Laurel Bezanson

PORTLAND – Laurel Bezanson, 74, of Portland, died peacefully in her home on March 30, 2025. She was a dedicated mother, fierce advocate, and caring friend.

After graduating high school in 1968, she enrolled in Newport School of Nursing in Rhode Island. During her last year of school, she joined the Army Nurse Corps. Laurel was able to experience more of the world by being an army officer. She eventually returned to Maine to raise her children because she believed Maine was a special place.

Laurel worked as a Registered Nurse for over 45 years in the Portland area. She enjoyed connecting with her patients and providing them with comfort. At the age of 34 she was diagnosed with and survived breast cancer. Laurel later became a co-founding member of the Maine Breast Cancer Coalition. Laurel was a passionate advocate that lobbied for healthcare policies in Augusta and Washington, D.C.

Laurel loved creating and being a part of the community. Her services as a nurse, volunteer, and army officer focused on making the world a better place. When she wasn’t taking care of others, she danced, cooked, and read. She enjoyed exercising at the gym and bragging about her children. Laurel loved gardening with her grandchildren and she made wonderful friends who became family. She was a force that left an impression on the people she met.

She is survived by her son, daughter; and grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the National Breast Cancer Coalition.