Chantal J. Hathaway, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. Even in her final hours, her contagious smile never left her, a reflection of the warmth and joy she shared throughout her life.

Chantal was born in Tours, France, the daughter of Manuel Afonso and Victorine Wolf. She spent her childhood in Tours before beginning her career on a military base, where she served as the chief telephone operator. It was there that she met the love of her life, David Hathaway, while he was serving in the United States Army. Together they began their family and made their way to the United States. Following a few relocations during David's military service, they settled in David's hometown of East Millinocket, where they built a life centered on family, lifelong friendships, and a close-knit community.

A devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, loyal friend, and kind neighbor, Chantal found her greatest joy in caring for those she loved. Her home was always open, and no one ever left her table hungry. She had a remarkable gift for cooking, preparing countless homemade meals for her family throughout the years. Her recipes, made entirely from memory and never measured, became treasured family favorites that no one has ever been able to truly recreate. We like to think it was because every meal was made with a little extra love.

Chantal also had a passion for gardening, finding great happiness in tending to her flowers and creating beauty wherever she lived. A talented self-taught artist, she generously shared her gift by teaching private art lessons in her home to many children throughout the community.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. Chantal was a devoted member of the First Congregational Church, where she faithfully served in the choir and was an active member of the Women's Fellowship. Her quiet kindness, unwavering faith, and generous spirit touched countless lives and will be remembered by all who knew her.

Chantal was predeceased by her beloved husband, David Hathaway, and her daughter, Caroline Hathaway. She is survived by her son, Gary Hathaway and his wife, Debbie, and their daughter, Kayla; her son, Michael Hathaway and his son, Jack; her granddaughter, Tara; and her granddaughter, Jessica, and great-grandson, Bryce.