Joan E. (Phelps) Stebbins, 77 of Peterborough, N.H. died on Friday, October 11, 2013 at Cheshire Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Keene. She passed peacefully and gracefully after a period of decline with her loving family beside her.
She was born the daughter of the late Gladys (Gersch) and Roland A. Phelps on August 9, 1936 in Providence, Rhode Island. She was educated in the Peterborough school system and graduated from Peterborough High School class of 1954.
Joan was a dedicated employee of 21 years at N.H. Ball Bearing Co in Peterborough. She worked as an assembler in the white room. She retired in 1999. Joan also spent time as a beautician.
Joan spent her life bringing joy and laughter to all who knew her. She was a former member of the Federated Church in Marlborough. She was the secretary to Pop Gordon at the Marlborough High School. She also at one point participated as a Den Mother for the Boy Scouts of America. For many years Joan managed to find time with her dearest friends at the Marlborough Community Center. Her sense of adventure took her to Alaska, as well as many other states where she passionately collected precious egg cups from all around the world. Her creative flare was exemplified by the many cakes that she joyfully made for family and friends. She enjoyed crafting, sewing, knitting, as well as stealing a quiet moment to catch up on a good romance novel. Joan rode motorcycles in her younger years and was a member of the Womens Auxiliary of the V.F.W in Peterborough.
Ms. Stebbins leaves behind a loving family, her son Thomas Paquette of Milford, N.H. (formerly of Hancock) A daughter, Peitra Stevens and her husband Charles Stevens of Swanzey, N.H. She was also the loving Nana to Timothy Paquette, Emily Paquette, Ashley Stebbins, Sally Paquette, and the youngest grandchild, Charles (Bug) Stevens Jr. She also leaves behind two great grandchildren, Kaylee Lagassee and Bryan Barrett in Addition to cousins, extended family and friends. She is predeceased by her son, Bryan J Paquette, of Antrim and her brother Robert A. Phelps. Joan will be dearly missed by all.
A celebration of her life will be held at the home of her son, on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2013 from 2 to 6pm. at 14 Ford Street, Milford N.H. 03055. Close family and friends are welcome. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, N.H. 03431. www.cheshirefamilyfuneralhome.com.
