Joann Lonergan

Hampton Falls - Joann Lonergan, 82 of Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully at home on October 7, 2025, cared for and surrounded by family. Born on March 21, 1943, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Joann was the heart and soul of her family and community. She is survived by her devoted husband of 63 years, Martin (Marty) Lonergan; daughters Debra Lonergan of Bowdoinham, ME, and Patricia Lonergan and her partner Timothy Russell of Rye, NH; granddaughter Jennifer Lonergan Stonebraker and her husband Austin Stonebraker of Bowdoinham, ME; great-grandchildren Carter Cary and Charlotte Lonergan Stonebraker, also of Bowdoinham; and her brother Joseph Samolyk of Forked River, NJ. She was predeceased by her beloved son, Lawrence Lonergan. Joann dedicated her life to nurturing everyone, and everything, around her—whether it was family, her lush gardens, friends, animals, neighbors, or even strangers. Her unconditional love shone through her warm, smiling eyes and open arms, and was matched only by her talents in the kitchen, where she shared her love through unforgettable meals and sweet treats. Guided by the motto: “Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without,” Joann embodied resilience and hard work. Alongside Marty, she successfully ran several businesses, including The Whistle Stop, a gas station and convenience store, and Bossy’s, a beloved restaurant in Amesbury, MA. As a postal carrier in Hampton Falls, Joann forged deep bonds within her community—alwaysdelivering more than just the mail. She gave her time, her care, and her heart in everything she did. A founding member of the Hampton Falls Historical Society, Joann was passionate about preserving the past. Her historic home was lovingly transformed into a haven for children, animals, flowers, and pollinators—a sanctuary cultivated with the touch of a master gardener. An accomplished, self-taught seamstress, Joann created countless Halloween costumes for family and friends at a moments notice. Her “dress-up room” was a magical space that captured her talent, creativity, generosity, and sense of fun. Food was her truest form of love. From wedding cakes to her renowned gingerbread houses, Joann’s baking brought joy to all. Her gatherings were legendary. Thanksgiving wasn’t complete without homemade pies, rolls, and individually sculpted butter roses—an annual expression of warmth and gratitude. Her Saint Patrick's Day gatherings showcased the finest corned beef and cabbage, along with delicious Irish soda bread, often serving hundreds of guests. Though born a city girl, Joann fully embraced country living. As a longtime 4-H leader, she was honored by both the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the University of New Hampshire for her compassion and service. She raised and cared for a menagerie of animals, including sheep, pigs, Black Angus cattle (which she adored for their big doe eyes), chickens, turkeys, and even a pony. Joann believed in self-sufficiency. Most everything she served at her table was grown or raised by her hands. She tapped trees for maple syrup, harvested berries and fruit, and filled her pantry - along with many others - with home-canned goods. Her love for nature was limitless—she found beauty in every shell, every plant, every moment shared with animals or people. Joann’s circle of love - friends and chosen family - expanded far beyond Hampton Falls, reaching out to folks in Friendship, ME, and Placida, FL where her harvest came from the sea. In Friendship, she delighted in boating, clam digging, and mussel gathering. While in Placida, her days were filled with boating, shell collecting, and stone crabbing. She loved “touring” with the Maine Obsolete Auto League and the Profile Auto League, where she and Marty were members. These group focused on vintage cars, drawing enthusiasts from the region. Eachsummer, they organized events for members to showcase restored vehicles, creating delightful journeys through scenic landscapes and fostering connections with fellow antique car lovers. Joann was always the bright spot in any room, a radiant presence whose abundant hugs and heartfelt words left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She leaves us with the spirit of an old Irish farewell: “And all the sweethearts ere I had , they wish me one more day to stay, But since it falls unto my lot that I should go and you should not, I’ll gently rise and softly call, goodnight and joy be with you all.” Joann's family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to family, friends and neighbors who offered their support, and to the compassionate individuals from Hospice who provided care for her during her final days. Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025 starting at 2:00 pm with a memorial service following at 3:30 pm in the Remick & Gendron Funeral Home-Crematory, 811 Lafayette Road, Hampton, NH 03842. In memory of Joann, we invite you to donate to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund by clicking here in lieu of flowers.

Joann Lonergan

March 21, 1943 - October 7, 2025