Madawaska--- Rella Theresa Marie (Lavertu) Bezanilla, 90, peacefully entered into rest July 1, 2023, after a short illness. She was born December 2, 1932, in St. David, a daughter of the late Oneil and Delphine (Cote) Lavertu.

After graduating from Madawaska High School, Rella moved from the Valley to New York City, where she worked, took classes at NYU, and studied ballet. Moving to Key West, she married and raised two sons on the sunny beaches of Key West and Tampa, FL. Following her retirement from CSX Railroad, Jacksonville Beach, FL, she relocated back to Maine and eventually to her beloved hometown in the St. John Valley. Rella enjoyed reading, travel, and loved to pursue her education through many college classes and lectures. She also taught Tai-Chi to many of her friends and neighbors and had many friends throughout the world she met during her many travels.

She is survived by her two sons, Rick (Nancy) Bezanilla and Andy (Sandi) Bezanilla; two grandchildren, Kaylie and Jared; her siblings, Carmen Lavertu, Gerald Lavertu, Edgar (Clauda) Lavertu, Rachel (Bert) Bosse, Dolores (Nelson) Jambard, Clarence (Wayne) Lavertu, Claudette (Phillip) Michaud, and Daniel Lavertu; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Rella was predeceased by her siblings, Patricia Gendreau, Ron Lavertu, Joel Lavertu, Richard Lavertu, and Roger Lavertu

At Rella's request, funeral services were held privately and at the convenience of the family. Arrangements were a service of Lajoie Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 114 – 10th Ave., Madawaska.