx) and Joseph Herard. Rachael graduated from Waterville High School in 1955, followed by graduation from Thomas College in 1957. Rachael was a lifelong learner and continued her education at the University of Maine in Augusta, graduating in 1990 with a degree in Business Administration.

In her early years, Rachael worked for Laverdiere’s Drug Store’s home offices in Fairfield; Marden Dubord Law Offices, and Sacred Heart Parish, both in Waterville. Her most treasured role would be raising her three children as a stay-at-home mother.

Rachael is survived by her husband and best friend of 61 years, Alfred (Fred) Preo of Winslow; her three children, Michele Jolicoeur and her husband Rick of Vassalboro, Kimberly Rossi of Gray, and Andrew Preo and his wife Sarah of Indian Land, SC. Rachael was Mimi to grandchildren Jenna Ward and her husband Jake, Marisa Jolicoeur, Cecilia Rossi, and Molly Preo. She was great-Mimi or ‘Old Mimi’ to her two great-grandsons, Malcom and Calvin Ward.

Rachael is also survived by her step-grandson, Richard Jolicoeur Jr., his wife Jillian, and their children Ashton and Aubrey; her beloved sister-in-law, Charlene Breton of Winslow, her cousin Gertrude (LaCroix) Huard; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff at both Gray Birch Rehabilitation and Beacon Hospice Care for the special level of care they provided during Rachael’s short stay with them.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville, on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025, at 10 a.m.

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.