Obituary: Cheryl Alta (Tupper) Barter
Maine News Now
Maine Woman, 80, Passes Away in South Portland
Cheryl Alta (Tupper) Barter, an 80‑year‑old lifelong resident of Maine, died peacefully in her sleep on February 17, 2026, at 9:15 p.m. She was born on September 7, 1945, and had spent most of her life in the state, including many years in South Portland.
Barter began her career as a telephone operator and later worked as a bank teller. She then spent a significant portion of her working life at the Portland Press Herald, where she served in the Circulation Department until her retirement. After retiring, she moved to the historic Betsy Ross House, where she made many friendships and remained close to the coastal places she loved.
A devoted family woman, Barter was actively involved in her son David’s life while he was in school, working with band boosters and serving as a scout leader. She also enjoyed a number of simple pleasures: a fondness for teddy bears, enthusiasm for New England sports teams, frequent visits to the Portland Head Light, and a love of classic Maine fare, never turning down an Amato’s sandwich or a lobster roll. She also never missed a NASCAR race.
Barter was predeceased by her husband, Sonny, and is survived by her children Deborah Hamel and David Frost, along with their spouses Jeffrey Hamel and Emilee Frost. She is also survived by her sisters Susan Gilmore and Leanne Tupper, three grandchildren, and seven great‑grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense pride and happiness.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at the Barron Center for their compassionate care, and to Jennifer West, who became like family through her frequent visits and kindness.
Visitation and Funeral Services
A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Road, South Portland. The service will follow at 11 a.m., with a reception at noon.
In Memory
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Cheryl’s memory to the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland, a cause close to her heart.
