Janet B. Percoski

Janet B. Percoski, of Meredith, NH, passed away suddenly but peacefully in Bedford, NH, on February 18, 2025, at the age of 79, after a short period of declining health.

Born in Bridgeport, CT, to the late Raymond F. and Doris (Lindmark) Beardslee, Jan grew up in Somers, CT, where she met the love of her life and high school sweetheart, Richard (Dick) Percoski. Their love story spanned an incredible 64 years–58 of them as husband and wife.

Jan and Dick married in June 1966 and took their first tour as newlyweds, moving from Connecticut to California to Georgia before finally back in Somers, CT, where they welcomed their first daughter, Amy Marie. Their next stops included Lowell, MA, and Nashua, NH, where they added Lori Anne to the family and set down roots. Jan balanced raising her girls with a career at Title 1 Kindergarten before being the executive secretary at Fairgrounds Elementary School for over 25 years–where she kept things running smoothly and probably knew more school secrets than any principal ever did. She was the glue, keeping things held together while Rich pursued his career in aerospace and defense requiring much travel away from home.

In 1992, Jan found a waterview retreat in Meredith NH. The dream addition was added, providing space for family to gather, and upon retirement in 2008, they moved to their beloved “lake house”. They spent time soaking up the beauty of Lake Winni, entertaining family and friends for weekend and holiday memories too numerous to count, and relishing life’s simple joys–like sitting on the deck together, chatting about how blessed they were (and solving the world’s problems). She was an active member of her PSA community hosting wine tastings, holiday gatherings and participating in the planning and execution of other association events.

To her five cherished grandchildren, Jan was the legendary “Nani.” She never missed a graduation (including four college degrees), any award ceremonies, prom photos, birthdays, school vacations, dance recitals, or what felt like an infinite number of sporting events. Her support was constant, her candy stash was endless, and her hugs were legendary. Receiving a grandchild facetime would light up her day. No visit ended without a heartfelt, “Thank you for sharing time with me,” and her signature reminder of just how proud she was.

Jan had a way of making everyone feel special. She was a friend to many, a source of warmth and wisdom, a good listener and an expert at making people laugh with her quick wit. She took family game nights seriously–especially Hearts, where she played to win (and wasn’t above a little friendly trash talk). Monday night Bridge with “the girls” was sacred, and she loved a good dinner out, a local theater show, classic TV reruns, a visit to the beach or a ride on the boat.

Jan’s lifelong partner in crime was her only sister, Carolyn “Lyn” Tillinghast, who predeceased her. They were more than just sisters–they were best friends, confidantes, and partners in endless mischief. Any time spent with Lyn, George, Scott, David, and Steven was time well spent.

Jan leaves behind her devoted husband of 58 years, Richard; her two daughters, Amy (Stuart) Reynolds and Lori (Dean) Cibotti; and her five adoring grandkids: Tyler Cibotti (27), Thomas Reynolds (27), Ella Cibotti (25), Graham Reynolds (24), and Evan Cibotti (20). She also leaves her brother-in-law George Tillinghast, sister-in-law Theresa O’Connor, her beloved cousin Webster “Web” Miller III and his life partner MaryJo, and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and even great-great ones who all loved her dearly.

While she may no longer be physically present, her spirit will live on in every game of cards, every perfectly timed hug, and every “sweet treat” shared in her honor. Jan lived life with love, laughter, and an unwavering devotion to family–and there’s no doubt she’s now organizing game nights in heaven, making sure everyone plays fair and has a little fun along the way.

A celebration of Jan’s wonderful life is being planned for a later date–most likely with good food, great stories, and a deck chair left open in her honor.

Infinite love to the moon and back – Rich, Amy, Lori, Stuart, Dean, Tyler, Thomas, Ella, Graham and Evan.