Joan M. Irish

Joan M. Irish, age 64, of Maynard, MA passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 8, 2024.

Joan was born in Saint Albans, Vermont on December 27, 1959, daughter of the late John H. and Virginia A. (Miller) Irish. She was raised on the Irish Farm in East Fairfield and educated in Fairfield, Vermont, graduating from Bellows Free Academy, class of 1977. Upon graduation, Joan continued her education at Vermont College of Cosmetology, class of 1978. 

Joan worked for a few years in different hair salons. Once all of her children were in school, she decided to work as a Paraeducator. She followed her kids from The St. Albans Bay School to Town Central (AKA SATEC) and then finished working for BFA St. Albans. Joan loved working with and helping the students. She formed special bonds with many kids that she worked with. Most of the students called her Mrs. G and then Momma Goose, once she was at BFA. In 2004 Joan moved to Massachusetts, after reconnecting with her first love, Ed Lynch. Joan went to work in the school system again, but this time as a school cook. She worked at a few different schools in the area. She loved seeing the kids come in for lunch every day. Joan stopped working in 2019 after being diagnosed with cancer. She missed seeing the students every day. She fought hard for 5 long years with Ed by her side, as well as her dog Mick (her 4 legged child).

Joan cherished time spent with family and friends. She enjoyed cooking, gardening, crocheting and having fun. Joan was a loving and nurturing person. She treated the friends of her children as they were her own. She always cooked enough food to feed an army. She never wanted anyone to go hungry. 

Joan is survived by her children, Jeremy Gosselin of Saint Albans, VT; Justin Gosselin of Saint Albans, VT; Jessie Liberty and husband Benjamin of Swanton, VT; her step-grandaughter Mikayla Liberty; her companion, Ed Lynch of Maynard, MA; her siblings, Judy Laberge, Bill Irish, Kathy Marshia and companion Ken Forbes and Tim Irish and wife Rhonda; close friends, Hannah Nolin, Jean Claude Loiselle and Lynn Gosselin; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Joan was predeceased by her brother, John Irish Jr. and brother-in-law Lou Laberge. 

Services are private