Joanne W. (Ward) Kennedy

DANVERS - Mrs. Joanne W. (Ward) Kennedy, 89, of Danvers beloved wife of the late John “Jack” Kennedy, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 24th, 2022, at The Atrium in Danvers.

Born in Salem, she was the daughter of the late James and Nellie (Porter) Ward. She was raised and educated in Beverly and was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School where she was Valedictorian and class President of the Class of 1950. Joanne continued her education attending Burdette College in Boston.

Prior to her retirement, Joanne had been employed for many years at the Salem Witch Museum. She delighted in sharing the history throughout the museum and welcoming all the tourist and locals who came to visit.  

A loving and supportive wife, mother, and grandmother, Joanne’s family was paramount. She was strong, caring and giving and was truly happiest when surrounded by her family. She loved visiting Lake Ivanhoe in New Hampshire calling it her little piece of heaven, as much for its beauty as time spent with her children and grandchildren. Joanne persevered through some difficulties and challenges over the years, always with her unwavering hope, constant smile and as her husband would endearingly say “she is one tough old bird”. Older and wiser, Joanne enjoyed writing poetry about life experiences and nature, while sipping a good glass of chardonnay. An avid reader, she also enjoyed walking and swimming and was an enthusiastic Patriots and Red Sox fan. Joanne will be forever missed by her loving family and friends.

Surviving Joanne are her sons; Michael J. Kennedy and his wife, Donna of East Wakefield, NH and Kevin P. Kennedy and his wife, Sallie of Lynn, her grandchildren; Rachael, Allison, Jake and Nicole, step-grandchildren; Tom and Max, and her brother, Brian Ward of Bradenton, FL. Several nieces and nephews, including her special caregiver and niece Barbara Venezia of Beverly. She was also the sister of the late James Ward, Arlene Grant, Nancy Rowbottom and Gloria Ward.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to attend Joanne’s funeral service which will be held at O’Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (Rte. 62) DANVERS on Wednesday, June 1st, 2022, at 11:30 A.M. Burial in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Danvers. Visiting hours, prior to the service from 9 to 11 A.M. In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may be made in Joanne’s memory to Danvers Council on Aging, 25 Stone St., Danvers, MA 01923. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.

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