Our dear mother, Joan Dolan, died peacefully at her home in Bethel on December 31st at the age of 99. Born May 24, 1925 in Brooklyn, NY, Joan was the only daughter of Anna and David Wager. A graduate of Mary Louis Academy, she worked as an insurance underwriter.
Meeting Jim Dolan, "the love of her life, " they were blessed to be married for 64 wonderful years. Delighted to have three children, Suzanne, Kathy and Jimmy, a job transfer brought the family to Bethel where they became active members of St. Mary's Church and the Bethel community. Joan became a successful realtor for 10 years and then opened her own business " The Wedding Barn" where she sold antiques, along with her own beautiful hand-made quilts. An avid reader and recommender of books, Joan went on to work at the Bethel Library for 25 years where patrons knew her smile and enthusiasm as she greeted them at the circulation desk to chat, discuss books, and the day's New York Times. Retiring in her eighties, she became a passionate bridge player at the Bethel Senior Center enjoying her weekly game with wonderful friends. A devoted wife and mother, she was always there for her family, offering support, wisdom, and love. She will be remembered for her infectious smile, her warm personality, and her unwavering enthusiasm.
Joan is survived by her children, Suzanne Healy (William), Kathleen Dolan (Karen), James Dolan (Andrea), grandchildren Anna Zahner (Shawn), Christy Healy, and great grandchildren Leila and Luke.
Calling hours will be Friday, January 3rd from 4-7pm at Green Funeral Home, 57 Main Street, Danbury. The funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 4th at 1pm at St. Mary's Church in Bethel followed by burial at St. Mary's Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Second Chance Animal Rescue of CT, 66 Nashville Road, Bethel, CT, 06801 (janet@secondchanceanimalrescue.org)
