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Jill Lawler Obituary
Dublin NH — Jill Lawler passed away on February 1st at Monadnock Community Hospital in Peterborough surrounded by her loving family. It's impossible to put into words the meaning of a life, especially a life like Jill's that was spent reading, writing, and loving words. For forty years, Jill shared the words of her favorite authors with several generations of students at ConVal High School, as well as the final graduating class of Peterborough High School, and helped those same students find and shape their own words and stories. Jill's love of literature started when she was a student and English major at Bates College, the same place where she met another great love in her life, her husband of 53 years, Jerry. In 1968, Jill and Jerry moved to NH where they would start a family, having two daughters, Jess and Liz.
Jill, the eldest of four, was born on April 2, 1946 to Elizabeth Anna Reinholdz and Harry Southcombe Howroyd in Hartford, CT. Jill and brothers Jay, Steven and Josh grew up in nearby Manchester, CT where much of their family still lives today.
Jill's reach stretched far into the community she lived in for over 50 years. She was involved in organizations that served that community like The Dublin Women's Club Beach, NHDI and the Dublin Public Library. You could also find her on any number of sidelines, bleachers, pool decks and theater seats cheering on and supporting her daughters in all of their most loved activities. That devotion to her children and the joy she took in supporting those she loved grew with the addition of her grandchildren Nora, Gavin, Oliver and Wren. Jill was so many things to so many different people, but to all, whether a former student or not, Jill was a teacher. She loved literature, writing, her family and teaching. Jill never stopped growing and learning and later in her life she discovered and fell in love with the poetry of Mary Oliver. In one of her favorite poems, Oliver reminds us that "To live in this world you must be able to do three things: to love what is mortal; to hold it against your bones knowing your own life depends on it; and, when the time comes to let it go, to let it go." For those left behind, this letting go will not be easy but we take comfort in knowing that we'll continue to hold Jill close.
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Memories and Condolences
for Jill Lawler
Phoebe Mitchell
March 6, 2023
Hi Jerry, You probably don't remember me -- I was Phoebe Sheehan when I lived at Dublin School. But I remember both of you. I'm sad to hear that Jill died. She was such a bright light, so easy to talk with, so easy with people. I remember how she used to carry on conversations with Dublin students over breakfast and dinner -- effortlessly -- an ability that eluded me. I hope you are OK. Love, Phoebe
Read Sherman
April 16, 2022
Prayers of comfort to Jill's family - and such gratitude for her smile and loving spirit as a teacher and mentor/guide/goad to so many at ConVal.
Cathy LaMontagne
March 1, 2022
Jill was always a bright shining star to everyone she met. She gave back to the community, and her students to make a better life for everyone. Her impact will be felt for generations. Ron and I are sorry for your family´s loss.
Jane Whitney (Bates '68)
February 19, 2022
So sorry to hear this, Jerry. Jill was a special woman, always thinking positively, and fervently enjoying life. My condolences to you and your family.
Debbie (Britton) Eshbaugh
February 17, 2022
My condolences to Jerry family. Jill was by far one of our favorite teachers, and given the breadth of the Britton family, a family friend as well. I have fond memories of her classes... We often found notes from prior students letting us know to ask her about a specific trip or event when we discussed that part of the book... It was obvious how much she loved teaching, and hopefully as obvious to her how much we loved her!
Caryl Carroll
February 14, 2022
Our condolences at the loss of Jill. She was an amazing lady who enjoyed life to the fullest...Rob and Caryl Carroll
George Dana and Debbie Lawrence
February 14, 2022
We are so sorry to hear of Jill's passing, still so young. We both had her as a great teacher back in 1973 and myself in 1971. so many years now. I can still see her bouncing thru the halls of Conval when it first opened.
Sally higgins brown
February 11, 2022
My condolences to the family.
I had the pleasure of having both jill and jerry,as my teachers.
I have a great love for english and reading.i so enjoyed english class with her.
And just meeting in the halls of conval,always warm and with a bright smile.it was nice to see when one might be having a hard day,in the life of a high schooler.may your star shine bright,where ever you are.
Sally higgins brown class of 84
Chris Johnson
February 10, 2022
So very sorry for your loss. She raised great kids, in school and out. Her legacy lives on. Liz has my youngest granddaughter in her kindergarten class in Antrim and is well loved. May all of your wonderful memories carry you through.
Cheryl Delay Glanton
February 10, 2022
I am so sorry for your loss. I have such fond memories of Jill (the only teacher that allowed us to use her first name). Her love of literature was apparent and her lesson plans always had a healthy dose of digression session.
Pamela Nation
February 10, 2022
I´m sure Adam has joined the line up to welcome Jill to her next level! I join the multitudes here to thank you family for sharing Jill´s love across her life.
Dan Lane Williams Class of '73
February 10, 2022
Always a beacon of light and heart in everyones life, especially to the students she taught.
Becky Ciardelli
February 10, 2022
Sorry for your loss.
Julie Klett
February 9, 2022
Jill was a terrific, one-of-a-kind teacher who made a positive difference in the lives of countless students, myself included (Class of 1984). She was fun, full of good cheer, creative, kind, and supportive. Jill, I send up a fond "DIGRESSION!" in your memory. Thank you. May all who loved her find comfort in joyful memories.
Matthew Stoops
February 9, 2022
My sister, the class of '74 and the first class to go all four years at ConVal, and myself from the class of '89, both have fond memories of her English classes. While I only had her for one year, I was always glad to bump into her, even if it was a smile and a "hello." Best wishes to Jerry, Liz, Jess, and all the wonderful grandchildren in her life.
Skip Deliguori
February 9, 2022
Sorry to hear this. Mrs. Lawler taught both my mother and I! A life to celebrate.
Chris and Dick Harrington
February 9, 2022
We are so sorry to hear about Jill. She was a wonderful woman! We met through our daughter´s when they were in Day care. Liz and Sara were such good friends. We wish the family the best and our thoughts and condolences are with you all.
Kathy Maguire
February 8, 2022
Thinking of all of you.
Jack Ellerkamp
February 8, 2022
Dear Jerry + Family,
I offer my condolences with regard to Jill's passing. She was a beloved teacher of mine at ConVal; just loved her American Transcendentalism class! She, too, was an advisor to our senior class, and most helpful and fun to work with. The world needs more caring and benevolent teachers like her! She will be missed.
And Jerry, you were one heck of a calculus teacher!
Warm regards to the Family Lawler,
~ Jack Ellerkamp
Ron Lewis
February 8, 2022
Jerry and family-
I am so sorry to hear of Jill's passing. What a great lady who will be missed. Here is a picture (2002) that Ruth sent to us of the MHS ladies, class of 1964.
-Ron
Aija Ronis
February 8, 2022
Rest In Peace beautiful soul. I also love reading and wish we could have shared this love
Joyce and Bunny Baldwin
February 8, 2022
I am so very sorry to hear this. My heart breaks for the family-The loving family that was always there for her. I´m now flooded with memories of her quick wit and fabulous way with words. She loved her family so much. Sending big hugs, lots of love and our sincere condolences.
Sara Brown
February 8, 2022
My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. Jill was always so sweet and nice every time I ran into her at Carr's Store. She will be greatly missed.
Jellison Funeral Home and Cremation Services The staff at Jellison Funeral Home
February 7, 2022
Offering our deepest condolences at this difficult time.
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