Elsa P Turmelle

FRANKLIN, TN --- Elsa Jane Putman Turmelle was born on July 11, 1925, to Everett Michael Putman and Ruth Brown Putman in Gloversville, New York. The youngest of three, Elsa was preceded in death by her husband, Wilfred in 2004, her sister, Evelyn Putman Smith of Oak Ridge, TN and her brother, Richard Putman of Jacksonville, Fla. Elsa attained her BS at Cortland State Teachers College. After getting her Master’s degree, Elsa went to teach girl’s physical education (1954-66) and then served as an academic advisor and guidance counselor in Beirut, Lebanon at the American Community School. She met Wilfred Turmelle, also a teacher there, and they were married in 1955. Wilfred was from Plymouth, NH. They were known to the students as Mr. and Mrs. T. and both were influential over many lives. The couple lived in Beirut from 1954-1985 when political upheaval brought them back to Plymouth, NH. Elsa volunteered at the Squam Lake Natural Science Center and at the Pease Public library. She was active in the historical society. She lived in Plymouth until spring of 2025 when she relocated to Franklin, TN with her niece. Elsa was a legend to her family and many more. She was an avid historian and loved exploring new cultures and looking at the world from many perspectives. She was an educator who inspired many to grow, search and learn. She adored the outdoors and the mountains. She had hiked all 46 High Peaks in the Adirondacks and many in the White mountains. She had a great sense of humor and a ready smile. She is survived by many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews who adored her. She died peacefully in her sleep on June 12, 2025, just short of 100 years of enjoying life and ice cream…. A graveside service will take place at 11:00 AM on October 9, 2025, at the Riverside Cemetery in Plymouth, with a reception to follow at The Common Man in Ashland, NH. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pease Public Library of Plymouth, NH, the Humane Society or charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the care of Mayhew Funeral Homes and Crematorium. To sign the online book of memories, please go to mayhewfuneralhomes.com.

Tributes

Elsa P Turmelle

July 11, 1925 - June 12, 2025