WATERBURY- It is with heavy hearts that the family of Mrs. Pauline R. (Duplessis) Bessette, age 90, say farewell for now to our beloved mother, grandmother, great- grandmother and friend who passed away in the comfort of her own home on Thursday, September 24, 2026, surrounded by the love and care of her family. She was the widow of Joseph R. Bessette Sr., who passed in 2011.

Pauline was born on May 19, 1936, in Waterbury, Connecticut, the beloved daughter of George and Maryjean (LaCombe) Duplessis. She was lifelong resident of Waterbury, and a dedicated and devoted homemaker and created a warm, loving home for all who entered. She was a devout parishioner of St. Michael’s Church where she devoted countless hours volunteering at the church, helping to run bingo nights bringing joy and laughter to many. In addition to volunteering at St Michaels, her generous spirit extended to the Waterbury Senior Center. She cherished time spent with her dear friends Roberta and Connie during their Wednesday luncheons, as well as trips to the casino. She found deep joy in family gatherings, where her warmth and humor shone brightly, creating lasting memories. Pauline’s life was a testament to love, faith, and community. She will be remembered not just for her nurturing presence but for the countless lives she touched with her compassion and kindness.

Left to honor and cherish her memory are her beloved children; Cheryl Michaels and her husband Randy of Waterbury, Terri Bessette of Walnut Creek, CA, Joseph Bessette Jr., and his wife Theresa of Waterbury, Paul Bessette and his wife Lisa of Waterbury and Darrien Bessette and his significant other Kathy Rich Linville of Wisconsin. Pauline and Joe were blessed with 7 grandchildren and 7 great- grandchildren along with many other extended family members and friends. Besides her husband Joseph, she was also predeceased by her sisters: Anita Hech, Yvette Johnston, Jeanne Boisvert, Fern Coy and Ronald Duplessis.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Mrs. Bessette will be celebrated on Saturday, October 3, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Michael’s Church, 62 St Michael’s Drive Waterbury, CT 06704. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury, CT. has been honored to assist the Bessette family during their time of loss. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Pauline to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.