Joyce Lein Hood

Joyce L. Hood, 76, of Manchester NH, devoted wife to Bruce Hood, cherished mother to Melissa Feldman, and adored grandmother to Carson and Quinn Feldman, passed away at the Arbors Care Facility after a decade-long battle with Alzheimer's Disease on May 31, 2024.

Born to Erwin and Irene Lein on January 29, 1948 in Manchester, Joyce was a cherished member of the Lein family, sister to Judy (Lein) Ploss and the late Richard Lein.

In 1982, she married her beloved Bruce Hood, marking the beginning of a shared life filled with love and devotion. Joyce attended Manchester West High School, where she proudly marched as a Majorette before studying Education at Keene State College.

For over three decades, Joyce dedicated her life to shaping young minds as an English teacher at Manchester Memorial High School. She had an enthusiasm for teaching Shakespeare and a special connection with her freshmen students. She also found joy in coaching Varsity Cheerleading for many years. Ms.(Peaslee) Hood left an indelible mark on countless lives in and beyond the classroom.

In addition to her career, Joyce was devoted to raising her daughter, Melissa, instilling in her the values of kindness, empathy, and perseverance. Her role of mother was one of her greatest joys, topped only by being a grandmother. Joyce embraced this role with boundless love and joy, delighting in the presence of Carson and Quinn, who she adored beyond measure.

Joyce had an enduring bond with her sister Judy. They were more than sisters, they were confidants, companions and best friends. The laughter and conversation they carried could be heard moving through the halls of shared homes, the aisles of Macy’s or Marshalls, and on sandy beaches and golf greens.

Together with her husband Bruce, she hosted countless backyard barbecues, family dinners and Christmas celebrations, creating cherished memories that will be forever treasured. Later in life, Joyce discovered a passion for golf, spending many sunny afternoons on the course with Bruce by her side. Her love of crossword puzzles challenged her mind daily. Joyce also had a soft spot for the music of Elvis Presley, his melodies serving as the soundtrack to many memories.

The family extends their heart-felt gratitude to everyone at the Arbors of Bedford for all of their compassionate care, support and guidance over Joyce’s final years.

Joyce is survived by her husband, Bruce Hood of Goffstown, NH; her daughter, Melissa Feldman and grandsons Carson Feldman and Quinn Feldman of Milton, MA; her sister, Judy Ploss and her husband Donald of Manchester, NH; and several nieces and nephews. Joyce was predeceased by her parents, Erwin Lein and Irene Lein, as well as her brother, Richard Lein.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the: Joyce L. Hood Memorial Scholarship fund in her honor. Donations may be sent to:
Joyce L Hood Memorial Scholarship
c/o Bank of Canton, PO Box 282
Canton, MA 02021.

A Memorial Gathering to honor and celebrate the life of Joyce L. Hood will be held on Monday, June 10, 2024 from 4-7PM at Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium 243 Hanover Street, Manchester, NH . Following the service, Joyce will be laid to rest at Mount Calvary Cemetery in a private burial.