Constance Elizabeth (Clark) Bastille

Peterborough, NH

Constance Elizabeth (Clark) Bastille, 88, of Peterborough, died on March 28, 2014, at Pheasant Wood Center, surrounded by her loving children. She was born in Gardner, MA on May 11, 1925, the daughter of Alfred Clark and Dorothy (Devens) Clark.

Connie moved to Hancock as a young child where she was raised in a three generation house that included her beloved grandfather Daniel O. Devens, with whom she was very close. With her mother serving as the Postmaster of Hancock and her grandfather running the Hancock General Store, she had a strong sense of community from her upbringing and loved the Hancock Old Home Days.

As a teenager she met her future husband John Q. Bastille in Hancock. They married in 1947 and moved to Peterborough. They were married for 61 years until his death in 2008. She was an early childhood educator and in the mid 1970s, was one of the original founders of what is currently the Monadnock Community Early Learning Center, where she taught for over 30 years.

Connie was a skilled quilter and not only mastered the craft, but was also well versed in the history of quilting. She shared her skill and knowledge with others and could be found at the Sunapee Craft Fair, Northfield Quilt Festival in VT and Lowell's New England Quilt Museum in MA for many years sharing her love for the craft. She was also an active member of the Monadnock Quilters Guild.

Connie had a quick wit and remarkable sense of humor. Her gregarious nature made her a person that everyone wanted to be around and enjoy her company, though she was humble and appreciated simple pleasures in life. She wanted the best for everyone and her endless love was felt by those who were blessed to be part of her life.

Connie is survived by her four sons, Richard Q. Bastille and his wife Sharon of Potsdam, NY, John A. Bastille and his wife Judy of Springfield, VT, William G. Bastille and his wife Sheila of South Sutton, Theodore R. Bastille of Peterborough, and her daughter Barbara D. Williams and her husband Scott of Richmond, 9 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She will also be missed by the hundreds of children whose lives she touched and who affectionately called her Mrs. B.

Connie is predeceased by her sister Barbara Stone, who died in 2007.

Services will be held on April 26, 2014 at 1:00 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 25 Main Street, Peterborough, NH. The Reverend David Robins and Father Timothy Johnson will preside. Interment will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Monadnock Community Early Learning Center which was very dear to her heart. Contributions may be sent to PO Box 262, Peterborough, NH 03458.

Jellison Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements. To view an online obituary or to leave the family a condolence, please visit www.jellisonfuneralhome.com