PLYMOUTH --- Joanne Marie Ross, 92, of Plymouth NH, died Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Forest View Manor, Meridith, NH.

Born on March 5, 1933, the day before FDR closed the banks, to Lempi (Aho) and John Paananen. Her father died before Joanne was born and she was raised by her mother through the Depression and World War II.

Joanne grew up in Maynard, MA, graduating from Maynard High School and Pierce Secretarial School. She and Stuart raised their family in Hudson, MA and were founding members of the Assabet Valley Regional Vocational High School Booster club. In 1977, she continued her secretarial career at Digital Equipment Corporation, until retirement.

Joanne and Stuart settled in Dorchester, NH. Spending many years driving throughout New England with NK Seeds. As well as visiting family and friends along the east coast in their motor home. Due to a house fire in 2018, she moved to the Whip O Will community in Plymouth, where she enjoyed the view of the White Mountains from her porch.

Joanne enjoyed the community of Rumney Baptist Church and frequently seen during Old Home Days, greeting people. Always ready to provide her opinion on how business, church and government should function, well known for "sisu" from her Finnish heritage, she will be missed by friends and family.

Joanne was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Stuart Chandler Ross. She leaves behind sons, Steven W. Ross of Paoli, PA, Doug C. Ross of Blythewood, SC, William S. Ross of Maynard, MA, along with 8 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

No calling hours will be held. A Graveside service will be held in the spring at the NH Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen, followed by a Celebration of Life Service at Rumney Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations to Rumney Baptist Church or the NH Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen.