Nov. 5, 1946 – Nov. 26, 2024
Grafton – Joanne P. (Pijus) Provencal, 78, passed away after an illness November 26, 2024 at St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester. Her husband Richard “Duke” Provencal predeceased her.
Joanne is survived by her sisters Nancy Morley and her husband Jack and Patricia Pijus, her nieces and nephews Lisa Barron, Kimberly Seaver, Sharyn Thomas, Robert and Michael Keeney, Nichol Perry and Christine Shaw and also Wendy Walsh, a loving part of her chosen family. Joanne was predeceased by her sons Richard and Christopher Provencal.
Joanne was born in Worcester, daughter of the late Pauline (Leroux) St. Amand and Anthnoy Pijus. Her roots were in Worcester and eventually Shrewsbury. By trade Joanne was a Registered Nurse, she attended St. Vincent’s Nursing School and worked in central Mass as an RN for more than 45 years.
Away from work she loved summers in the sun at Old Orchard Beach in Maine, often hosting her nieces and nephews that she always adored. Joanne was a globetrotter in the truest sense of the word, she took trips to Turkey, Greece, Alaska, and Hawaii among other destinations. Closer to home she always loved hosting Thanksgiving for her family and was often found enjoying a favorite book. Following her husband Duke’s passing Joanne led a vibrant, independent life for many years and she’ll be dearly missed.
All are welcome to gather with Joanne’s family and friends Monday December 2nd from 4-6pm at Roney Funeral Home 152 Worcester St. N. Grafton, MA 01536. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday December 3rd at 10am at St. Mary’s Church 17 Waterville St. N. Grafton, MA 01536. Burial will follow at St. Phillip’s Cemetery in Grafton.
A Book of Memories to share a special message with her family is available at www.RoneyFuneralHome.com.
