Muriel E. LaChance

Muriel E. LaChance, 92, of Alfred, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 29, 2025, around 4:00 p.m., due to complications from a stroke. She was born on December 14, 1932, in Alfred, the daughter of Forest and Gladys (Lord) Burbank.

Muriel was born on December 14, 1932, in Alfred where she grew up on her family’s farm, caring for cows and chickens. She attended Alfred School before moving on to Sanford High School, where she thrived both socially and academically. She was a cheerleader and made many friends. As a senior, she was involved in school activities and served as secretary of the student body.

After graduating, Muriel began her career in office work at the Goodall Mills. In time, she married the love of her life, Raymond LaChance, with whom she shared 50 wonderful years. Though they were not blessed with children naturally, they when they joyfully adopted their daughter in 1966. Muriel devoted herself wholeheartedly to motherhood from that moment on, choosing to stay home to raise her child.

Muriel was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Raymond; her brother, Carroll Lord Sr.; and a brother-in-law.

She is survived by her sister, Thelma Burbank Simpson; her daughter Marylin Smith of Springvale, grandchildren, Jeremy Smith of Farmington Maine, Savanna Smith and her significant other James Barron of Skowhegan Maine, and Nicholas Smith of Augusta.

She will always be remembered as a beloved mother to Marylin and wife to Raymond.

A graveside service will be held at Notre Dame Cemetery in the spring of 2026.