Stephanie Nicole Perez, 41, of Milford, Delaware, passed away on April 4, 2026, following a hard-fought battle with cancer. Born on January 23, 1985, in Salem, to Denise Laxton Perez and John Perez.

Stephanie was a woman of strength, depth, and compassion, carrying herself with a bold and unmistakable presence. Strong-willed and honest, she was never afraid to speak her truth, yet those who knew her well understood the depth of her heart. She was the kind of person who would give her last dollar to someone in need.

Family was at the center of her life. Above all, she was a loving and devoted mother to her daughter, Ariana Maniscalco, who was her greatest joy and the heart of her world. Much of that love was found in the simple moments they shared, including music-filled drives while singing at the top of their lungs, shopping, painting, prank calls, doing their nails, playing games and simply being together.

One memory stands out, a Fourth of July a few years ago when Stephanie was truly happy. The day was spent by the pool with music playing, the grill going, and laughter moving easily through a circle of friends, as she reconnected and shared that time with her daughter. As evening turned to night, fireworks lit the sky, and the night carried into the early morning with movies and McDonald’s breakfast at 6 a.m., a moment that felt full, easy, and true to who she was.

Stephanie met life’s challenges with quiet determination and resilience. Even in the face of illness, she carried herself with dignity, never losing the resolve that defined her.

Expressive and full of life, she was truly a force to be reckoned with. She had an effortless presence and was someone people naturally gravitated toward, bringing energy and a sense of life wherever she went.

Stephanie will be remembered most for the love she gave so freely. To those closest to her, she would say, “I love you to the moon and back and beyond,” words that reflected not only what she felt, but how she lived.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Ariana Maniscalco; her mother, Denise Laxton Perez; her father, John Perez; her stepmother, Karen Perez; her brothers, Brady Laxton, Jay Perez, and Paul Perez; her grandmother, Lola Mummert; as well as many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Stephanie’s strength, love, and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.