AUBURN — Melinda “Mindy” Gallant, 53, self-anointed gypsy and lifelong hitchhiker, departed for her eternal journey on Friday, June 2, at the Hospice House.

Sadly, her last earthly adventure was a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

She was born on June 26, 1963, in Rumford to Leon (Jr.) and Marlene Gallant. She graduated from Mexico High School in 1981.

If you knew Mindy, you know she flipped cancer the bird and fought right up to her last breath. She refused to let cancer keep her from living her life.

She overcame many obstacles with a smile on her face and a positive outlook. She needed very little to keep her happy — friends to laugh with, puddles to jump in, daily adventures and an occasional safety meeting.

She was truly a free spirit with a giant heart. She was a firm believer in the saying, “Not all who wander are lost.” She had friends from all walks of life and cherished all memories she made. The only peace she got from leaving so soon was knowing she would be free to travel anywhere!

She is survived by her mother; her son, Joshua Gallant of Augusta; daughters, Breanna Gallant of Warren, R.I., and Stephanie “Tess” Gallant of Rumford; four grandchildren, Damian and Melody Gallant, and Hunter Simmons and Logan Emond; siblings, Colleen Calden, Shawn Gallant and Tricia Waterhouse; nephews and nieces, Zac, Rachel and Chad Calden, Taran and Jared Waterhouse, Alexandra Easterling, Jackson Brown, Brielle Calden and Olivia Easterling.

She was predeceased by her father; brother, “Big Dan” Gallant; and niece, Kali Calden.

“If you don’t take risks, you’ll have a wasted soul.” — Drew Barrymore

Melinda “Mindy” Gallant