Harriet A. Toan, 91, of Perry, NY, died September 3, 2011 at her home. She was born in Dansville, New York on January 25, 1920 to the late Carlos (Alice Plough) Toan. She was a descendant of Thomas and Elizabeth Toan, who settled in Perry in 1826.
She graduated from Perry High School as salutatorian, earned a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University, and later completed a master’s degree at Michigan State University.
An independent, adventurous woman, she traveled to 48 states, as well as Mexico and Ireland, and lived in four states. After working for many years as textiles and clothing specialist with the Cornell Extension Service, she retired to Perry in 1972 and became an active member of the Brick Presbyterian Church, Friends of Letchworth, and the Wyoming County Arts Council.
She is preceded in death by her stepmother, Ina, and two brothers, Herbert and James.
She is survived by: three sisters, Marian Hopkins of Chandler, Ariz., Margaret Tonne, of Oak Ridge, Tenn., and Audrey Edwards, of Charleston, IL; eight nieces and nephews, Stephen Hopkins, Susan Hopkins Ochs, Barbara Hopkins McGillivary, Serena Staffeld, Elizabeth Staffeld, Ollie Staffeld, Matthew Edwards, and Mary Edwards Remon; and 12 grandnieces and grandnephews.
There will be no prior calling hours. A memorial service at the Brick Presbyterian Church is planned for a later date. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, people contribute to the Brick Presbyterian Church 6 Church St. Perry, NY 14530.
The family is deeply grateful to Howard Wood and Katie Vanduser, whose practical and moral support made possible Harriet’s wish to remain in her own home; Joanne Knapp, whose visits were the highlight of each week; long-term friends from her church; and her neighbors.
For more information or to sign the online guest registry please visit www.eatonwatsonfuneralhome.com or call 237-2626. Arrangements completed by Eaton-Watson Funeral Home, LLC. 98 North Main St. Perry, New York 14530.
