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SMITH, Joan E. We regretfully announce the passing of Joan Elizabeth Smith, 87, of Boston, MA. Joan, a lifelong resident of Beacon Hill, passed peacefully on November 18, 2021. Joan was born to Mary A. (Burke) Smith and Arthur B. Smith on January 26th 1934 in Northampton. An independent and vibrant personality from the beginning, Joan was an excellent student and graduated in the top of her class from Northampton High School and immediately went on to study at Smith College. After earning her Bachelor of Arts degree from Smith, Joan moved to Boston where she earned her Master's Degree in Public Administration from Harvard University. Upon graduation, she began her career as a research assistant for Governor Foster Furculo. She became Director of Program Planning and, in 1962, she joined the Boston Redevelopment Authority. She was Senior Planner, Assistant Director and Associate Director before being named the Director of Family Relocation and Social Services in 1969. Joan served as director for the next 20 years during which time she developed programs and materials to accommodate the informational and service needs of families and individuals being displaced from various neighborhoods. Joan retired after thirty-two years in public administration and kept very busy on many committees and organizations. Most notably, she was a member of the Task Force on building for the American Red Cross, a board member and facilities committee member for the Boston YWCA, a member of the Beacon Hill Architectural Commission, and she was a volunteer guide of significant historic and architectural sites and buildings in the Boston area for Boston by Foot Tours. Joan was also very involved with other smaller personal efforts in relation to shelters and other community-related efforts. Joan was a fiercely independent, strong woman who knew what she wanted and lived on her terms. She loved living on Beacon Hill and, when her family would visit, she was the quintessential guide to showcase the best restaurants, shows, and her favorite sights throughout the city. She loved the theater, going to concerts and Joan was a devoted member and an associate of the Paulist Center. Joan is survived by her sister, Eleanor J. (Smith) Godin of Chicopee and her brother, Stephen M. Smith and his wife, Sylvia (Marney) Smith of Williamsburg, her sisters-in-law, Patricia Smith of West Springfield and Anne Smith of Northampton and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, and loving friends. Joan was predeceased by her mother and father, Mary A. (Burke) Smith and Arthur B. Smith of Northampton, her brothers, Arthur B. Smith Jr. of West Springfield and Richard F. Smith of Northampton. Visitation will be from 3:00 to 6:00 PM on Tuesday, November 23rd at the Ahearn Funeral Home, 783 Bridge Road, NORTHAMPTON. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, November 24th at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish. Family are asked to gather at 9:00 AM at Ahearn Funeral Home. Rites of Committal and interment will immediately follow the funeral at Saint Mary's Cemetery on Bridge Road in Northampton. Per the Northampton Board of Health order, masks are required at the Funeral Home, church and cemetery. As Joan was a lifelong resident of Boston, a Memorial Service will be held at The Paulist Center, 5 Park Street Place on Sunday, November 28, 2021 at 12:00 PM. The family hopes that Joan's friends from the Paulist Center and the Boston area will be able to attend and they look forward to celebrating her life with you. The family would like to thank the staff at Robbie's Place in Marlboro, MA for their care and kindness. Memorial contributions can be made to The Paulist Center, 5 Park Stree,t Boston MA 02108. Ahearn Funeral Home (413)587-0044
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4 Entries
I was just thinking of Joan and found her obituary. I am so sad, but realize she had a wonderful life. I worked with Joan at the BRA for about 3 years around 1990, We kept in touch for many years with a letter, postcard or occasional phone call. Joan was such a nice person, but also a true professional. Since returning to Colorado after the BRA, I think met up with Joan a few times - once in Boston and once at Denver's airport. I regret I didn't plan better and meet up with her while in Boston a few years ago. Many fond memories of Joan. Rest in peace my friend.
Jeannie Lynn
Friend
April 13, 2023
I am saddened to learn of Joan's passing. I just found her obituary.
I was Joan's secretary years ago. My first job after graduating Boston Business School.
I was truly blessed to have Ms. Smith for my boss. She was kind, understanding and generous. I have fond memories of that time. I left to be a full time mom, but was sad leaving. Working for Joan Smith was the best job I had. Rest with the Angels, Joan.
Sharon Murphy
Work
March 19, 2023
My condolence to her family. Joan was part of a group of women who would meet occasionally to see a show or attend a museum. She was alovely, giving person and I miss her.
Claudine Langlois
Friend
January 22, 2022
Joan was also a devoted volunteer at Hospitality Homes, which places families that come to Boston for a family member's medical treatment into the comes of volunteer hosts. She was a joy to be around and brought so much to her volunteer work.
Lisa Tener
Work
November 24, 2021
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Ahearn Funeral Home - Northampton783 Bridge Road, Northampton, MA 01060
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Ahearn Funeral Home - Northampton783 Bridge Road, Northampton, MA 01060
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