Jeannette Anne Watts

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jeannette Anne Watts, known affectionately as Jan, on April 23, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on Christmas Eve in 1935 in Bangor, Maine, she was a cherished daughter to Lucille Fisher (nee Jenkins). Jan was a woman of remarkable intelligence and boundless compassion, whose life was a testament to the power of education and love. She graduated from Bangor High School in Maine, pursued a Bachelor's degree from Barrington Baptist College in Barrington, RI, and later earned a Master's degree in Library Science. Her career as a librarian and educator spanned elementary schools, middle schools, colleges, and large public libraries, where she touched countless lives with her dedication to learning and sharing knowledge. Her first marriage was to Gary Hansee on September 2, 1960, with whom she had two beloved children, Julie Colton and James (Deanna) Hansee. Jan found love anew with Donald Watts, whom she married on September 30, 1989. Together, they shared 32 wonderful years until Don's passing in early 2022. Jan was predeceased by her loving husband, Donald Watts, her sister Ruth Jacobsen, and her mother, Lucille Fisher. She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her daughter Julie Colton, her son James and daughter-in-law Deanna Hansee, her granddaughters Hope Hansee, Lydia (Joe) George, and Tajai Hansee, and her great-grandson Lucas George. She is also survived by a niece, a nephew, their families, many cousins, and a host of dear friends. Her life was enriched by her active participation in her faith communities, including Londonderry Christian Church in Londonderry, NH, and Hope Christian Church in Winchester, MA. Jan was deeply committed to her church family, where she found strength, purpose, and joy. An avid crafter, Jan's creative spirit was evident in her participation in craft fairs and the beautiful handmade gifts she gave to those she loved. She had a passion for reading, whether it was a cherished book or the daily Boston Globe. Her love for word puzzles kept her mind sharp, and her generosity in buying gifts for family and friends was a testament to her giving nature. Jan's beautiful handwriting and craft skills were a blessing to many, and her capacity for meaningful conversation was a gift to all who knew her. Her intelligence and warmth left an indelible mark on everyone she encountered. A service to honor and celebrate Jan's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on May 1, 2026, at Londonderry Christian Church, located at 372 Mammoth Rd., Londonderry, NH 03053. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all those who cared for Jan at the Prospect House in Revere, MA, and through the PACE program. In memory of Jeannette Anne Watts, let us remember her life as one filled with love, learning, and joy—a life that continues to inspire and touch the hearts of all who knew her.