3 min read

Heather Peterson

AUBURN – With the heaviest of hearts, we announce that our cherished Heather Peterson gained her angel wings on Sept. 29, 2025, after a courageous battle with breast cancer. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Heather was born in Augusta on Aug. 3, 1984, to John G. Peterson and Patricia (Fickett) Peterson. A 2002 graduate of Maranacook High School, she left a lasting mark on the community. She was actively involved in clubs, theater, and sports, including bravely tackling the pole vault. Heather is remembered by her classmates as a role model of kindness and strength, a friend who was accepting and loving, and for her radiant soul.

She went on to receive her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Southern Maine, where she brightened a new community, especially as a sister in the Sigma Iota Sigma Sorority. Lovingly known to them as “HP,” she was a friend who always showed up – whether you needed advice, a laugh, or just someone to sit with in silence. Heather had a laugh that could light up a room and a spirit that could touch your soul.

Heather dedicated her career to working with marginalized populations, helping people to be seen and to recognize their own value. She most recently served as a program manager for Alternative Services. She was a leader, the life of the party, always dressing up for theme days.

In 2018, Heather became a mother to her son, Riley, the absolute light of her life. She was born for the role and embraced it with incredible passion and creativity. Her wonderfully thoughtful birthday parties for Riley were magical, and her Easter egg hunts became legendary among family and friends. She cherished every moment of being a mom, especially exploring and playing with her son. She was, simply, the best.

Heather had a deep passion for life, nature, and her community. Her creativity shone through in everything she did, from the amazing Halloween costumes she made for herself, Riley, and Pep, sewing for her sorority sisters, and volunteering at Riley’s school. Her instinct to care for others was one of her most defining and beautiful gifts.

She is survived by her fiancé Preston Austin, and their son, Riley Austin, of Fayette, her mother, Patricia “Pogo” Peterson of Hallowell, brother, Erik Peterson and wife Rebecca Singer of Hallowell, nephew Jo Cothen, her aunts and uncles, Beth Cloutier of Orange, Mass., Lori Peterson and husband Mark Favaloro of Leland, N.C., Wendy and Ernie Pettengill of Winthrop, Peter and Judy Classen of West Harrington, her in-laws, Preston Sr. and Diane Austin of Mexico. Pep’s brothers, Eric Austin and significant other, Ashley Pandell of Rangeley, and Todd Austin and wife Kendra of Rumney, N.H., and many nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as countless dear friends and neighbors. She was predeceased by her father, John Peterson.

Messages of condolence may be sent to: http://www.finleyfuneralhome.com

The “Together for Heather” benefit will become a Celebration of Life. The event will be an opportunity for us to come together and show continued support for Pep and Riley.

A celebration of life will be held at Deering Grange Hall, 1408 Washington Avenue, Portland, ME 04103 on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, at 4 p.m. Proceeds from the previously planned silent auction and raffle will now go to the Riley Fund.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Riley Fund. Checks can be mailed directly to:

Riley J. Austin

Oxford Federal Credit Union

225 River Road

Mexico, ME 04257

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