GILFORD ---- Jean Ellen Poitras, 74, of Autumn Lane, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Concord Hospital in Laconia, surrounded by her loving family.
Jean was born on December 10, 1950, in Patuxent River, Maryland, to Edward and Phyllis (Fogg) Hoey.
After moving frequently in early childhood, her family eventually settled in Belmont, New Hampshire, where Jean grew up. Following high school, she devoted herself to raising a family in Gilmanton and later in Gilford.
Jean had a boundless capacity for love—especially for her family—and a playful sense of mischief that brought laughter to many. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: reading, caring for her houseplants and gardens, and most of all, spending time with loved ones. She especially cherished summer trips to Wallis Sands Beach in Rye, and pilgrimages to Québec City and the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré. A passionate sports fan, she was a lifelong supporter of the Celtics, Patriots, and Red Sox. After raising her sons, Jean embraced new hobbies, including skiing, yoga, and swimming.
Jean is survived by her beloved husband, Ron Poitras; her sons, Mark Chmielecki and his wife Stephanie, David Chmielecki and his fiancé Lenny, and Steven Chmielecki and his wife Stephanie; and her five grandchildren, Ethan, Aaron, Graham, Steven, and Waylon. She is also survived by her sister, Judy Kimball. In addition to her parents, Jean was predeceased by her brother, John Hoey, and her cousin and lifelong best friend, Jane Kidder.
In keeping with Jean’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A private Catholic Mass will be celebrated, followed by a Celebration of Life. Interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Jean’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, 320 Nevada Street, Suite 201, Newton, MA 02460.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Crosby and nurse Tracy at Concord Hospital, and Karen Anders at Forestview Manor in Meredith, for their compassionate care during Jean’s final days. Special thanks also go to our cousins Amy, Beth, and Jill for their love and support.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, NH, 03246, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.