HAVERHILL: R. Joan Brawley, 95, passed away on April 18, 2020 at Penacook Place. She was the wife of the late Edward M. Brawley, Jr. to whom she was married for forty-eight years.
Born in Arlington, MA on June 23, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Francis and Mable (MacDonald) Ducharme. Joan was predeceased in death by her brother Foster Ducharme.
Joan was educated in Arlington and graduated from Arlington High School. She then began a twenty year career with the State Department, progressing through the system until finding her way to the Department of Veteran's Affairs. Following her marriage she joined her husband in his advertising firm, Burnham Industries, retiring as president after a forty year career.
Joan was a long time and dedicated member of Trinity Episcopal Church where she served as president of Lady's Guild. She showed her compassionate love of animals through the financial support of various associated charities. Joan was generous with her time as a volunteer at Ruth's House.
She is survived by her nieces; Shelly Doyle, Mary Mahoney, Rosemary Boudreau, Karen Pelletier, and Roberta Low.
The limitations imposed on us due to the recent health issues require that there be no public services at Dole, Childs & Shaw Funeral Home, 148 Main St., Haverhill. A private graveside service will be conducted at Linwood Cemetery. In recognition of the dedicated and loving care extended to her at Penacook Place we ask that donations in her memory be made to Penacook Place Employee Fund, 150 Water St., Haverhill, MA 01830. Online condolence may be sent to www.dcsfuneralhome.com