Joan Norma Desautell Baillargeon, 85, of Cornish, NH, formerly of Woonsocket, RI, passed away unexpectedly on November 17, 2025.

Born on August 13, 1940, in Woonsocket, Joan graduated from St. Claire High School and earned her nursing degree from St. Joseph's Nursing School. In 1967, she moved to New Hampshire, where she purchased the farmhouse of her dreams and lovingly raised her four children. She spent countless years making it a home that welcomed everyone and actively lived there until her passing.

Joan was a devoted and generous mother, attending every one of her children's sporting events and cheering with enthusiasm from the sidelines. Her spirited support continued as her grandchildren began to compete, and she remained their biggest fan.

Professionally, Joan dedicated her life to caring for others. She served as a nurse, Director of Nursing, and Home Healthcare Director at Valley Regional Hospital, where she spent her entire career and her leadership and compassion made a lasting impact.

Joan found joy in gardening, scrapbooking, spending time with her children and grandchildren, and working on her beloved farm. She was also undefeated at Skip-Bo, a testament to her playful spirit and love of family gatherings.

A cherished member of the Kiwanis Club of Claremont, Joan gave 24 years of service, energy, and heart to every fundraising effort. She led the Annual Kiwanis Auction for 15 years and played an essential role in the Kiwanis Cares program. Helping others wasn't just something Joan did — it was who she was. Her kindness and dedication will be deeply missed.

Joan also served on the Cornish School Board for many years, continuing her involvement well beyond her children's time in school. Her commitment to education and community was unwavering.

She loved everyone, was loved by so many and will be severely missed by all who knew her.  We love you, Mom!

Joan is survived by her brothers, Eugene Desautell and Robert Desautell; her children, Jeffrey (Michelle) Baillargeon, Kimberly Hurst (Mark), Gerald "L.J." Baillargeon (Paula) and Lisa Williams (Alan); 12 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her father, Eugene Desautell; her mother, Beatrice Gaouette Desautell; and her sister, Gail Robbins — all of Woonsocket, RI.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4:00–6:00 PM at Stringer Funeral Home, 146 Broad Street, Claremont, NH.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, where Joan was a member for many years, 58 Elm Street, Claremont, NH.

In lieu of flowers please send donations for the Kiwanis Auction to Kiwanis Club of Claremont, PO Box 615, Claremont, NH 03743 or use the following link https://app.autobooks.co/pay/claremont-kiwanis-charities