A Life Well-Lived, Well-Loved and Well-Dressed: Joan’s Story

At nearly 98, Joan still gets dressed with intention from head to toe in a perfectly tailored ensemble, hair set and ready for whatever the day may bring. While she has committed her life to health, wellness and regular exercise, it’s highly unlikely Joan would ever work out without the perfect accessories.

She grew up on a dirt road in Staatsburg, New York near the Hudson River with her parents and two siblings. Her home happened to be quite close to the Roosevelt estate in Hyde Park. “When the President would drive up the road, he’d honk the horn and she and her siblings would go out and talk to him,” Scott, Joan’s son recalls fondly. Fearless Joan would also knock on his door to sell him Girl Scout cookies. How many boxes he bought remains a mystery.

Later, Joan attended Michigan State University, graduating in 1951 with a degree in Home Economics. There she met Robert, the love of her life. The two were married for 62 years until he passed in 2013.

Both she and Robert were high school teachers. She put her career on hold when she had her twins to focus on family and civic organizations including Meals on Wheels, the College Club and community outreach and service at Riverside and later Union Presbyterian Church in Schenectady, New York.

“Mom has always helped others,” said her son Scott. “That’s been her whole life. It’s just who she is – a natural caregiver.”

Joan is one of the original residents at Bowman Place. She has watched the community grow from quiet beginnings into a vibrant, connected home. Music and dancing were once a regular joy she shared with Robert and remain one of her favorite pastimes.

“We’ve been very happy here,” said Scott. “One of the biggest advantages has been the continuity of care – being able to transition from assisted living to memory care seamlessly has made a big difference.”

Judy, Scott’s wife, laughed. “I was in the grocery store parking lot and saw a man dressed up for St. Patrick’s Day. We started chatting and I realized he worked at Bowman Place. His name is Chris and he must have a closet full of outfits for every holiday party. That’s the thing about the staff. They know the residents personally and really engage with everyone. You can tell it’s not just a job for them – they really care.”

Is there a secret to living for nearly a century? It might be dressing with pride, treating others with kindness, and loving your family fiercely. There’s no single answer, but it’s a strong place to start.