Joan E. Kelly

She was the 1st child born in Westerly, RI on April 12, 1935 to Clara Capalbo and Gino Lavarini. It was there where she grew up with her 2 younger brothers, Gino and Charlie Lavarini.

Joan, raised Catholic, had a very strong religious background that strongly showed throughout her lifetime. Her faith and dedication to the church and God was powerful and prominent; she was always willing to help with readings and volunteering her time.

She married her first husband, Joseph Sousa and had 3 children (Angela, JoAnn, and Joseph) with him. They lived an adventurous life together, moving around the country and later finally came to Houston, Tx. After their separation, she moved to San Antonio, Tx and met the final love of her life, John Patrick Kelly, and was happily married to him until his passing in 1994. She was blessed with 2 step children (Patrick and Deborah) from the marriage and loved them as if they were her own.

She was a teacher for many years, starting with elementary school and finishing as a science teacher at St. Thomas More Catholic School. She loved cooking for church and family gatherings as well as working on new sewing projects. Joan enjoyed playing pitch, dominos, and bridge, but ultimately just loved spending time with friends and family, no matter the occasion.

She is survived by her children: Angela Washer, JoAnn Sousa, Joseph Sousa, Padrick Kelly, and Deborah Shore, grandchildren: Brittany Washer, Travis Kelly, Sydney Sousa, and Shelby Sousa. Great grandchildren: Nicholas Kelly and Kenleigh Sousa.

A visitation for Joan will be held Friday, May 31, 2024 at 9:00 AM at Sunset Funeral Home, 1701 Austin Highway, San Antonio, Texas 78218, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 AM.