1958 - 2026
The cherished daughter of the late Ronald and Joanne (Joyce) Strout of Maine, Stephanie grew up in a close-knit family environment that shaped the warmth she later brought into her own home. She graduated from South Portland High School in 1976 and began her professional life working for the City of South Portland. Later, after moving to Massachusetts, she became a teacher’s assistant with Milford Public Schools, where she dedicated more than twenty years to supporting students and staff.
She was the beloved wife of Jeffrey R. Berenson for nearly 45 years, and together they built a life rich in love and shared experiences, first in South Portland, ME where they shared their early life together and later in Milford, MA. Anyone who knows them would say how much fun they had together throughout their marriage.
Stephanie was a devoted mother and stepmother, and her legacy continues through her children: Gregory J. Berenson of Worcester; Tonya L. Berenson and her husband David Bedoya of Spain; and Jessica P. Clickner and her husband Benjamin of Uxbridge. Her greatest joy came in her role as “Grammy” to her four beloved grandchildren — Leo, Sammy, Cameron, and Cassie — whom she adored beyond measure. She is also survived by her sisters, Elaine Strout of Bangor, ME, and Sandra LaRose of Scarborough, with whom she shared a lifelong bond of love and support.
Stephanie was the heart of her family, bringing them together through cherished traditions and gatherings centered around her incredible cooking, laughter, and just being together. Music was woven throughout their home, and she could be seen dancing around the kitchen to a favorite song with a drink in her hand while cooking and talking. She planned everything down to the last detail, never forgetting a birthday or anniversary, making sure each one felt special. She and Jeff spent countless evenings playing cribbage by the fire.
She was an avid reader who especially loved historical romance novels, and many of the books her grandchildren now treasure were gifts from Grammy. Later in life, she embraced golfing as a way to enjoy time outdoors with her family. Some of her happiest moments were spent at Old Orchard Beach and Hampton Beach, and especially at the family’s condo in the White Mountains of New Hampshire — a place that brought her tremendous peace and where countless treasured memories were created.
Her departure has left a void that cannot be filled, and her unwavering dedication and steadfast love to her family will be deeply missed.
Visiting hours will be Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 3:00 – 5:30 PM at the Buma-Sargeant Funeral Home, 42 Congress Street, Milford. Family remembrances and tributes will be offered at 5:30 PM in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Stephanie’s memory may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, PO Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284-9168.
