Obituary of Joan L. Nellis

The family of Joan L. Nellis, 81, of Fultonville, NY is sad to announce her passing on April 15, 2020 at St. Mary’s Hospital. She was born July 19, 1938 in Little Falls, NY and is the daughter of the late Charles W. and Monica (Wick) Loyche. She is survived by her loving son Ronnie K. Nellis of Fultonville, NY; and her loving daughter Lorilyn Kissinger of Gloversville. She is survived by her brother Ronald (MaryJane) Loyche of Lasselesville, NY; and a sister Sandra Johnson of Fort Plain. Also by her beloved grandchildren Jamie L. Nellis of Rotterdam, NY; and Kathryn J.M. Nellis of Herkimer, NY. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, Joan was predeceased by her husband Everett R. “Mooney” Nellis, and by her nephew Adam W. Loyche. During her lifetime Joan was a 1956 graduate of Fort Plain High School. During her schooling she played basketball, and was also a member of the Girl Scouts where she later on earned the rank of Leader. She then went on to college at Geneseo State. While in attendance she participated in college basketball, and was a sports reporter for a school publication called “The Lamron”. In both college and high school Joan participated in marching and concert band, playing the clarinet. She was also a lifelong member of Delta Kappa Gamma which is a women’s honor society. After graduating Joan started teaching as a Special Education Teacher for Fonda-Fultonville School District, then transferring to Fort Plain and Gloversville School Districts. Joan was a Union President at Hamilton, Fulton, Montgomery County BOCES. She was also a political leader, as she led the Teachers Union on the negotiation teams. She retired from Johnstown School District. Joan was also a member of the Liberty Enterprise ARC, helping adults with different disabilities. She enjoyed traveling during her retirement years and loved to camp in her “Roo”, which was her travel trailer, to many New York State campsites. Joan enjoyed campfires with friends, Flat Track Racing with her children Ronnie and Lori, and enjoyed raising Dobermann puppies. She was well respected by her colleagues, former students, and Liberty clients. Due to the current COVID health crisis, and keeping with state and federal regulations, Interment services will be held privately. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Jackson & Betz Family Funeral Home, 15 Main Street, Fultonville, NY 12072. Contributions in Joan’s name can be made to the Montgomery County SPCA, P.O. Box 484, Amsterdam, NY 12010. Online condolences may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com.