Elizabeth Poulin

WATERVILLE – With deep love and sadness, the family of Elizabeth Poulin announces her passing. Born in Portland on June 2, 1946, the daughter of Attorney Albert W. and Helena (Caouette) Cookson. Elizabeth lived a life full of devotion to her family, to education, and to the joy of simple moments.

Elizabeth married the love of her life, John Poulin, on June 22, 1968. Together they spent 57 years, and built a life centered around family, love, and shared adventures. A lifelong educator, Elizabeth taught across all levels, from kindergarten to college, nurturing generations of students with compassion and dedication. She retired from Kennebec Valley Community College in 2010, where she taught early childhood and special education.

Elizabeth enjoyed long drives to the coast, picking blackberries, spending time with family and friends, traveling, most recently on cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean, she loved the history of Williamsburg, Va., the friends and excitement of Vegas and peaceful nights at camp.

Christmas was her favorite time of year, filled with holiday movies, gatherings, and memories made. She was the heart of every family celebration, she was always up for hosting parties, it didn’t matter if it was crystal, china or paper plates, there was always room for sticky notes.

A caregiver by nature, Elizabeth gave endlessly to those around her. She was a devoted supporter to her mother-in-law and a tireless caregiver to her beloved sons. Her strength, warmth, and unwavering love were constants in the lives of those fortunate to know her. She was not just a mom, she was a wife, forever friend, sister, teacher, mentor and so much more. She was full of stories, knowledge and love. She gave all that love to everyone she knew and to some she may have just met in passing for the very first time.

Elizabeth was predeceased by her parents; and her cherished sons Nate and Jay.

Her legacy lives on through her loving husband, John; her sons Heath and his wife Nichole, Adam and his wife Jen; grandchildren Danielle, Mason; Steven and his wife Jessie, and their children Zoe and Ryan; as well as her brother, John Cookson and wife Sharon; and countless nieces and nephews. Her love, humor, and enduring spirit will live on in each of them.

Her greatest joy was her four boys. Two, who have been by her side, and two, who met her with open arms. All of the boys were over a foot taller than Mom but always knew who the boss was, especially if she was standing on a chair.

Elizabeth will be remembered for her generous heart, her joyful spirit, and the way she brought people together. She leaves behind a family forever grateful for the love she shared and the life she lived. We would like to give a special thanks to Aunt Lona, Dani, David and Betty for your love and care for our mom, dad and us over these last few weeks.

Visiting hours are from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Veilleux Redington Lawry Brothers Funeral Home at 8 Elm St. in Waterville on Wednesday July 23.

Mass will take place Thursday July 24 at Notre Dame Catholic Church at 10 a.m. followed by a burial at St. Francis Cemetery and a reception back at Notre Dame with food and refreshments.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux Redington and Lawry Brothers Funeral Home 8 Elm St., Waterville, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at https://www.vrlfuneralhome.com/.