ENFIELD, NH-- Janice Hough Staggs passed away November 18, 2019, at Genesis in Lebanon, NH, following a brief illness. She was born in the house her grandparents built in Enfield, NH, and graduated from Enfield High School. In 1946, she married Ray Staggs, with whom she celebrated 67 anniversaries until his death in 2013. The couple settled in different parts of the country during their union, including two decades in California, before returning to New Hampshire nearly 30 years ago.
Janice earned an associate's degree, with hopes of someday completing a bachelor's degree. Over the years she served in various teaching roles, including teaching English to non-English-speaking students in California. She enjoyed books and plays but derived her greatest joy from people. Visiting with family, friends, and neighbors was her favorite pastime, and she considered herself fortunate that so many people of all ages called or stopped by to chat with her every day. She was the ultimate people person.
Janice attended the Enfield Methodist Church, was instrumental in founding the church's thrift shop, and was a member of Hannah Circle. She was among the last Enfield residents who had the distinction of having crossed every iteration of Shaker Bridge, from the original built by the Shakers to the most recent.
She was predeceased by her husband; a daughter, Diane Rae Howard; a son, Christopher Jay Staggs; and her sister, Jean Hunt. She is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Anita and Bill Warren, of Enfield, NH; a son, Brad Staggs; grandchildren: Kelby, Trevor, Trina, Brandon, and Sam; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A celebration of life will be held Sunday, December 1, 2:00–4:00 P.M. at the Enfield Methodist Church. The family welcomes donations in Janice's name to the Enfield Public Library: 23 Main Street, Enfield, NH 03748.