Compiled by Rev. Sue Murphy
Joanne Demers of Sanford died on Jan. 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 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.
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.
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. 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.
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 is survived by her children Cindy Spencer and her partner Roger Hall, and Jessica (Mike) Lison; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren; her sister Donna (Wayne) Jenson; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Jan. 8 at St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Holy Family Church. A graveside service will take place for the immediate family in the spring.
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