Joan Denis

Joan Denis, born in Tupper Lake on February 9, 1934, the daughter of Eugene and Viola (Boushie) Brunette, passed away October 3, 2026, with her loving family by her side. She was 92. She lived a life rich in love, family, friendship, and the joys that make a life truly meaningful.
Joan will be deeply missed and forever loved by those who survive her: her partner, Bob Lily; her children, Larry and (Jackie) Denis, Terry Marks and fiance David Fishel, Penny and Tom (Maroun), Chris and (Jeanne) Denis, Amy and Rob (Donle), and Nicolle and Armand (Mitchell); her grandchildren, Jason Denis, Jeremey Marks, Nathan Marks, Evan Maroun, Lindsey Hayes, Sam Denis, Lucas Denis, Kristen Priven, Kelsey Root, Alexandra Root, Emily Mitchell, and Grace Mitchell, as well as twelve great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and her many lifelong friends in Tupper Lake. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 39 years, Joseph Denis; her sister, Betty; and her brothers, Don and Ken, son-in-law Gary Marks.
To know Joan was to feel cared for. She had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome, valued, and at home. Whether she had known you for decades or had just met you, Joan made you feel as though you mattered.
Family was at the heart of Joan's life. Her children were her greatest joy and a constant source of pride. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, taking delight in their lives, accomplishments, stories, and, most of all, having them close. Through volunteer work at the school library and Meals on Wheels, she taught them the importance of supporting others. And when presented with an issue, she found a way to turn everyone’s day around. The love she gave her family will continue through every generation that follows.
Joan loved to laugh. She loved to cook and often expressed her affection through a meal prepared for the people gathered around her table, including lifelong friends in her gourmet club. She loved conversation—the stories, opinions, reminiscences, and everyday moments shared with people she cared about. She loved ice cream, and was famous for “helping” her loved ones finish a cone.
Joan, the classiest person we all knew, leaves behind far more than memories. She taught us all to love our friends and families fiercely.
Relatives and friends may call at Frary Funeral Home 24 Cliff Ave Tupper Lake, NY 12986, Thursday, October 8th from 4-6 pm. A graveside will be held at Saint Alphonsus Cemetery 4 Waters Dr Tupper Lake, NY 12986 on Friday October 9th at 11:00AM. Friends and family are welcome to continue to share more fellowship at the Tupper Lake Country Club immediately following the graveside service.
Memorial contributions in Joan’s honor may be made to the Tupper Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad. 169 Main St, Tupper Lake, NY 12986