SALEM - Joan Louise Rogers of Salem passed away on Wednesday, February 16th, 2022 at the age of 64. She was born on March 7th, 1957, the daughter of Marilyn and Herbert Simmons. She was the sister of Merideth Smith and Deborah Bowen and the aunt of Max and David Bowen and Demian, Brendan, David, Timothy, and Joshua Smith. She was the great aunt of Tessa, Conor, and Isabelle Bowen and Aisling and Kaitlyn Smith. For many years she was married to Joseph Rogers of Salem.

Born and raised in Hanover, Massachusetts, Joan moved to Salem in 1978. After working for the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Center in accounting, she earned her Masters Degree in education from Salem State College. She began as a daycare teacher, eventually moving on to the Greenhouse School in Salem, followed by a supervisory role at Project Children. She later worked for the public schools in Chelsea and Lynn, with her most recent position at Fallon Elementary School in Lynn as a special education teacher. Teaching was Joan's passion for over 40 years. Over the years, she made a difference in many children's lives.

Joan was an active member of the Salem community, spending time in the city with family, friends, and co-workers. Her home was a regular stop whenever her family visited the city. She was known for her love of books and music, with an eclectic taste that spanned genres. When at her home, there was always laughter, good food, and a sense of peace.

Joan had a genuinely kind personality. Her home was always open and she hosted many holiday dinners over the years. Joan loved the outdoors and enjoyed walks along the beach, camping, or hiking. She loved children, whether it was her nephews, grandnephew or grandnieces or the many students she taught over the years.

Joan is predeceased by her mother, Marilyn, her father, Herbert, her sister, Deborah and her grandnephew, Conor. She is survived by her sister and brother in law, Merideth and Arthur Smith of Panama City, Fla. and seven nephews and four great-nieces.

ARRANGEMENTS: Joan's family welcomes friends and loved ones to celebrate her life at O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM, on Saturday, March 19th, from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. A collation will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fallon Elementary School or the Jimmy Fund at http://danafarber.jimmyfund.org. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com

Jimmy Fund
P.O. Box 849168, Boston MA 02284-9168
Web: https://www.jimmyfund.org/ways-to-give/memorial-and-tribute-gifts/