Joanne Gignac, 91, of Williamsburg, VA passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, surrounded by her family.She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, John D. Gignac; her son, Mark S. Gignac; her brother E. Joseph Tartaglino; and her parents, Alfred and Virginia Tartaglino.
She had been a resident of Williamsburg since 2004, and previously resided in Southborough, MA. She was born on November 5, 1933 in Newport, RI.
Joanne attended St. Catherine’s Academy in Newport, RI and graduated from Trinity College in Washington, D.C. Following graduation, she taught in Boston Public Schools for two years. After raising her family, she returned to teaching in the Southborough Public Schools. She retired from teaching in 1999 after more than 25 years as an educator.
Joanne was a devout Catholic and an active member in various organizations within St. Bede Roman Catholic Church. She also enjoyed playing cards, cooking, and reading.
Joanne relished her family and was a loyal friend. She enjoyed traveling, a good scotch, and her beloved New England sports teams especially the Patriots and the Red Sox.
Always one to live life to the fullest, Joanne will be remembered for her tender heart, keen sense of humor, and unwavering loyalty to her family and many friends.
Joanne is survived by her children, John David Gignac Jr. (Lori), Michele Endorf (Doug), Gina Harvey (Ray), and Lauren Gignac-Grennon (Terry); grandchildren, L. Lee Gignac (Melissa), John D. Gignac III, Mark S. Gignac II (Michelle), Ryan J. Endorf (Carson), Stormi Gignac Fischlein (Colby), Zachary S. Gignac (Ryan), Sarah M. Endorf, Kristen A. Endorf, Thor D. Gignac, and Liam J. Harvey. Joanne’s great grandchildren are Andrew L. Gignac, Liberty G. Gignac, Zander J. Fischlein, Joshua W. Endorf, Raine L. Fischlein, and Solvay S. Fischlein.
The family is grateful for and would like to thank the staff and nurses from both Heartland Hospice and Reflection of Christ Caregivers for the loving care provided to our mother during her time of need.
A visitation will take place at St. Bede Catholic Church, 3686 Ironbound Rd., Williamsburg, on February 27, 2025 from 11:00am-12:00pm. Mass will be offered at 12:00pm, followed by a reception.
In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions in Joanne’s memory to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (www.giving.mskcc.org/impact). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.
(Photo and Obituary via Dignity Memorial)
