Joyce M. Houle

Hampton – Joyce Mildred Houle, cosmetologist, hotelier and loving mother, entered into eternal rest on Monday, June 17, 2019 at Frisbie Memorial Hospital in Rochester. Joyce was born in Chester, Vermont on June 1, 1926 the daughter of the late Raymond and Adelia (Foster) Farrar. She graduated from Chester High School in 1944 and married her beloved husband Francis William “Frank” Houle on October 18, 1947. Together they made homes for their two sons John and Dennis, first in Worcester, MA, then in Farmington, CT and later in Hampton, New Hampshire after Frank retired. During New England summers Joyce and Frank first owned and operated rental cottages, and later motels on Hampton Beach. From her farm upbringing Joyce had a strong work ethic and believed that everyone should “pull their own weight”. She always put family first and worked tirelessly in the family businesses to ensure their success. Joyce lovingly embraced her role as homemaker by cooking and caring for her husband and sons and creating a warm and comforting retreat from their busy lives. For many years, Joyce and Frank were “snowbirds” for a few weeks to escape the New England winter and to relax in the warm sun. Joyce was a member of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Church, a charter member of the Hampton Walkers Club, logging many thousands of miles on the trails and sidewalks of the seacoast. She enjoyed traveling with her walking friends, including a memorable tour to Ireland and Scotland in 1999. In retirement Joyce liked spending time gardening and doing a variety of craft work, including sewing and knitting. She also took piano lessons and classes in tole painting. Joyce is survived by her brother Stanley Farrar of Springfield, VT, her sons, John “Jack” Houle of Hampton and Dennis Houle of Earlysville, VA, and grandson Dylan Houle of Fountain Valley, CA. Joyce was preceded in death by her husband Francis “Frank” Houle, brothers Arthur Farrar, Donald Farrar and sisters Doris Farrar, Arlene Randall and Geraldine “Jerry” Kenworthy. Private services for the family were held at the High Street Cemetery on June 20, 2019.

Joyce M. Houle

June 1, 1926 - June 17, 2019