Joan E. (Kunes) Barnard

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a remarkable woman, Ms. Joan Barnard, who left this world on April 2, 2023. Joan was a strong, single mother who dedicated her life to raising her five children. Her children were her world, and she poured her heart and soul into providing for them, nurturing them, and loving them unconditionally.

She was born November 28, 1932, in Geneva, New York, to Gordon and Margaret Kunes. She graduated from Geneva High School and was a proud Townsend, Massachusetts resident for many years. Joan understood the value of hard work and determination. She faced many challenges throughout life, but her strength, devotion, perseverance, and selflessness for her family never wavered. Joan instilled in her children the importance of know-how, resolve, and respect and set an example of what it means to be a dedicated, hard-working mother and friend. She was a role model of fortitude to all who knew her.

Despite working long hours to support her family, Joan always made time for her children. She was their biggest advocate and supported them through every triumph and challenge. She instilled a sense of self-worth and taught them the importance of determination, family, and finding humor in even the most difficult times. Her beauty went far beyond her physical appearance and extended to her kind, compassionate, and courageous spirit. Her remarkable legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and those fortunate enough to cross paths with her throughout her life. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of her children, family, and friends, but they take comfort in knowing that Joan lived a life full of love and purpose and that her memory will continue to give them strength and guide them in the days, weeks, months, and years to come.

Rest in peace, Mom, Gram, Big G, and Joanie. You will be profoundly missed but never forgotten.

She leaves her five children, Veronica Barnard of Townsend, William Barnard and wife Maria of Newport, NH, Alice “Licia” Harris of Leominster, Robin Close and husband Kevin of Boston and Daniel Barnard of Leominster; nine grandchildren, Nicole Allen and husband Randy Gauthier, Terry “TJ” Allen, William Barnard Jr. and wife Jessica, Bryan Barnard, Stanley Harris, Shawn Harris, Bradley Harris, Jordan Close and husband John Dean and Brianna Close; four great grandchildren, Allycia Allen, Tylor Allen, Rylee Barnard and Raina Gauthier.

A celebration of life will be held at a date to be announced.

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