Joan F. McGrath

Joan F. McGrath (Dooley), the unofficial sunshine of South Boston, has taken her final bow to a standing ovation. She was 91. Born and bred in the heart of South Boston to Francis and Helen (O’Brien) Dooley, Joan's radiant personality was as legendary as her lifelong residency. 

Joan's zest for life was infectious, and she never missed a beat, whether she was forecasting the weather as the self-appointed Mayor of Linden Ponds or strumming her ukulele to the tune of laughter and applause. Her harmonies and involvement in every play, her love of playing cards with her friends, and her dedication to the hospitality committee were the highlights of the community's social calendar. Even in the tranquility of tai chi, Joan's good humor was a force of nature, leaving a trail of chuckles in her wake.

Married in 1952 to Thomas McGrath, Joan's love story was a journey of 52 years filled with adventures and countless cruises, exploring the world with the love of her life. Her suitcase was always packed with jokes and a readiness to make friends across the globe.

Joan McGrath was the life of every party, and her absence will be felt deeply. She was funny, friendly, and thoughtful—a true performer until the end. Her final curtain call may have come, but the kindness in her soul will resonate forever with those who knew her. Joan, take your well-deserved final bow; you've left the world a brighter place.

Loving mother to Joanne Cherry and her husband Paul of Virginia Beach, Tommy McGrath and the late Maria “Tina” of Braintree, Paul McGrath and his wife Lisa of Canton, and James McGrath and his wife Theresa of Tennessee. Grandmother, who never missed an event, to Tara, Jill, Andrea, TJ, Daniel, Micaela, Kristina, Ryan Stephanie, Justine, and Sean and great-grandmother to 9. Sister to Robert “Bobby” Dooley, Kevin Dooley, the late Frank “Fella” Dooley, the late Nancy Jensen, the late Billy Dooley, and the late Patty Rollo. Beloved by many nieces and nephews and known to some as “the fairy godmother”. The list could go on - she never met a stranger. 

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to a “Celebration of Life” service and reception on Monday, June 24. The festivities will begin at 11am in The Linden Ponds Community theatre, located at The Derby Clubhouse, 208 Linden Ponds Way in Hingham, Ma. The family of Joan wanted to give a special thanks to the entire team at Linden Ponds Retirement Community for their love, care, and support over the years.