Born in New Bedford, a daughter of the late Vincenzo and Columbia (Lapolla) Romeo, she was a life-long resident of the area.
Joan retired from the Newport Naval Base in 1995. In her leisure time she enjoyed watching her sports and being with her family and friends.
Joan is survived by her sister Patricia Rocha and her husband Walter of Fairhaven; a nephew Kenneth Rocha and Susan Tavares both of Mattapoisett and her longtime friend Barbara Branchini of Fairhaven and several cousins.
Relatives and friends are invited to her funeral mass on Monday, September 24, 2012 at 10 AM in St. Mary’s Church, Main St., Fairhaven. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, New Bedford. Arrangements are in the care of the Waring-Sullivan Homes of Memorial Tribute at Fairlawn.
Flowers are welcome or memorial contributions in her honor may be made to the Heart Association, 20 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701.