Joan L. Wellington

2/7/26

Joan Lorraine Wellington (née Richardson), 91, passed away peacefully on February 7 at the Finger Lakes Center for Living (FLCL), surrounded by her family and the caring and compassionate staff.

Joan was born at home on March 29, 1934, in Fort Plain, New York to the late Leroy Wendell Richardson and Carmeta Dingman Richardson, during a blizzard—a fitting beginning for a woman known throughout her life for her quiet strength and resilience.

Upon her marriage to Lewis Edwin Wellington, Joan moved to Skaneateles, where she became a lifelong resident beginning in 1954. Together, Joan and Lewis built a life rooted in dedication to family, community, and hard work, including operating a dairy farm in Skaneateles, a reflection of their shared commitment, perseverance, and love of the land. Joan was a woman of remarkable talent and precision. She was the first female draftsman at Carrier, where she completed final drafts on silk—her immaculate lettering and exacting standards were widely admired. She later brought those same qualities to her work with the Skaneateles School District, retiring as a teacher’s aide after years of patiently supporting and encouraging young students. She was also a founding member of the Laker Limo, contributing her time and care to the Skaneateles community.

Creativity and craftsmanship defined Joan’s personal life as well. She loved to paint and was a gifted baker, famous within her family for an unforgettable chocolate pie that became a beloved tradition—served proudly at holiday dinners and multiple grandchildren’s weddings.

Joan was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Lewis Wellington; her sister and brother-in-law, Donna and James McManus; her son, Paul Wellington; and her grandson, Jared Wellington.

She is survived by her brother, Hugh Richardson; her daughter, Catherine O’Connor, and son-in-law, Patrick O’Connor; her sons, Allan Wellington and daughter-in-law Lisa Wellington, and James Wellington and daughter-in-law Tracy Wellington. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Teresa Chamberlain, Kerry O’Connor, and Colleen Kirkpatrick; Taylor and Austin Wellington; Benjamin and Nathaniel Wellington; and William and Aleksander Wellington. Joan’s legacy continues through her great- grandchildren: Beau, Lochlan, and Wells Chamberlain; Noah, Rowan, and Emma Kirkpatrick; Ruby O’Connor; and Weston and Owen Wellington.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Finger Lakes Center for Living for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Joan during the last years of her life.

Calling hours will be held at Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles on Wednesday, February 11th from 10:30 to 12 with a service to follow at noon. Burial in Lake View Cemetery with a reception to follow.

Contributions in Joan’s memory may be made to Laker Limo or Skaneateles United Methodist Church.

Joan will be remembered for her precision, creativity, generosity, and the deep love she held for her family—a legacy that will endure for generations.

To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.