Joan Marie (Fell) McManus, 84, of Worcester, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, with her daughters by her side. She was born in 1941, to Helen and William Fell and was raised in Worcester, where she built a life rooted in faith, family, and quiet strength.
Joan was predeceased by her beloved husband, Joseph B. McManus; and her sister, Patricia Pennucci.
A woman of deep faith and service, Joan was a longtime member of Saint Charles Borromeo Parish in Worcester, where she and her husband Joe proudly served as the Family Life Couple. Together, they were also members of Good Shepherd Parish and Saint Mary’s Parish in Uxbridge, communities that remained close to her heart throughout her life. Praying the rosary was a daily devotion.
A 1960 graduate of Commerce High School in Worcester, Joan was employed by the Worcester Police Department, Ambassador Greeting Cards, and Salisbury Nursing Home, where she worked compassionately as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Her work reflected her steady dedication and genuine care for others.
Joan and Joe lived in Melbourne, Florida, from 2007 to 2015, a time she enjoyed greatly. Upon returning to Massachusetts, Joan made her home at Linwood Mills, where she formed treasured friendships with Charlene, Debbie, and Rita. She took great joy in helping prepare coffee socials and other special community events, always finding fulfillment in bringing people together.
Joan was a skilled knitter whose talents and love live on in the many afghans, Irish knit sweaters, baby clothes, hats, scarves, and mittens she lovingly created for family and friends. She also enjoyed bowling in her league in Auburn, playing in pitch leagues, and participating in shuffleboard at the Northbridge Senior Center.
A lifelong New England sports fan, Joan was an avid supporter of the Boston Red Sox and Boston Celtics and especially loved texting back and forth with her grandsons during games. Some of her happiest memories were made during summers at Hampton Beach, where she spent her days chasing after her four children and her evenings enjoying friends gathered around the campfire.
Above all, Joan was a devoted mother and grandmother. She is survived by her children: Cheryl McKenna and her husband Robert of Rutland, Marie Brigham and her husband James of Upton, Joseph McManus, Jr. of New Hampshire, and Brian McManus of Arizona. She was a proud and loving Irish Nanny to her cherished grandchildren: Daniel McKenna, Owen and Caroline Brigham, and Bridgid and Henry McManus.
Joan will be remembered for her unwavering faith, generous spirit, strong work ethic, and deep devotion to her family and community. Her warmth, humor, and love will continue to be felt through the many lives she touched.
Her visitation will be held on Monday, December 22nd from 10:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Parish, 77 Mendon Street, Uxbridge followed by her funeral Mass beginning at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, Worcester is assisting the family with arrangements.