Joan Grace White

Exeter - Dr. Joan Grace White, of Exeter, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, November 2, 2025. She was 94 years old. Born in Florida, Joan’s life was marked by a profound commitment to learning and caring for others. She earned her BA and MSW at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. After college, she moved to Chicago, where she met Eugene Troobnick, and together they had three children. They later moved to Brooklyn, NY, where Joan began her impactful career working with underprivileged youth. Joan's pursuit of knowledge led her to Boston, MA, where she earned her doctorate at the Boston Graduate School of Psychoanalysis. For nearly 40 years, she was a dedicated and beloved professor, renowned for her gift of caring and her profound impact on both her students and her analysands. Her professional life was a testament to her dedication to the field of psychoanalysis and mental health. Beyond her professional achievements, Joan cherished time with her family. She was never happier than when surrounded by her children and grandchildren, whether in the warmth of Puerto Rico or the comfort of New Hampshire. Food was her love language, and she was famous for creating epic feasts that brought everyone together. An avid swimmer and lover of the outdoors, Joan was happiest near the water and enjoyed sailing. She instilled in her children a passion for lifelong learning, a love of gardening, the joy of canine companionship, the importance of caring for others, and a strong spiritual foundation. Joan is survived by her loving daughters, Jennifer Troobnick of Vancouver, WA, and Robin Troobnick of Fredericksburg, VA. She is also survived by her partner, Chuck Hodson of Exeter. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Jacob, Kailee, Tovi, and Talia, as well as her great-grandson, Wyatt. She was predeceased by her parents, her son Mark Troobnick, and her daughter Aviva Abeshaus. In keeping with her wishes, services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Joan’s memory be made to the ACLU, an organization that reflects her lifelong commitment to justice and equality.

Joan Grace White

May 7, 1931 - November 2, 2025