Joanne “Joan” S. Tuttle, 91, lifelong resident of Wilton, NH, passed away peacefully at home on Friday June 7, 2024. She was born April 4, 1933, in Wilton, NH to parents Fred and Stella (Fournier) Tuttle.
Joan graduated from WLC in the class of 1951. There after she attended Wheaton College and successfully completed an academic degree in Music and Fine Arts in 1955. Joan took great pride in being a “true Yankee”, tracing her lineage back to passengers on the Mayflower. Her family has deep roots in the Monadnock Region. Her parents always held her to high expectations and as they aged, she became their caregivers. Joan loved flowers and gardens and had a place in her heart for all animals. She had many pets through the years and loved them all dearly. She was a ‘pied piper’ to all the animals in Wilton, taking care of many stray cats, bunnies and other animals that needed her.
Joan’s strong, larger than life personality was contrary to her diminutive stature. She was adamant about having things the way they were supposed to be; but she was a risk taker. She spoke her mind freely on many issues of the day, with wit and humor. She enjoyed scratch tickets and scrabble and was an expert at Bananagrams. On a culinary note, according to Joan, chocolate could be eaten anytime of the day. Her afternoon delight was chocolate ice cream in an elegant wine glass. She claimed it was the cure for all ills. She had not seen a doctor in over 20 years and was proud to live life on her terms.
Most days of every season, winter, spring, summer and fall, dressed in shorts, with a walking stick and a dog or two, Joan could be seen hiking up Carnival Hill and down Gregg Street on her way to the library. Even though she always stayed local she had friends everywhere, Joan dearly loved her six great ‘grandchildren’. She was always willing to go on flights of imaginary adventures with each child. She encouraged her friends and family and was kind and gentle to those who were in her community. Joan will be deeply missed by the many people of Wilton and beyond whose path’s crossed with her long and colorful journey. Most of all, Joan will be remembered for how she touched all her friends and family.
Joan is survived by her family members and close friends.
She is predeceased by her sister June Donahue.
Family and friends are warmly welcomed to attend a graveside service at Laurel Hill Cemetery on Abbott Hill Rd in Wilton, NH on Friday June 14, 2024, at 11am.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in Joan’s memory to the animal shelter of your choice.
