1936 - 2026
Born on August 15, 1936, in Arlington, Massachusetts, Joan lived a life rooted in kindness, devotion, faith, and an unwavering commitment to those around her. She began her professional career at Boston Edison before marrying her first husband, Robert Williamson, in 1958. Together, they built a loving home and raised their family on Gerard Circle in Franklin, where lifelong friendships were formed and neighbors became family.
Above all else, Joan treasured her role as the heart of her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose warmth, wisdom, and humor created a lasting foundation of love for generations to come.
Her happiest moments were spent surrounded by family and friends, especially during holidays, gatherings, and simple everyday visits. Joan had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcomed, cared for, and deeply loved.
In her later years, Joan embraced travel and loved visiting family across the country and abroad, including California, Virginia, and New Zealand — a destination she proudly shared she had visited seven times. Her adventurous spirit, listening ear, and compassionate heart left a lasting impact everywhere she went.
After retiring to Cape Cod, Joan devoted much of her time to volunteer work, quietly helping neighbors, charities, and community organizations without ever seeking recognition. Her generosity and selflessness touched countless lives.
Joan is survived by her loving children: Donna Garner and her husband Paul of New Zealand; Robert Williamson and his wife Melissa of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida; Gayle Simons and her husband James of Chesapeake, Virginia; James Williamson of Santa Monica, California; and Douglas Williamson and his partner Amber Giandomenico of Mashpee.
She was the cherished grandmother of Rory, Aislinn, Shane, Adeline, Rosa, Ryan, Allison, Jenna, Braelyn, Connor, Logan, and Lucas, and a proud great-grandmother to Soren, Autumn, and Kayi.
Joan was predeceased by her first husband Robert Williamson, her second husband Denis Foley, and her siblings Mary Martin, Dennis O’Leary, and John “Jack” O’Leary.
She is survived by her loving sisters Margaret “Margie” and Rita, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and six stepchildren and their families.
Her family will forever carry forward the values Joan instilled in them: resilience, generosity, compassion, faith, and joy. Her laughter, guidance, and unconditional love will remain a constant presence in the hearts of all who knew her.
The family also extends heartfelt gratitude to the staffs of Cape Cod Post Acute Care and Continuum Hospice for the dignity, compassion, and care they provided during Joan’s final days.
Visitation will be held Saturday, May 30th from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM at the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin located at 131 Main Street in Franklin.
Her Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church located at 1 Church Square in Franklin.
Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.
A reception will be held afterward at the home of Debbie and Frank DeGrazia in Franklin.
