Doris Bergeron, 81, a lifelong resident of Saco, passed away on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at The Landing at Saco Bay in Saco.

She was born in Biddeford on Sept. 11, 1941, a daughter of Rodrigue and Mabel (Boissonneault) Bergeron. Doris attended Saco schools and graduated from Thornton Academy, class of 1960. She went on to graduate from Colby College with a bachelor’s degree in social work. Doris was recognized for gradating at the top of her class at both Thornton Academy and at Colby College. Doris was also a star field hockey player receiving a spot in Thornton Academy’s Hall of Fame. A plaque still hangs at the school with her name for leading the team through two undefeated seasons.

After receiving her degree she was employed as a social worker for the state of Maine in the Department of Health and Human Services. Doris found fulfillment in making a difference in the lives of the people she served by courageously and persistently advocating for them, and by securing resources that they were so greatly in need of.

Her extensive career with the department was comprised of a number of phases. She first worked in child welfare, then she assisted mothers in need, later she took on a key role in setting up adoptions for parents, and finally she became a senior manager for the department.

Doris had many interests and hobbies. She found pleasure in painting and creating beautiful art, and was an avid reader, enjoying all types of books. Doris was a fan of many sports, but especially enjoyed both watching and playing tennis. She also had a love for Cocker Spaniels, raising and caring for several over the years.

Doris was a devout Catholic and a long time parishioner of Notre Dame de Lourdes Church in Saco.

In 2022 Doris was recognized in the Maine Health Care Association’s Remember ME program that honors residents of Maine’s long-term care facilities who have historically significant backgrounds, interesting accomplishments, and who have generously served the state or the nation.

She was predeceased by her parents.

Doris is survived by her six siblings, Rod Bergeron and wife Linda of Utah, Joan Keating and husband Thomas of Saco, Richard Bergeron and wife Cathy of South Carolina, Diane Bergeron of Biddeford, Roger Bergeron and wife Sandy of Saco, and Donald Bergeron and wife Bette of Saco. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 8, 2023, at St. Philip Church in Lyman. Burial will follow in Laurel Hill Cemetery in Saco.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of The Landing at Saco Bay for their care of Doris. Additionally, the family would like to thank the entire staff at Beacon Hospice for Doris’ care in her final weeks, and for the support they provided to the family.

To view Doris’ memorial page or leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotefuneralhome.com.