GLOUCESTER – Joan C. (Brennan) Melanson, age 88, passed away Thursday morning, September 24, 2020 at Addison Gilbert Hospital in Gloucester. She was the beloved wife of the late Raymond F. “Ray” Melanson. She was the daughter of the late Henry and Irja (Knuuttunen) Brennan. She was born, raised, and lived her entire life in Gloucester and was a graduate of Gloucester High School, class of 1950. Joan had been employed as an operator for the phone company in the 1950’s. She was a tour guide at Hammond Castle and also enjoyed working and selling her crafts at the Port O’ Call craft shop. Joan and Ray were married on January 31, 1959 and shared 56 years of marriage until Ray’s passing in 2015. Joan and Ray enjoyed Saturday nights dancing and following the big bands with their friends. The family loved boating, fishing, going to Wingaersheek Beach, and cruising the Cape Ann waters. Joan and Ray enjoyed walking to the Boulevard. While her daughter was growing up, Joan and her mother brought her to Good Harbor Beach every day. She ice danced with her sister for many years. She was a talented crafter and enjoyed collaborating with her daughter-in-law. She enjoyed playing bingo at the senior center and loved her scratch tickets. Joan’s family will deeply miss her but find comfort in knowing that she is at peace. She is survived by her daughter, Leslie Melanson, her spouse Xóchitl (SO-tchee) Kountz, and her “grand-dog-ter,” Starla of Billerica; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and the multitude of friends she made over the years. In addition to her parents and husband she is predeceased by three sisters, Norma Knuuttunen, Nancy Grover, and Bettyjane Marr. In keeping with Joan’s wishes there will be no funeral services. A Celebration of her Life will be held at a later date for both her and Ray. In lieu of flowers, do something you love (maybe grab a scratch ticket) and share some time with your loved ones, cherishing the moment. Arrangements by the Campbell Funeral Home, 61 Middle Street, Gloucester. Information and condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com