1934 – 2016
POLAND — Laurel Betts Martin, 82, passed away Wednesday, July 27, peacefully surrounded by her family.
She was born on July 25, 1934, in Drew Plantation, the daughter of the late Harry and Ida (Leavitt) Grant. Laurel grew up in Drew Plantation but moved to Lewiston and graduated from Lewiston High School, Class of 1952. In 1955, she married Edward Betts Sr. and together they had seven children. In 1973, she married William Martin.
She worked for many years as a social worker, specializing in homes for pregnant teenagers. She loved working with young people and there were always extra children at her house. Laurel was an avid ‘”Bluegrass Fan” and loved going to many festivals and listening to country music. She was a no-nonsense woman with a heart of gold. She will be missed by all who knew her.
She is survived by a sister, Loretta Bernard; three sons; Edward Betts Jr. of Georgia, Thomas Betts of Poland and Timothy Betts (Debbie) of Georgia; four daughters, Judith Thurlow (Kim) of Poland, Sandi Betts Pearce (Richard) of Poland, Jacqueline Betts Strout of Norway and Patricia (Guy) of Lisbon; a brother, James Potter of Drew Plantation; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Besides her parents, she is predeceased by her husbands, Edward Betts Sr. and William Martin; a companion, Chuck Mason; two brothers, Tallman Leavitt and Donald Potter; grandsons, Paul Emery and Kevin Pomerleau.
Laurel’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff from the Hospice House of Androscoggin for their kindness and support.
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