Doris Candide Russell

PORTLAND – Doris Candide “Dorie” Russell, 81, of Auburn, passed away, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, at Maine Medical Center in Portland, with her loving family by her side. Born in Lewiston, on April 12, 1944, to the late Damien and Germaine (Dion) Letourneau, Doris was raised in Lewiston-Auburn and graduated from Lewiston High School in 1962. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree from the University of Maine in 1966. Her commitment to public service defined much of her professional life. Doris dedicated 37 years to the Maine Department of Human Services, where her intelligence, compassion, and tireless work ethic led her to rise to the position of Assistant Director of the Bureau of Maine’s Elderly. Her career reflected her deep care for others, particularly Maine’s most vulnerable citizens.

Dorie was the beloved wife of Ron Russell for 55 years, a partnership rooted in love, mutual respect, and unwavering support. Their story began at Mount Abram Ski Resort, where Ron first met Dorie, a moment that marked the beginning of a beautiful life together. While Ron maintained an active career as a pilot, Dorie was the steady heart of the home, masterfully managing family life with grace, strength, and devotion. Together, they built a life defined by commitment and love.

She was a remarkable and devoted mother to her daughter, Gabrielle, and later a proud and adoring grandmother to Lux Russell-Codere, age 8, who brought her immense joy. Dorie remained deeply involved in Gabrielle’s life, even assisting her in navigating the college journey that led to Gabrielle’s successful career in architecture, an achievement Doris took great pride in.

Creatively gifted, Doris loved to sew and crochet and studied tailoring under Del Fabrizzio, honing skills that reflected her patience and artistry, and made numerous garments for her family. She loved to cook, and her family and friends looked forward to the delicious meals she made. She was a member of Grow L+A, the Women’s Literary Union of Auburn, and book clubs, where she found fellowship, purpose, and lifelong friendships. Doris was also known for her keen interest in current events; she faithfully watched the news and remained thoughtfully and politically informed, always valuing knowledge and civic awareness.

Doris is survived by her husband Ron Russell, daughter, Gabrielle and grandson, Lux Russell-Codere. She will be lovingly remembered by her family, extended family, and many dear friends, too numerous to name here, whose friendship meant so much to her. She will be remembered as an amazing mother, a devoted wife, a loving grandmother, and a woman whose quiet strength touched countless lives. Doris also leaves behind her beloved cat Baxter, who Ron cared for, but would only snuggle up to Dorie and ignore Ron.

Doris Candide Russell will be greatly missed, but her legacy of love, service, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Messages of condolence may be sent to: http://www.finleyfuneralhome.com.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Friday, Jan. 23, at the Basilica of Saint Peter and Paul, 122 Ash Street, Lewiston. Interment at Maine Veterans Cemetery, Augusta, Maine will be held at a later date. Arrangements by FINLEY FUNERAL HOME, 15 Church Street, Livermore Falls.