LIMINGTON — Laurie Creighton Allen, 74, lifelong educator and beloved “Nana,” passed away peacefully at her home on Aug. 31, 2026, surrounded by her devoted and loving family after a brief and courageous illness.

A daughter of the late Everette and Marlene (Witham) Creighton, Laurie was born on Dec. 22, 1951, in Rockland, Maine. She earned her bachelor’s degree in teaching from the University of Southern Maine, where she met the love of her life, Stephen Allen, while they were both studying in the teaching program. After graduation, Laurie and Stephen married and built a beautiful life together in the Limington home Stephen constructed, raising their two children, Kristen and Jeffrey.

Laurie devoted 41 years to teaching first grade at Windham Primary School, where she shaped countless young lives with her kindness, patience, and joy for learning. After retiring, she remained active and engaged in her community. She traveled often to many places including South Carolina, worked as a substitute teacher and tutor, and volunteered at H.B. Emery Jr. School in Limington. She also worked at Gervais Collision, participated in a local book club, and stayed connected with her cherished “retiree crew” of former teaching colleagues.

An avid reader, Laurie also loved cooking, crocheting, and visiting her favorite places, especially Briarnook (fondly known as “Downriver”), lighthouses, and the ocean. She adored dogs and throughout her adult life had Irish Setters who brought her great joy. Above all, Laurie’s greatest happiness came from being “Nana” to everyone, especially her beloved grandchildren. Time with her family was her most treasured gift, and her porch was a place where everyone was welcome, Nana’s open door and warm heart were known by all.

Laurie was a beautiful, selfless, social soul who loved being part of people’s lives. Her presence, laughter, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed.

She is predeceased by her parents, Everette and Marlene Creighton; her husband, Stephen Allen; and her best friend, Florence Roberts.

Laurie is survived by her children: Kristen Gervais and her husband, Richard Gervais Jr., of Limington; and Jeffrey Allen and his wife, Jennifer Allen, also of Limington. She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Brady Allen, Brianna Allen, and Olivia Gervais, as well as two bonus grandchildren, Elsie and Emily Reynolds. She is also survived by her siblings: George Creighton and his wife, Susan; Jeff Creighton and his wife, Hope; and Robin Steindl and her husband, Dave. Laurie is further survived by her cousin and lifelong friend Kathy Morissette, her husband Skip, and their dog Sye—who was always by Laurie’s side—along with her dear friend Linda Howard, three grand-dogs (Izzy, Murphy and Bailey), many nieces and nephews, and countless friends who will miss her dearly.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 16, from 4–6 p.m., at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service Chapel, 498 Long Plains Road (Rt. 22) in Buxton. Burial will be private at Evergreen Cemetery in Alfred, where Laurie will be laid to rest beside her husband, Stephen.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in her memory to Northern Light Home Care & Hospice, whose compassionate care and support meant so much to her and our family.