Joan Christine Macinnis Boutelle

Joan C. Boutelle (née MacInnis)

Joan C. Boutelle (MacInnis) died in Fishersville, Virginia, on January 10, 2024, at age 85, following a long illness. She was born on March 26,1938, in Stoneham, Massachusetts, to Grace Blanche (Miller) and Norman P. MacInnis.

As the youngest of three children, Joan brought joy to everyone she met. In her youth, she excelled in various activities, playing basketball, marching in the band, and delighting in school plays. Joan, an avid reader and outdoor enthusiast, found joy and solace in walking and bike riding. Throughout her career, she served as a secretary and office manager in diverse professional settings, including elementary and high schools, an architect's firm, a chiropractor's practice, an ophthalmologist's office, a state Department of Education, and a general practitioner's office.

Joan's love story began when she met Richard J. Boutelle while working at a bank in Athol, Massachusetts, at the age of 17. They married on March 26, 1956, celebrating 57 years of marriage until Richard's passing in February 2013. Together, they raised three children: Sheryl Ann (Richard) Winget, T. Andrew (Ann) Boutelle, and Karen Streeter. Joan was also a loving grandmother to Joshua Siewert, Jacob, and Amy Winget.
She quickly made friends as she moved to new places with her husband Richard (nine states in all), including upstate New York, Asheville, North Carolina, and Waynesboro, Virginia. She cherished the pastoral, mountainous areas they lived in. Sharing her husband's passion for four-part harmony, Joan sang in the Sweet Adelines chorus in Stevens Point, Wisconsin.

Known for her infectious smile, positive spirit, and kindness, Joan lived by the golden rule. She loved all creatures, great and small, and had a special affection for cats. Her warm and welcoming home was a haven for friends of all ages. Her family fondly remembers her for her courage, strength, stubbornness, and zest for life. Joan provided unwavering support to her children, encouraging them to nurture their unique gifts and
talents.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her brother, Paul M. MacInnis. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and her sister, Diann (Eric) Edmunds. The memory of her smile and compassionate heart lives on through all those who knew and loved her.
There will not be a local service. Instead, the family plans to organize a trip to take Joan and Dick back to their hometown, where they first met, to rest alongside other family and friends. A memorial service will be held there.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests considering a donation to an organization dedicated to fighting
Alzheimer’s, a cause close to Joan's heart.