Pauline Turner

CHINA – Beloved mother, grandmother and friend, Pauline Turner of China, Maine, passed away at Mt. Joseph Nursing Care Facility in Waterville on Sept. 3, 2025.

She was born in Lewiston on May 11, 1934, the daughter of Emile and Carmen (Maheux) Bilodeau. She graduated from Lewiston High School in 1953. She also completed courses and continued her education at UMaine Augusta.

In January 1955, Pauline married Alton Turner, Jr., a fellow Lewiston High School graduate. Together they had five children and lived in Augusta and Fairfield before settling in China in 1975. Through the years, Pauline and Al traveled far and wide along the east coast, Canada, the Bahamas and to numerous sidewalk art shows throughout Maine. After Al passed away in 2003, Pauline traveled with artist groups and her favorite travel companions, Carol and Terri. Together, they enjoyed a dream trip to Greece in 2006.

Aside from her many jobs including medical secretary to doctors Marshall Gerrie and Albert Amalfitano, hospital associate at Seton Hospital and sales clerk at Sterns Department Store, Pauline was a caring and supportive homemaker. A role she relished and excelled at her entire life.

Pauline’s greatest love, besides her family, was art and painting. At a very young age, she was taught oil on canvas painting through the patient guidance of the Dominican Sisters of St. Peter and Paul’s Parish in Lewiston. From there, she flourished in her interest of all forms of art; finally settling on watercolors as her favorite medium. Pauline traveled throughout Maine, capturing the beauty of secluded coastal hamlets from Eastport to Monhegan Island. She also liked animals, old barns and outdoor landscapes as her subjects; particularly colorful blueberry barrens in the fall. Pauline shared her knowledge with students of all ages in her home studio and while teaching at Waterville Adult Education. She was a founding member of the Waterville Area Art Society and remained active in that organization during its inception and growth and throughout her final years as a practicing artist.

Pauline was predeceased by her parents; her husband; and by two very special friends, Caroline Souviney and Theresa Turlo.

She is survived by her children, Mark of China, Thomas of Augusta, Susan Biagiotti of China, Daniel of Augusta and John of Oakland; her grandchildren, Michelle DiSotto of Scarborough, Tori of Hollis Center, Clayton of Albion, Justin Kasprzak of Spartanburg, S.C., and Oliver of Bangor. Surviving also are sister-in-law and high school classmate, Beverly Giguere of Lewiston; six great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews,

The family would like to thank the caring professionals and support staff at Mt. Joseph Nursing Facility.

A private graveside service will take place at Gracelawn Memorial Cemetery in Auburn at a later date.