Maria Fort

Maria Fort, beloved matriarch, spirited host, and lifelong lover of nature and family, passed away peacefully on Tuesday at the age of 90.

Born on March 13, 1935, in Frankfurt, Germany, Maria spent her early years immersed in the beauty and resilience of her homeland. She began her career working as an au pair, bringing warmth and care to the families she served. Following that, she worked as a translator for Lufthansa, where her love of language and connection to people shone through. After moving to the United States, she went on to manage Teddy Bears Hallmark in Nashua, where she shared her creativity and kindness with the community until her retirement.

Inspired deeply by the story and spirit of The Sound of Music, Maria often saw herself in its main character—resilient, joyful, and devoted to love and family.

Affectionately known as “Oma” by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Maria had a gift for hospitality. Her home was always open to friends and family, where wine and laughter were in endless supply. She found great joy in tending her garden and watching birds, always appreciating the quiet beauty of the world around her.

She is preceded in death by her son, Charles David Yandell, and her granddaughter, Abigail Yandell.

Oma is lovingly remembered by her son, Charles Anthony Yandell, and his wife, Jenifer. She leaves behind three grandchildren from their family: Melissa Sage and her husband, Cory, along with their daughters, Penelope and Evelyn; Charles Benjamin Yandell and his fiancé, Lyndsey; and the late Abigail Yandell. Her memory also lives on through the family of her late son, Charles David Yandell. She is survived by her granddaughter Deborah Watson and her husband, Chris, and their children, Justin, Mercedes, Bryson, Keith, and Abel. She is also remembered by her grandchildren Tazio Yandell, Thomas Yandell, and Jake Yandell and his wife, Christine, along with their daughters, Juniper and Eliza.

Maria’s love, warmth, and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the joy of knowing her.

A private family service will be held in her honor. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to The Compassionate Friends Organization.