Joanne M. Connell

Joanne M. Connell, beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, entered eternal rest at the age of 94, surrounded by the love of her family in her home, after a brief period of declining health.

Born in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, to Raymond J. and Maude (Snadd) Connell, Joanne had a joyful childhood shared with her sister, Kathleen. She moved to East Providence in 1971 and later to Southgate Assisted Living in Shrewsbury, MA, in May 2024 to be closer to her family.

Joanne was a proud graduate of the business program at Johnson and Wales Junior College. She dedicated 50 years to her career as a Policy Supervisor for EMC Insurance Company, retiring in 1998. She was a devoted parishioner, communicant and volunteer at Sacred Heart Church in East Providence. A lifelong advocate of fitness and community, Joanne was an active member of the Seekonk YMCA, where she built lasting friendships. She loved swimming, water aerobics, yoga, walking, and especially spending time outdoors. Joanne treasured over 50 years of friendship with Norma Murphy of East Providence, RI.

She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Kathleen C. Dalton, and her brother-in-law John R. Dalton of Amherst, MA. Joanne was the cherished aunt of Ann E. Mackay and her husband Rob of Berlin, MA; Patricia Kozlowski and her husband Paul of Lunenburg, MA; David J. Dalton and his wife Lynn of Golden, CO; and John T. Dalton of Sydney, Australia.

Joanne was a vibrant presence in the lives of her great-nieces and nephews, who affectionately called her "JoJo." She delighted in attending their school and sports events, engaging in lively conversations and games of Rummikub, and playing in the waves at the beach well into her eighties. She was a constant figure at family gatherings, always making time for visits and celebrations. She leaves behind Ryan Mackay and Rachel (Tyler Fisher) of Holden, MA; Alex Mackay and Kathryn of Holden, MA; Cory Mackay and Alekxis of Berlin, MA; Emily C. Kozlowski and Chris D'Esposito of Norfolk, VA; Jacob Kozlowski and Amanda Rader of Rutland, MA; Hilary Freeman and Patrick (Charles and Margaret) of Golden, CO; Matt Dalton and Alexis Denis of Golden, CO; Kelsey Dalton and Ian Morrison (Thea) of Macksville, Australia; and Reed Dalton of Canberra, Australia.

Joanne's family extends heartfelt gratitude to Lucy Bishop at Southgate and the compassionate caregivers from Hope Home Care - Edilaine, Lorena, Juliana, and Melissa - who enriched her days with comfort and joy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on January 8th at 11:00 AM at Sacred Heart Church, Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI. Burial will follow at St. Charles Cemetery, Blackstone, where she will be laid to rest beside her parents.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joanne's memory may be made to Amos House, 460 Pine Street, Providence, RI 02907.