LISBON — Diane V. Robitaille, 58, of Lisbon, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, teacher, friend and mentor, passed away Thursday, June 24, quietly in her sleep.

She was born in Lewiston on Aug. 9, 1951, a daughter of the late Henry and Monette Tremblay Jalbert. She graduated from St. Dominic High School in 1969. She graduated from Thomas College with a bachelor of science degree in teaching.

She married Bertrand (Ti Bert) Robitaille, her best friend and love of her life, on June 9, 1973. He predeceased her on Dec. 30, 2008. They made their home in Lisbon with their sons, Kris and Nicholas. She loved spending time in her swimming pool and in her flower and vegetable garden.

Diane began her teaching career at Windham High School from 1973 to 1977. She jumped at the opportunity to teach at her alma mater, St. Dominic Regional High School, and spent the next 33 years teaching many business and computer classes. She also taught adult education in Lewiston. Her love for teaching at St. Dominic’s went way beyond the classroom. She was cheering moderator for many years and was the largest supporter of the competition squad as they won many state championships under her guidance. Her famous words to her cheerleaders were “Smile until your cheeks hurt.” She touched the lives of many of her students and faculty members. The St. Dom’s community as well as the community at large is weeping at the loss of this beautiful woman. 

Her grandchildren, Caleb and Owen, meant the world to her and she spent every available moment playing with them and reading them stories. She enjoyed helping at her daughter-in-law’s day care doing arts and crafts and helping with parties. All the children called her “memere.” 

Diane was a member of Prince of Peace Parish, Holy Cross Church.

She is survived by her sons, Kris, of Seattle, Wash., and Nicholas and wife, Christina, of Lewiston; two grandsons, Caleb and Owen Robitaille; sisters, Marlene Godin and husband, Pete, of Lisbon, and Linda Gelinas of Lisbon; goddaughters, Koreen Plourde and Kayla Gelinas; special cousin or another sister, Susan Fortier, and her husband, Michael, of Lewiston; special niece, Rachel Roy, of New Hampshire, who gave her the gift of life with a new kidney; and many nieces, nephews and special friends.

She was predeceased by her husband; and her parents.