Donna A. Bessey

ALBION – On Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, Donna A. Bessey passed away peacefully in her home at the age of 97. Donna was one of those rare people who never saw anyone as a stranger, greeted everyone with a warm enthusiastic smile, and found joy in every relationship she had – and there were many!

Donna was born in Worcester, Mass. on Sept. 20, 1928 to Fred E. and Donna Andrews. Her father worked in the textile industry and traveled frequently, moving the family to the Oakland area in Maine where she graduated from Williams High School. She was the youngest in her family, growing up with her sister, Lois and brother, “Bob” (Lloyd).

Donna graduated from Thomas College in 1949, where she met her husband of nearly 75 years, Leland Bessey. For many years, the couple operated the family dairy farm in Albion, putting in long hours and joyous work to make it successful. After selling the farm, they moved to their new home on the Hussey Road in Albion, where they resided for more than 50 years. Donna was a member of the Fairfield United Methodist Church, enjoying singing in the choir and being part of church dinners and fairs. Both Leland and Donna were active and contributing residents of Albion. Donna told stories many times about the dinners she and others would create when members of the fire department were called out.

Donna held several jobs throughout her lifetime but the one she talked about the most was when she worked for the District 3 Superintendent of Schools in Unity. She loved seeing all the children every day and being part of this tightly knit community. Her final employment before retiring in 1992 was with HL Keay’s store in Albion.

Throughout their marriage, Donna and Leland traveled extensively in their motor home. They camped throughout the country, touring most of the states, national parks, and landmarks. Their travels saw them acquire a large network of friends and acquaintances. They also cruised to Alaska and through the Panama Canal. After retirement, Donna and Leland were “snowbirds” spending several months in Florida where they made and enjoyed many more friends. Their Florida house had an “open door” where friends and neighbors continually would drop in for a cup of coffee, some problem solving, or just to chat. During those winters Donna was active in church, involved in community dinners, spent many evenings playing cards, and participated in musical events and shows that were put on by the park association.

In addition to her love of music, which included singing and playing the piano, Donna also wrote poetry and enjoyed doing crossword and jigsaw puzzles. She also showed a creative talent doing ceramics, painting, embroidery and quilling throughout the years. At tje age of 75, Donna gave golf a try, but admitted that she enjoyed going out to lunch with friends afterward more than the game itself.

After Leland’s death in 2024, Donna moved to Goudreau’s Waterfront Retirement home in Winslow. Here she enjoyed meeting new friends, working jigsaw puzzles, playing the piano and singing. Donna’s family is very grateful to the staff at Goudreau’s for providing wonderful care and love for Donna.

On May 31, 2024, Donna Bessey received the Town of Albion’s Boston Post Cane, recognizing her as its oldest citizen at the age of 95. She really loved riding in the 1929 Ford Model A Roadster during the 200th celebration of the town of Albion! Her final public appearance was a 2025 senior Thanksgiving dinner at Bessey Hall in Albion. During this event Donna received many greetings and shared many memories with the members of her community. It was a fitting curtain call for a remarkable woman and a remarkable life.

Donna received hospice care through Amedisys. The family is indebted to Judi and Brie for their incredible care and love during her final days.

Donna was predeceased by her parents; her sister, Lois Carsley, and her brother “Bob” Andrews.

She is survived by her brother, Frederick Andrews; special niece, Denice Carsley; as well as many other nieces and nephews, including special grandniece, Lois Hamel Corson. She also leaves many, many dear friends.

Donna displayed a deep love for animals- not just for her pets, but anyone else’s as well!

A committal and celebration of life will be held in the spring.

While we all will miss her incredibly, Donna’s mark on each of our lives remains and will always make us smile. WHEEEE!!!

In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the Waterville Humane Society.