Obituary: Paula Maureen Bisson
Paula Maureen Bisson, 75, Community Pillar and Matriarch, Passes Away
LEWISTON – Paula Maureen Bisson, a beloved wife, mother, and cherished member of the Topsham community, died peacefully on August 20, 2026, at the age of 75. She was surrounded by loved ones, having gone to join her husband, Robert Bisson, in heaven.
Born on May 24, 1951, to Philippe and Doris Laffely, Paula grew up in the heart of Topsham’s agricultural community. Her life was defined by connection, care, and an unwavering dedication to family and others. She met her future husband at just 14, and their partnership blossomed into a lifelong romance that spanned decades.
Together, Paula and Robert raised their four children on the family farm, which had been passed down through generations. The couple instilled in their children the values of hard work, compassion, and community — principles Paula embodied throughout her life.
For more than four decades, Paula worked at L & P Bisson and Sons, the family-run meat market, where she became a familiar and trusted face. Her expertise in the kitchen was legendary, particularly her signature chicken pies, which drew customers from miles around. Over the years, she hand-wrapped meat, served countless customers, and contributed to the everyday rhythms of a cherished local institution.
Even outside of work, Paula’s culinary gifts flourished. She delighted in recreating family recipes and preserving French Canadian traditions, often feeding friends, neighbors, and travelers without hesitation. “If someone showed up at her door, they were going to eat,” recalled a family friend. “Her love was best expressed through a full plate and a warm smile.”
In her quieter moments, Paula found joy in crafting. She spent time pottery-wheel sessions and knitting cozy blankets, socks, and mittens — many of which were gifted to her ever-growing list of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her creativity was matched only by her generosity.
Paula cherished travel, with fond memories from trips across New England, the southeastern United States, and a recent journey to Punta Cana in the summer of 2026. She never missed a recital, birthday, or game involving her extended family, always making time to cheer, listen, and offer support.
She was predeceased by her parents and her husband of over 50 years. She is survived by her children: James Bisson and his wife Cindy; Philippe Bisson and his partner Jessica Call; Stephen Bisson and his wife Autumn Johnson; and Cindy Smith. Her siblings Ronald Laffely and his wife Sally; Joanne Compton and her husband Steve; and Sandra Best and her husband John also survive her. She leaves behind 33 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and a testament to her role as matriarch.
A viewing will be held on Friday, August 28, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Funeral Alternatives in Lewiston. The funeral service will take place the following day, Saturday, August 29, at 10 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, located at 39 Pleasant Street in Brunswick. Light refreshments will follow the service at a location to be announced.
The family encourages those who knew and loved Paula to share stories, memories, and condolences in lieu of flowers.
