Maureen Catherine Bernier,of Billerica, a fun-loving and vibrant woman who lived life to the fullest, passed away doing what she loved — cruising the world — on November 1, 2025, in the Cook Islands while on a 51-day cruise. She was 77 years old. Maureen was known for her zest for life, her laughter, and her joy in meeting new friends and sharing wonderful experiences.

Maureen was born in Somerville, Ma. She was the second oldest of twelve children born to the late Raymond and Mary (Coughlin) Trant. Growing up as the oldest daughter in such a large family came with many responsibilities, including helping to care for her younger siblings. Their home was always full of motion, laughter, a bit of turmoil, and, above all, love. Maureen often shared fond memories from her childhood with her children and grandchildren, recalling the closeness and chaos of her big family with great affection.

Maureen married and was blessed with five children. She was a devoted stay-at-home mother while her children were young. Over 40 years ago, the family moved to Billerica, where her children attended school and made lifelong friends. Once her children were settled, Maureen began working as a nanny for several families, where she shared her warmth, patience, and love with the children she cared for. Later, she worked as a bus driver for C&W  Transportation for over 15 years in Lexington, always watching over her students and ensuring their safety with genuine care.

Maureen truly embraced life. She may not have been the richest woman in the world, but she was rich in experiences, love, and laughter. She loved to travel — especially with her children, grandchildren, and close friends. All anyone had to say was, “Would you like to go…?” and Maureen’s bags were packed. She traveled throughout the Caribbean, Europe, Asia,  Alaska, and Hawaii, and was fulfilling her bucket list with a dream trip to French Polynesia and the Pacific when she passed. Cruising was her favorite way to see the world, combining her love of the sea with the excitement of new destinations. She also enjoyed vacations to Aruba and other exotic places.

With her dear friend and travel companion, Diane Konstandouros, Maureen once rented an RV and set out to visit all 50 continental states, exploring landmarks, historical sites, and the natural beauty of the United States. She also enjoyed road trips to Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun, where she happily tested her luck at the slot machines. Wherever she went, Maureen made new friends and shared laughter — her big personality and infectious joy made her unforgettable. She was a member of the Emblem Club in Billerica where she held the position of treasurer for many years. She was able to make  many close and long lasting friendships within the club.

Family was at the center of Maureen’s world. Growing up in a large family taught her the importance of staying connected. When she was home, she cherished weekly card games with her son Richie and her brothers and loved being surrounded by her siblings at family celebrations and holiday gatherings. As a mother, she was both supportive and encouraging — a steady presence and a true friend to her children. She was always ready to lend a helping hand and was like a second mother to her grandchildren, whom she helped raise with love and devotion. As “Nana,” she delighted in spoiling her grandchildren with treats and affection, creating memories that they will cherish for the rest of their lives.

Maureen was a bit of an enigma — strong-willed and determined when she set her mind to something, yet also easygoing and spontaneous, happy to let life take her where it would. Her presence lit up any room, and being with her meant laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Though her passing — especially so far from home — is difficult to accept, her family and friends find comfort in knowing that she left this world doing exactly what she loved: seeing the world, meeting new friends, and living life to the fullest.

Maureen was the loving mother of Andrea Manninen & her husband Matthew of Billerica, Laurie Bernier of Billerica, Michelle Bernier of Billerica, Natalie Bernier of Billerica & her fiancée Geovanny Rivera, and Richard Bernier of Stoneham and his girlfriend Christine DeCicco.  She was the proud grandmother of Kelvin, Chloe, Tyler, Kaden, Kendall, Rachel, Jaxon, Willow, Savannah, and Penelope.  She was the sister of Robert, Raymond, George, Charles, David, James, and Joseph Trant, Virginia Annecchiarico, Christoper, & Paul Trant, and the late Peter Trant.  Maureen was also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces & nephews, cousins and friends.

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Monday, November 17 from 4 to 7 p.m. Floral Tributes are welcome and may be sent to the funeral home.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Theresa’s Church, 466 Boston Rd., Billerica on Thursday, November 20 at 10 a.m. A burial will follow immediately at Fox Hill Cemetery, 130 Andover Rd., Billerica.