Joan M. Martin

Joan was the daughter of Jack and Mary Cannon and was born in Atlantic City NJ January 6, 1931. Joan married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, William Martin Jr., on September 5, 1951. The couple had two wonderful daughters and more than 55 years of wedded happiness. Joan is survived by her daughters Teresa Merrill and her husband Stephen of Dartmouth MA and Kathleen Martin and her partner Stephen Ross of Tiverton RI, as well as her two grandchildren Dr. Sarah Merrill of Vancouver BC and David Merrill of Dartmouth MA. She will be missed by numerous caring and supportive cousins and loved ones.

Joan was an entrepreneurial business partner with her husband and together they opened their first optical shop, William Martin Opticians, in Flemington NJ at the Whistle Stop Shops on Main St. They then built Lenape Plaza on Rt. 31 to which they moved the optical shop they owned and operated together for more than 25 years. She was a lifelong Democrat and was extremely active in politics through the years. She was a strong advocate for women’s rights, the right to choose, elder support and services and actively campaigned for local, state and national candidates who shared her views. She was a frequent guest at the NJ Governor’s mansion, was a delegate to political conventions and was a campaign contributor and volunteer for campaigns from local county seats to presidential candidates.

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oan was a compassionate lover of animals, both domestic and wild, and her house was full of interesting rescued pets like a skunk and a raccoon as well as multiple horses, cats and dogs. Joan had the opportunity to travel the world spending time in Hawaii, Tahiti, Malta, Kenya, Ireland, Italy, New Orleans, San Francisco, Florida and many other wonderful and exotic places. Joan enjoyed hot fudge sundaes and a good cup of coffee, and she loved nothing more than sharing a mug and great conversation with friends.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, September 10 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM in Waring Sullivan Home at Cherry Place, 178 Winter Street, Fall River.

Joan will be laid to rest beside her husband in Arlington National Cemetery in a private service. In lieu of flowers please make a contribution to your local democratic candidate and vote in the next, and every, election.