1925 – 2010

LITCHFIELD — Beatrice M. Longtin, 85, passed into the hands of Our Lord on Tuesday, July 20, at 50 Ferrin Road in Litchfield, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Lewiston on March 31, 1925, a daughter of the late Maurice and Alma (Gauthier) Cote. On Sept. 18, 1944, she married the love of her life, former Lewiston Police Chief Lucien Longtin. They were happily married for 52 years before he passed away in 1997. For the past 13 years she resided in Lewiston with her daughter, Diane.

She was educated in Lewiston schools and at a young age became the caregiver for her baby sister and ailing grandfather. She did moccasin stitching at home and later worked third shift at Bates Mill while raising her children. She enjoyed spending time with her family doing such activities as camping, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, going to the beach and most of all playing cards. She spent many hours knitting and crocheting items for her loved ones. She was such an avid gardener that she could make even the most difficult plants thrive. She loved sharing vegetables from her garden and homemade pickles with everyone she knew. She derived much pleasure watching birds and enjoying the beauty of nature.

First and foremost she will be remembered for being a devoted wife, an amazing mother, and cherished grandmother and great-grandmother. She had a kind, gentle and selfless nature, giving to all before herself. Although small in stature, she had the inner strength of a giant. All who met her could not help but love her.

She is survived by her daughters, Irene Longtin of Sabattus, Diane Longtin of Lewiston, Claire Bailey and her husband, Michael, of Poland and Janet Perron and her husband, Dana, of Turner; her sons, Joseph and his wife, Monique, of Fayette, Lucien Jr. and his wife, Delores, of Litchfield and Paul and his wife, Karen, of Litchfield; 15 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren; her sister, Pauline Boucher; and a brother, Romeo Cote of Lewiston

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Lucien; a son, Maurice Longtin; grandchildren Marc Longtin and Matthew Perron; and several sisters and brothers.

The family thanks her doctor, Darleen Miller, and the staff of Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, especially Oralie, Bobbie, Stefaney and Angela who helped her and her family through her final journey on this Earth.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the Longtin family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.