Dorina (Mercure) Maillet

Dorina Maillet, a woman of unwavering faith, boundless creativity, and deep love for her family, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, joy, and generosity that touched everyone who knew her. Born and raised in the beloved coastal community of Baie-Sainte-Anne, New Brunswick, Dorina was immensely proud of her Acadian heritage. She came from a long line of lobster fishermen, and her cherished nickname “Nette” came from her remarkable skill in crafting lobster-fishing nets. She carried her love for her hometown throughout her life, always saying, “There’s nothing as beautiful as the Canadian sunset.” Every summer, she and her family made the two-day journey back to Baie-Sainte-Anne, reconnecting with the place that shaped her spirit. Dorina devoted her life to her family. Married to her soulmate, René, for 62 beautiful years, the two shared a deep love rooted in faith, partnership, and adventure. Together, they raised six children, each cherished and loved equally. Known as “Memere”, she doted on her eight grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Dorina proudly celebrated every accomplishment, big or small, and could hardly contain her joy when sharing news about her family. She and René loved traveling to visit family and experience new places, from the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Grand Canyon to New Smyrna Beach and to many NASCAR races in between. They loved country music, and Dorina was quick to sing along or dance whenever the opportunity arose. Their life was full of adventure and joy. After René’s passing, Dorina embraced new challenges with courage and curiosity, fulfilling a lifelong dream to learn to play the guitar. Artistic and endlessly creative, she took up painting and was always crafting, knitting, and making heartfelt gifts for those she loved. Her hands were rarely still, and her creations were treasured symbols of her affection. Devout in her Catholic faith, Dorina lived her life with compassion and generosity. She thought of others constantly, always looking for small ways to brighten someone’s day. If a stranger was celebrating a birthday in a restaurant, she would inevitably stop by to offer her warm congratulations. Her joyful spirit, infectious laughter, and ability to find delight in the simplest moments made her a beloved presence in any room and an angel on earth. Dorina Maillet will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, faith, creativity, generosity, and unwavering pride in her family and heritage will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, May 8 at 11 AM and Our Lady of the Lake Church, 1400 Main St., Leominster followed by a burial in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon. The Isabelle & Anderson Funeral Home, 316 Clarendon St., Fitchburg is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice.

Tributes

Dorina (Mercure) Maillet

April 6, 1932 - November 27, 2025