Dear Bob and Family,

We are very sorry to hear of your loss. Unfortunately we will not be in town this week as we will be babysitting our grandchildren in New Jersey. Please accept our condolences.

Joan was a valued colleague and a treasured member of the Hilton High School Science Department for many, many years. She was also a friend with whom I shared an office as well as many conversations. She was proud of her family and offered many insights on what I could expect as my own children were born and grew up. I still remember a favorite phrase of hers, whenever we discussed our children. As our family gradually increased over time, and Joan's children were much older, they served as subject matter on what I could expect , especially when the teen years approached. Besides the phrase under her picture, the other one I will never forget (and still use) was "Don't worry, things will get worse." She always said it with a twinkle in her eye and a smile. I have used or thought about those two phrases many times over the years and each time her name pops up from my memory bank. May you take comfort in the many memories you all have shared over the years. Her sense of humor was infectious.

Rest in peace, Joan.

love, Dick and Carol Rizzo

Joan was always wise, witty, and wonderful! I so enjoyed working with her at Northwood and we shared many laughs and stories over the years. I loved her to pieces! My sympathy to all her family and a special hug for Aubrey.

Julie Bushnell

Oh Mumsy, what can I say? You are one hell of a woman. Family get togethers were filled with love, laughter, and music. I will forever and ever cherish our last chat. How honored to have known you. You will always be in my heart. May you be playing the piano and be greeted by all our loved ones. I'm sure you'll all have a great party. Put out your hand for a kiss on the hand. Love you Mumsy thank you for all you gave. You were one of the great ones.

May you find comfort in all the beautiful memories you share with your Mom. Thinking of you all and sending deepest sympathies.

Ah Mrs. P, I remember when we met subbing at Northwood. Our motto was threefold: 1. Don't lose anybody; 2. Don't make anybody cry; 3: we never could remember what that third one was, could we!. Will miss you.

Joan, you were dearly loved by all who knew you. You loved to joke, laugh and you made everyday life...interesting.

I will miss you tons and hold your memory dear. I will do my best to keep from hearing your voice say, "Well, bless her heart" ;)

I love you my friend.

xo

May many blessings accompany her on her continued journey and heartfelt memories help to sustain all of you left behind.

What a gift it was for me to watch and hear her play "Sentimental Journey". She will now be a part of my beautiful memory of my dad and that song for the rest of my life.

I know from experience that no words of solace can really touch that depth of grief you all must be feeling, but please know I saw her as one hell of a woman to be admired and respected and my heart feels for all of you.

Joan volunteered for 6 years in my kindergarten classroom. She cut and stapled projects but her most important gift was listening to children read and tell their stories. She shared her own humorous stories of woodchucks and rabbits. She was so loved by the children that I was afraid they would push her down when they ran to hug her as she came and when she left. We will miss you, Joan.