Joan A. (Parker) Shaw

Joan A. Shaw Gardner – Joan A. (Parker) Shaw, 81, of 32 Chelsea Street (formerly of Athol), died Tuesday, October 01, 2013 at the home of her granddaughter.      Joan was born in Orange, Massachusetts, March 1, 1932, the daughter of George R. and Helen E. (McKnight) Parker.  She grew up in Athol where she lived for many years, later moving to Orange for 10 years and for the past five years has resided in Gardner.        Joan worked in the housekeeping department of the Quabbin Valley Healthcare for many years and had previously worked at the N.D. Cass Company and Ray’s Plastic Company in Winchendon.  She was an active member of the Salvation Army Athol Corps and the Home League.  Joan was one who always enjoyed people and would help in any way she could, but most especially enjoyed spending time with her many grandchildren, great grandchildren and her dog Princess.        She leaves two sons, John Shaw and his wife Sandra of Orange and Robert Shaw and his wife Barbara of Athol; three daughters Donna Hart of Orange, Pamela Cote of Athol and Shirley Nicoletti and her husband Joseph of Athol; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; a brother Robert Parker; five sisters Sandra Parker, Joyce Holloway, Karen Buzzee, and Diane Hamlet, all of Orange and Myrtle Robideau of Athol and many nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her husband Edwin Shaw in 1985, a daughter Sandra in 1972, a grandson Michael in 1997 and two brothers Frank and Gordon and a sister Mary.      A memorial service will be held Monday, October 7, 2013 at 11:00 A.M.  the Salvation Army Chapel, 107 Ridge Avenue, Athol with the Lt. Elliot Higgins officiating.  Burial will be held at Silver Lake Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made in Joan’s memory to the Salvation Army, 107 Ridge Avenue, Athol, MA  01331.  Higgins-O’Connor Funeral Home, 146 Main Street, Athol is directing arrangements.  For further information or to share a memory with the family go to: www.higginsoconnorfuneralhome.com. $(document).ready(function(){ });