Obituary

Worcester/Shrewsbury: Joan Hearns (Marston) Nanigian, 70, passed away Thursday, January 12, 2012 in Shrewsbury Nursing Home. She leaves a son Sean Hearns of VA, a step-son Randy Nanigian of Boston, and several cousins, including Diane Novak of Jefferson. Her husband, Leo Nanigian predeceased her.

Joan was born in Boston, daughter of Raymond and Mary (Chysna) Marston. She attended Commerce High School, and worked as a manager in the food service industry for many years. She enjoyed knitting, community activities, but especially loved helping people. She was a foster parent and opened her home to many disadvantaged teenagers for a number of years. She was also a volunteer language/braille counselor at local educational facilities. She loved animals, especially her cat Tina.

A graveside service and burial will be held on Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Joan's memory may be made to the UMASS Memorial Hospice 650 Lincoln St. Worcester, MA 01606. To leave an online condolence message, please click link below.