Stephanie “Aunt Bea” Haskell, born on August 25, 1963, in Augusta, Maine, passed away on October 7, 2026, following a brief battle with cancer. Though her time here has come to an end, the love she gave, the memories she created, and the lives she touched will remain in the hearts of those who knew her forever.
Stephanie was a devoted homemaker, a wonderful mother, and a loving Nana to her granddogs and grandkitties. More than anything, she was a mother who dedicated her life to raising her daughter, Molly. Being Molly’s mom was one of the greatest joys of Stephanie’s life, and the love she poured into her daughter was unwavering. She gave so much of herself to her family, creating a home filled with love, comfort, and memories that will be cherished forever.
Stephanie had a special way of making life a little sweeter — quite literally. She was a fantastic cook who loved making cookies for her family, and the holidays held a special place in her heart. Christmas was her favorite time to decorate, and she found joy in making the season feel magical. She was a lover of books and music, and she had a sense of humor that those closest to her will always remember. She was also a big fan of playing Monopoly (haha — not really!). It was these little quirks, shared laughs, and everyday moments that made Stephanie so wonderfully herself.
In 2021, Stephanie had the opportunity to travel to Georgia, where she spent several months experiencing a very different side of life. There were tornadoes, alligators, and the occasional snake — certainly more adventure than a typical Maine day! Later that year, she returned to Maine with her family and settled in Chelsea, where she spent the rest of her days enjoying the peaceful countryside. And, in the spirit of trying new things, her daughter even managed to convince her to try deer heart! These adventures, big and small, became part of the stories and memories her loved ones will carry with them.
Stephanie’s love extended beyond her human family. Her granddogs and her grand kitties brought her joy (most of the time) and held a special place in her heart. Her love for animals was a beautiful part of who she was, and in her honor, our family asks that donations be made to local animal shelters in lieu of flowers.
Stephanie is survived by her beloved daughter, Molly Hedges; her sisters, Estelle Cook and Cheryl Martin; and her cherished granddogs, Trinity, Beau, Bailey, Boots, and BJ, and grandkitties, Zoey and Ozzy.
She was predeceased by her son, Michael Joseph; her parents, Charles and Mildred Rittall; her brother; Charles Rittall Jr; her nephews, Duane Martin and Frank Anderson; her brother-in-law, Dwight Cook; and her beloved dog, Daisy Mae.
Stephanie’s passing leaves an immeasurable ache in the hearts of those who loved her. There will be holidays that feel a little quieter, cookies that bring tears alongside smiles, songs that suddenly mean a little more, and countless moments when her family wishes they could share just one more laugh with her. While cancer may have taken her from this world far too soon, it can never take away the love she gave or the memories she leaves behind.
Stephanie was deeply loved, and she will be sorely missed. Her life was not measured by grand gestures or accomplishments, but by the love she gave, the family she devoted herself to, and the countless little moments that made life beautiful. Though her family must now learn to live without her physical presence, a part of Stephanie will always remain — in every Christmas decoration, every batch of cookies, every familiar song, and every memory that brings a smile through the tears.
“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are grey. You never know, dear, how much I love you. Please don’t take my sunshine away.”
Forever loved. Forever missed. Always our sunshine.