Joan M. Dennis

Joan previously lived in Tiverton for most of her life. Born in Fall River, she was the devoted daughter of the late William J. and Eileen (Shea) Dennis.

Joan was a gifted and dedicated educator for more than 40 years. She began her teaching career while a member of the Holy Union Sisters, teaching in New York City and Baltimore. Joan later taught for 20 years at the Letourneau School in Fall River, retiring in 1991.

She received her bachelor's degree from Villanova University, a certificate in Sacred Sciences from Providence College and a master's degree in education from Rhode Island College.

Joan was a woman of deep faith and was a daily communicant at Holy Ghost Church in Tiverton. She lived independently until recently and maintained a keen interest in religion, politics, finance and, most importantly, her family throughout her life.

Joan was known to enjoy a trip to the local casino and an occasional martini.

She leaves her nieces, Joan Boucher (Robert) of Dartmouth, MA and Naples, FL and Ellen Rochford (David) of Lebanon, IN, and nephews Dennis Hoyle of Cranston, RI and John Hoyle (Jane) of Tiverton. She was predeceased by her sister, Barbara Hoyle and brother, William Dennis Jr. She was also predeceased by her dear friend, Bertha Bolduc, with whom she lived for many years.

She also leaves her sister-in-law, Kathryn Dennis of Noblesville, IN and two great nieces, Elizabeth Lubelczyk (Brian) of Barrington, RI and Hannah McDonald (Daniel) of Norwood, MA.

Joan's family would like to acknowledge the excellent and compassionate care she received while a resident at the Catholic Memorial Home since last October and the staff at River Falls (formerly Prosper Assisted Living).

Her Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Holy Name Church, 709 Hanover Street, Fall River. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM, prior to Mass in the Waring-Sullivan Home at Cherry Place, 178 Winter Street, Fall River. Burial will be in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Fall River.

Contributions in her honor may be directed to the South Coast Visiting Nurse Association, Philanthropy Department, 101 Page Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 or a charity of your choice.