Obituary: Barbara Marilyn Hanson
Barbara Marilyn Hanson, 91, of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026.
Known for her creative spirit and warm presence, Hanson was an avid gardener and needlework artist who took pleasure in working with her hands. She was tending her patio garden just days before her passing. The detailed needlepoint pieces she created and shared with loved ones are expected to be cherished keepsakes for generations, and those who knew her remember the brightness she brought to their lives.
Hanson is survived by three children: Wanda Hanson, Debbie Carr and her husband Andrew, and Chris Hanson and his wife Rhonda. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Ena Hanson, the wife of her late son Michael, who died before her. She leaves behind five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. She maintained a particularly close relationship with her sister, Charlene Hodgkins, throughout her life.
A Jehovah's Witness, Hanson lived her life guided by her faith. She spent many years sharing her religious beliefs with others and drew deep comfort from biblical scripture, including the hope she found in Revelation 21:4, which speaks of a time when "there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain." That promise sustained her through the loss of her son, Michael, and gave her confidence in a future reunion with her loved ones.
A memorial service will be held on June 27 at 2 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, located at 100 Strout Street in South Portland.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be directed to Hospice of Southern Maine/Andwell Hospice in recognition of the care provided to Hanson in her final days.
