Joan Ann Bruce

Joan Ann Bruce, a beloved longtime resident of Cape Cod, passed away on November 29, 2024, at Hebrew SeniorLife in Roslindale, Massachusetts, at the age of 82. 

Born on January 12, 1942, in Quincy, Massachusetts, Joan was the daughter of Joan (McMahon) and Edward Bruce. She was also the cherished sister of Margaret Doherty and James Bruce.

Joan was a compassionate and dedicated professional who spent her career improving the lives of those affected by mental illness. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Boston College in 1970 and later completed her Master of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Massachusetts. Joan began her career at McLean Hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts, where she played a pivotal role in organizing training and continuing education programs for nursing staff. Driven by her passion to improve mental health care, Joan earned her Doctor of Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1990.

Her career took her across Massachusetts, where she worked in various roles. Most recently, in Hyannis, Joan taught nursing and provided counseling to patients. She was deeply dedicated to her students and the individuals she helped, leaving a lasting impact on the field of mental health care.

Outside of her professional life, Joan was an adventurous spirit with a love for skiing at Loon Mountain, golfing at the Hyannis Golf Club, and traveling with her longtime friend, Sharon Tufts. Joan also cherished lively family gatherings with her cousins, weekends at the beach with her sister and family, and visits to her brother Jimmy in Florida.

Joan is survived by her devoted sister, Margaret (Bruce) Doherty, and several nieces and nephews: Stephen, Kathy (Bruce) Schmeer, David and Joseph Bruce, and George, Joanne, and Elizabeth Doherty. She is also survived by many dear cousins. Joan will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to the Funeral Service with the family on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 12 PM, at the Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock Street, Quincy. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in the memory of Joan may be made to Hebrew SeniorLife, whose staff was kind, caring and compassionate to Joan in her final years, Hebrew SeniorLife, 1200 Centre Street, Boston, MA 02131.