Linda Laurette Gelinas

Linda, the daughter of Henry and Monette (Tremblay) Jalbert, was born in Lewiston on November 15, 1954. She graduated from St. Dominic Regional High School in 1972, where her boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm shined bright as a cheerleader for the ‘Black and White.’

Early on in life, she was a dedicated candy striper, displaying her caring nature and passion for helping others. Throughout her life, Linda’s positive spirit and vibrant personality were contagious and she never stopped finding ways to brighten the lives of those around her.

Linda’s multiple career paths reflected her adventurous spirit and willingness to embrace new challenges. She worked for Liberty Mutual for over 20 years, making lifelong friends who soon became family. She later purchased Caldwell’s Wedding Plus where she combined her talents in sewing, baking, and event planning to bring her customers’ visions to life. After the closing of the store, Linda returned to her true passion —helping others— by going back to school at the age of 54 to become a nurse.

She worked in various roles at St. Mary’s, including positions on the rehab floor and in long-term care. Linda found deep fulfillment in providing compassionate end-of-life care and later transitioned to the discharge office, where she guided her patients through the healthcare system to set them up for success. For the last three years, Linda worked for Community Health Options as a care manager, specializing in cancer care. Her commitment to her patients was unwavering—she went above and beyond to ensure that each member received the support they needed. She was known for her tireless dedication, kindness, and for always making her patients feel heard and cared for.

Linda’s passions extended well beyond her professional life. If you knew Linda, chances are you had the pleasure of tasting one of her homemade treats. A devoted Red Sox fan, she rarely missed a game—but her favorite teams were always the ones her children and, later, her grandchildren played on. She also loved going to the movies and proudly held a Flagship popcorn bucket membership.

Known for her unwavering support and kindness, Linda read the obituaries each morning and made it a point to attend the wakes and funerals of those she had crossed paths with throughout her life. She cherished time spent with family and friends—whether dining out, attending concerts, traveling, or celebrating at the unforgettable “Cousins’ Christmas” parties.

Despite her full and busy life, Linda had always had space in her heart for animals. She was never without at least one beloved dog and had special affection for her grand-dogs.

Linda’s legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her love, laughter, generosity, and the light she brought to every room she entered. Her love for others knew no bounds.

Linda is predeceased by her son Scott Gelinas, her parents Henry and Monette Jalbert, her sister Diane and husband Bert Robitaille, her aunt Gilberte and husband Ray Desmarais as well as many beloved dogs.

Linda is survived by her children Koreen and husband Tim Plourde, Craig and wife Kristy Gelinas and Kayla Gelinas and fiance Spencer Allen. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Skylar, Jaxson, Quinn and Sawyer as well as several step grandchildren and great grandchildren. She also leaves behind her sister Marlene and husband Pete Godin, her cousin-like sister Susan Fortier and husband Michael, her special cousins Lorraine Chase and Cindy Jalbert, her Godchildren Keith, Tiffany and Alex, her Godmother Laurette Poulin, her beloved dogs Tessie and Tito as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the ICU team at CMMC for their exceptional care, compassion, and support during Linda’s final days.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Visitation for Linda on Friday, August 8th from 4PM to 7PM at the Fortin & Pinette Group 217 Turner Street Auburn, ME 04210. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, August 9th at 11AM at Holy Family Church 607 Sabattus Street Lewiston, ME 04240 with Committal Prayers and a Butterfly Release to follow at St. Peter's Cemetery 217 Switzerland Road Lewiston, ME 04240.

For those who cannot attend in person, Linda's Mass of Christian Burial can be live streamed at princeofpeace.me