Joan Bence Hyde

Joan Bence Hyde, a devoted educator, cherished grandmother, and passionate community member, passed away at her home on Monday, November 25, 2024, at the age of 91. Jo spent her early years in Mattoon, Illinois where she met her high school sweetheart, Thomas M. Hyde. They were united in marriage and shared 57 wonderful years together until his passing.

Joan was a remarkable figure in the field of education, dedicating much of her life to teaching third grade at Hamagrael Elementary School in Delmar. Her love for children was evident in every lesson she imparted, and her genuine passion for learning created a warm and nurturing environment for her students. In addition to her educational career, Jo co-owned and operated Van Curler Music Co. in Albany with her husband from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s, where she shared her love of music with others.

A graduate of Milliken University in Decatur, Illinois, where she earned her Bachelor's degree, Joan later obtained her Master's degree in Education. She was an active member of the Delta, Delta, Delta sorority, contributing to their scholarship program and remaining connected with her collegiate roots throughout her life.

Joan's interests were as diverse as her talents. She was an avid gardener, a skillful artisan, and enjoyed working with her hands through various arts and crafts. Her love for the arts extended to music, knitting, attending live theater, concerts, and cheering for her beloved Clemson University football team. Jo's zest for life shone brightly during her travels, and she embraced every opportunity to share her gifts with others.

In her personal life, Joan took immense pride in her family. She is survived by her daughter Julie Pooler and husband Rick, son Drew Hyde and wife Mary, and her cherished grandsons Kyle Pooler and wife Whitney, Alex Pooler, Christopher Hyde, and Gregory Hyde. Besides her immediate family, she leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and later in life, was fortunate to find companionship with Larry Zinn.

In addition to her husband, Jo was also preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law Jan and Gene Febus.

She will be lovingly remembered as a vibrant member of the Beverwyck community, where she actively participated in numerous cherished activities. Her family is grateful for the warm, safe environment provided to Jo by the Beverywck staff, as well as the compassionate care and support Jo received from her doctor's and their medical staff.

Visitation will be held at Applebee Funeral Home, 403 Kenwood Ave, Delmar on Friday, December 13, 2024, from 4 to 7 PM. A memorial service honoring Jo's life will take place at Delmar Presbyterian Church, 585 Delaware Avenue, Delmar, NY 12054, on Saturday, December 14, 2024, beginning at 11 AM.  A reception will immediately follow in the church's fellowship hall.  Contributions in Jo's memory may be made to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society (mohawkhumane.org).