HAVERHILL – With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Joanne Merchant who left this world on 12/19/2024 at the age of 68. Joanne Merchant was a beacon of strength, a selfless caregiver, and a deeply devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend whose impact will be felt for generations.
Born on April 20, 1956 in Framingham, MA, Joanne dedicated her life to her family, embodying resilience and unconditional love. She faced life’s challenges head-on, including the profound responsibility of caring for those she loved most during their most challenging times. Over the years, she devoted herself to supporting family members through illness and loss, ensuring that they were never alone and always cared for. Her ability to provide comfort and strength in the face of adversity was a gift that touched everyone around her.
One of her most significant roles in life was as a mother to her three children, including her son Nathen, whose unique challenges she supported with unwavering dedication. Her love for him knew no bounds, and she worked tirelessly to ensure he had every opportunity to thrive. Her sacrifices and advocacy on his behalf leave a legacy of compassion and determination that will never be forgotten.
Among her cherished memories and relationships, Joanne always held a special place in her heart for Richard Belair, the love of her life. Their bond was deep affection and understanding, and she often spoke of reuniting with him in heaven. The thought of being with him again brought her comfort and peace in her final days. Joanne was also a proud and loving grandmother who adored her grandchildren. Her presence in their lives was a source of joy and inspiration, and her memory will continue to guide them as they grow.
She is survived by her children, June, Nathan and Daniel and his wife Monique; her grandchildren, Tyler, Collin, Ashley, Jacob Alyssa, Dylan, Aden, and Caoilin; her Great Grandchildren, Lilianna, Haley, Chloe, Byrnlee, George and two new ones coming in 2025; her siblings, Cindy, Terri, and Donna, all of whom will carry forward the lessons of strength and love she instilled in them. She was preceded in death by Mother Sophie, sister Marie, brother Arther (Biff), and many more, including her beloved Richard Belair, whom she eagerly anticipated reuniting with in eternal peace.
ARRANGEMENTS: Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Friday, January 3rd from 4PM until 7PM at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 4th at 10:30AM at Saint Monica’s Church, Methuen to honor her incredible life and legacy. Burial to follow at St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her honor to the Jimmy Fund Walk, P.O. Box 3595, Boston, MA 02241. While her passing leaves a void in our lives, we take solace in knowing that she is now reunited with her greatest love and surrounded by the family she cared for so deeply. Her strength, love, and sacrifice will live on in the hearts of all privileged to know her. May she rest in eternal peace, free from pain, and surrounded by the love she gave so generously in life. Please visit www.comeaufuneral.com or Comeau Funeral Home on Facebook.
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