Millinocket, Maine - Marie Sylviane Margurite (Albert) Haines' life came to a loving close on May 28, 2026, surrounded by the family she cherished. Many knew her as Sylviane, Sylvie, or Syv. Syv was born in Millinocket, Maine, on August 20, 1934. She was the fourth of six children born to Alma Chasse and Ernest Albert of St. Agatha, Maine.

Throughout her life, even as the world around her changed, Sylviane met each season with strength, humor, faith, and a positive outlook. Syv graduated in 1951 at the age of 16 near the top of her class as part of the first graduating class of St. Martin of Tours High School. One of her first jobs was as a lead typist at Great Northern Paper Company. She later served as secretary for the principal of the Millinocket Middle School for 23 years, where she became a beloved presence to generations of students, staff, and families. She met her husband, Vernon Glyn Haines, when he was home on leave from the Army. They were married on May 4, 1957, and settled in their hometown of Millinocket.

Sylviane is survived by her four children, Keith, Bruce and his spouse, Lindy Haines, Teresa "Terri" and her spouse, Rich DeFronzo, and Janelle and her spouse, John Cyr. Syv was blessed with nine grandchildren, Desirae, Nikkole, Mackenzie, Brett, Nicholas, Kameron, Nathaniel, Brian, and Jenna; and eight great-grandchildren, Jasper, Sébastien, Abel Vernon, Winslow, Dominic, Margot, Evelyn, and Sullivan.

Syv had a strong faith in God and was an active parishioner of St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church. She supported many organizations, including AARP and Food for the Poor. Syv found great joy in watching her children and grandchildren participate in sports and the performing arts. She and Vern loved to travel and visit their children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed reading, playing cards, camping, cooking, gardening, and spending time with family and friends. Syv was generous with her time, love, laughter, and energy. She volunteered at Meals for Me, was involved with the Daughter's of Isabella, and helped her daughter with the Spruce Up Committee on projects around town. Her kindness, humor, and spirit touched many lives, and she will be deeply missed.

In 2015, Syv was diagnosed with dementia, a challenge she faced with tenacity and grace. Her family would like to thank Sweet Seniors, Katahdin Healthcare, Community Health and Counseling Hospice, and two special caregivers, Marion Bisson and Barbara Jamieson, for the loving care they provided.

Syv was predeceased by many beloved family members and friends, including her parents; her husband, Vernon Haines; her siblings, Andrew, Priscilla, Joanne, Joseph "Alan," and Carol; her in-laws, Clint, Florence, Louise, Carol, and Ann; her mother-in-law, Mary; fathers-in-law, Clint and Earl; their spouses; a special niece, Sonya; and a special nephew, Paul.

A celebration of Sylviane's life is scheduled for August 14, 2026, at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. A reception will follow downstairs, with burial at Millinocket Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Millinocket Food Pantry may be mailed to St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 19 Colby St., Millinocket, ME 04462. To share condolences and memories online visit bowersfuneral.com.

"Let all that you do be done in love." -

1 Corinthians 16:14