Joan Eaton McSweeney

Joan Eaton McSweeney, 80, of Henderson, NV, passed away peacefully at her home, Sunday, May 30, 2021. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, John McSweeney, her daughter Farolyn McSweeney,O.M.D. (husband David Grimes), her son Martin McSweeney, and by siblings Robert Eaton, M.D., Hendersonville, NC, Evelyn Dunkelberger, Bethesda, MD, Fernin Eaton, Saint Francisville, LA, and Marie DeVerges, Asheville, NC. Preceded in death by parents, Homer Delbert and Evelyn Farrell Eaton, and by her older sister, Annette Whitehead, South Bend, IN. Joan was born July 12, 1940, in Atlanta, GA.

Her proudest career accomplishments were becoming a certified interpreter for the deaf community from the renowned Gallaudet University and receiving an MFA from the University of New Orleans. Joan created her state-of-the-art video business, In Sync, Inc., in New Orleans, pioneering advanced public relations, where Joan was the representative of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) local. After arriving in Henderson in 1991, Joan was asked to serve as the first chair of Rose de Lima Hospital’s Women’s Committee by Sister Victoria (Vicki) Dalesandro, OP, of the Dominican Catholic order from Adrian, Michigan, which administered the hospital and with whom Joan maintained lifelong and loving contact. Through this connection Joan learned the story of Sister Angelita, who baked “Angel Bread” for hospital staff and patients, and Al Freeman, publicist with the Las Vegas Sands Hotel and Casino, who had recuperated from war-related injuries at the hospital. This led Joan to write her historical fiction novel, “Forget-Me-Not,” based on those individuals. Joan’s other published work included articles on strong Nevada women. Joan valued the criticism and support of the Henderson Writers Group, and was a member and supporter of the Southern Nevada Woman History Project and the Henderson Historical Society. Joan enjoyed sharing with students her passion for communication when she taught speech courses at UNLV. Joan was a fierce competitor in athletic events throughout her life and participated in Senior Olympics. Joan and John enjoyed participating with the Variety Club at Sun City MacDonald Ranch. Palm Mortuary will handle arrangements, which family have requested to be private.

Friends who wish to honor Joan’s life are invited to contribute to the charity of their choice.