Joanne (McConnon) Howard

Joanne Howard, 78 of Saugus, MA formerly of the South End of Boston, passed away on Friday, May 3, 2024, after battling a long illness.  Joanne was a beautiful, kind, intelligent woman who relished spending time with family and close friends.  She was a loving and compassionate wife, mother, mother-in-law, daughter, sister, aunt and friend, Her welcoming presence affected everyone she met, leaving them feeling safe and genuinely embraced. 

Born March 25, 1946, to her departed parents, John Marshall McConnon and Mary Patrice (Raftery).  Joanne is survived by her husband David of 55 years, (formerly of Medford) daughter, Kim Howard and late son in law Michael Darden, daughter 

Melissa Howard and son-in-law, Robert Smith, sister Janice Spence, and brothers William, Gerald, Stephen, Patrick and George. Predeceased by her sister Jeanne, and brothers John and Kenny.  Joanne will be remembered fondly and forever by many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand nephews, and cousins. 

A graduate of Girls High School in Boston, Joanne was a “city girl,” who was extremely proud of her family of orientation and her roots from the South End of Boston.  As a teenager Joanne worked for her father who was a self-employed Epicurean Chef in Boston and carried his culinary legacy to her home, family and friends.

As a young adult Joanne worked for the Internal Revenue Service.  While raising her family, she volunteered at Catholic Charities where she provided emotional support to families living in poverty. Joanne also helped develop charity events and the annual auction at the Clark School for Creative Learning in Danvers.  

As a mom of two, Joanne returned to college and graduated from North Shore Community College with a concentration in Mental Health & Substance Abuse. Joanne worked for Tri City Mental Health as a Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Counselor helping many strive for a better life. 

Joanne had a zest for life and always maintained a positive outlook.  She loved the beach, cooking, interior decorating, traveling, shopping, planning family gatherings, good food, great music, Zumba, and dancing.  While her children were young, Joanne enjoyed memorable summers in Burnt Meadows, Maine.  The family’s Agawam Beach home became a cherished get away where Joanne orchestrated countless get-togethers with family and neighbors who became lifelong friends. Since 1985, Joanne spent winters at her second home in Naples Florida, with countless family, friends and amazing memories. 

In honor of our loved one, please take a quiet moment to reflect on the life she embarked on and the symbolism she embedded into the fibers of our family and friends.  Her loss is grand, and she will be deeply missed by all. 

We are honoring Joanne's wishes by holding a private celebration of life.

Prayers and Condolences can be mailed to:

David Howard & Family  

21 Shore Road 

Saugus, MA 01906 

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