At 82 years old, Linda L. Bean, a resident of St. George and granddaughter of L.L. Bean founder Leon Leonwood Bean, has passed away.
Linda L. Bean, distinguished as the granddaughter of L.L. Bean founder Leon Leonwood Bean, passed away on Saturday. Renowned for her multifaceted entrepreneurial ventures and philanthropic endeavors, Bean left an indelible mark on her community. Veronika Carlson, President of Linda Bean’s Perfect Maine Hospitality, expressed deep sorrow at Bean’s passing, stating, “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Linda L. Bean.” A stalwart Republican and benefactor to conservative causes, Bean made significant contributions to her political sphere, having twice contested a House seat in Maine’s 1st Congressional District. At 82 years old, Linda leaves behind a legacy defined by her exceptional work ethic, entrepreneurial flair, and unwavering commitment to both her beloved home state of Maine and L.L. Bean, the iconic company established by her grandfather.
Under the comprehensive lifestyle umbrella company known as Linda Bean’s Perfect Maine, Bean’s enterprises cover a diverse array of offerings. From wedding planning services to accommodations and captivating waterside tours, Bean’s ventures catered to a broad spectrum of interests. Notably, guests had the opportunity to embark on scenic excursions aboard Bean’s own 42-foot lobster boat, exploring iconic Maine locales immortalized by the renowned Wyeth family artists.
Bean acquired lobster dealerships in the Midcoast region and took ownership of both the Port Clyde General Store and Tenants Harbor General Store. Additionally, in 2007, she established the esteemed Perfect Maine Lobster brand.
Throughout her life, Bean harbored a deep-seated passion for Maine art and the history of New England. In pursuit of preserving this cultural heritage, she established the N.C. Wyeth Research Foundation & Reading Libraries. This private nonprofit organization is dedicated to the construction or restoration of Wyeth properties situated in Port Clyde, Wilmington (Delaware), and Needham (Massachusetts).
Last September, a devastating fire engulfed three waterfront buildings in the heart of historic Port Clyde village, resulting in the loss of original artwork by Jamie Wyeth and rare books about the Wyeth family history. These treasures were housed in Linda Bean’s Maine Wyeth Art Gallery situated above the store.
Political leaders across the state expressed their condolences following Linda Bean’s passing. Maine Governor Janet Mills remarked, “I was saddened to learn of the passing of Maine businesswoman and philanthropist Linda Bean. Linda’s career included nearly five decades on the board of the iconic company started by her grandfather, L.L.Bean, and successful ventures and investments in Maine’s lobster, real estate, and hospitality industries.”
U.S. Senator Susan Collins of Maine added, “Linda Bean loved the State of Maine. Its coastal communities, islands, and art, particularly by the Wyeths, had a special place in her heart.”
Bean, alongside her sister Diana, was actively involved in philanthropic efforts, contributing to causes such as Life Flight of Maine and the construction of helicopter landing pads atop Maine Medical Center in Portland. Additionally, they supported the establishment of a specialized trades teaching unit within the St. George Municipal School Unit.
Bean’s educational journey took her through public schools in Freeport and Yarmouth before attending the Oak Grove School for Girls in Vassalboro, the Waynflete School in Portland, and Antioch College in Ohio, where she pursued studies in business and accounting.
Throughout her lifetime, Bean served on the boards of various organizations, including the Maine Chapter of the Nature Conservancy, Portland Museum of Art, and L.L.Bean, among others. Her legacy extends beyond her successful business ventures, leaving an enduring impact on the state of Maine and its communities.