Joan Barbara Ellen Powell

Joan's funeral service will be livestreamed at 12:00 pm on Thursday, May 29th and will be available for viewing at this link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/a2505398499924

HOLDEN/WORCESTER - Joan Barbara Ellen Powell, 94, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving children, their spouses, and grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Arthur F. Powell, whom she married in 1956; her mother Margaret Lamphier; her father and stepmother Richard and Elta Lamphier; and her cherished daughter Donna Marie.

Joan is survived by her children and their spouses: Barbara and George Reed, Arthur and Susan Powell, Nancy Baptiste, James and Dawn Powell, Patricia and Virgil Watson, and Richard and Christine Powell. She also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and her devoted cat, Cleo.

Born during a transformative time in American history, Joan lived a full and vibrant life. Her early years were marked by resilience, living with cousins and her grandparents, Ellen and Wallace Solomon. She attended various boarding and Catholic schools, and during her youth, she developed a love for horseback riding. Joan worked at Fenway Theater during high school, served as a ward maid at Beth Israel while attending nursing school, and later worked as a secretary for a steel company in Allston. While employed as a medical secretary for an oral surgeon, she met Art at Nantasket Beach — the beginning of a lifelong journey of love, partnership, and adventure.

Joan and Art eventually settled in Holden, Massachusetts in 1963, after spending time in Sacramento and Detroit, and later moved to a wonderful retirement community in Worcester.

Joan embraced the joys of each chapter in life. She adored animals and was a lifelong companion to many beloved dogs and cats. She had a special love for gardening and found peace in watching birds — especially cardinals, which always brought a smile. A passionate and curious mind, she was an avid reader who particularly loved mystery novels.

Family was always at the heart of Joan’s world. She also enjoyed participating in the pastimes of each era, from bowling leagues to ceramics classes. Summers were joyfully spent at Lake Boon in Stow, MA, where she graciously hosted generations of family and friends, not to be outdone by many celebrations at the Holden house. She and Art also shared a passion for travel, exploring countless countries and building a lifetime of treasured memories.

Joan will be remembered for her warmth, strength, and quiet elegance. She leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and a life beautifully lived.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Joan’s family from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on Thursday, May 29th, at the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 pm at the funeral home, with burial following at Grove Cemetery in Holden. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit her obituary at www.milesfuneralhome.com

Please consider making a memorial donation in Joan's name to The Briarwood Community of Worcester; https://www.briarwoodretirement.com/about/make-a-donation/.