Joan Crimmins

I was lucky, as so many writers have been, to have had a teacher in high school who encouraged me to believe that I had a talent for making words and sentences dance. She wrote in my yearbook that she expected to see me in print someday and ordered "an autographed first edition, please."

She got one.

I talked with her on the phone last year and made some hazy plans to stop by the next time I went down to NYC for some publishing biz. I'm sorry I missed that chance, Joan!

I'm sorry to read about Joan's passing we were neighbors on Platt Ave over 10 years. She was always happy, smiling, & planting in her garden. We all had great 4th of July picnics watching the fireworks & always looked after each other. I know she has a special place in heaven.

My deepest sympathies. May the God of all comfort strengthen the entire family during this time of sorrow. Always remember that God keeps in his memory those whom we lose because they are precious in his eyes. (Psalms 116:15)

Miss Crimmins was my teacher from 1973 through 1975. A remarkable blend of warmth, encouragement, wisdom and humor, she has remained a touchstone in my favorite high school memories. Miss Crimmins nurtured joy in the written word. I will be grateful to her for the rest of my life.

I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Please find peace and comfort in Psalms 119:76.

I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Please find peace and comfort in Psalms 119:76.

Joan has touched the lives of many people over her lifetime. May the good memories that you shared with her comfort your heart.

Miss Crimmins was an amazing teacher. She helped instill a love of writing in me that has stayed with me my entire life. She encouraged me to be a better writer and a better person. May her memory be for a blessing.