It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mrs. Denise McClellan (Jewell) after a courageous and graceful battle with lung cancer. Born in 1960, Denise left us on the 11th of June, 2026, at her home in Rochester NH, leaving a void that can never be filled. With Denise's departure, we remember a life of selfless love balanced with wry humor.
Denise is survived by her husband of 19 years, Don McClellan, her son Joel Jewell and wife Nicole, daughter Terri Wenczkowski, stepson Brandon McClellan and partner Colleen Anais. She leaves behind her father Robert Jewell (96 y.o.), brother Mark Jewell, grandchildren Kaleigh Thomas, Kaden Messaline, Raegan & Dylan Jewell, Zoe & Rory McClellan, and her great-grandson Elias Tullio to continue her legacy. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews and a small group of lifelong friends whom she cherished deeply. She was predeceased by her mother Gloria Jewell, her sister Bonnie Castonguay, and her brothers Dale & Blaine Jewell.
She held a deep affection for time spent with her family, especially making memories with her grandchildren and great-grandson. She felt most at home immersing herself in the deep woods of New Hampshire and wintering with her dear friends in Florida. During her quiet moments she enjoyed the challenge of a good puzzle while being surrounded by her watchful collection of owl memorabilia. She rarely expressed a preference in restaurants but she always took the opportunity to disagree with Don's suggestions while righteously sipping on her XL Extra Extra Dunks coffee.
We mourn the loss of a dedicated wife, a loving daughter & mother, a doting grandmother, a faithful friend & sister, as well as a kind soul, but we also celebrate the love, strength, and joy that were the essence of Denise's being.
A New Hampshire Press Association member