Joan M. Brown

WORCESTER- Joan M. Brown, 93, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 25, 2023 at Notre Dame Healthcare. She was the wife of the late William J. Brown who died in 2003.

Joan was born in Worcester on May 26, 1930 a daughter of the late Leo and Helen (Bush) Shugrue. She was a graduate of Sacred Heart Academy in Fall River, MA. Joan then earned her Baccalaureate Degree from Salve Regina University, Newport RI in 1952, she later completed a Master’s Degree in Education from Worcester State University. Joan was a beloved schoolteacher in the Millbury Public School System for many years before retiring. She loved spending time with her family, and was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother. A lover of art and travel, she enjoyed painting and taking trips to the beaches of Rhode Island, especially Newport.

She leaves behind her children, Ann E. Brown, Christine M. Brown, William J. Brown and his wife, Patricia, Sheila H. Brown, and Margot A. (Brown) Slowick and her husband Matthew. She had 9 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Joan also leaves her childhood friend of many years, Dolly Trow. Besides her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her siblings, Barbara, Richard, and Pauline Shugrue, and her son in law, Dominic J. Nompleggi, MD.

The family would like to express their gratitude to all the staff of NDHC, Harmony Unit. She was a beloved part of the Harmony Unit for many years. A special thank you to all her nursing staff and CNAs for all their kindness and wonderful care! Especially dear to Joan were her nurses, Linda and Ioana who provided excellent care to her daily! We also appreciate her hospice volunteer Pauline who visited her each week providing extra companionship and support.

Family and friends will celebrate her life with a funeral service on Monday, December 11th at 10:30 am in the Chapel at Notre Dame Du Lac, 555-559 Plantation St., Worcester. A period of visitation will precede the funeral beginning at 10:00 am. Burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery.

Gifts in memory of Joan may be made to Notre Dame Health Care, ATTN: Development Office, 555 Plantation St., Worcester, MA 01605.