Joan (MacKinnon) Kelly

Joan (MacKinnon) Kelly, aged 90, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, in Mahwah, NJ surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 14, 1934, Joan dedicated her life to caring for others, both as a registered nurse and in her personal life.

Joan's career in nursing was marked by her compassionate care and professionalism. She began her journey at Lemuel Shattuck Hospital in Jamaica Plain, MA, and continued to touch lives at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Brighton, MA. After taking a break to raise her family, she returned to the field as a substitute nurse in Natick public schools and later became the head nurse at Quinobin Regional Vocational Technical School in Wellesley, MA.

Joan was a devoted and loving wife to her husband, Charles (Charlie) Kelly, for 62 years, after meeting on a blind date. She was a generous mother to her children, Jean Testa, Maureen McGovern, and James Kelly. She was a cherished mother-in-law to Bob Testa, Ken McGovern, and Bobbi Kelly. Joan's joy was multiplied by her grandchildren, Jill (fiance Mark Desmond), Kayla (fiance Ryan Duran), Julie McGovern, Thomas and Nick Testa (fiancee Hanna Bunting), and Ryan (fiancee Madeleine Egote), Erin, and Bryce Kelly. She was preceded in death by her parents, Christy and Alexander MacKinnon, and her brother, Robert MacKinnon.

Joan and Charlie lived in Natick since 1972 and decorated their Sherwood Road house for every holiday for their neighbors to enjoy. For many years, she and Charlie hosted a legendary Thanksgiving breakfast for neighbors and friends. A devout parishioner of St. Linus in Natick, MA, Joan's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She loved to sing and dance, and she had a beautiful singing voice. Her commitment to service was evident in her personal hobbies as well; she was an excellent cook known for her comforting soups, which she lovingly made and delivered to friends and family in need. Joan also cherished the travels she shared with her husband, Charlie, during their retirement.

Services will be private and held at John Everett & Sons Funeral Home in Natick, MA. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a local Alzheimer's chapter in memory of Joan. Joan's legacy of kindness, dedication, and love will forever be remembered by those who were fortunate to know her. The family would like to extend sincere gratitude to Joan’s caregivers at Brandywine, especially nurse Deborah Slade and the loving care managers in the memory care community. We would also like to thank Klaudia, Magdelena, Gillian, and the members of the Valley Hospice team for their compassionate and kind care of Joan.

For online guestbook, please visit: www.everettfuneral.com

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