Juanita Linnell

Juanita H. Linnell, 85, of Benton, Maine, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 16, 1940, in East Benton, Juanita was the daughter of Warren and Hester Wade. A lifelong resident of Benton, she married the love of her life, Carroll Linnell Jr., on January 11, 1961. Together, they made a home on the River Road, where they raised their three daughters.
Juanita had a strong work ethic and a generous heart. Over the years, she worked at Sonny's Pizza for more than two decades, spent time serving customers at Al's Drive-In, and eventually retired from Clinton Variety. She was known for her warm smile, quick wit, and love of conversation.
Her joys in life were simple but meaningful-playing bingo, scratch tickets, stashing Nutty Bars for her grandchildren, crocheting hats for local schools, and crafting gifts that brought joy to others. Juanita had a deep love for her family and found happiness in every gathering, big or small.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Carroll Linnell Jr., and their daughters: Veronica (Vicki) and her husband Mark Gordon of Albion; Karen and her husband Barry King of Clinton; and Hester (Lou) and her partner Johnny Denis of Waterville. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Bridget and her husband Dave Christen, Ashley and her husband Lyle Peirce, Brandon King and his wife Molly, Brad King and his fiancée Ali, Justin Linnell and his fiancée Kassie, Devin Linnell and his partner Kaylee, and Sierra Linnell and her fiancé Jesse. She was also blessed with 13 great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. Juanita is also survived by her brother Richard Wade; sister-in-law Anne Small, and brothers-in-law William, Jimmy, and Tommy Linnell.
She was predeceased by her parents and several beloved siblings and in-laws, including her brothers Neil (and his wife Mary) and Warren Wade Jr.; sisters Marilyn (and her husband Fred Wilson), Regina (and her husband Gordon Richards), and Phyllis (and her husband Ed Towers); brothers-in-law Bernard Linnell and Jeff Small; and sisters-in-law Sandra Wade, Eliza Linnell, and Kathy Linnell.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street. Visiting hours will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by a service at 2:00 PM. Graveside services will take place immediately after, with a celebration of life to follow at the Benton Grange Hall.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Tricia, who was like a daughter to Juanita, for her devoted care, love, and unwavering support over the past five years. We are also deeply grateful to Nora for keeping us connected to Mom through Zoom during times we couldn't be there in person. Your kindness and presence brought great comfort and joy to her life, and we are forever thankful.
Juanita's life was one of love, laughter, and selfless giving. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.