Maureen Geralyn (Anderson) Cummings, 64, of Dover, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 7, 1962, in Exeter, Maureen was the daughter of Henry and Mary Anderson. She attended local Catholic and Exeter schools and graduated from the University of New Mexico in 1984 with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and English.

Shortly after college, Maureen was involved in a car accident that resulted in a spinal cord injury and lifelong wheelchair use. Despite this challenge, she lived with remarkable strength, resilience, and independence. She continued to embrace life fully and devoted herself to raising her two daughters with determination, humor, creativity, and unconditional love. She often said that motherhood was the greatest and most fulfilling accomplishment of her life.

Maureen worked for more than 20 years as a freelance writer and later became a dedicated advocate for individuals with disabilities through Granite State Independent Living and provided peer support through Seacoast Consumer Alliance. Through both her work and her life, she encouraged others to see beyond disability and recognize the dignity and value in every person.

Her faith was the foundation of her life and carried her through every hardship with grace, compassion, and perseverance. She will be remembered for her kindness, resilience, strong spirit, and unconditional love for her family and friends.

Nothing brought Maureen greater joy than being “Grandma” to her four grandchildren. She treasured family gatherings, holidays, games, stories, laughter, and the everyday moments spent with those she loved most.

She was predeceased by her parents, Henry C. Anderson, Sr. and Mary F (Burke) Anderson; her brother, Henry C. Anderson, Jr.; and her life partner and love, Carl Carlton of Portsmouth.

She is survived by her daughters, Kathryn Cummings Corson and her husband, Michael, and their son, Donovan, of Dover; and Brianna (Cummings) Mayer and her husband, Stephen, and their children, Allison, Daniel, and Hannah, of Hampton; her brother, Peter Anderson and his wife, Debra, of Dover; her nephew, Christopher Anderson and his wife, Rebecca, and their children, of Dover; her cherished cat, Purrl; and many dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Earl, Pat, and Carol, for their exceptional care, friendship, and support throughout the years. Her family is grateful for the compassionate care provided by Wentworth Douglass Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Maureen’s memory to Granite State Independent Living (GSIL) or Durham Evangelical Church.

Services will be announced in the coming weeks. Assisting the family with arrangements is the Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Hampton. To view Maureen's Online Tribute, send condolences to the family, or for more information, visit www.phaneuf.net.