Joan Marie Zeno (May 20, 1943 – October 30, 2024)
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joan Marie Zeno of West Roxbury, MA, a beloved daughter, sister, and aunt who enriched our lives with her unwavering kindness and infectious spirit. Joan departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter that will forever echo in our hearts.
As the cherished daughter of the late John Zeno and Claire (Gilmore) Leavitt, Joan dedicated 40 years of her life to State Street Bank, where she built lifelong relationships and never met a stranger.
Joan’s generosity knew no bounds; her warm smile and open heart made everyone feel welcome, embodying the essence of putting others first. Truly an angel on earth, Joan was known for her selflessness, she would give you the shirt off her back without a second thought. She was kind to everyone she met, always. Joan especially loved caring for children and children loved her. It was a gift to see her playing with her great-grand nieces and nephews just as she had played with the older generations. She even volunteered at a school as a lunch mother in her later years.
Joan was an avid walker. We would joke that she never got her license, but despite this she was fiercely independent. She walked miles every day and became a staple on Centre Street. She also loved taking the bus and brought all of her nieces and nephews on outings to Copley Square, a memory that each one continues to cherish.
Joan was a woman of immense humor and warmth, bringing joy to every gathering. Her unmatched sense of humor and quick wit had an uncanny ability to brighten any room, reminding us to cherish each moment. She was joking and laughing into her final days.
Joan enjoyed betting on her weekly “numbers” and was a frequent Keno player, always hoping for that lucky break. Yet, the greatest joy in her life came from witnessing the world through the eyes of her beloved nieces and nephews. She cherished every moment spent with them, reveling in their laughter and the adventures they shared.
An ardent Elvis fan, Joan could often be found humming the tunes of the “King,” her spirit as vibrant as the music she adored. She lived life to the fullest and inspired those around her to do the same.
Joan was the beloved sister of Valerie Holmes-Dooley (Jim) of Florida and the late Elaine Zeno, Carole Zeno, and Thomas Leavitt. She was a devoted aunt to Karen Stapleton Gilmore, Kelly Voges, Paul, John, Michael, and Steven Stapleton, as well as the late Jennifer Holmes Carter, Gerald, and Jeanine Stapleton. Additionally, she was a loving great-aunt to Lauren Barry, Leigh Gilmore Murphy, Melissa Farley, Meeghan Flaherty, and Michael, Joseph, Paul, Alanna, Roisin, Thomas, and Abby Stapleton. Joan is also survived by 13 great grandnieces and nephews who will carry her memory in their hearts.
As we say goodbye to Joan, we remember her as a shining star in our lives—a woman who taught us the true meaning of love, kindness, and laughter. Her spirit will forever live on in the countless lives she touched and in the memories we hold dear.
Visiting hours will be held on Monday, November 4th, from 5 PM to 8 PM at William J. Gormley Funeral Service in West Roxbury. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 5th, at 10 AM at Saint John Chrysostom Parish, West Roxbury, followed by interment at St. Joseph Cemetery, West Roxbury.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Joan may be made to Boston Children’s Hospital Trust, 401 Park Drive, Suite 602, Boston, MA 02215 or www.childrenshospital.org www. childrenshospital.org.
For directions and guestbook gormleyfuneral.com.