Cheryl Alta (Tupper) Barter

SOUTH PORTLAND – Cheryl Alta (Tupper) Barter, 80, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Feb. 17, 2026, at 9:15 p.m.

She was born on Sept. 7, 1945, and was a lifelong resident of Maine, a place she cherished deeply throughout her life, including many years in South Portland.

Throughout her life, Cheryl held a variety of roles, including working as a telephone operator and later as a bank teller, before dedicating many years of service to the Portland Press Herald in the Circulation Department until her retirement. She took pride in her work and the relationships she built along the way.

After retiring, she made her home at the Betsy Ross House, where she formed many meaningful friendships and remained close to the coastal places she loved.

Cheryl was deeply devoted to her family and community. While her son David was in school, she was actively involved with the band boosters and served as a scout leader, generously giving her time and energy to support the activities and young people she cared about.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Cheryl had a special fondness for teddy bears, was an enthusiastic fan of New England sports teams, and rarely missed a NASCAR race. She especially loved visits to Portland Head Light and enjoyed classic Maine favorites, never turning down a good Amato’s sandwich or a lobster roll.

Cheryl was predeceased by her beloved husband, Sonny, with whom she now rests once again.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Deborah Hamel and David Frost, their spouses Jeffrey Hamel and Emilee Frost; her sisters Susan Gilmore and Leanne Tupper; her three grandchildren; and her seven great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense pride and happiness.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at The Barron Center for their compassionate care, and to Jennifer West, who became like part of the family through her frequent visits and kindness.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Rd., South Portland, followed by a service at 11 a.m. and a reception at noon.

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.