Joan (DiConza) Garbarino passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, at the age of 92.

Born on November 28, 1933, Joan was a lifelong resident of Natick, Massachusetts, until her retirement to Naples, Florida, in 1997. She graduated from Natick High School in 1951, where she was a cheerleader and active participant in the school's drama productions. Following high school, Joan attended Boston Dental School, studying to become a dental assistant. She began her career with Natick Dental Associates under the direction of Dr. Paul Meymaris.

It was there that Joan met the love of her life, Francis Garbarino. After Francis found a few extra reasons to schedule dental appointments, their courtship blossomed into a loving marriage. Together they settled in East Natick, where they built their home and raised three beautiful children.

Joan was a gifted entertainer who loved bringing family and friends together. She was known for her delicious cooking and for hosting unforgettable pool parties at her home on Whittier Road. Above all else, Joan's greatest joy was her family. She cherished her children and grandchildren and made it a point to stay connected, always taking the time to call, check in, and be an active and loving presence in their lives.

Joan was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Lucy DiConza, and by her beloved husband of 66 years, Francis Garbarino in 2023.

She is survived by her three children: Donna Murphy and her husband, Alan Larrabee of Falmouth, Massachusetts; Francis Garbarino Jr. and his partner, Eric Vogel of Framingham, Massachusetts; and Gail Bourque and her husband, Michael of Naples, Florida.

She is also survived by her four grandchildren: Dr. Caitlin Murphy and her fiancée, Magda Ospina of Gonzales, Louisiana; Cara (Murphy) DiLillo and her husband, Luke of Arlington, MA;  Danielle Bourque and her partner, Scott Marcum of Franklin, Massachusetts; and Joseph Bourque and his wife, Shelby of Quincy, Massachusetts.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Joan's life at a Funeral Mass at St. Patrick's Church 44 East Central Street, Natick, Massachusetts, on Thursday, June 18th at 10:00 am. Burial to follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Natick. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Alzheimer’s Association, 320 Nevada St. #201, Newton, MA 02460 or www.alz.org. .

Joan's warmth, generosity, sense of humor, devotion to family, and ability to make everyone feel welcome will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.