CALIFORNIA – Joan Marie Deacon, (1932-2024) a cherished resident of the Berkshire area in Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on December 2nd, 2024, at the age of 92, at her daughter and son-in-law’s home in California. Born on April 12th, 1932, in Westfield, Massachusetts, to Leslie G. and Catherine E. (Adzima) Slater, Joan spent her formative years in Westfield, where she attended school.
Joan married George F. Deacon, with whom she shared 64 wonderful years until his passing in 2015. Together, they raised their family on Russell Mountain before retiring to the town of Russell. Joan dedicated much of her professional life to the Gateway Regional School District, serving as an administrative assistant at the Russell Elementary School and later at Gateway High School in Huntington. Her career also included office manager for Dr. DeRose and for Donna’s Children Doll Shop in Westfield.
A devoted member of her community, Joan was actively involved in the First Congregational Church of Westfield, where she led and participated in numerous roles and committees. In recent years, she attended the Westfield Evangelical Free Church, continuing her lifelong commitment to her faith and community.
Joan is predeceased by her beloved husband, George, and her son, John (Jack) F. Deacon (Susan).
She is survived by her son, Mark E. Deacon of Westfield, and her daughter, Diane D. James (H. Lee James) of California. Joan leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Matthew Deacon (Amy) of Westfield, Kristina Deacon of NC, Jaime Thompson (David) of VT, Jennifer Alba (Edwin) of CT, Whitney James, and Kathleen (Katie) James of CA, as well as her great-grandchildren, Thatcher Thompson, Ryan Deacon, and Eric Deacon.
A celebration of Joan’s life will be held on May 31st, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Russell Pond Cemetery in Woronoco Heights, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband, George. Pastor Jesse Kahler will officiate the service, followed by a reception at The Westwood Restaurant. Joan’s legacy of love and dedication will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
