Joan Marie Smith

Joan Marie (DiAcetis) Smith (1938–2025)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joan Smith, 87, who found peace on December 31, 2025. A resident of Mashpee, Massachusetts, and a longtime "islander" at heart, Joan leaves behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and legendary spaghetti dinners.

Born in Catskill, New York, on May 29, 1938, Joan was the daughter of Sarah and Anthony DiAcetis. She grew up in Ravena alongside her siblings, Anthony and Rosemary, in a home filled with the love of a large extended family. After graduating from Ravena-Coeymans Central School in 1955, she met her partner in life, Bernard Smith, and the two began a beautiful 64-year journey together in 1958.

Joan and Bernie’s early years were spent in Castleton, NY, first on Chestnut Steet in an apartment above Bernie’s Aunt Minnie and Uncle Harry Hamm, and later on Peter’s Dairy Farm, before eventually moving to their own home on Green Avenue, where they raised their three children overlooking the Hudson River. As life moved them through Avon and Canton, Connecticut, one place remained their constant north star: Peaks Island, Maine. Introduced to the island by dear friends Connie and Bob Hurley in 1969, Joan spent 46 summers there before making it her full-time home in 2002. The island community’s enduring support was the greatest gift of her golden years, and the family remains forever grateful for the memories created there.

In her later years, Joan moved to Sandwich and then Mashpee to live with her daughter, Kim, and her husband, Paul. This generous household became her newest sanctuary, where she delighted in watching her grandchildren grow, always ready with a sharp wit and helpful advice. Whether she was hunting for treasures at a local flea market, tending to her garden, or hosting a crowded dinner table, Joan’s joy was found in the simple, beautiful moments of life with friends and family.

Joan was reunited in spirit with her beloved husband, Bernard, who passed in 2022. She is survived by her children: Kim Durvett (Paul) of Mashpee, MA; Daniel Smith (Hannah) of Hingham, MA; and Michael Smith of Portland, ME. She was the proud grandmother of David (Maggie), Ethan, Cole, Matthew, Daniel, Sarah, Margaret, and Eleanor. She is also survived by her brother, Anthony DiAcetis, and her sister, Rosemary Coons.

A celebration of Joan’s vibrant life will be held in the Spring/Summer of 2026.