Dover-Foxcroft and Lisbon Falls, Maine - Mrs. Nola (Goulet) Shannon, age 96, passed away on April 5, 2026, in Auburn, Maine. She was born on April 15, 1929, in Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, the only daughter of Joseph and Doris (Willett) Goulet.

Nola was a devoted mother and grandmother who touched countless lives through her warmth, determination, and unmistakable wit. She is survived by her son, Michael Shannon and spouse, Cynthia of La Conner, Washington; son, Blaine Shannon of Atkinson, Maine; daughter, Dawna Decker of Lisbon Falls, Maine; and daughter, Wendy Fricke of Corinth, Maine. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson. She was predeceased by her former husband, Linwood Shannon, and her eldest son, Galen Shannon, formerly of Dover-Foxcroft.

For nearly 30 years, Nola served her community as a school bus driver, a role she remembered with great fondness. She retired at the age of 77, realizing with amusement that she was now driving the grandchildren of some of her earliest students. Those years provided her with countless stories, always shared with her unique humor and sharp memory.

Throughout her life, Nola worked tirelessly to support her family. In addition to raising her children, she harvested and processed potatoes for shipment, worked as a school cafeteria cook, labored on a dairy farm, and cleaned houses—doing whatever was needed to help feed her family.

Nola appreciated the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid gardener, growing organic vegetables years before it became popular. She enjoyed traveling to visit family, with trips to Florida, Texas, Georgia, and Washington State. A dedicated bird watcher, she took great pleasure in spotting rare visitors at her feeder. While living in Sebec Station, it was not unusual for her to flag down the Bangor & Aroostook freight train and ride to Greenville Junction to do some shopping while the train was prepared for the return trip—truly different times.

Independence defined Nola’s life. Even after a series of falls led to hospital stays and physical rehabilitation, she fought each time to regain her mobility and freedom. Her determination and resilience amazed all who knew her. Though these challenges eventually took their toll, she never gave up, facing each day with strength and courage until the end.

At Nola’s request, there will be no funeral service; however, a graveside service for interment will be held at Corinthian Cemetery in Corinth, Maine, at a date to be determined. Arrangements are in the care of the Lary Funeral Home. Messages of condolence and memories may be expressed at www.laryfuneralhome.com.

“A school bus driver is the only person who can truly say that all of their problems are behind them.”