NEWPORT, NH— Louise K. Hastings, 90, beloved wife, mother and Nana, passed on March 19, 2025, in Newport, NH. Born March 1, 1935, in Newport at Carrie F. Wright Hospital, the eldest daughter of Richard L. & Grace (Fowler) Kemp.
Louise attended Newport Schools, graduating in 1953 from Towle High School in the top 3 of her class. She studied business at Fisher Junior College in Boston, MA.
On April 9, 1955, she met Maurice E. Hastings, honorably discharged from the U.S. Army just two days prior. Their fondness for one another was certain from the start. They spent the spring and summer together at a time when Saturday nights were for barn dances and no date was complete without a midnight drive to the Riverside Grill in Lebanon, NH. As the chill of fall set in, they soon realized that late night car talks were no way to spend the winter and so together it was decided: “let’s get married!”
Moe & Louise married on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, November 26, 1955. A few years and two babies later they purchased their life-long home on Maple Street in Newport. They shared an admirable life together, a life of loyalty, devotion and undeniable love that would last nearly 70 years and beyond.
Louise was a smart, capable woman with a witty sense of humor. She loved to read and possessed immense knowledge on a variety of subjects. Early on, she was a driven business professional which led her to a career in managing several local companies in the areas of bookkeeping, accounting, taxes and real estate. She was a proud and active member of the International Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW). In the early 1980’s, Louise established her own financial services business “Capabilities Unlimited, Inc.” where she dedicated her time and talent for 15 years until retirement.
Our dearest Louise lived a good long life. She loved to laugh and dance, always ready for a 2-step with her beloved husband. Over the years they travelled with family & friends to a myriad of destinations, landmarks and events. Louise appreciated history, especially of local sites and the stories of people connected to them. Her love of history intertwined with her love of family – those living and departed. She took great care in researching and understanding her own lineage as well as the ancestors of her husband. She had a passion for genealogy and was proud to share her discoveries and connections to the past.
Above all, Louise adored her close-knit family. We cherish our time with her and all of the memories we share, keeping her spirit alive within our hearts.
Louise is lovingly missed by her devoted husband “Mose”, Daughters Nancy Connelly (Rob), Susan Dresser (Bernie), Granddaughters Laura Dube (Sean), Jennifer Amell (Nate), Grandson Justin Hemingway. Great Grandsons Lucas & Dominic Dube, Tristan Amell and Great Granddaughter Sylvia Amell. Nephew Allen Dubreuil and many extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by Sister Gayle Dubreuil and numerous relatives and friends.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the loving and compassionate staff at Woodlawn Care Center who took care of our Nana like she was their own.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held on Saturday, June 14th at 1:00pm at the Salt Hill Pub Function Room, located behind the pub at 58 Main Street, Newport NH.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Louise to the LaValley Family Community Center c/o Newport Recreation Department, 17 Meadow Road, Newport, NH 03773 or the Newport Senior Center, P.O. Box 387 Newport, NH 03773.
