Helen B. Legere

Helen B. Legere, 93, of Sanford, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

Helen was born on February 27, 1933, in Sanford, the daughter of the late Louis and Lydia (Lantagne) Lemieux. One of 10 children, she was a lifelong resident of Sanford. She attended local schools and, at a young age, began working in the local mills.

Helen met and married the love of her life, Maurice Legere, and together they shared 60 wonderful years of marriage until his passing in 2014. Their life together was centered around family, faith, and the simple joys of everyday life.

A devout Catholic, Helen was a longtime parishioner of Holy Family Church. Her faith was an important part of her life, and for a time she was a member of the Ladies of St. Anne and taught catechism for a time, which she fondly remembered.

Helen was a devoted homemaker who took great pride in caring for her family. She loved to cook and bake, especially traditional French recipes. She also was proud to keep an immaculate home. Known for her kind and generous heart, Helen was always willing to give to others, even when she had very little herself. She enjoyed watching television, especially old movies and classic shows on TCM. She faithfully made time each day for her three o’clock rosary, a part of her daily routine. She also loved visiting Old Orchard Beach, where she enjoyed people-watching and making memories. It was a special place for her, as it was where her parents first met.

Above all, Helen was a woman of deep faith who loved her family. She was a caring, and spiritual woman whose love was felt in countless ways, from a home-cooked meal to a kind word, a helping hand, or simply being there when someone needed her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, generosity, and family that will live on through the generations.

In addition to her beloved husband, Maurice, Helen was predeceased by all of her siblings, and she was the last surviving member of her family.

She is survived by her children, Deb Hanson and her husband, Mark, of Sanford; Sandy Legere Cote and her husband, Michael, of Sanford; Lisa Desrochers and her husband, Brian, of Sanford; and Tony Legere of Limerick; her grandchildren, Kristen Hanson Peters, Derrick Hanson, Elizabeth Cote Schaeffer, Michelle Cote, Eli Desrochers, Lauren Desrochers Boston, and Kendra Legere; 16 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way; and one great great grandchild, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Though she will be missed, the love she gave and the memories she created will remain in the hearts of her family forever.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, August 10, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Therese Parish, Holy Family Church, 66 North Avenue, Sanford.