Joan Lee Lovell Paul

Joan was born on April 19, 1949 in East Hartford, CT to the late Joseph Williams Lovell and Genevieve Ruth (Couch) Lovell. In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her daughter, Christy Paul; her son-in-law Christopher West; her brother Ray Lovell; and her brother-in-law, Daniel Charpentier.

Joan is survived by her husband of 54 years, Richard Anthony Paul; her daughter Heather West; her sisters Barbara Grzymkowski (Francis) and Margaret Charpentier; her brothers-in-law David Paul (Bessie) and Thomas Paul; and many nieces and nephews including her goddaughter Vicky Kinsella (Damien) and godson Todd Charpentier (Christina).

Joan loved her family deeply. She willingly relocated several times to support her husband’s career, and she was instrumental in helping him complete his college degree by typing all his various papers and assignments (anyone who has seen Rick’s handwriting knows how much of a feat this was)! As a devoted stay-at-home mother to Heather and Christy, she enjoyed making homemade Halloween costumes, planning special birthday parties, supporting their various childhood activities, and helping them decorate their first apartments as young adults. Although distance separated Joan from her siblings, nieces, and nephews, she intentionally remained connected to them through phone calls, cards, and gifts and cherished the times when they could visit.

Joan was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. An avid reader of the Bible, she enjoyed learning more about her faith by reading a wide variety of Christian books. She attended Bible College in Virginia Beach, VA and worked part-time at her church in an administrative support role. Joan was a faithful prayer warrior, a willing helper, and a gifted encourager.

Joan was also known for her creativity. She enjoyed painting ceramics, silk flower arranging, sewing, card making, and home décor. All her family and friends likely have various mementos reflecting Joan’s creative talents. Joan also loved watching HGTV and Magnolia Network, seeking new ideas to add to her creative repertoire. Her yard was a reflection of her love of God’s creativity, as it overflowed with a variety of flowers, plants, and trees.

The family will receive visitors from 6:00pm until 8:00pm on Sunday, March 10th at McLaurin Funeral Home in Clayton, NC.

A graveside service will be conducted in Chesapeake, VA on Tuesday, March 12th at 11:00 am at Chesapeake Memorial Gardens with Pastor Erich Driscoll officiating.

Donations in Joan’s memory may be made to the SECU Hospice House of Johnston Health. https://www.johnstonhealth.org/care-treatment/hospice-care/support/