Joanne Nygard

August 11, 1946 – August 8, 2025

Joanne (Gregitis) Nygard passed away peacefully in her home, surrounded by her beloved family on August 8, 2025. Born on August 11, 1946, in Springfield, MA and raised in West Springfield, MA, Joanne’s life was defined by her love, kindness, and dedication to those around her.

Joanne is survived by her loving husband, Fred; her daughter Kristin and son-in-law Mark Anderson of Shrewsbury, MA; her son Eric and daughter-in-law Seana (Rafferty) of Old Saybrook, CT; and her five cherished grandchildren: Emily, Nathan, Molly, Erin, and Noah. She also leaves behind her dear siblings: Judy, Joe (Karen), Linda (John), brother-in-law Ken (Judy), several cousins and her nieces: Stephanie, Annie and Abby. She was predeceased by her parents Elizabeth and Joseph Gregitis, her nephew Joseph, and her brother-in-law, Fred.

From a young age, Joanne’s nurturing spirit was evident. As the eldest sibling, she helped raise her brothers and sisters, offering them strength, comfort, and unwavering support throughout their lives. Her greatest joy and accomplishment was raising her own children and witnessing the growth of her grandchildren, who brought endless pride and happiness to her days.

After marrying Fred in 1968, the two of them lived in several locations. They raised their children in Granby, CT, before calling Old Lyme, CT their home in 1992. They shared a love of travel, including camping, cruising and visiting with loved ones across the country. Joanne was an avid reader, gardener and baker, and enjoyed walking and swimming throughout her life.

Joanne brought her warmth and welcoming nature to several workplaces, including the Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts, Old Lyme Library, Granby Public Library and the East Lyme Public Library. She also volunteered regularly at the Nearly New Shop in Old Lyme. No matter where she worked or volunteered, Joanne was always the friendly face at the front desk, greeting visitors with kindness and sincerity. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen, heard, and cared for.

Joanne’s quiet strength, gentle humor, and generous heart touched countless lives. Whether offering a helping hand, a kind word, or simply a warm smile, she made the world a better place—one person at a time.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on August 13, 2025 at Christ the King Church, 1 McCurdy Rd Old Lyme. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joanne’s honor to your favorite charity.