BRIMFIELD- Joan Mahoney, former Boston Globe reporter, inspirational trailblazer, caring and devoted mother, talented writer, witty, warm, and beloved friend to many died at age 94 on July 22, 2022.

Born and raised in Cambridge, MA, Joan resided in Arlington, Chatham, Hingham, and most recently Brimfield, MA, leaving a legacy of leadership and contribution. A very proud graduate of Radcliffe College class of ‘49, Joan's flair for writing and a deep curiosity about the world lead to her role as the first woman contributing reporter to the Harvard Crimson, eventually being named the paper’s first woman editor. After graduating, she became a reporter for The Boston Globe, following her father, Raymond McPartlin’s footsteps, where she covered varied and diverse including Dwight Eisenhower’s presidential inauguration. Her successful career as a writer/editor spanned over 40 years wrapping up as creator and editor of the Linden Ponds, Hingham, retirement community newsletter. An avid reader, words - both written and verbal -were her friends. She used them wisely, with thought, and best when sprinkled with humor.

Joan is predeceased by her loving husband Boston Globe journalist, Gerald Francis (Frank) Mahoney, Jr. They raised their three children, James, Ellen, and Gail, in a houseful of news talk, pets, and laughter. Their children did not go to Harvard despite her ruthless editing of their school work, yet despite this disappointment, she was unfailingly involved, supportive, and proud of them, her love always evident. Likewise, her grandchildren can do no wrong. A true feminist before that phrase was coined, she always supported women’s issues and celebrated the success of women in every capacity. Joan was a role model career/mother. She made it look easy to balance a career with parenting, setting high expectations at work and home while providing endless support and praise in both arenas.

Unwaveringly committed to community service, Joan ran PTOs and other clubs in Arlington. After retiring to her cherished Cape Cod home in Chatham, she ran the Women’s Club, served as Garden Club president, and volunteered at the Mass Audubon, the Newcomer’s Club, and the July 4th Parade Committee. At Linden Ponds, she ran fundraisers to support the student scholarship fund. Joan’s ability to form groups of friends, all of whom felt special, was a gift. She was a talented baker and welcoming host with treats always waiting through her open door. In fact, tea parties were fittingly a lifelong passion, as Joan was a fan of all things British including tea, plaid, marmalade, mysteries, Masterpiece Theater, gardens, and sensible shoes. Her dearest friends named themselves the Mad Hatters, and along with best friend Jan Lewin, their adventures in sharing books, decorating, gardening, antiquing, pie-making, hilarious conversations, embroidery, and travel are legendary. She and Frank traveled widely, often with good friends Don and Edna Rober, always returning with stories and recipes of local fare, somehow bringing an impressive amount of food through customs undetected. Joan is survived by her loving children: Jim, a fellow news junkie and renovator, and daughters Ellen, a kindred fan of tea and British authors, and Gail, who carries on her legacy as a talented chef and host.

Joan’s support and wisdom will be deeply missed by her loving grandchildren: Kelsey, James and Michael Peloza, and Samantha and Julia Fogel. She leaves her dear son-in-law Bob Fogel, who went to Harvard, and daughter-in-law, Amelia Kunhardt, who works at Harvard, so you know they were instantly embraced. To family and friends far and wide, Joan was a brilliant, accomplished, inspirational, loyal, and beautiful person who they were lucky to have touched their lives. To honor Joan, let’s follow the philosophy she embroidered on a pillow about embracing life’s journey: “Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first.”

The family would like to thank The Overlook Hospice and Palliative care team for their indispensable care and support. Burial will be private. If you are so moved, please make a donation to a charity of your choice in Joan’s memory. Arrangements are under the care of Pillsbury Funeral Home 3 West Brookfield Rd. Brookfield, MA.