Joan Ruth Little Obituary (1939

On January 23, 2019, Joan Ruth Foster Little went home to join her husband, Joel Byron Little, Sr. Joan, a native of Maine and Oak Harbor transplant since 1973, was a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Her grandchildren remember her as an avid reader. "Gran" always had a book recommendation and a treasured stack of books on standby. Snuggled up in the pajama pants and flannel shirts she gifted each Christmas, reading with Gran was second only to gardening with her. Her carrots were famously the sweetest, biggest treats, the perfect trophy after a basketball game or beach walk. She was known for more than her gardening skills, she was a fierce competitor and an infamous basketball opponent - at 50, she could out shoot 20-year olds on the court. Above all else, Gran taught her children and grandchildren to be independent. Ever the boss at home and at work, she was an example of strength. Her thoughtfulness and work ethic live on in her family. Her family hopes to emulate her strength and her willingness to serve others. She is survived by her brothers, Jack (Audrey), Patrick (Margaret), and Mike (Julie) Foster, and her sister, Priscilla Brobst. Her children - Joel Jr. (Martha), Lynne (John), Mary (Billy), and Joanne, and her ten grandchildren and five great-grandkids will remember her every time they curl up with a good book, picking blackberries for pies or while walking along the shore collecting treasures. Granny you are missed and loved by us all.