HOPE — Doreen Ann Pendleton Parent, 64, of Hope, Maine, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home on October 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.

Doreen was born in Camden, Maine, on May 9, 1962, to Lillian Nelson and the late Kenneth Pendleton. She attended Lincolnville Elementary School and Camden-Rockport High School.

On April 10, 1980, Doreen married the love of her life, Michael Parent of Warren. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with two children, Heather and Teren.

Throughout the years, Doreen held many different jobs, but several held a special place in her life. She worked at Nautica in Rockland, was a hairdresser at Juanita’s Salon in Warren, and later worked at MBNA and Walmart Pharmacy, both in Rockland.

One of Doreen’s greatest joys came later in life when she spent approximately 15 years working alongside her daughter at her daughter’s home daycare, Lizards and Ladybugs Childcare. To the many children who passed through those doors, Doreen quickly became known simply as “Gramma.” She had a natural gift for making everyone feel loved, safe, cared for, and at home. Her warmth, kindness, patience, and comforting presence touched countless children and families. She was so much more than part of the daycare; she became a special part of the family it created, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of everyone who walked through its doors.

Above all else, Doreen’s greatest joy in life was being a Gramma to her grandchildren. They always came first, no matter what. She was blessed to spend her days with them at the daycare, giving her the precious opportunity to watch them grow and be part of their everyday lives. Doreen was a hands-on, fun-loving, and very active Gramma who treasured every moment with her grandchildren. Her love for them was unconditional, and the memories she created with them will be cherished for generations to come.

Doreen’s heart extended far beyond her own family. She loved each and every child who came through the doors of Lizards and Ladybugs, always making room for one more and ensuring that every child felt special. To so many, she was more than a caregiver; she was another grandmother, a source of comfort, and someone who loved them as if they were her own. The countless children who called her “Gramma” will forever be a part of the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.

Doreen is survived by her mother, Lillian Hannan, of Palermo, and her partner Norman; her siblings, Kellie-Jo LaBelle of Whitfield, Kevin Pendleton and his wife Debbie, of Pace, Florida, and Ralph Pendleton of Augusta; her husband, Michael Parent, of Hope; her daughter, Heather Staples and her husband AJ, of Warren; and her beloved grandchildren, Hayden Staples of Friendship, and Summer Staples and Paisley Staples of Warren. She is also survived by her bonus grandbaby, Scarlett Cook of Warren, whom she loved dearly.

Doreen held a special place in her heart for Braelyn, Wyatt, Garrett, Violet, and her goddaughter, Sasha. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, with special mention of Megan, Nick, and Leah, who were especially dear to her.

She was predeceased by her father, Kenneth Pendleton of Lincolnville, and her beloved son, Teren Kenneth Pendleton, who passed away from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Doreen’s life was centered around the people she loved. She had a heart that seemed to have room for everyone and a way of making people feel special simply by being there. She gave her love freely, cared deeply, and created a lifetime of memories that will continue to bring comfort to those who knew her. Her greatest legacy will not be the places she worked or the things she accomplished, but the countless lives she touched and the love she gave so unconditionally to her family, her grandchildren, and the many children who lovingly called her “Gramma.”

Though her time with us was far too short, the love she leaves behind is immeasurable. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and carried in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.