Hannah Elizabeth Forstell, an 18-year-old resident of Manchester, Connecticut, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center on Friday, April 4, 2025.
Born on April 22, 2006, in Hartford, Hannah was the adored daughter of Eric and Katy (Barberie) Forstell. Throughout her life, she was a radiant presence, lighting up the lives of those around her. Hannah’s infectious enthusiasm for life and her caring spirit made everyone who knew her happier and more grateful for their own lives.
From a young age, Hannah had a deep love for the beach, often spending her summer days basking in the sun, the sound of the waves crashing around her. Music was another passion; her love for singing was evident to all who knew her. With a beautifully resonant voice, she captivated audiences—whether it was family gatherings or school performances, Hannah always found joy in expressing herself through music. Above all, her voice was a source of comfort and inspiration, reflecting her vibrant personality and zest for life.
Hannah faced numerous health challenges, including numerous hospital visits and medical testing, with a remarkable sense of grace and resilience. She cultivated a joyful spirit that lifted the hearts of her caregivers at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center and Dana Farber, showing gratitude even in the face of adversity. She often turned her struggles into opportunities for joy, beating many medical odds and ensuring her journey was marked by positivity and hope. Hannah’s unwavering strength inspired not only her family and friends but also her medical team, who admired her tenacity and optimistic outlook on life.
Dreaming of becoming a teacher, Hannah was able to work alongside her kindergarten teacher, an experience that was transformative and meaningful for her. Returning to Highland Park School as a teacher’s assistant allowed her to fulfill her aspiration of nurturing young minds while creating lasting memories. Her passion for education and her desire to make a difference in the lives of others shone bright, reflecting her commitment to community and connection.
In June 2024, Hannah graduated from high school alongside her friends, a significant milestone that she celebrated with immense joy. Her senior year was filled with memorable experiences, and she made the most of every moment. In sharing her journey on social media through her dedicated page, “Forstellstrong,” Hannah touched many lives. Her story resonated with countless individuals, both near and far, fostering a sense of community among those who gathered to support her. The compassion she received from friends and strangers alike was a testament to the profound impact she had on everyone around her.
Hannah is survived by her loving parents, Eric and Katy Forstell; her beloved brother, Cameron; and her sisters, Alexis Barletta and her husband Alex, and Kiera Forstell. Her family also includes a cherished niece and nephew, Sofia and Eric Barletta; a close-knit circle of maternal aunts and uncles—Norine Barberie, Trish Callahan and her husband Carl, and Ellen Sidway and her husband Kyle; as well as her paternal aunts and uncles, Deborah Lanier and her husband Mark, Scott Forstell and his wife Pam, and Todd Forstell and his wife Andrea. Hannah was also survived by her paternal grandmother, Jane Forstell, along with countless cousins and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.
Preceding Hannah in death were her maternal grandparents, Margaret and John Barberie; her paternal aunt Lori Davis; and her paternal grandfather, Richard Forstell. Their absence adds to the profound sense of loss felt by those who remain.
Family and friends are invited to honor Hannah’s vibrant life at the John F. Tierney Funeral Home, located at 219 West Center St. in Manchester, for calling hours on Friday, April 11, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM, followed by a funeral home service at 5 PM. As the community gathers to celebrate Hannah’s life, it is a time to reflect on the joy she brought into the world and the love she shared with everyone she encountered. She will be remembered not just for her courageous battle but for her laughter, her voice, and her indelible spirit that shone brightly throughout her life. Rest in peace, Hannah. You will be forever missed but never forgotten.