Denise Ames

Waterville, ME - Denise Ames, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at her home in Rochester, NH. She was 68 years old. Born and raised in Waterville, Maine, Denise was the oldest daughter of the late David and Doris (Phelps) Harris, and sister to David (Celeste) Harris, Deanna Bennett, Donna (James) Sevey, Dawn (George) Starkey, Dale Harris, Debbie (Brian) Pelletier, and Danny Harris. Among her seven siblings she was known for her wise advice, unconditional love, and bringing the family together for special occasions. Denise married her husband Darryl in 1984. They met by chance, both hard at work, although in vastly different careers at the time. Darryl, working a construction project in the area met Denise at the local eatery, Big Momma's. Together they formed a special, everlasting bond and a new family was born. They both worked hard, supported each other, and prioritized their families. In the hardest times they remained dedicated to their vows, loving and supporting each other in sickness and health. Getting to spend quality time together was paramount in their lives. Whether it was traveling as far as Hawai'i or as close as Waterville, socializing with friends, or just enjoying a favorite show and time with each other at home after a hard day's work; it was always about family. In her professional career Denise found fulfillment and purpose in her work by lending her organizational skills to the betterment of many businesses, but her true vocations were devoted wife to her husband, mother to her two sons, Kris and Dale, and later grandmother. She instilled in her boys the values of hard work, compassion, and resilience, shaping them into the men they are today. Her elder son, Kris, a dedicated science teacher, and her younger son, Dale, a talented engineer, carry her legacy forward with pride. Denise treasured and prioritized being a devoted "Grammie/Yammie" to her beloved granddaughters Kalen Blair (25), Celine Ames (14), and Nadia Ames (9). She also had a special bond with her best friend Mindy's daughter Alyssa, whom she loved like a granddaughter. She cherished every moment spent with each of them; whether it was sharing stories, baking cookies, doing "girly" days or embarking on adventures together, her love for them knew no bounds, and her memory will forever live on in their hearts. Throughout her life, Denise was known for her tireless work ethic, collecting and preparing family recipes, baking delicious treats, travel enthusiasm, and deep appreciation for and cultivation of family time. Her culinary creations, especially her Christmas chocolate baskets, were legendary among her family and friends. She loved to share her passion for travel with her family members and was especially known for getting the traditionally stoic Mainers in her family to step way outside their comfort zones; sometimes even attached to the end of a zip line. Her most coveted time in recent years had been the annual family gathering at camp for cooking, games, puzzles, campfires, and most importantly time to spend with all her children and grandchildren at once. As each year passed, her family grew larger and sometimes faces changed, but all were always welcomed where laughter echoed across the lake and bonds were strengthened with each passing summer. Denise was a woman of deep faith, and brought so many to Jesus through her example of Christian love - truly walking the walk throughout her life. She was very active in every church she attended, being involved in everything from children's ministry to women's Bible studies. Despite our sorrow, we draw comfort from knowing she is with the One she spent her life loving. Denise will be deeply missed by her loving husband Darryl, loyal and faithful sons Kris Blair and Dale (Morgen) Ames, cherished granddaughters, adoring siblings, and a multitude of family and friends whose lives she has touched with her kindness, generosity, faith, and unwavering love. As we bid farewell to Denise, let us take comfort in the memories we shared and the profound impact she had on all who knew her. May her spirit continue to guide and inspire us as we carry her legacy forward with love and gratitude. Rest in peace, dear Denny, Mom, Grammie, Yammie. Your light will forever shine brightly in our hearts. A celebration of Denise's life will be held June 1st at 11am at the Grace Community Church, 57 Wakefield St, Rochester NH 03867, with a barbeque directly following the celebration. The family would love for everyone dress casual cruise attire. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the DBA Foundation which Denise wholeheartedly supported. Donations can be made at dbafoundation.org/donate-now . A special thank you to the doctors and nurses at Seacoast Cancer Center who supported and cared for Denise throughout her battle. Thank you to the attentive nurses and staff of Cornerstone VNA for providing hospice care.