Joan Tamminen Poland

WEST PARIS – Joan Tamminen Poland went to sleep with Christ peacefully at her home she shared with her daughter and son-in-law on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. Joan was the only child of Eino and Katri Linti Tamminen.

Joan attended local schools, and went on to earn her certificate for Personal Care Assistant. On March 10, 1950, Joan married Phelps Poland. They shared 63 wonderful years together until his death in 2014. She was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Woodstock, she also served as Deaconess, and took part in several Bible studies. Caregiving was her gift. She nursed her father, mother, son and husband during their illnesses and deaths. She did Home Care and Res Care for several years, she found the work rewarding. Joan worked in retail and performed housekeeping at Ledgeview Nursing Home. She also worked in childcare taking care of at least 40 different children in the area. Joan retired three times, finally at 70, she retired for the last time.

Joan was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt. Her life was dedicated to her family. She was a caregiver at heart, supporting her sisters-in-law, cousins, and uncles when needed. She was often the planner and organizer of family gatherings. Joan very much enjoyed the happy times camping as a family. She cherished the time she and Phelps were able to travel after retirement, her favorite part was the cross-country road trip after their 50th anniversary. 

She attended all her children’s events as they grew up, and attended as many events as possible for her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. This summer, she had the joy of seeing her son, Todd be baptized and find inner peace. She was blessed to visit all of her children, her six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren traveling from Alabama, Colorado, Alaska and Maine. Her family was her heart. Special thanks to Kellie and Ruth for being with her during her last week.

Joan is survived by her daughter Terry (Phil) Merrill of West Paris; son Todd Poland of Auburn; daughter JoAnna (Scott) Southard of Madison, Alabama; grandchildren: Diana, Erik, Amy, Andrew, Molly, Kleet; and great-grandchildren: Logan, William, Lincoln, Brooks, Brandon, Jarod, and Alyson.

She was predeceased by her parents, Eino and Katri Tamminen, her husband Phelps; and son Timothy.

At this time, there will be no services. Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 45 Main St., South Paris. Online condolences may be shared at http://www.chandlerfunerals.com.