OAKLAND – It is with great sadness we report the death of Brenda Marie (Poland) Bennett, born on Oct. 29, 1951 in Lewiston. Brenda passed away on Dec. 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Her husband Gary and devoted Yorkie “Yoda” were by her side.

Brenda was the daughter of Daniel Lovewell Poland Jr. and Rosemarie Pray Poland. Brenda married the love of her life, Gary A. Bennett on Oct. 11, 1986, and moved to Snow Pond in Oakland

In 2011 Brenda retired as the Executive Director of The Learning Disabilities Association of Maine. She was also President of the Federation of families for Children’s Mental Health. Brenda had a 22-year career with Kmart as Office Manager and Automotive Manager in both Waterville and Auburn stores. In retirement Brenda and Gary owned and operated Snow Pond Cruises. Brenda was the well-known and well-loved First Mate, making sure everyone had a great time.

Losing Brenda was a huge loss to her husband Gary and three sons- Heath (Katie) Peare, grandson Hawk Peare, Christopher (Dorinda) Bennett, grandchildren Elizabeth and Evan Bennett, Jonathan (Robyn) Bennett, grandchildren Tiffani and Mykayla Bennett as well as sisters Jann Poland Farrington (Daniel), KimBeth Poland Merchant (Lloyd), Colleen Poland Bubier (Dale), Brothers- Daniel L Poland III (Vicki), Craig G. Poland (Wanda), Bradley B. Poland (Judi) April Poland Pomerleau (Scott J) and Richardo Kimball, as well as many dear Aunts, Uncles , Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and Friends. Brenda was predeceased by parents Daniel L. and Rosemarie Poland and a brother, Scott J. Poland.

Brenda was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother (Brown Nunnie), sister and friend. Those that met Brenda once wanted to meet her again. She was strong and fought her battle with ovarian cancer with grace and dignity. Her strong faith in Jesus and sense of humor led the way. She often said, “I made it past my expiration date”, which was just 4 months. Brenda was one classy lady. All her outfits matched from her hat to her shoes, as she said, “I’m going out in style.”

“She is clothed in strength and dignity and laughs without fear of the future,” Proverbs 31:25. Brenda loved thrift and antique shops buying many meaningful gifts to give to family and friends. Brenda was a true treasure with a heart of gold. She always liked a good book and sunshine on her face while listening and watching the birds at her window.

Brenda was a member of the Centerpoint Community Church in Waterville as well as Power of the Word and Harvest Ministries

Family and friends are encouraged to spend time with their loved ones: let them know, as Brenda did, that they are loved, as she was.

A special Thank You! to MaineGeneral Homecare and Hospice Lynda Carrier RN and Erika Pierce, Nurse Assistant as well as all the other medical professionals that assisted along this journey. Hugs!

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes”. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things have passed away. Revelation 21:4

A celebration of life will be held at the Plumber, Merrill, Pinette Funeral Home facility, 305 Alfred A. Plourde Parkway Lewiston, on Jan. 4, 2026 from 1-4 p.m.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church Street, Oakland, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at https://wheelerfh.com/ .

In lieu of flowers a donation in Brenda’s name to Friends of Messalonskee (Snow Pond), PO Box 532, Oakland, Me 04963 or MaineGeneral Hospice 10 Water Street Suite 307 Waterville, ME would be greatly appreciated.