Joan E. Hall

Born on Feb. 9, 1937, she grew up at Rivermede Farm in Keene. It was there that she met the love of her life, Dick, who lived just down the road. Their journey began as high school sweethearts at Keene Central School, and they would go on to build a life filled with remarkable experiences and contributions to their community.

After graduating from Albany Business College, Joan and Dick purchased the Valley Grocery Store in 1969. Joan played a crucial role as the bookkeeper for the grocery store and helped to operate the business. She would also serve as the tax collector for the town of Keene. Her dedication to her community extended into the Ladies Auxiliary, where she provided secondary support to the Keene Valley Fire Department.

Joan and Dick shared a passion for travel, exploring the world together. Their adventures included a hot air balloon ride over the Nile River in Egypt, hiking the Great Wall of China, attending the Tulip Festival in Holland, exploring Venice by gondola, visiting the Panama Canal and marveling at the castles of Ireland. Joan was never afraid to embrace new experiences. Her zest for life was infectious.

Despite their global adventures, Joan’s most cherished place was their camp, where she and Dick would light a fire and bask in the peace of nature. She had a deep affection for her golden retriever that was always at her side. She also reveled in the joy of Halloween, delighting in being the house that handed out “real” candy bars. She loved to see the children of the community stop by and say hello.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, Halsey and Jessie Estes; brother Arthur Estes; husband Richard L. Hall; son Richard A. Hall; and their beloved golden retrievers, Zachary Taylor, Levi Morten and Riley.

She is survived by two of her children, Ronald C. Hall (Lori) and Carol Reed (Bruce); daughter-in-law Janet Hall; grandchildren Daniel Hall, Jessica Hall, Robert Hall, Ryan Hall, Sunny Beach and Summer Reed; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins who continue to cherish the memories she created.

Joan E. Hall will be remembered for her warm heart, adventurous spirit, and unwavering commitment to family and community. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love and memories she created throughout her remarkable life.

Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3 with a memorial service to follow at 2 p.m. at Heidrick Funeral Home, 7521 Court St., Elizabethtown. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Joan’s name to the SPCA at 7700 State Highway 9N, Elizabethtown, NY 12932.

Services were entrusted to Heidrick Funeral Home in Elizabethtown.