News Summary
The communities of Novi and Naugatuck come together to celebrate the lives of Joanne Audrey Plank and Richard Clark Wilmot. Both individuals made significant contributions to their families and communities, leaving behind legacies of love and laughter. Their funerals will be held respectively, honoring their vibrant lives and the memories they shared with loved ones.
Novi, Michigan: Remembering Two Remarkable Lives
In a time of reflection and remembrance, the communities of Novi and Naugatuck are coming together to honor the lives of two remarkable individuals, Joanne Audrey Plank and Richard Clark Wilmot. Each of them left an indelible mark on the hearts of their families and friends, and their legacies will certainly be cherished for generations to come.
A Fond Farewell to Joanne Audrey Plank
Joanne Audrey Plank, a beloved resident of Novi, made her exit from this world on February 27, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on June 4, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, Joanne was a woman who filled her life with love, laughter, and compassion.
Be sure to join family and friends at the in-state visitation on March 4, 2025, at St. Kenneth Catholic Church located at 14951 Haggerty Rd, Plymouth, Michigan. The visitation will run from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral mass commencing at 12:00 PM.
Joanne was known for her warm spirit and her ability to uplift everyone around her. Those who knew her will certainly feel her absence keenly, and she will be remembered as a glowing beacon of light in their lives.
Celebrating the Life of Richard Clark Wilmot
On June 12, 2024, Richard Clark Wilmot, aged 94, passed away at Ascension Providence Hospital in Novi, leaving behind a rich tapestry of memories and achievements. Originally from Naugatuck, Richard was known for his generous heart and quick wit. He was the cherished husband of the late Helen (McCarthy) Wilmot and dedicated himself to family and community throughout his life.
Richard was born on November 23, 1929, in Waterbury to Louis Howard and Margaret (Barwick) Wilmot. A proud graduate of the Naugatuck High School class of 1948, Richard spent most of his first 90 years on the family farm. He not only embraced the farming life but also cultivated a successful feed business that evolved into the Wilmot Brothers Agway, serving the community until his retirement in 2006.
Richard was a lively figure, actively participating in various organizations such as the NHS Club ’48, the Naugatuck Historical Society, and the Connecticut Grange, among others. Gardening was one of his great loves, and he was known for sharing the fruits of his labor with friends and neighbors.
He leaves behind a legacy filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with his son Nathan, daughter-in-law Julie, and his grandchildren, Beckett and Tessa Wilmot. Richard was also surrounded by many beloved relatives, including his sister Cynthia, and brothers Bob and Dave, plus countless nieces and nephews.
Richard’s passing marks the close of a life lived to the fullest, filled with laughter, travel, and a commitment to family. To honor Richard’s memory, family and friends can gather at the Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Naugatuck on July 12, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A funeral service celebrating Richard’s vibrant life will be held on July 13, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the Congregational Church of Naugatuck. Following the service, Richard will be laid to rest at St. James Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that donations be made to the Connecticut Audubon Society or the Naugatuck Congregational Church. The family also encourages everyone to plant vegetables in Richard’s memory, sharing them with others and remembering to spread joy through laughter and “Dad jokes.”
As the communities mourn, they also celebrate the colorful lives and enduring spirits of both Joanne and Richard. Their stories will continue to inspire and uplift everyone who had the pleasure of knowing them.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Paul Twigg Obituary
- Wikipedia: Novi, Michigan
- The Oakland Press: James Clark Rimbold Obituary
- Google Search: Richard Wilmot Novi
- Ford Funeral Home: Richard Wilmot Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Naugatuck
- MLive: Walter Foss Obituary
- Google News: Joanne Audrey Plank
- Legacy: Colin Hogan Obituary
- Google Scholar: Richard Wilmot
