Penney Hutchinson Rich, age 74, died on January 30, 2026, at her home surrounded by loved ones. She was born on July 18, 1951, in Milton, MA, daughter of the late Peter Hutchinson and Janice Whelpley Dugan.

Penney grew up in Nashua, NH and graduated from Nashua High School. Her family were summer residents at Nutting’s Beach Campground in Newfound, NH, and this is where she met her husband, Ralph. Penney and Ralph loved the lake so much that they decided to raise their children there.

Penney worked alongside her mother Janice in the two restaurants Janice owned, The Octagon and Stetsons. She then took a leap and obtained her CDL and joined Ralph driving tractor trailers across the country.

After Ralph's death in 2018, Penney moved in with her daughter and family. She was an amazing grandmother and helped raise two of her granddaughters and was an active presence and support for her other four grandchildren as well. Penney's life revolved around those she loved. She valued her relationships, and she filled her life with laughter, love, music, and family. Penney was close to her nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins, especially Linda Rich and Barbara Laronde who were more like sisters growing up. It was a special joy to meet her first great grandchild Crew.

Penney was diagnosed with cancer in late November and spent the last months celebrating the holidays, and spending time with her grandkids and daughter. Penney's wishes were to be at home with her family. In the final weeks, she was showered with visits and calls from friends and family. Her brother Peter, who she adored, and her sister-in-law and closest friend Carol watched over her while she transitioned. In her last moments, Carol, her granddaughter Bailey and her daughter were by her side as she left this world.

In addition to her parents and husband Ralph, Penney was preceded in death by her Stepfather Richard Dugan and her sister Beth Hutchinson.

Penney leaves behind her daughter Amy Fairbank and her husband Christopher of Bristol, NH and her son John Rich of Bristol, NH; Grandchildren, Dahlton Fairbank, Jarrod Fairbank, Bailey Fairbank, Ryan Salvo-Rich, Robyn Rich, Sophie Rich and her Great Grandson Crew Fairbank. Penney also leaves behind her brother Peter Hutchinson of Rutland, VT and a sister-in-law and friend Carol Hutchinson of Nashua, NH.

No services are scheduled. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the Humane Society of Laconia, 1305 Meredith Center Rd., Laconia, NH 03246 or online at https://www.nhhumane.org/donate