Joan Elizabeth Briggs (Marshall)

Joan Elizabeth Briggs (Marshall) passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, in Pleasanton, California. Born on July 19, 1931, in New York, Joan lived a life filled with faith, family, and a deep appreciation for the joys of hospitality and tradition. She was a woman of elegance and grace, whose presence left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Her style was iconic–always polished, always poised.. She was known for her signature look–elegant boiled wool jackets with turtlenecks and always, without exception, her “face” on. She would never leave the house without her makeup perfectly applied and her hair styled to perfection, a reflection of her meticulous nature and her belief in presenting the very best version of herself to the world. Her attention to detail and elegance were a reflection of her character, and she carried herself with a quiet confidence that inspired admiration.

Joan’s devotion to her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. As a dedicated Jehovah’s Witness, she found great joy in serving Jehovah God and cherished the congregations she was part of in both Hollis, New Hampshire, and Pleasanton, California. Her spiritual community was an essential part of her journey, providing her with strength and purpose.

During her high school years at Carmel High (NY), Joan was known for her vibrant spirit and active participation in various activities. She played on the basketball team, cheered from the sidelines as a cheerleader, and engaged in journalism, drama club, chorus, and art club. One of her favorite stories to recount was the exhilarating experience of driving a race car with Yolanda Valpachio–a tale that never failed to bring smiles to those who heard it.

Joan lived in several places throughout her life, each contributing to her unique journey. She began in Brooklyn, NY, where the city’s energy and diversity shaped her early years. She then moved to Quantico, VA, and later to Portsmouth, NH, a charming coastal town that became her home for several years. Eventually, she made her way to Nashua and Hollis, NH, and then Pleasanton CA.

Joan had an undeniable talent for cooking and was truly a gourmet cook. She even heated the dinner plates so the food would not get cold. Her skills in the kitchen were matched only by her gift for hospitality; she was often lovingly referred to as “Martha Stewart” by those who knew her best. She took immense pleasure in preparing exquisite meals and hosting elegant gatherings. One of her most cherished traditions was taking her daughter and granddaughter to High Tea. She also delighted in hosting tea parties for Courtney’s friends, ensuring that every detail–from the finest china to homemade pastries, tortes, madeleines, and finger sandwiches–was nothing short of perfection.

Joan’s love for the outdoors was equally profound. She was an avid golfer and loved working at the Buckmeadow Golf Course. In the summer months, she could often be found at Ogunquit Beach, followed by a visit to Barnacle Billy’s in Perkins Cove, where she would enjoy steamed clams and a hot fudge sundae for dessert–a ritual she cherished deeply. Joan had a passion for gardening and enjoyed feeding the birds. Her decks were always filled with vibrant potted flowers that attracted hummingbirds. She was also skilled at growing delicious vegetables, which she used in her gourmet cooking. Her love of nature continued in her gardening, where she found peace and solace tending to her plants. The simple sign on her front door that read, “I am in the garden,” captured her sense of belonging and tranquility in nature’s beauty.

In the winter, Joan’s love of skiing brought her joy, and she shared this passion by teaching many of John and Elizabeth’s friends how to ski at King Ridge in New London, New Hampshire. Those who learned from her will always remember her guidance and warmth on the slopes.

She lived with her daughter, Elizabeth, in Nashua, NH, and later in Hollis, NH, from 1992 to 2022. For much of that time, three generations of strong women–Joan, Elizabeth, and Courtney–shared a home, facing life’s challenges, joys, and triumphs side by side. Through thick and thin, they not only survived but thrived together, creating a bond that will forever be cherished. In 2022, she moved in with her son, John, and daughter-in-law, Georgia, where she continued to be a steady and loving presence until 2025.

She was an incredibly strong woman, one whose resilience left a lasting impression on all who knew her. It often felt as though she had at least nine lives, as she repeatedly overcame the most unimaginable challenges. In her 80s alone, she survived a broken back, neck, pelvis, leg, and wrist, proving time and again that her strength and determination knew no bounds.

Joan is survived by her loving family: her son John W. Briggs and his wife Georgia Briggs; her daughter Elizabeth C. Furbush; her granddaughter Courtney E. Caudle and her husband Danny Caudle, grandson Jeffrey Furbush and his wife Hanna Furbush, grandson Alexander Furbush; her sister Barbara Ives and brother-in-law Tim Ives; as well as her niece Holly Estey and nephew Michael Estey. Their lives have been deeply enriched by Joan’s love, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to family traditions.

Joan’s legacy is one of warmth, faith, and an appreciation for life’s finer details–whether through sharing a meal with loved ones, tending to the flowers in her garden, or enjoying the beauty of the ocean or snow-covered slopes. May those who knew Joan find comfort in their memories of her grace, generosity, and the joy she brought to every moment.

A Memorial of her life will be held on April 20, 2025 at 3:30pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 282 Broad St, Hollis NH 03049.