Joanne L. Demers

With love and deep sadness, we announce the passing of Joanne Demers on January 3, 2026, at the age of 82, at Pinnacle Nursing and Rehab, where she had resided for nearly six years.

Joanne was born on April 25, 1943, in Sanford, Maine, to Leon and Una Pelletier, the second of five children. From an early age, she carried a quiet strength, warmth, and devotion to family that would define her life.

She was predeceased by the two great loves of her life: her first husband, George Allen Spencer, in 1971, and her second husband, Alfred Demers, in 2019. She was also predeceased by her beloved son, George Gregory Spencer, in 2017, and her siblings Pauline Lessard, Robert Pelletier, and Daniel Pelletier.

Joanne worked for several years as a waitress at Gene’s Bakery, where many came to know her kind smile and welcoming nature. She later worked for 13 years at Associated Eye Care with Dr. Jaccoma, an accomplishment she was always deeply proud of.

Above all else, Joanne was the matriarch of her family. Her Catholic faith was central to her life and guided her values, her generosity, and her enduring love for those around her. Her School Street home was always open, a place where family knew they could stop by at any time and be welcomed with a soda or coffee, good food, and conversation.

She found joy in simple things like beach days, shopping trips, apple picking, going out for ice cream, cooking treasured family recipes, and meeting friends for coffee at Dunkin. She adored her children and grandchildren beyond measure, and her love extended to her great-grandchildren, who she would babysit any opportunity she got.

Joanne is survived by her children Cindy Spencer and her partner Roger Hall, and Jessica Lison and her husband Mike Lison; her grandchildren Amy Sullivan & Bob, Heidi Perkins & Brian, Ryan Spencer, and Jennifer Spencer; and her great-grandchildren Annalise Flint, Levi Flint, Bobby Sullivan, Spencer Sullivan, and Georgia Spencer. She is also survived by her sister Donna Jenson and her husband Wayne, along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Joanne’s legacy is one of faith, family, and genuine connections. She will be remembered for her gentle strength, her welcoming heart, and the way she made everyone feel at home. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who were blessed to know her.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, January 8th, from 9:00–10:00 a.m. at Black-Heald Walker Funeral Home, located at 580 Main Street in Springvale followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 11:00 a.m. at St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Holy Family Church, located on North Avenue in Sanford. A reception to celebrate Joanne’s life will follow at The Ridge in Sanford. All who knew and loved Joanne are welcome to attend. A graveside service will take place for the immediate family in the Spring.