Joan Alma Reynolds, 86, of Bradford, NH, died Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Concord Hospital, Concord, NH. She was born on April 27, 1939, in Lowell, MA a daughter of Francis and Helen (Titcomb) Higgins. Joan was predeceased by her loving husband, Arthur “Art” Reynolds, after 62 years of marriage.
Joan’s life began as a farmer’s daughter and she kept those skills throughout her life. The results were independence, a strong work ethic, a spotless barn, and well cared for animals, especially the chickens and horses. Her daughter, Sue often viewed a picture of her first ride at about one year old, sitting in front of Joan on her horse Penrock. Joan learned to drive on her dad’s tractor and from then on (into her 80’s), managed the “hay operation” during hay season, despite her son Jeff’s protest.
Besides farming, Joan was employed by the Derry police department as a Records Secretary (January 1986 – December 2002) and a member of the East Derry Fire Department Auxiliary, where she developed lifelong friendships. She and Art moved to Bradford, NH, where they were quickly assimilated into the community. She and Art enjoyed many years of retirement, doting on their grandson, maintaining their property, feeding the birds, and watching the wildlife wander through the yard. They even ventured out of Bradford on some amazing adventures!
Joan participated with her friends in quilting, reading, painting, and yoga and cherished spending time with family. She was loved by many and will be eternally grateful for her many Bradford friends. Joan was kind, patient, non-judgmental and had an instinct for caring for others, especially her family. The Reynolds kitchen was invariably open to company, with baked beans, cookies, and an unfinished puzzle on the kitchen table.
She is survived by her daughter, Susan Brown; son, Jeffrey Reynolds; grandson, Harrison Sneck, her brothers Don and William “Bill” Higgins; as well as several extended family members and friends.
Following cremation, a celebration of life will be held by the family in early April. Details will be added to the Peabody Funeral Homes site, as it becomes available. The Peabody Funeral Homes & Crematorium of Derry is assisting the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the NH SPCA, nhspca.org.