Joan Mary Conway

Joan was born in Lincoln, England, in 1929, as one of thirteen siblings. She spent her early years in England before marrying Robert Conway, who was serving in the United States Air Force, and they relocated to the USA. Joan returned to the United Kingdom following Robert's retirement from the Air Force, and eventually moved back to the United States where she has resided for the past forty years.

Joan is preceded in death by her beloved and devoted husband Robert (Bob) Conway and grandchild Connor.

Joan is survived by her children, Carol, Butch, Skip and Robert, grandchildren, Wayne, Mandy, Alana, Colin, Brooks, Braden, Christian, Chad, Trevor, Molly and Chris, great grandchildren, Logan, Harley, Maddie, Zoey, Georgia, Austin and Alyssa. Also, son-in-law Rob, and daughters-in-law Deb, Bridget, and Cheryl.

Joan often told interesting stories about growing up during World War II, like sheltering under the stairs during air raids. She also shared about her journeys as a young mother between the US and UK, including flying alone with four children and seven suitcases, or an overnight stay in Iceland after a plane lost a propeller. She also shared cherished memories of close relationships with her siblings, enjoying shopping trips and frequent cups of tea (she loved a cup of tea) gatherings with her sisters and daughter, Carol, at their mother's house.

Joan was a homemaker who raised four children on her own while Bob served in Vietnam. She found her greatest joy in being with her grandchildren, making a lasting difference in their lives. Joan also cared for many of her friends’ children, demonstrating a natural gift for nurturing young children.

Joan was an engaged participant at the Cherokee Senior Center. She served on the Site Council, offering thoughtful recommendations to enhance the Center’s services. Joan demonstrated a strong enthusiasm for Mexican Dominoes, frequently participating in games at the Senior Center and always a champion when playing Dominoes at home with the family. Throughout her time at the Senior Center, she established numerous friendships, making the Senior Center a significant aspect of her life. Joan was often described as a loyal friend who genuinely cared about people and put others first.

Joan expressed gratitude toward Laura, the volunteer who developed a close friendship with her and consistently provided transportation for shopping and hairdresser appointments. Joan's attention to her hair and makeup was well known among those familiar with her!

Joan had a quietly determined spirit that helped her achieve what mattered most to her. Her family fondly remembers the importance she placed on gathering for Sunday dinner, surrounded by her three sons and grandchildren and this also would include guests who were always warmly invited to join them at the table. Laughter, stories, and treasured memories will live on through the generations.

Even in her later years, Joan became proficient with technology, including social media, which allowed her to regularly connect with her son, Skip, daughter, Carol, her grandchildren, and siblings in the UK—a connection she greatly enjoyed. Joan was known for her remarkable thoughtfulness and was always on the lookout for gifts that her family or friends would appreciate. Her family described her as generous and selfless.

Joan frequently visited the Queen’s Pantry with her son, Butch, and was well known to the staff, who were always delighted to see her. She also had an appreciation for films and television series, frequently viewing them with her son, Robert.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Ann and Alan for being such cherished friends, always taking her out for Friday night dinners and sharing many enjoyable trips to estate sales. The family would also like to express gratitude to the Cherokee Senior Center for providing a place that she enjoyed and was actively engaged in. The family truly appreciates the exceptional care and assistance the staff at Northside Cherokee Hospital have given over the past week.

Joan will forever be cherished as a compassionate, generous, and incredibly kind lady. She was an exceptional wife, mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother who consistently recognized the positive qualities in those around her, showing unwavering devotion and unconditional love to her family, and was a steadfast friend to many.