LEWISTON — Theresa “Terri” L. Bernier, 50, of Hartford, passed away Monday, Aug. 22, at Central Maine Medical Center with family at her side following a courageous four-year battle with Hodgkins disease.

She was born in Lincoln, Nov. 26, 1960, a daughter of the late Bruce Lancaster of Mattawamkeag. Her mother Janis Lancaster and fiance, Everett Murphy for whom she had a special place in her heart of Lebanon.

Before moving to Turner and then Hartford, Terri resided in Mattawamkeag graduating from Mattanawcook Academy in 1978. She then worked for Human Resources of Maine and eventually earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Mental Health and Human Services in 2007.

Terri had a beautiful heart and always helped others in need until her illness forced her to retire. She enjoyed her beautiful flower gardens and was always so proud to show everyone.

Terri loved to entertain in her home on the holidays and also loved painting and finding treasures in the antique shops.

She and her husband Paul, whom she married Sept. 6, 2003, in Turner, spent many happy years together at their home on Canton Lake with their favorite dogs Mannix and Charley.

They also enjoyed spending time on their private island getaway with fully-equipped cabin and functioning lighthouse on Canton Lake always hoping to eventually spend their retirement years there later on.

Terri was a loving, devoted and hard-working wife, mother and grandmother who will be dearly missed.

She leaves her loving husband, whom she loved so dearly, Paul Bernier of Hartford; a daughter, Kristi Cottle and her fiance, Scott Harmon, of Auburn; a son, Kyle Cottle and his fiancee, Nancy Palko, of Canton; a grandson, Braden Cottle, who was the light of her life in Canton and two more grandchildren, soon to be born; two sisters, Susan Hale Courtney and her husband, Kent, of Hanover, Pa., and Stacey Twist and husband, Terry and nephew, Logan, of Medway; a nephew, Jeremy Hale, his wife, Heather and family of Caribou; a niece, Misty Haskins and husband, Shawn, of Springfield, Ore.; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Terri also leaves her special and dear friends, who gave her their love, strength and support throughout this experience in her life.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with Terri’s family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.