Joan E. Ahern

Joan E. Ahern of Weymouth passed away peacefully on March 10, 2025, at the age of 84. She was born on September 16, 1940, in Boston, MA, to the late Laura and Victor Salenius. Joan's life was a testament to her unwavering love for her family, her faith, and her community.

Joan grew up in the Neponset Circle area of Dorchester and was a proud graduate of Dorchester High School, class of 1958. Her early years in Boston laid the foundation for a lifetime of caring and service to others. Joan's career was marked by her natural gift as a caregiver, which she expressed through her work as a cook at St. Jerome's and as a home health aide.

Joan's commitment to her family was the cornerstone of her life. She was the beloved wife of the late Francis J. Ahern and a loving mother to her eight children: Joan Smith and Daniel of Pembroke, Susan Easton and the late David of Whitman, Francis Ahern and Susan of Hingham, Deborah Maher and Joseph of Braintree, Laura Newell of Weymouth, William Ahern and Mary of Lakeville, Carol Shaw and Ricky of Weymouth, and Edward Ahern of Marshfield. Her role as a mother was one she cherished deeply, and she extended that love to her 20 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, who will remember her as a guiding light and a source of endless support.

Joan was the dear sister of Victoria Salenius and was predeceased by her siblings Peter Salenius and Judith McLaughlin. Her extended family, including many nieces and nephews, will miss her presence and the joy she brought to family gatherings.

A devout Catholic, Joan was an active and cherished member of St. Jerome's Church. Her faith was a living practice, as she taught CCD, served as a Lector, and was a Eucharistic Minister. Joan's spirituality was a comfort and inspiration to many, and her involvement in the church community was a reflection of her dedication to serving God and others.

Joan's interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. She was an avid knitter and crocheter, creating beautiful pieces that were both a hobby and an expression of her love. Her handcrafted gifts will serve as cherished keepsakes for her loved ones. Joan also enjoyed taking car rides with her husband, exploring the scenic beauty of the world around them and cherishing the simple moments together.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Friday, March 14, 2025 from 4-8 PM in the McDonald Keohane Funeral Home NORTH WEYMOUTH at 40 Sea Street (off Route 3A - Bicknell Square). A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home at 9:30 AM on Saturday, March 15, 2025 prior to the Funeral Mass in St. Jerome Church, Weymouth at 10:30 AM. Burial in Pembroke Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Joan to: Catholic T.V., St. Jerome Church or Norwell NVA.